Introduction
Samsung DeX transforms your Galaxy smartphone into a desktop-like experience, enabling light productivity tasks. This review evaluates its operation modes, interface design, app compatibility, and overall system performance based on real-world testing.
Operation Modes
1. Keyboard & Mouse Control
- Seamless Transition: USB-connected peripherals allow traditional desktop navigation (double-click to open, right-click menus, Ctrl+scroll zoom).
Limitations:
- Input method switching fails (
Shift+Ctrl
). - Window dragging misalignment at 2K resolution.
- Input method switching fails (
2. Phone-as-Touchpad
- Basic Functionality: Mimics laptop trackpads for clicks/swipes but lacks precision (inferior to Appleβs Force Touch).
3. Touchscreen Support (Unverified)
- No native DeX optimization for touch/voice input observed. Potential future enhancement with S Pen integration.
Interface Design
- Clean Aesthetics: Windows-inspired layout with streamlined desktop icons and hidden apps in menus.
Key Elements:
- Bottom-left buttons (Apps, Multitasking, Home).
- Live app thumbnails on hover.
- Right-side status bar (battery, Wi-Fi, notifications).
π Explore DeX-compatible accessories
App Compatibility
System Tools
App | Rating | Notes |
---|---|---|
Browser | β β β β β | Desktop sites default; some mobile redirects. |
Gallery | β β β β | Scaled-up mobile version. |
Dialer | β β β β | Split-screen UI; awkward for calls. |
β β β β | Well-adapted but untested fully. | |
Calendar | β β β β β | Clear agenda view on large screens. |
File Manager | β β β β | Minimal desktop optimization. |
Samsung Notes | β β β | No S Pen support in DeX mode. |
Office & Communication
- Hancom Office/WPS: β β β β for basic docs; complex PPTs/Excel struggle.
- Chat Apps (QQ/WeChat): β β β Mobile UI with poor mouse control.
- Todoist: β β β β β β Perfect desktop adaptation.
Media & Shopping
- Music Apps: β β ββ β β (UI scaling issues).
- Video Platforms: β β ββ β β (Samsung Video works best).
- Shopping: "Whatβs Worth Buying" (β β β β ) outperforms Taobao (β ).
Performance Summary
Pros:
- Intuitive interface.
- Select optimized apps (browser, email).
Cons:
- Limited touch/voice support.
- Most third-party apps unadapted.
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FAQ
Q: Can DeX replace a PC for work?
A: Only for light tasks (docs, emails); lacks advanced tooling.
Q: Does gaming work well on DeX?
A: No β Mobile games require touch controls (e.g., Honor of Kings).
Q: Which apps are best adapted?
A: System tools (browser, calendar) and Todoist.