Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The simplest way to transfer pictures from a Galaxy S10 is a USB cable. Use a USB-C cable that supports data, approve the phone’s data-access prompt, choose file transfer, and copy images from Internal storage > DCIM > Camera to a folder on your computer. On a Mac, use the phone’s picture/file-transfer mode and import through Photos or drag the files into your library. If you want a broader device backup instead of a handful of pictures, Samsung Smart Switch is the better route.
Choose the right transfer method first
Your best method depends on whether you need a few image files or a wider backup of the phone. USB gives you direct control over individual folders. Smart Switch is designed for a computer backup and can include more device data than the camera roll.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Route | Best for | What you do | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB file browsing or import | Copying selected pictures directly | Connect the S10 with a data cable, allow access, select file transfer, then browse folders or import to Photos | Needs a working data cable; folder locations and Mac labels can vary by software version |
| Smart Switch desktop backup | Backing up broader phone data | Install and open Smart Switch on Windows or macOS, connect the phone, and run a computer backup | More app-driven and broader than necessary for a few photos; confirm current operating-system and device compatibility |
For a normal camera transfer, start with USB. Smart Switch is an alternative when your objective is safeguarding the phone’s contents rather than selecting files manually.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWhat you need before connecting the Galaxy S10
A cable that carries data
The S10 uses USB-C. Use either a USB-C-to-USB-C cable or a USB-A-to-USB-C cable, depending on the ports on your computer. The cable must support data transfer, not just charging. Samsung specifically warns that some charging cables do not support data transfer. A charge-only cable can make the phone appear to work while leaving its files inaccessible.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Latest Version USB C 3.2 Gen 2 Cable】ZeroneTeck latest USB C for Thunderbolt cable: ①This 20Gbps USB C to USB C data cable is capable of meeting your ultra-fast data transfer needs. ②USB C to USB C monitor cable support 4K@60Hz Ultra HD video output ③In addition, this Type c to Type c cable also has a faster than normal 60W data cable with 100W ultra fast charging. Makes it easy for you to solve all your problems with just one cable.
- 【20Gbps USB C Data Cable】USBC to USBC data transfer cable provides explosive transfer speed up to 20Gbps, connect hard drives and SSDs, Also suitable for phone to laptop data transfer, transfer large files in seconds and save you more work time. Meanwhile, USBC to USBC 3.2 gen 2 20gbps data transfer cable backward compatible with USB 3.1, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0.(*Note: Maximum speeds are achieved when both upstream and downstream devices are Thunderbolt 3/4 interfaces.)
- 【4K@60Hz USB C Cable for Monitor & Plug and Play】Plug and play, no drivers or applications required to use this cable! USB C monitor cord to stream 4K@60Hz (3840*2160) content directly from your phones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers to large screens such as monitors, HDTVs and projectors. You will enjoy stunning Ultra HD video and colorful image quality. (Note: Please make sure your device has a USB-C port and supports DP Alt mode).
- 【5A/100W Fast Charging Cable】USB Type C fast charging cable with E-Marker IC chip, safely charges your devices with up to 100W power. It can fully charge a MacBook Pro 60%, an iPad Pro 75%, a iPhone 15 85%, and a Switch 95% in 35 minutes. Fully satisfies the charging power needs of professionals for MacBooks Pro, Android devices, Samsung and iPad Pro. Charge any USB-C device at maximum speed for timely use and no more waiting. *Note: Requires a C-port adapter of appropriate power.
- 【Dual Vehicle System】 Flawlessly supports CarPlay & Android Auto for seamless navigation/music streaming. 20Gbps ultra-speed — 40× faster than USB 2.0 CarPlay cables with enhanced signal stability.
A suitable computer port
Connect directly to a USB port on the computer while troubleshooting. A hub, monitor port, or docking station can introduce another point of failure. Once the transfer works reliably, you can decide whether your normal setup is convenient enough to keep using.
Enough storage and a destination folder
Create a clearly named folder on the computer before you start, such as Pictures/S10 transfer/2026-10-18. The date is useful when you make several transfers. Check that the destination drive has enough free space for the selected images and videos.
Transfer Galaxy S10 pictures to a Windows PC with USB
- Connect the phone. Plug the S10 into the PC with the data-capable USB-C cable.
- Approve access on the phone. If Android displays “Allow access to phone data,” tap the option to allow it. Without this approval, Windows may only see a charging connection.
- Select the USB function. If the phone is charging but no files appear, swipe down to open notifications and tap the USB notification. Choose Transferring files/Android Auto (wording can vary by Android or One UI version). This is the mode that exposes the phone’s storage to Windows.
- Open the phone in File Explorer. On the PC, open File Explorer and select the Galaxy S10 under This PC or the connected-device list.
- Open the camera folder. Browse to
Internal storage > DCIM > Camera. Camera photos are commonly stored here. - Select what to copy. Use Ctrl-click or Shift-click for individual ranges, or select the full folder if you want every camera image. Include the file extensions you need; the folder can contain photos and videos.
- Copy to the computer. Drag the selection to your prepared destination folder, or use Copy and Paste. Copying leaves the originals on the S10.
- Wait for completion. Keep the phone connected until Windows finishes. Do not unplug it while a copy dialog is active.
- Verify before deleting anything. Open several copied files from the computer, including images from different dates. Check that they display correctly and that the file count is what you expect. Only then consider removing originals from the phone.
Samsung’s general Galaxy instructions describe this standard Windows path; the exact notification text and device name can differ with software version and region.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- Move Files Fast: Transfer music, movies, or entire seasons of TV shows in seconds at 40 Gbps.
- HD Display: Connect your laptop to an external monitor to mirror or extend your screen in up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz.
- Huge Range of Power: Supports a maximum 240W charge when paired up with a compatible charger. Charge virtually any USB-C device from phones and accessories to laptops.
- Built to Last: Proven in lab tests to withstand up to 5,000 bends.
- What You Get: Anker 515 USB-C to USB-C Cable (USB4, 3.3ft), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Find pictures that are not in DCIM/Camera
Images received through messaging apps, saved from a browser, or exported by another application may be stored in a different folder. Do not assume that an empty or incomplete DCIM/Camera folder means the pictures are gone.
- Open Gallery on the S10.
- Open the picture you cannot locate.
- Open its information or details view and note the listed storage path.
- Return to Windows File Explorer, open
Internal storage, and follow that path to the file’s folder. - Copy the files to the computer and verify them as you would camera images.
The folder name depends on the application that created or downloaded the image. Gallery’s details are therefore more reliable than guessing a location.
Import Galaxy S10 photos to a Mac
Samsung’s Mac guidance describes a general Galaxy workflow: connect the phone, switch USB mode to file or picture transfer, grant access, and import through the Photos app or drag files into the library. The example hardware in that guidance is newer than the Galaxy S10, so treat the labels as a documented general path rather than a guarantee that every S10 and every macOS release shows identical screens.
Rank #3
- [ Excellent Performance ] This USB C 3.1 cable connects a portable external USB C 3.1 SSD to a computer for speedy file transfer or syncs and charges Samsung smartphones or tablets equipped with the USB C port. Data synchronization is 20 times faster than USB 2.0 cables (480Mbps). (Does not support video output.)
- [ Fast Charging & High Speed Data Transfer ] This usba to usbc data power cable can sync your favourite photos, videos and music at a data transfer rate of up to 10Gbps(1250MB/s). Files can be synchronised in seconds. In addition, it can quick-charge your USB-C devices at up to 3A safe charging power. Tested charge Samsung Galaxy S22 from 0 to 60% in 30mins with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology.Tips: USB 3.1 Gen 2 renamed to USB 3.2 Gen 2 by USB-IF in 2019.
- [ Extreme Durability & High Quality ] : Unique ABS case with the reinforced connector withstand 10000+ bending test. Durable TPE cable not only stay tangling-free but also flexible enough to be wrapped up and put in a bag ! (PS:The connector shell is wrapped around by a piece of plastic film to protect the shell from scraching ,feel free to remove the film when you use it.)
- [ Universal Compatibility ] This USB C to USB A Charger cable is Compatible with almost all USB-C devices. For Samsung Galaxy S24/S24+/S24 Ultra/S23/S23+/S23 Ultra/S22/S21/S20/S10/S9/Note 20/10/A70/A80/A90/A54, iPhone 16/16 Plus/16 Pro/16 Pro Max, iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, Google Pixel 9/8/7/6/5/, Moto G9/G8/G7/G Pure, LG G7/G6/V50, Sony XZ, Bose 700, GoPro, Nintendo switch, Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, iPad Pro 2018 11''/12.9", Samsung T7/T5, Crucial X8/X6, LaCie Rugged SSD, G-Drive, WD My Passport, Seagate Fast, SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD etc. (OnePlus phones are not supported.)
- [ What You Get ] 1 X Super-Fast USB-A to USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 Cable (3 ft including both ends), our worry-free LIFETIME WARRANTY and friendly customer service. NOTE: If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we will be happy to serve you and give you an easy and pleasant shopping experience.
USB import through Photos
- Connect the S10 to the Mac with a USB-C data cable and an adapter or cable that matches the Mac’s port.
- Unlock the phone and approve any prompt asking to allow access to phone data.
- Open the USB notification on the phone and choose a file-transfer or picture-transfer mode if it is not already selected.
- Open the Mac’s Photos app and look for the connected device in the import view.
- Select the pictures and import them to the Photos library. Keep the phone connected while the import runs.
- Open several imported images in Photos before disconnecting or deleting originals.
Dragging files into a Mac folder or library
If your Mac’s software presents the phone as browsable storage, open the device, navigate to Internal storage > DCIM > Camera, and drag selected files to a Finder folder. Pictures from other apps must be located by checking their path in Gallery on the S10. If the Mac does not expose a browsable device, use the import workflow supported by your current macOS and Samsung software, or use Smart Switch for a broader backup.
Support and menu wording can depend on the macOS version, Android/One UI version, and the utilities installed on the Mac. The S10-specific result is not guaranteed solely because a newer Galaxy model follows the same general instructions.
Use Smart Switch when you need a computer backup
Samsung Smart Switch for Windows and Mac is intended for a wider data workflow. It can back up device data to the computer, making it useful before a reset, repair, or phone replacement. It is not required merely to copy a few pictures from DCIM/Camera.
Rank #4
- 【USB C 3.2 High-Speed Data Cable】 USB 3.2 Gen 2 cable supports up to 20Gbps data transfer, moving large files in seconds, not minutes. Compatible with USB4, Thunderbolt 3, and backward compatible with USB 3.1/3.0/2.0. Works with SanDisk, Samsung T7/T5, SSK, Crucial, WD, and USB C NVMe SSD enclosures (actual speed depends on device)
- 【USB C Display Cable 4K@60Hz】 Supports stable UHD video & audio output from laptops to USB C monitors. Compatible with popular 2K/4K displays including Dell S2722DC / S3425DW, LG 34WR55QK-B / 32U631A-B, and Samsung S50GC / S65UA series. Backward compatible with 2K & 1080p
- 【USB C Video Cable for Portable Monitors】 Works with USB C portable monitors for single-cable video output. Supports plug-and-play operation with no drivers required. Compatible with popular portable displays including ARZOPA, KYY, MNN, InnoView, ViewSonic, ASUS ZenScreen, and AOC. Note: Source USB C port must support DP Alt Mode
- 【100W C to C Fast Charging Cable】 Supports PD 3.0 fast charging up to 20V/5A (100W max) for laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other USB C powered devices. Built-in E-Marker chip ensures safe, stable power negotiation with 96W/87W/65W/61W USB C chargers. Delivers the fastest charge your device supports—efficient, reliable, and fully backward compatible
- 【Reliable & Supported】 Designed with a durable nylon braided jacket, this USB-C cable offers improved flexibility and long-lasting performance, tested to endure 40,000+ bends. Tinplate-reinforced connectors help protect against breakage at stress points. With gold-plated USB-C contacts, 86% high-purity tinned copper conductors, and a triple-layer shielding system (graphene + aluminum foil + internal shielding), it ensures reduced interference and consistently stable transmission
- Download and install the current desktop version of Smart Switch for your computer’s operating system.
- Open Smart Switch before connecting the S10, if the setup instructions for your version request that order.
- Connect the phone with a USB data cable, unlock it, and approve data access.
- Follow Smart Switch’s on-screen prompts to establish the connection.
- Choose the computer-backup command and review the categories Smart Switch will include.
- Start the backup and leave the phone connected until the application reports completion.
- Keep the backup in a known location and record the date. If you need only a few visible image files, copy those separately with File Explorer or the Mac import workflow.
Smart Switch’s interface and compatibility requirements can change. Check the current requirements for your exact Windows or macOS release and the S10’s software before relying on it as your only backup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot a Galaxy S10 that only charges or is not detected
1. Confirm the cable
Replace the cable with one known to support USB data. A cable that charges another device can still be charge-only, so charging behavior alone does not prove that it is suitable for file transfer.
2. Approve phone access
Unlock the S10 and look for the “Allow access to phone data” prompt. If it was dismissed, disconnect and reconnect, then watch the phone screen for the prompt.
Best Value
- 【Up to 40Gbps Data Sync】Delivers up to 40Gbps high speed transaltion, 4x faster than USB 3.2 cable, 2x faster than previous generation USB4 cable. It can copy 10GB files in seconds, avoid waiting, and effortlessly get everything you want. Plug and play, no drive needed.*The final performance depends on whether your device supports USB4, Thunderbolt 4/3.
- 【240W Rapid Charging】Up to 240W (48/5A) power supply when paired with a compatible charger. Backward compatible with 100W, 140W, 180W in Extended Power Range(EPR). It is ready to provide you with enough power at any time. Equipped E-Marker chip for safety, stability, and battery protection. Support PD 3.1, QC 4.0, FCP, AFC fast charging technology for future proof.
- 【8K HDR Design for Professionals】 Provide a single 8K@60Hz / 5K@60Hz / 4K@144Hz or dual 4K@60Hz display support. Connect your laptop or dock to a monitor and get a crisp detail and 10-bit color depth view. Support MST Daisy Chain, release your efficiency and improve the professionalism of the project.
- 【Future-proofed Compatibility】The USB 4 cable fully supports the function of Thunderbolt 4. Backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 2 x 2, USB 2.0. It works seamlessly with all Thunderbolt 4 / 3 / Type-C devices. Compatible with Apple Studio Display, Mac Studio, Mac Mini, MacBook, Surface, iPad Pro, iPhone 17/16, docking station, SSD, power bank, GaN charger, etc. We recommend using cables below 5FT when connecting to the docking for stable performance.
- 【Top-Notch Material】Aluminum shell ensures efficient heat dissipation and protects the chip. Experience unprecedented durability with our unique 48-strand braided techniques. It offers 3x protection without tangle and gets worry-free usage. Triple protection with EMI-resistant tinplate, 28 AWG OFC conductors, and stainless steel connectors improves signal quality and ensures long-lasting connections.
3. Change the USB mode
Open the phone’s USB notification and select Transferring files/Android Auto or the equivalent file/picture-transfer option. Leaving the phone in charging mode prevents the computer from browsing its storage.
4. Change the port and remove intermediaries
Try another port on the computer, connect directly rather than through a hub, and reconnect after the phone is unlocked. On a desktop PC, a rear motherboard port can be a useful alternative to a front-panel port.
5. Restart both devices
Disconnect the cable, restart the S10 and the computer, and reconnect after both have finished starting. This clears a stalled USB session without changing the files on the phone.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems6. Use Samsung’s driver-repair path when applicable
If Windows still does not detect the phone, Samsung’s troubleshooting guidance recommends using Smart Switch’s additional functions to reinstall the device driver, then reconnecting the S10. Follow the current Smart Switch labels for that function; they can differ between releases.
7. Check the folder, not just the device icon
A detected phone can still appear to have no pictures if you open the wrong location. Start at Internal storage, check DCIM/Camera, and use Gallery’s image details for files created by other apps.
Protect your originals and keep the transfer organized
- Copy rather than move on the first pass. A copy leaves a recoverable original on the S10 if the destination folder is incomplete.
- Verify representative files. Open images from the beginning, middle, and end of the selection; check a video too if videos were included.
- Keep the phone awake during a problematic transfer. If the connection repeatedly stops, prevent the phone from locking until the copy completes and then restore your normal screen-timeout setting.
- Use descriptive folders. Include the device and date in the folder name so later imports do not overwrite earlier ones accidentally.
- Do not infer speed or completion from the progress bar alone. Wait for the operating system or Smart Switch to report that the operation has finished before unplugging.
- Delete only after checking the destination. Samsung’s copy instructions do not require deleting the phone’s originals; removal is an optional cleanup step after verification.
Which method should you use?
Choose USB when…
- You need selected camera photos or a specific folder.
- You want the original files in a normal Windows or Mac folder.
- You can use a reliable USB-C data cable and a compatible port.
- You need to inspect paths for images saved by different apps.
Choose Smart Switch when…
- You want a broader computer backup before repair, reset, or replacement.
- You prefer a guided application over manual folder selection.
- You are prepared to confirm current Smart Switch support for your computer and S10 software.
For most one-time picture transfers, USB is the shortest path: data-capable cable, permission, file-transfer mode, correct folder, copy, and verification.
Quick Recap
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.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
