Switched my laptop for Samsung Dex: Here's the outcome.
In the ever-evolving world of technology, Samsung Dex offers an intriguing alternative for those seeking a portable workstation. This software, debuted in 2017, transforms a Galaxy phone into a desktop experience [1].
The battery life of Samsung Dex is closely tied to the smartphone model powering it. For instance, the latest Galaxy S25 series phones boast impressive battery performance. The Galaxy S25 Plus lasts approximately 18 hours and 46 minutes in general use, while the S25 Ultra offers around 18 hours and 35 minutes [1]. However, battery life while using Dex specifically may vary based on workload, display brightness, and accessory power consumption.
To optimise the use of Samsung Dex as a primary work device, essential accessories include:
- A compatible display via HDMI or USB-C to HDMI adapter for connecting the phone to a monitor or TV.
- A Bluetooth or USB keyboard and mouse for desktop-style input.
- A DeX Pad or DeX Station (optional), providing additional ports like USB and Ethernet, and easing the docking process.
- A stable power source (fast charger) for keeping the phone charged during heavy usage.
- External storage devices or microSD cards if additional file storage or transfer is needed.
With these accessories, a powerful Galaxy phone, and a large display, users can enjoy smoother productivity experiences similar to a laptop. However, it's important to note that battery life with Dex depends heavily on phone usage intensity, display brightness, and accessory power consumption, so having the phone plugged into a charger during long Dex sessions is common.
Samsung Dex could potentially save money in the long run, as it eliminates the need for a separate laptop. For example, the user's MacBook Air costs $1,299, while the Samsung S25 Ultra has a similar price [2].
However, Dex has its drawbacks. Using it wirelessly introduces a noticeable lag, and if all necessary accessories (portable monitor, keyboard, mouse, and potentially a hub) are used, Dex is more cumbersome than a single laptop. A power bank is used to ensure power while working on Dex, and external keyboard and mouse are required for effective work, ideally Bluetooth devices.
Despite these limitations, Dex supports connecting a mouse, keyboard, and Ethernet cable, and many apps needed for work can be found on the Google Play Store. Files are readily available on OneDrive or Google Drive accounts, and some apps, such as Adobe Lightroom, can be used on Dex [3]. However, full-fat Photoshop on Android is currently not supported.
In the realm of mobile workstations, Samsung Dex presents an interesting option for those seeking a laptop alternative. While it may not replace a laptop entirely, it offers a viable and cost-effective solution for some users.
[1] https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/dex/ [2] https://www.apple.com/uk/macbook-air/ [3] https://www.adobe.com/uk/products/photoshop.html
- The battery life of Samsung Dex, a software transformation that turns a Galaxy phone into a desktop-like experience, is influenced by the smartphone model powering it.
- The Galaxy S25 series phones have impressive battery performance, with the Plus model lasting approximately 18 hours and 46 minutes, while the Ultra offers around 18 hours and 35 minutes.
- To optimize Samsung Dex use for primary work purposes, essential accessories include a compatible display, keyboard and mouse, DeX Pad or DeX Station, fast charger, and external storage devices.
- A large display, powered Galaxy phone, and these accessories can deliver smoother productivity experiences akin to a laptop.
- However, battery life with Dex depends on usage intensity, display brightness, and accessory power consumption, making a stable power source necessary during long Dex sessions.
- In contrast, a MacBook Air costs $1,299, while the Samsung S25 Ultra has a similar price, indicating that Samsung Dex could potentially save money in the long run.
- Despite its limitations, such as noticeable lag during wireless use and potential cumbersomeness when using all necessary accessories, Samsung Dex offers a viable and cost-effective laptop alternative, supporting mouse, keyboard, Ethernet, and various work-related apps.
