The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Yes—if your exact Galaxy model supports DeX with your chosen connection, it can provide a desktop-style interface on a monitor or TV. But DeX is not a universal PC replacement, and the claim that an old phone works this way depends on its model, software and setup. Samsung’s guidance distinguishes this external-display setup from DeX for PC, which connects the phone to a Windows computer.
What DeX does—and what it does not
Samsung DeX presents a desktop-style interface on compatible Galaxy phones and tablets, usually on an external monitor or TV. With supported peripherals, you can work with windows using a keyboard and mouse; some setups also let you use the mobile device as an input surface. Samsung describes these options in its DeX support guide.
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DeX changes how compatible mobile apps and the interface appear; it does not make every phone app behave like desktop software or provide the full capabilities of a Windows or macOS computer. Whether it suits daily use depends on the apps and tasks you need, as well as your phone’s compatibility.
Check the exact phone and connection before setting up
Do not assume that a Galaxy phone supports DeX just because it has USB-C. Samsung maintains separate compatibility information for wired and wireless DeX, and for DeX for PC; those lists are not interchangeable. Check your exact model and the connection type in Samsung’s current compatibility guidance, since supported models and software details can change.
#1 Best Overall
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
For a monitor or TV, Samsung documents HDMI connection options using compatible cables or adapters, as well as DeX Pad and DeX Station setups for supported devices. Some phones may not fit a Pad or Station; Samsung recommends a DeX cable in those cases. Check the accessory’s compatibility with your model and the display’s available inputs before buying.
Choose how to connect to the display
| Setup | What to check | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Wired HDMI cable or adapter | Your phone must support wired DeX and the display must have a compatible input. Samsung documents HDMI cables and adapters for supported devices. | A direct cable is a straightforward option, but it adds a physical connection and does not work with every USB-C phone. |
| DeX Pad or DeX Station | Confirm that the accessory supports and physically fits your exact phone. Check its available connections for the display and peripherals. | It can provide a docked setup, but compatibility and fit are model-specific. |
| Wireless DeX | Your phone and display must support the relevant wireless connection. Samsung says compatible TVs, monitors or Miracast-capable devices are needed. | It avoids a display cable, but Samsung warns that performance is not guaranteed with every third-party wireless endpoint. |
Samsung’s DeX technical guide provides further context on displays, peripherals and connection modes. Its device lists are older, however, so use Samsung’s current consumer compatibility guidance to verify your phone.
Rank #2
- 【7-in-1 Expansion Hub】 Transforms your phone/tablet into a workstation. Includes HDMI , USB 3.0 (5Gbps), two USB 2.0 ports, SD/TF card readers, and a USB-C PD charging port. One hub, full connectivity.
- 【Samsung DeX & Universal Compatibility】 Specifically supports Samsung DeX mode and works with any USB-C device that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode. Compatible with Samsung Galaxy, iPad Pro/Air (USB-C), iPhone 15/16/17, Android phones, laptops, and more. Please confirm your device supports DP Alt Mode before purchase.
- 【Plug & Play Desktop Experience】 No drivers or software needed. Connect a keyboard, mouse, and monitor to turn your phone into a desktop workstation for presentations, remote work, or classroom use.
- 【4K UHD External Display】Connect your laptop to a 4K UHD monitor, TV, or projector using an HDMI cable. Enjoy crystal-clear visuals for movies, gaming, presentations, or multitasking on a larger screen.
- 【15W Pass-Through Charging】 Charges your phone/tablet while using the hub, preventing battery drain during long work sessions. Important: 15W fast charging requires a separately purchased fast-charge adapter and USB-C cable (not included). Charging not supported for laptops.
What you need for a practical desk
- A Galaxy device confirmed to support DeX for the connection method you plan to use.
- A compatible external monitor or TV; for a wired setup, check its input against the cable or adapter.
- A keyboard and mouse if you want conventional desktop-style input. Samsung documents supported peripherals and, in some setups, using the phone itself as an input surface.
- A suitable HDMI cable or adapter, or a compatible DeX Pad or Station, if you choose a wired setup.
Do not confuse external-display DeX with DeX for PC
External-display DeX runs the DeX interface on a connected monitor or TV. DeX for PC is a separate mode that connects a phone to a computer. Their compatibility and limitations differ.
Samsung says DeX for PC is unsupported on devices running Android 15 with One UI 7 or later; it also says the feature is unavailable on some newer models and software versions. For certain PC-connected functions, Samsung points users to Link to Windows. This change applies to DeX for PC: it does not establish that external-monitor DeX has stopped working. See Samsung’s current DeX guidance and its December 2024 New Zealand notice.
Rank #3
- Built in fan to keep your phone cool while docked
- Multiple connection ports: 2 x USB-A 2.0, USB-C charging, HDMI output, Includes Fast Charge wall charger, USB-C cable and HDMI cable
- Fast charging is available when Fast Charge mode is selected and using provided wall charger and cables. If a non-Samsung or Samsung charger below 15 W (9 V, 1.67 A) is used, DeX Pad may not operate or may be damaged.
- US Version includes: Fast Charge Wall Charger, USB-C Cable, HDMI Cable, and Quick Start Guide
Expect app and software-version limits
DeX’s usefulness depends partly on whether the apps you rely on support the way you want to use them on a larger screen. App behavior and multitasking features can vary, so check your essential apps rather than assuming a desktop interface guarantees desktop-class functionality.
Samsung’s FAQ describes a limit of up to five apps at once and notes that a feature for moving app windows between screens changed beginning with One UI 8.0. Treat both details as software-version-sensitive, not as permanent characteristics of DeX; consult Samsung’s FAQ and current device guidance for the applicable software.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- USB C to 4K HDMI adapter designed with 4K HDMI Output,USB 3.0,SD/Micro SD Cards Reader,USB Type C PD Charging.Plug and play,no driver/software is needed.
- Enjoy PC-like experience for Samsung Galaxy via DeX mode.Enable you turn any place into a workplace and enjoy vivid video in huge TV or monitor anywhere.Ideal for school,office,home,and game.Please charge the hub by original Samsung charger when using DeX mode.
- USB3.0 Port speeds up to 5Gbps,transfer images,files,and videos in seconds.Allow you to connect phone,keyboard,mouse,thumb drive,camera,hard drive,etc. Quickly access your image/video throught bulit-in SD/Micro SD card slot.USB-C PD charging port allow delivers power at Max 60W.
- Wide Compatibility for Samsung S20/S20Ultra/Note20/Note10/Note9/TabS7/S7+/S6/S5,Nintendo Switch,2020/2018 iPad Pro/iPad Air 4,MacBook Pro/Air,Microsoft Surface Book 2, Surface Go, ChromeBook Pixel,most USB-C interface devices.
- Warranty of USB C Hub,you will get 1 year+6 months warranty.We provide free replacement and return term,we also provide you professional customer service & technical support within 24-hours.
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