Samsung DeX is an exclusive software feature that promises smartphone-powered desktop computing for those who often find themselves away from their desk setup or PC. It's essentially like using a computer that's powered by your Galaxy phone.

The desktop experience offered by DeX is obviously not a full replacement for your standard computer, but it's good enough to get a lot of things done when you find yourself in a pinch or are on the road without your full machine.

An image showing a Samsung DeX setup which includes a monitor, an HDMI multiport adapter, a keyboard, and the phone.
Samsung DeX: Everything you need to know

Turn your Galaxy phone or tablet into a computer with DeX

Which Samsung Galaxy devices support DeX?

Using Samsung DeX in a hotel
Connecting Samsung DeX wirelessly to a hotel TV

DeX is a neat feature that is exclusive to Samsung devices, but it's not supported by all models of Galaxy phones or tablets. It's been supported by almost all flagship Galaxy devices since its introduction in 2017 with the Galaxy S8 family, and that includes the new Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Tab S10 tablets. However, there are a few exceptions. Here's a list of Samsung Galaxy devices that support DeX:

  • Samsung Galaxy S phones: Galaxy S8, S9, S10, S20, S21, S22, S23 and S24 series
  • Samsung Galaxy Note phones: Galaxy Note 8, Note 9, Note 10, and Note 20 series
  • Samsung foldables: Galaxy Z Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3, Fold 4, Fold 5, and Fold 6
  • Samsung Galaxy tablets: Galaxy Tab S4, S6, S7, S8, and S9 series
  • Samsung Galaxy A-series phones: Galaxy A90 5G

One notable omission here is the Galaxy Z Flip series, which has never supported DeX. While Samsung has finally added display output support for the Galaxy Z Flip 5 & the Galaxy Z Flip 6, they didn't add DeX support to the devices because of temperature concerns.

What's the best way to use Samsung DeX?

It's worth mentioning that there are different ways to set up and use your Galaxy device for Samsung DeX, and it depends on the compatible devices you're bringing in for your setup. All the Galaxy devices mentioned above support DeX using a wired connection.

You can either use a DeX cable (USB-C to HDMI) or pretty much any HDMI dongle or a hub that lets you connect your phone to a monitor or a TV. Galaxy S-series and Note phones can also use a DeX Pad or a DeX Station to establish a connection. Below you'll find a link to buy the type of HDMI adapter I personally use, along with my peripheral of choice for a DeX setup.

  • USB-C to HDMI adapter
    A render showing the QCE USB-C to HDMI adapter in white.

    This simple USB-C to HDMI adapter is a great option to consider for DeX. It also has a USB-A and a USB-C port for your peripherals, like a keyboard and mouse.

  • Best keyboard & mouse combo
    Logitech K380 keyboard and M350 mouse

    This Logitech K380 keyboard and M350 mouse combo is perfect for a portable DeX setup. They're both compatible with a bunch of devices, and neither of them will take up too much space on your desk or in your bag.

  • Portable keyboard with built-in touchpad
    iClever Keyboard and touchpad

    It's not a desktop-level keyboard, but if you want something ultraportable, this iClever keyboard can be folded so it fits anywhere. It still has some spacing between keys and it even has a touchpad built in.

You can also use DeX wirelessly or by connecting your phone to a PC via a USB cable, but they're not supported by the older Galaxy S8, Note 8, or Tab S4 series. I suggest you stop by the Samsung DeX support page to learn more about the DeX compatibility and other requirements based on the device you have and the type of connection you're looking for.

  • galaxy-s24-ultra-1
    SoC
    Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy
    Display
    6.8-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, 501 PPI, 2,600 nits peak brightness
    RAM
    12GB
    Storage
    256GB, 512GB, 1TB
    Battery
    5,000mAh
    Operating System
    Android 14, One UI 6.1

    The Galaxy S24 Ultra is Samsung's premium flagship phone for 2024, further refining everything Android enthusiasts love about this big, beautiful phone.

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6
    SoC
    Qualcomm Snapdragon Gen 3 for Galaxy
    Display
    7.6-inch AMOLED main display, 6.3-inch AMOLED front display, both with 120Hz dynamic refresh rate
    RAM
    12GB
    Storage
    256GB, 512GB, 1TB
    Battery
    4,400 mAh
    Ports
    USB-C

    Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a fantastic foldable, and yes, it supports DeX. You can use the big inner screen, or use this phone with an external monitor with ease.

  • galaxy-tab-s10+
    Storage
    256GB, 512GB
    CPU
    MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (MT6989)
    Memory
    12GB
    Operating System
    Android 14
    Battery
    10,090mAh
    Ports
    USB-C 3.2 (DP), microSD

    The Galaxy Tab S10+’s 12.4-inch display features cutting-edge Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology and offers a vibrant yet natural viewing experience, even outdoors. Every detail remains clear from any angle and in any environment with advanced anti-reflective technology, minimizing distracting glare and reducing the reflection rate.