Transitioned my traditional laptop to Samsung Dex, and this is the experience I encountered.
Samsung DeX, a software introduced in 2017, offers a desktop-like interface from a Galaxy phone, making productivity akin to that of a Windows 11 laptop. However, it comes with some important considerations.
Connectivity and Accessories
To make the most of Samsung DeX, you'll need a USB-C hub with HDMI output, or a USB-C to HDMI cable, for connecting your phone to a TV without USB-C input. A wireless keyboard and mouse are ideal to avoid dealing with a hub and cables. You can also connect a mouse, keyboard, and Ethernet cable directly, as DeX supports such connections.
Battery Life and Performance
While Samsung DeX can be a feasible long-term replacement for a laptop for heavy work use, battery life is a significant concern. The phone powering DeX has finite battery capacity, unlike a traditional laptop designed for extended use. Heavy multitasking and peripheral use will drain the phone faster.
Recent updates have simplified setup and improved display flexibility, but they've also removed customization features favored by power users, which may hinder workflow during extensive work sessions. DeX still lacks some refinements and doesn't offer full desktop feature parity, which means it might not fully replace all laptop functions for all users.
Cost Savings and Portability
Potential cost savings come from consolidating devices into one high-end smartphone instead of buying both a phone and a laptop. However, the required investment (approximately $2,000 for a foldable phone) and accessory purchase offset some savings.
The intended upgrade cycle for laptops is every five years, while phones are upgraded every two years. This means that, over time, Samsung DeX could potentially save money in the long run, as it eliminates the need for two expensive devices.
On the Go
Using Samsung DeX requires an external monitor, which can be a disadvantage when working outside of a fixed location, necessitating the need to bring a portable monitor. A suggested portable monitor for use with Samsung DeX is the Plugable 15.6-inch USB-C Portable Display.
A power bank is also suggested to ensure power is not depleted while working on Samsung DeX. The phone's battery power is a concern, with a 15-inch portable monitor draining about 20% of the battery in 90 minutes.
Limitations and Recommendations
Samsung DeX can do most of the things people need, including running apps like Adobe Lightroom. The latest change in DeX is that the DeX Windows app may no longer be supported.
For a more immersive experience, the recommended AR glasses for use with Samsung DeX are the XREAL smart glasses.
In summary, Samsung DeX is approaching laptop replacement quality, especially with Galaxy Z Fold models for extensive multitasking. However, the battery constraints, accessory dependency, and reduced desktop customization suggest it may not yet fully replace a laptop for all heavy work use in the long term. It suits digital nomads or those with lighter to moderately heavy workflows willing to adapt to mobile-centric computing workflows and periodic accessory setup.
The Samsung S25 Ultra, priced similarly to a MacBook Air, potentially allows for savings every five years. If you're considering this mobile desktop solution, keep in mind the need for accessories, battery life considerations, and software limitations.
- To utilize Samsung DeX effectively, a USB-C hub with HDMI output, or a USB-C to HDMI cable, is necessary for connecting the phone to a TV without USB-C input.
- A wireless keyboard and mouse are ideal for Samsung DeX to avoid dealing with a hub and cables, as DeX supports such connections.
- Despite improvements in battery life, it remains a significant concern when using Samsung DeX long-term, as the phone powering DeX has finite capacity compared to a traditional laptop designed for extended use.
- The Plugable 15.6-inch USB-C Portable Display is a suggested portable monitor for use with Samsung DeX when working outside of a fixed location.
- A power bank is recommended to ensure power is not depleted while working on Samsung DeX, as the phone's battery power is a concern.
- Samsung DeX can run apps like Adobe Lightroom, but the latest change is that the DeX Windows app may no longer be supported.
- For an immersive experience, the XREAL smart glasses are recommended for use with Samsung DeX, but Samsung DeX may not yet fully replace a laptop for all heavy work use in the long term, especially with battery constraints, accessory dependency, and reduced desktop customization.
