By allowing you to turn your phone or tablet into a PC, Samsung DeX claims to usher in a new era of mobile-powered desktop computing. What’s the best part? It’s completely free. Many of the current Samsung Galaxy mobile devices include the DeX software platform, so all you need to get started is a monitor, an HDMI adapter, and some peripherals. You can also use DeX wirelessly if you have a Smart TV or monitor that supports Miracast.

If you’re new to DeX, this comprehensive tutorial will explain what it is, how it works, and how it may benefit you and your company.

What is Samsung DeX, and what devices does it run on?

Samsung DeX is a software platform that transforms your smartphone or tablet into a full-fledged desktop computer. It runs on almost all of Samsung’s flagship smartphones released since 2017, starting with the Galaxy S8 and ending with the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra 5G released this year. DeX is also supported on a number of Samsung tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S5e, Tab S6, Tab S7, and the rugged Tab Active Pro and Tab Active3; on bigger tablets, DeX can be used directly on-screen with a keyboard case, or on a connected display with an external keyboard and mouse. DeX may also be used with Samsung’s flagship foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, on a monitor.

Samsung DeX required a docking device (DeX Station or DeX Pad) to power the program and connect the peripherals when it originally launched in early 2017. With the introduction of the DeX HDMI adapter, cable, and multiport adapter with the launch of the Note9 in August 2018, Samsung eliminated the necessity for these docking devices.

When one of these adapters is attached to a display, the Samsung DeX platform rapidly boots up, giving you a familiar desktop experience with resizable windows, drag-and-drop functionality, and the same keyboard shortcuts.

Samsung released DeX for PC in August 2019, allowing customers to use DeX directly from their computer by connecting their mobile device to a compatible Windows PC or Mac. Users may effortlessly move files across devices or pivot between mobile and desktop apps with DeX for PC enabled, offering small businesses the flexibility they require.

Wireless DeX was introduced with the Note20, allowing users to use DeX without a cable on Smart TVs that support Miracast as long as both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

We’ll go over more suggestions for navigating the DeX UI in this beginner’s tutorial. But first, consider the benefits and drawbacks of the official DeX accessories:

Which DeX adapter is best?

Samsung offers a variety of cables and accessories for Samsung DeX and Samsung DeX on PC. Depending on where and how you use the platform, each cable and adapter offers distinct benefits. The DeX cable makes it simple to connect your device to a monitor’s standard HDMI connector. Because it’s 1.4 meters long, you can use it with just about any display setup. If you want to use DeX mostly in one area and can leave the connection connected to your monitor, the DeX cable is appropriate. It’s frequently employed in corporate hot-desking situations, where people come in, plug in their phone, and get to work. Because there are no extra ports to attach a USB keyboard and mouse, you’ll have to rely on Bluetooth accessories instead. Use wireless charging to keep your battery charged over extended DeX sessions.

The DeX multiport adaptor provides the maximum versatility in using DeX thanks to its wide range of ports. You have a USB 3.0 port for connecting a keyboard or mouse, as well as a USB-C port for connecting your phone’s charging cable, in addition to the HDMI port for connecting to your monitor’s HDMI cable. The multiport adaptor is small enough to fit in your pocket.

If you have a USB-C monitor, a USB-C to USB-C cable is a wonderful alternative. The one end connects to your device, while the other connects to the monitor directly. Another benefit of USB-C cables and monitors is that they can be used to connect your wired keyboard and mouse to your computer. While in DeX mode, it can also keep your smartphone charged. If you have a newer laptop with USB-C ports, you can also use a USB-C to USB-C cable for DeX on PC.

A standard USB-C to USB-A charging connection is another alternative for wired DeX on PC. You almost certainly already have one for charging your phone or tablet. Simply disconnect the USB cable from the wall charger and plug it into a USB port on your computer or Mac.

Aside from these adapters, Samsung has also released a Smart Keyboard designed specifically for DeX. The Bluetooth keyboard includes a dedicated key for launching DeX, as well as function keys for quickly toggling between your Galaxy smartphone, tablet, and PC.