How to set up Samsung DeX on your Galaxy Tab
💡 Need to know
- Samsung DeX®availability depends on your model. Not every Samsung Galaxy Tab® supports DeX, and feature availability may vary.
- You don't need extra accessories to start. DeX can run directly on your tablet's screen, so you don't need extra input or display devices to get started.
- A cable or dock unlocks external displays. When properly connected, your DeX desktop can be projected onto a separate monitor for improved screen real estate.
- You can freely switch between modes. Moving between the regular tablet view and the DeX desktop view doesn't require closing any open apps.
Samsung DeX turns your Galaxy Tab into something that feels more like a laptop. You'll get resizable windows and real multitasking rather than the usual one-app-at-a-time squeeze. At least as long as you have no problems getting it up and running.
At Asurion, we're well-practiced at sorting out the little snags in the setup process that prevent DeX from working as you expect it to. Here's what it takes to get your Galaxy Tab running like a real desktop.
Which Galaxy Tabs support Samsung DeX?
Not every Galaxy Tab supports DeX, so it's worth checking that your model does. While newer flagship models support the platform, some of the older budget options do not. The easiest way to check is to pull down your Quick Panel and look for the DeX icon. It looks like a computer monitor with the word 'DeX' written on it. If you can't find it, open Settings and search for 'DeX.'
How to set up Samsung DeX on your Galaxy Tab
Once you've confirmed your device supports Samsung DeX, it's easy to learn how to use it:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Panel.
- In the shortcuts, look for the DeX icon.
- If it isn't there, add it by tapping the pencil icon at the top right of the screen to enter edit mode.
- Touch and hold the DeX icon and drag it to your active shortcuts.
- Tap Done to save your edited shortcuts.
- With the DeX icon visible in your Quick Panel, tap it to switch modes.
- Confirm the prompt to switch modes.
After confirmation, your screen will switch to a desktop view with a taskbar and app icons. Tap the DeX button again when you are ready to return to tablet mode.
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Connect a keyboard and mouse
A mouse and keyboard can create a more traditional feel when using your phone or tablet as a desktop with Samsung DeX. You can pair a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse by opening Settings > Connections > Bluetooth, turning on your accessory's pairing mode, and selecting it from the list of Bluetooth devices.
For a wired setup, a USB-C hub allows you to connect both devices to your tablet through the USB-C port.
Connect your Galaxy Tab to an external display
A USB-C to HDMI cable is the most common way to connect to an external display. Some devices have special docks that essentially do the same thing. If you have a monitor that supports Miracast™, and your Galaxy Tab supports wireless DeX connections, you can also connect them wirelessly.
How to customize and use Samsung DeX
Once in DeX, you can drag app windows to resize or reposition them, snap them side by side for easy multitasking, and pin your most frequently used apps to the taskbar.
Inside the Settings app, select Samsung DeX to adjust settings such as display resolution, wallpaper, touchpad behavior, as well as icon size and notification settings.
Since DeX is designed to mimic a desktop, all of your desktop muscle memory translates well to using it.
What to do if Samsung DeX isn't working
Some common Samsung tablet problems might prevent DeX from working correctly. If DeX doesn't launch, confirm that you are running the latest version of Android available for your device. A restart often resolves temporary glitches.
If an external device, such as a keyboard, mouse, or display, doesn't connect, re-pair the Bluetooth connection, try a different cable or port, and check for common Galaxy Tab Wi-Fi problems, depending on how the device is connected.
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FAQ
What is Samsung DeX used for?
DeX provides a desktop-like experience for Galaxy Tab owners, allowing them to easily multitask, resize and rearrange app windows, and work with a keyboard, mouse, or external display.
Do you need a monitor to use Samsung DeX?
No, DeX can run just fine on your tablet's native screen. You only need an external display if you want a larger viewing area.
Which Samsung tablets support DeX?
Most recent Galaxy Tab S and Active series tablet models support DeX, though availability and features vary, so confirm availability for your specific device.
Can you use a keyboard and mouse with Samsung DeX?
Yes, you can pair them through Bluetooth or a USB-C hub.
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