Samsung DeX: Compatible Galaxy Devices, Docks & Displays

To use Samsung DeX, you need a compatible Galaxy device (a flagship phone or tablet from the Galaxy S, Note, or Tab S series), a way to connect it to an external display (a wired HDMI connection, a DeX dock, or a wireless connection to a Miracast-compatible TV or monitor), and a display that supports the connection method you choose. The exact dock or cable you need depends on your device’s port and whether you want to use the phone as a touchpad or connect a separate keyboard and mouse.

What Is Samsung DeX?

Samsung DeX (short for Desktop Experience) is a feature built into many Galaxy smartphones and tablets that turns the device into a desktop-like computer when connected to a larger screen. Instead of mirroring your phone’s interface, DeX presents a Windows-style desktop with a taskbar, resizable windows, and support for multiple apps at once. It was introduced in 2017 with the Galaxy S8 and has since evolved to work with a wider range of devices and connection methods.

The core idea is simple: your phone is the brain, the external display is the monitor, and you can add a keyboard and mouse for a complete setup. This makes DeX useful for productivity tasks like editing documents, checking email, or using office apps on a big screen without carrying a laptop.

Which Galaxy Devices Support DeX?

DeX support is not universal across all Samsung phones. It is generally reserved for flagship models, though the list has grown over time. As of 2024, the following device families support DeX:

• Galaxy S series: S8 and newer (S8, S9, S10, S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, and their Plus/Ultra variants).
• Galaxy Note series: Note 8 and newer (Note 8, Note 9, Note 10, Note 20, and their Plus variants).
• Galaxy Tab S series: Tab S4 and newer (Tab S4, S5e, S6, S7, S8, S9, and their Plus/Ultra variants).
• Galaxy Z Fold series: Z Fold 3 and newer (Z Fold 3, Z Fold 4, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6).

Budget A-series and M-series phones generally do not support DeX, even if they have a USB-C port. To check if your device supports DeX, go to Settings > Advanced Features > DeX on your phone. If the option is missing, your device is not compatible.

What Docks and Cables Do You Need?

The connection method determines what hardware you need. There are three main ways to connect a DeX-compatible device to a display:

1. Wired HDMI Connection (with USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter)

Most modern Galaxy phones and tablets support DeX over a simple USB-C to HDMI cable or a USB-C to HDMI adapter. This is the cheapest and most portable option. You plug the cable into your phone and the other end into a monitor or TV. The phone will automatically launch DeX when connected, though you may need to tap a notification to switch from screen mirroring to DeX.

However, not all USB-C to HDMI cables work. The cable or adapter must support DisplayPort Alt Mode (also called DP Alt Mode). Many cheap cables only support power delivery or data transfer, not video output. Look for cables that explicitly state “DisplayPort Alt Mode” or “4K video output” in the description. Samsung’s own DeX cables and adapters are guaranteed to work, but many third-party options also work if they meet the spec.

2. DeX Station or DeX Pad (Samsung’s dedicated docks)

Samsung released two dedicated docks for DeX: the DeX Station (2017) and the DeX Pad (2018). Both are no longer sold by Samsung, but you can still find them on secondary markets. The DeX Station has an HDMI port, two USB-A ports, and a USB-C port for charging. The DeX Pad is flatter and allows the phone to be used as a touchpad. These docks are not required for DeX to work—any USB-C to HDMI adapter with a power passthrough will do—but they were designed specifically for DeX and include cooling fans in the Station model.

3. Wireless DeX (Miracast)

DeX can also work wirelessly with Miracast-compatible TVs and monitors. To use wireless DeX, your display must support Miracast (most smart TVs from the last few years do, but not all). On your phone, go to Settings > Advanced Features  DeX > DeX on TV and follow the prompts to connect. Wireless DeX is convenient but has higher latency and lower resolution (capped at 1080p) compared to a wired connection. It’s fine for presentations or watching videos, but not ideal for gaming or heavy multitasking.

What Displays Work with DeX?

DeX works with any display that has an HDMI input, which includes most modern TVs, computer monitors, and projectors. For wireless DeX, the display must support Miracast. If you’re using a monitor, you’ll also need a way to connect a keyboard and mouse—either via Bluetooth or by using a USB hub connected to the phone’s USB-C port.

Resolution support depends on the connection method and the phone:

• Wired with a USB-C to HDMI adapter: Up to 4K at 60Hz on newer flagships (Galaxy S20 and newer, Tab S7 and newer). Older devices may be limited to 1440p or 1080p.
• DeX Station/Pad: Up to 4K at 30Hz (Station) or 1080p (Pad).
• Wireless: 1080p at 30Hz.

Note that the display itself must support the resolution you’re trying to output. A 1080p monitor will only show 1080p, even if your phone can output 4K.

How to Set Up DeX (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a typical setup process for a wired connection:

1. Connect a USB-C to HDMI adapter to your Galaxy device.
2. Plug an HDMI cable into the adapter and the other end into your monitor or TV.
3. Switch the monitor/TV to the correct HDMI input.
4. Your phone should automatically launch DeX. If it shows screen mirroring instead, swipe down from the top of the phone screen and tap the DeX icon in the notification panel.
5. Connect a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, or use a USB hub to plug in wired ones.
6. If you want to charge your phone while using DeX, use an adapter with a USB-C power passthrough port and connect your charger.

If you’re using wireless DeX, go to Settings > Advanced Features > DeX > DeX on TV and select your TV from the list. The TV must be in Miracast mode (often called “Screen Mirroring” or “Smart View” on Samsung TVs).

Common Problems and Fixes

DeX is generally reliable, but you may encounter issues:

• No video output: Make sure the cable/adapter supports DisplayPort Alt Mode. Try a different HDMI port on the display or a different cable.
• DeX doesn’t launch automatically: Check the notification panel on your phone and tap the DeX icon. Also ensure that DeX is enabled in Settings > Advanced Features.
• Phone charges but no video: The cable may only support power delivery, not video. Get a proper USB-C to HDMI adapter with DP Alt Mode.
• Wireless DeX won’t connect: Ensure your TV supports Miracast and that it’s not already connected to another device. Restart both the phone and TV.
• Mouse cursor is laggy: This is common with wireless DeX. Use a wired connection for better performance.

DeX vs. Samsung’s Built-in Screen Mirroring

It’s easy to confuse DeX with screen mirroring (also called Smart View). Screen mirroring simply duplicates your phone’s screen on the TV, showing the same apps in their mobile layout. DeX, on the other hand, transforms the interface into a desktop environment with a taskbar, windowed apps, and a start menu. You can switch between the two modes when connected—DeX is designed for productivity, while screen mirroring is better for watching videos that don’t support DeX’s windowed mode (some apps, like certain streaming services, may block DeX output).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use DeX with any USB-C to HDMI cable?

No. The cable must support DisplayPort Alt Mode. If the cable only supports USB 2.0 data and power, it won’t output video. Look for cables that explicitly mention “DP Alt Mode” or “4K video output” in the product description. Samsung’s official DeX cables are guaranteed to work, but many third-party cables also work if they meet the spec.

Do I need a special dock to use DeX?

No. A simple USB-C to HDMI adapter is sufficient for a wired connection. Samsung’s DeX Station and DeX Pad are no longer sold, but they were just convenience accessories—they didn’t add any functionality that a standard adapter doesn’t provide (except for the Pad’s touchpad feature). You can also use a USB-C hub with HDMI and USB-A ports for connecting a keyboard and mouse.

Can I use DeX wirelessly with any TV?

No. The TV must support Miracast. Most smart TVs from the last few years do, but not all. Check your TV’s specs for “Miracast” or “Screen Mirroring” support. If your TV doesn’t support it, you can use a dedicated Miracast dongle (like a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter) plugged into an HDMI port.

Does DeX work on Galaxy A-series phones?

Generally, no. DeX is reserved for flagship devices: Galaxy S, Note, Tab S, and Z Fold series. Some mid-range phones may have a “Samsung DeX” mode for video output, but it’s not the full desktop experience. To be sure, check Settings > Advanced Features > DeX on your phone.

Can I use DeX while charging my phone?

Yes. If you use a USB-C to HDMI adapter with a power passthrough port, you can plug in your charger and the phone will charge while connected to the display. Alternatively, you can use a USB-C hub with power delivery. Keep in mind that DeX can drain the battery faster than normal use, so charging is recommended for long sessions.

What is the maximum resolution for DeX?

With a wired connection on recent flagships (Galaxy S20 and newer, Tab S7 and newer), DeX can output up to 4K at 60Hz. Older devices may be limited to 1440p or 1080p. Wireless DeX is capped at 1080p at 30Hz. The display itself must also support the resolution you’re trying to use.

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