Use Samsung DeX when the Android apps on your Galaxy phone or tablet are enough and you want to use them in a desktop-style layout on a larger screen. Choose Remote Desktop when you need apps, files, or a desktop that run on a separate Windows PC or an organization-managed remote environment.
What is the difference between DeX and Remote Desktop?
DeX changes how apps on a compatible Galaxy phone or tablet appear and work on a larger screen. Samsung describes it as a PC-like big-screen experience using the apps already on the device. It does not turn the Galaxy into a Windows PC. Samsung Developer’s DeX overview
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Remote Desktop connects a client device to another computer or managed environment. The remote session gives you access to that host’s desktop, apps, and files; the Windows software runs on the host rather than on the Galaxy device. Microsoft’s Remote Desktop guide
Which should you use?
| Your situation | Better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Your work fits Android apps, and you want a larger, windowed workspace from your Galaxy device. | Samsung DeX | It presents apps running on the Galaxy in a PC-like environment on a larger display. Samsung Developer |
| You need a Windows-only program, a file stored on a PC, or that PC’s desktop. | Remote Desktop | The session connects to the separate host and exposes its apps, files, and desktop. Microsoft |
| You want to work locally on the Galaxy while continuing to use the device for phone tasks. | DeX | DeX displays apps that run on the Galaxy device. Samsung Developer |
| Your employer provides a managed desktop or published apps. | The organization’s supported remote client | For Remote Desktop Services, an administrator supplies connection details and assigns user access. Follow the organization’s setup and security policy. Microsoft Learn: Windows App |
| You want to use the DeX for PC app with a newer Galaxy device or software version. | Check Samsung’s current compatibility information first | Samsung says DeX on PC is unsupported for specified newer devices and devices updated to Android 15 / One UI 7 or later, and points affected users to Link to Windows. This limitation concerns DeX on PC, not necessarily direct DeX connections to a monitor or TV. Samsung’s DeX compatibility FAQ |
Can you use Remote Desktop in Samsung DeX?
Yes, if you can install and use a compatible remote-access client on the Galaxy device and the target PC or managed service is configured for your account. DeX provides the larger-screen interface; the remote session supplies the separate Windows desktop. The exact app, connection steps, and input behavior depend on whether you are connecting to a personal PC, Remote Desktop Services, Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, or another supported service. For an organization-managed service, use the client and connection information provided by its administrator. Microsoft Learn: Windows App
#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.
What to check before setting up DeX
Confirm the DeX mode and Galaxy model
Samsung’s support page distinguishes DeX on PC from other DeX setups and lists model-specific compatibility. Check your exact Galaxy model and software version there, especially if you intend to connect to a PC using the DeX app. The supported-device information can change. Samsung’s DeX compatibility FAQ
Choose a display connection
Samsung’s setup instructions cover connecting to a compatible PC through the DeX app and a USB cable. For a direct wired connection to a monitor or TV, a USB-C-to-HDMI adapter or hub may be needed. Compatibility depends on the Galaxy device, display, and adapter combination, so check those requirements before buying an accessory. Samsung’s DeX setup guide
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.
Plan for input and app behavior
A keyboard and mouse are optional, but can be useful for longer desktop-style sessions. Samsung’s developer guidance notes that DeX apps should support mouse or trackpad interaction and resizable windows; an app’s behavior can therefore affect how well it suits this setup. Samsung Developer
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What to check before using Remote Desktop
For a personal Windows PC
Microsoft’s built-in Remote Desktop host workflow requires the remote PC to run a Pro edition of Windows. Remote Desktop must be enabled, and you need the PC name and an account with access. Microsoft lists Android as a client platform. Its Windows App documentation specifies Android 10 or later for remote-PC access, along with network connectivity to the host and a user account. Microsoft Support · Microsoft Learn
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
For a work or school desktop
Remote Desktop Services and other managed environments are not configured like a personal PC. The organization must provide the service connection details and assign your account access. Follow its administrator’s instructions rather than assuming the personal-PC setup will apply. Microsoft Learn: Windows App
For an older Windows host
Microsoft states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. A PC may continue to operate, but after that date it no longer receives free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes, according to Microsoft. Microsoft Support
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.
A practical way to decide
- List the apps you need. If Android versions meet the need, start by checking whether your Galaxy supports the DeX mode you want.
- Locate the software and files. If they exist only on a Windows PC or managed desktop, Remote Desktop is the relevant option; confirm that the host or service allows your connection.
- Check the connection and account. For a personal PC, verify its Windows edition, Remote Desktop setting, network reachability, PC name, and account access. For a managed desktop, request the approved client and connection details from IT.
- Decide how you will connect and work. For DeX, check the display and Galaxy connection requirements and consider whether a keyboard and mouse suit your use. For Remote Desktop, make sure the client and network can reach the host or service.
The official setup documentation does not establish that either option is universally faster or better for latency, image quality, battery use, or productivity. Those outcomes depend on the device, app, host, network, and configuration.
Can DeX and Remote Desktop work together?
They can serve different parts of the same workflow: DeX can provide a larger-screen environment on the Galaxy while a remote session provides access to Windows running elsewhere. Whether that combination works well depends on the remote client, the Galaxy model, the input devices, and the connection, so check the supported app and test the specific workflow you need.
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