Use Samsung Smart Switch for a category-based backup you can later restore through Smart Switch. To put selected photos and files into ordinary folders on your computer, connect the Galaxy by USB and copy them with File Explorer on Windows or Finder on Mac. These are different kinds of backup: Smart Switch does not include every app or account item, while a manual copy covers only the files you choose.
Choose the backup method that fits what you need
| Method | Best for | What you get | Important limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Switch on a computer | A broader backup of supported phone categories intended for later restoration through Smart Switch. | A Smart Switch backup on the computer. Samsung says photos, videos, and audio may be readable, but messages in the backup cannot be viewed on the PC. | It does not back up every item. Some app data in private storage, externally synced calendar appointments, and account-linked contacts may be excluded. Samsung’s Smart Switch guidance describes supported content and limitations. |
| USB file copy | Specific photos, documents, or other files you want to open and manage in normal computer folders. | Individual files copied into a folder you choose on the computer. | You must select and copy the files yourself; this is not a full device backup. The procedure differs between Windows and Mac. |
Samsung documents both workflows in its Galaxy backup and file-transfer guide. For an additional copy outside the computer’s internal storage, you can also use compatible SD or USB storage where the phone supports it.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Back up a Galaxy to a Windows PC or Mac with Smart Switch
Check compatibility and storage
Samsung’s US support guidance lists Android 4.3 or later for general Smart Switch transfers and Android 7.0 or later for encrypted data transfer. Its computer requirements are Windows 10 or later or macOS 10.9 or later; Chromebooks are not compatible with Smart Switch for computer backup. These are Samsung’s published US requirements, and availability or requirements may vary by model and region. Check Samsung’s current Smart Switch instructions for your phone and computer.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Make sure the computer has enough free space. Smart Switch does not automatically delete older backup data, so check the backup folder and available storage before starting another backup.
#1 Best Overall
- Fast Charging and Data Sync: etguuds USB A to USB C cable supports charging speed up to 3 A fast charging for quick usb-c port device charging and data transfer speeds up to 480 Mb/s, usbc cable support USB 2.0 data transfer
- Long-Lasting: The usb c charger cord uses integral seamless stretch process, high pressure resistance and nylon braided adding tangle-free, can bear 20000+ bending lifespan
- Wide Compatibility: USB Type C cable fast charging for most C -port devices, for Samsung Galaxy S26 S26+ S26 Ultra S25 S25+ S25 Ultra S24 S24+ S24 Ultra S23 S22 S21 S20 A53 A14, for LG, for Moto, for Pixel, for iPhone 18 17 16 15. Not compatible with iPhone older models before iPhone 15
- Friendly Tips: The USB A to C cable is not support video and media display. Not compatible with webcams, some gaming devices, laptops. Fast charging requires that your device supports fast charging and wall charger supports fast charging
- What You Get: You will get 2 pack 3.3 ft etguuds Gray usb-a to usb-c nylon braided charging cable
Run the backup
- Install Smart Switch on the computer and Galaxy if it is not already installed.
- Unlock the Galaxy and connect it to the computer with a USB cable that supports data transfer.
- If the phone asks for permission to connect, tap Allow.
- Open Smart Switch on the computer and choose Backup.
- Review the categories Smart Switch offers. Deselect any categories you do not want, then start the backup.
- Wait for the app to report that the backup is complete. Samsung says this may take several minutes; it does not give a general time estimate.
- Safely eject the phone before unplugging it.
For a later restoration, Samsung’s stated process is to connect the phone, open Smart Switch on the computer, choose Restore, select a backup and the categories to restore, then start the restoration.
Find the computer backup
Samsung’s US support page lists these default locations; the folder may differ if you chose another location:
Rank #2
- Reversible USB-C connector
- 2a charging output
- The cable also supports up to 3 Amps of power output for charging USB-C devices
- Official Samsung Cable Comes in Retail Packaging
- Windows 10:
C:Users[username]DocumentsSamsungSmartSwitch - Windows 11:
C:Users[username]AppDataRoamingSamsungSmartSwitchPCtoPC - Mac:
/Users/[username]/Documents/Samsung/SmartSwitch/backup
A Smart Switch backup is not the same as a folder of ordinary, individually copied files. Samsung notes that some media may be readable on the computer, while messages cannot be viewed from the backup file. Use manual copying when direct access to selected files is the goal.
Copy selected photos and files over USB
Connect the phone in file-transfer mode
- Unlock the Galaxy and connect it to the computer with a compatible USB data cable.
- Approve the connection on the phone if prompted.
- If the phone does not appear as a file-transfer device, open the USB notification on the phone and select Transferring files or MTP. Menu wording can vary by model and software version.
Copy files on Windows
- Open File Explorer and select the Galaxy under Devices.
- Browse the phone’s folders to find the photos or files you want.
- Select the items and copy them into a folder on the PC.
- Safely eject the Galaxy before unplugging it.
Copy files on Mac
- Open Finder and select the phone’s files.
- Drag the selected items to a folder or the desktop on the Mac.
- Safely eject the Galaxy before disconnecting it.
These computer file-copy steps follow Samsung’s Galaxy transfer instructions. If your Mac or phone presents different controls, check the instructions for that Galaxy model and operating-system version.
Rank #3
- USB-C to C Cable for up to 25W Charging Speeds
- Get it in black or white to suit your style and device
If the computer does not recognize the Galaxy
- Unlock the phone: Keep it unlocked while connecting, and approve any permission prompt.
- Check USB mode: For a manual copy, select Transferring files or MTP from the phone’s USB notification.
- Check the cable: Use a cable that supports data transfer; some cables or port configurations may not work.
- Check Smart Switch compatibility: Confirm your Galaxy, computer OS, and region meet Samsung’s current requirements.
- Check free space: A computer with insufficient storage cannot hold the intended backup.
Use SD card or USB storage instead
If your Galaxy supports it, Smart Switch can back up to an SD card or USB storage. You can also use My Files to copy selected files to USB storage. Model support varies: some Galaxy phones do not have a microSD slot, and some external drives may draw more power than the phone can supply. A USB OTG adapter may be needed. Check compatibility for the specific phone, drive, and adapter, then safely unmount or eject the storage before disconnecting it. Samsung’s Galaxy support guide and Smart Switch instructions describe these options.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Android Charger Fast Charging 】: Quick Charge 3.0 Adaptive fast android charger charges from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes, 75% faster than standard chargers
- 【Universal Samsung Fast Charger】: Compatible AFC (Adaptive Fast Charging) Samsung Galaxy S25/ S24/ S23/ S22/ S22+/ S22 Ultra/ S21 / S21+ / S21 Ultra / S20 / Note 20 / Note 10 / S10 / S10+ / S10e / S9 / S9+ / S8 / S8 Active/ Galaxy Note 9 / 8, A10/ 11/ 12/ 20 /30 /50
- 【 Samsung Charger Fast Charging Cord】:Fast Charger Kit charges phones and tablets with USB 3.0 ports at max speed. This charger set charges all other non-fast devices as well. It will charge USB 3.0 phones and tablets that use TYPE C cable at their normal speed. Syncs and transfers files via TYPE C USB data cable
- 【Safety Android Phone Charger】: Multiple built-safeguards and intelligent IC identification technology protect against short circuit, over-current, over-voltage, over-heating and over-charging. Automatically stops charging when battery capacity is full to ensure your device safety and long lifetime
- 【Package Include】: 2 x USB Fast Wall Charger Block+ 2 x 6.6 Feet Type C Cable. Specification: Input: AC100-240V 50/60Hz; Output: DC 9V/1.67A or 5.0V/2.0A; Max Output: 15W.
Rank #4
- Fast Charging and Data Sync: etguuds USB A to USB C cable supports charging speed up to 3 A fast charging for quick usb-c port device charging and data transfer speeds up to 480 Mb/s, usbc cable support USB 2.0 data transfer
- Long-Lasting: The usb c charger cord uses integral seamless stretch process, high pressure resistance and nylon braided adding tangle-free, can bear 20000+ bending lifespan
- Wide Compatibility: USB Type C cable fast charging for most C -port devices, for Samsung Galaxy S26 S26+ S26 Ultra S25 S25+ S25 Ultra S24 S24+ S24 Ultra S23 S22 S21 S20 A53 A14, for LG, for Moto, for Pixel, for iPhone 18 17 16 15 Pro Max. Not compatible with iPhone older models before iPhone 15
- Friendly Tips: The USB A to C cable is not support video and media display. Not compatible with webcams, some gaming devices, laptops. Fast charging requires that your device supports fast charging and wall charger supports fast charging
- What You Get: You will get 2 pack 3 ft etguuds Gray usb-a to usb-c nylon braided charging cable
Which method should you use?
- Choose Smart Switch if you want a broader backup of supported categories that can be restored through Smart Switch.
- Choose manual USB copying if you need particular photos or files in ordinary computer folders.
- Use removable storage if you want a separate destination and your phone, drive, and adapter are compatible.
- For more resilience, keep a second copy on separate storage rather than relying on just one copy. Verify that copied files open, and note where Smart Switch saved its backup.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
