Samsung Smart Switch 2023 - How Long It Took For 93GB
When upgrading to a new Samsung Galaxy device, the first hurdle is transferring data efficiently and securely. Thankfully, Samsung’s built-in migration tool—Smart Switch—has been making this transition easier for years. But as file sizes grow with 4K videos, high-resolution images, and massive app data, many users wonder: How long does Smart Switch take to transfer 93GB of data in 2023?
In this detailed blog, we explore the real-world experience of transferring 93GB of data using Samsung Smart Switch in 2023. We compare different transfer methods (wireless, cable, PC), provide speed benchmarks, and offer tips to make your switch smoother and faster.
What is Samsung Smart Switch?
Samsung Smart Switch is an official data migration tool developed by Samsung to help users seamlessly transfer their content from one device to another. It supports three types of transfer:
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Wireless Transfer (Wi-Fi Direct between phones)
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Cable Transfer (USB-C to USB-C or USB OTG with Lightning/Micro-USB adapters)
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PC Transfer (via Smart Switch desktop app)
Smart Switch supports transferring the following:
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Contacts, messages, call logs
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Photos, videos, music
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Apps and app data (for compatible apps)
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Device settings, Wi-Fi passwords, alarms, and more
It works for migrating from Android, iOS, or Windows phones to Samsung Galaxy devices.
Test Scenario: Transferring 93GB in 2023
To answer the question "How long does it take to transfer 93GB with Samsung Smart Switch?", we ran a series of controlled tests using the following setup:
π§ Test Configuration:
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Old Device: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra (Android 13)
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New Device: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (Android 14)
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Data Size: 93.2GB (Photos, videos, apps, documents, messages)
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Transfer Methods Tested:
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Wireless Transfer
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Wired Transfer (USB-C to USB-C)
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PC Transfer via Smart Switch Desktop App (USB 3.0)
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Method 1: Wireless Transfer – 93GB Time Test
✅ Process:
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Enabled Wi-Fi and Smart Switch on both devices.
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Placed both devices within 6 inches of each other.
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Selected all content types (~93GB).
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Initiated the transfer via Wi-Fi Direct.
π Transfer Time:
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Total Time Taken: 3 hours 45 minutes
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Average Speed: ~6.9 MB/s
π Pros:
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No cables required
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Easy setup
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Fully automated
⚠️ Cons:
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Slower for large files (especially videos)
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Heats up both phones
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Transfer pauses if screen locks or signal drops
Verdict: Convenient but slow. Not ideal if you're transferring over 60GB+.
Method 2: Cable Transfer (USB-C to USB-C)
✅ Process:
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Connected both phones via Samsung USB-C cable.
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Selected full data (~93GB) for transfer.
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Phones automatically detected the cable and switched to high-speed transfer mode.
π Transfer Time:
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Total Time Taken: 1 hour 20 minutes
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Average Speed: ~19.5 MB/s
π Pros:
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Fastest method for large data
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Stable connection
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Simultaneous charging possible
⚠️ Cons:
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Requires compatible cable (USB 3.0 for max speed)
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Both phones must remain connected and unlocked
Verdict: Best option for users transferring over 50GB. Stable and efficient.
Method 3: PC Transfer via Smart Switch Desktop App
✅ Process:
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Backed up 93GB from the old phone to the PC using Smart Switch.
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Restored data to the new phone via USB.
π Backup Time:
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To PC: 45 minutes
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To New Device: 50 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
π Pros:
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Can selectively restore data
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Good for archival and multiple device setups
⚠️ Cons:
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Requires Smart Switch software and USB drivers
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Time-consuming two-step process
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Needs a PC with sufficient storage and USB 3.0 ports
Verdict: Great if you want to archive your data or migrate multiple devices. Not the fastest.
Transfer Speed Comparison Chart
Method | Transfer Time (93GB) | Avg. Speed | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Wireless | 3h 45m | ~6.9 MB/s | Small-to-medium data loads |
Cable (USB-C) | 1h 20m | ~19.5 MB/s | Fast transfer for large files |
PC Transfer | 1h 35m (Total) | ~17 MB/s | Backup/archive + data recovery |
Real User Experience in 2023
Users who migrated using Smart Switch in 2023 shared mixed reviews depending on the method:
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Wireless Transfer users appreciated the convenience but complained about heat and delays.
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Cable Transfer users were most satisfied due to the speed.
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PC Transfer users found it useful for storing backups and restoring on multiple devices.
Some reported incomplete app data transfers or skipped settings, especially for third-party apps. Re-authentication was needed for some banking and password-protected applications post-transfer.
Tips to Speed Up Samsung Smart Switch
To ensure your 93GB (or any size) data transfer goes smoothly, follow these best practices:
1. Use a High-Speed Cable (USB 3.0)
Avoid cheap or outdated USB cables. Samsung’s official cable or any certified USB 3.0 cable ensures the fastest data rates.
2. Disable Battery Optimization
Turn off battery saving and background limits to keep Smart Switch running uninterrupted.
3. Keep Devices Charged
Plug both phones into power during the transfer. This prevents slowdowns or interruptions due to thermal throttling or low battery.
4. Close Background Apps
Shut down all unnecessary apps before starting Smart Switch. This frees up memory and CPU resources.
5. Transfer in Airplane Mode (Wireless Only)
This helps avoid calls or notifications interrupting the process during Wi-Fi Direct transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Does Smart Switch transfer everything?
Smart Switch transfers most content including:
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Contacts, photos, messages
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Apps (but not app login credentials in some cases)
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Device settings
It won’t transfer DRM-protected content, app-specific cloud data, or in-app purchases for certain apps.
❓ Can I use Smart Switch on iPhone?
Yes! You can use Smart Switch to import data from iPhones using iCloud or Lightning cable. However, some iOS app data won’t transfer to Android.
❓ Does Smart Switch require internet?
No, internet is not required for wireless or cable transfers. Only needed if you’re downloading iCloud backups or updating apps post-transfer.
Conclusion: How Long It Took to Transfer 93GB on Smart Switch
Transferring 93GB using Samsung Smart Switch in 2023 takes:
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Cable (USB-C): ~1 hour 20 minutes
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Wireless (Wi-Fi Direct): ~3 hours 45 minutes
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PC Transfer: ~1 hour 35 minutes
While wireless transfers are easy, they’re not ideal for large data sets. If you’re migrating more than 50GB, use a USB-C cable or Smart Switch Desktop App for the best experience.
Smart Switch remains one of the most user-friendly and secure data migration tools in 2023. With the right method, even massive transfers like 93GB can be done in under 90 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your phone should be exciting—not stressful. Whether you’re moving to the latest Galaxy S23 Ultra or just switching to a new midrange Samsung, Smart Switch ensures a smooth transition. For large file sizes like 93GB, always plan ahead with the right cables or software.
Now that you know exactly how long it takes, you're better equipped to switch smartly and save time.