How to Turn Off Samsung DeX: A Quick Guide for Users

Matt Hoffman

Samsung DeX is a powerful feature that turns your Galaxy device into a desktop-like experience. While it offers many benefits, there may be times when you want to disable it. To turn off Samsung DeX, go to Settings > Connections > Device Connection > Samsung DeX and toggle the switch off.

This simple process allows you to quickly switch back to your phone’s normal interface. You might want to do this to save battery life or if you prefer using your device in its standard mode.

Samsung DeX can be helpful for productivity, but it’s not always needed. Knowing how to turn it off gives you more control over your device’s functionality. Here’s a quick comparison of DeX on and off:

Feature DeX On DeX Off
Interface Desktop-like Standard mobile
Battery usage Higher Normal
App compatibility Some limitations Full compatibility
Screen resolution Adjusted for external display Native phone resolution

Understanding Samsung DeX

Samsung DeX transforms compatible Galaxy devices into desktop-like experiences. It expands functionality and productivity options for users.

What Is DeX Mode?

DeX mode turns your Galaxy phone or tablet into a PC-like interface. It displays apps on a larger screen and supports mouse and keyboard input. This setup allows for easier multitasking and improved productivity.

When activated, DeX presents a familiar desktop environment. You’ll see a taskbar, resizable windows, and desktop icons. It’s ideal for tasks like document editing, web browsing, and running multiple apps simultaneously.

DeX works by connecting your device to an external display. You can use a cable or connect wirelessly on supported models. The phone or tablet then acts as a touchpad and virtual keyboard.

DeX Compatibility and Supported Devices

DeX is available on many Samsung devices. These include:

  • Galaxy S phones (S8 and newer)
  • Galaxy Note phones (Note 8 and newer)
  • Galaxy Tab S tablets (Tab S4 and newer)
  • Select Galaxy A phones
Connection Type Supported Devices
Wired Most DeX-compatible devices
Wireless S20 series and newer, Note 20 series, Tab S7 and newer

Newer models offer more features. For example, some phones can launch DeX wirelessly. Older devices may require a DeX Station or DeX Cable.

To use DeX, you’ll need a compatible monitor or TV. Many modern displays work, but check for compatibility if unsure. A Bluetooth mouse and keyboard enhance the experience but aren’t required.

Setting Up Samsung DeX

Samsung DeX transforms your compatible Galaxy device into a desktop-like experience. This feature enables productivity on a larger screen with familiar PC-style interactions.

Connecting with DeX Cable or HDMI Adapter

To set up Samsung DeX using a cable connection, you’ll need a compatible Galaxy device and the right accessories. Connect your phone or tablet to a monitor or TV using a DeX cable, HDMI adapter, or DeX station.

Plug the USB-C end into your device and the HDMI end into your display. Your phone will prompt you to start DeX mode. Tap “Start” to begin.

For the best experience, use a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. You can also use your phone’s screen as a touchpad.

Accessory Compatibility
DeX Cable Most newer Galaxy devices
HDMI Adapter Older Galaxy models
DeX Pad Select Galaxy phones

Wireless DeX Setup

Wireless DeX lets you connect without cables on supported devices. Ensure your TV or monitor supports screen mirroring.

To start:

  1. Open Quick Settings on your Galaxy device
  2. Tap the DeX icon
  3. Select your TV from the list of available devices
  4. Follow on-screen prompts to complete setup

Your TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network as your phone. Some TVs may require you to enable screen mirroring in their settings.

Using DeX on PC

DeX on PC brings the DeX experience to your Windows computer. This setup requires the DeX for PC app and a USB cable.

Download the DeX for PC app from Samsung’s website. Install it on your Windows 10 computer. Connect your Galaxy device to your PC with a USB cable.

The app will launch automatically. If not, open it manually. Your phone’s screen will appear on your PC. You can now use your phone’s apps with your computer’s keyboard and mouse.

DeX on PC works best with high-speed USB 3.0 cables for smoother performance.

Navigating DeX Mode

Samsung DeX offers a desktop-like experience on compatible Galaxy devices. It provides enhanced productivity features and a user-friendly interface for easier multitasking.

Samsung DeX Settings and Customization

You can access DeX settings through the Settings menu on your device. Adjust display resolution, font size, and screen zoom to suit your preferences. Change the wallpaper to personalize your workspace.

DeX allows you to customize the taskbar. Add frequently used apps for quick access. Modify keyboard and mouse settings to improve your workflow. S Pen users can configure input modes for enhanced precision.

Table: Key DeX Customization Options

Setting Description
Display Adjust resolution and scaling
Taskbar Add/remove app shortcuts
Input Configure keyboard, mouse, and S Pen
Audio Set sound output preferences

Using External Peripherals

DeX supports various external devices to boost productivity. Connect a keyboard and mouse for a traditional desktop feel. Use the touchpad on compatible keyboards for precise cursor control.

Wireless DeX lets you connect to compatible smart TVs without cables. This feature provides flexibility in your workspace setup. For the best experience, use Samsung-certified accessories.

Copy and paste functions work seamlessly between your phone and DeX mode. This allows for efficient data transfer between apps and windows.

Multitasking with Samsung DeX

DeX excels at multitasking. Open multiple app windows side by side for improved productivity. Resize and reposition windows as needed. Use the familiar drag-and-drop functionality to move content between apps.

The taskbar provides quick access to open apps and recently used files. Right-click on app icons for additional options and shortcuts. Use keyboard shortcuts to switch between apps and windows swiftly.

Add widgets to your DeX home screen for at-a-glance information. This feature helps you stay updated without opening full applications.

Disabling Samsung DeX

Samsung DeX offers versatility but you may need to turn it off at times. Here’s how to disable DeX in different scenarios.

Turning Off DeX Mode on Your Device

To disable DeX mode on your Samsung phone, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Connections
  3. Select More connection settings
  4. Tap Samsung DeX
  5. Toggle off the “Turn on DeX” switch

This disables DeX mode on your device. If you can’t find these exact options, check under Advanced features or search for “DeX” in Settings.

For some models, you can also swipe down the Quick Panel and tap the DeX icon to turn it off. This method works if DeX is currently active.

Deactivating Wireless DeX

Wireless DeX lets you use DeX without cables. To turn it off:

  1. Swipe down to open Quick Panel
  2. Tap the Wireless DeX icon
  3. Select “Disconnect” on the pop-up

If Wireless DeX isn’t in your Quick Panel:

  1. Go to Settings > Connections
  2. Tap Wireless DeX
  3. Toggle off “Allow phone to start Wireless DeX”

This prevents your phone from starting Wireless DeX automatically when near compatible displays.

Exiting DeX on PC

When using DeX on your computer, you can exit easily:

  1. Find the DeX icon in your PC’s system tray
  2. Right-click the icon
  3. Select “Exit”

Alternatively, on your phone:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Connected devices > DeX for PC
  3. Select “Turn off DeX for PC”

Unplugging the USB-C cable connecting your phone to the PC will also exit DeX mode.

DeX Disable Method Steps
On Device Settings > Connections > More connection settings > Samsung DeX > Toggle off
Wireless DeX Quick Panel > Wireless DeX icon > Disconnect
DeX on PC System tray > Right-click DeX icon > Exit

Frequently Asked Questions

Samsung DeX offers a desktop-like experience on compatible devices. Users often have questions about disabling or exiting DeX mode across different Samsung models.

What steps are required to disable DeX mode on a Samsung tablet?

To turn off DeX on a tablet, swipe down from the top of the screen with two fingers. This opens the Quick settings panel. Find and tap the DeX icon to disable the feature.

If DeX doesn’t turn off, try restarting your tablet. This often resolves persistent DeX issues.

How can I exit out of Samsung DeX mode on my Galaxy S8 device?

On the Galaxy S8, look for the DeX icon in the notification panel. Tap it to exit DeX mode.

If you can’t find the icon, go to Settings > Connections > More connection settings. Turn off the DeX toggle switch.

What is the procedure to turn off Samsung DeX on a Galaxy S22?

For the Galaxy S22, go to Settings > Connections > Device Connection. Tap the gear icon next to “Samsung DeX” and select “Turn Off”.

You can also use the Quick settings panel. Swipe down and tap the DeX icon to disable it.

Is there a way to deactivate DeX mode on a Samsung Galaxy Tab S7?

Yes, you can deactivate DeX on the Galaxy Tab S7. Swipe down with two fingers to open Quick settings. Tap and hold the DeX icon.

A pop-up window will appear. Select “Stop” to exit DeX mode and return to the regular tablet interface.

How do I permanently remove Samsung DeX from my device?

You can’t completely remove DeX, but you can disable it. Go to Settings > Apps > Samsung DeX. Tap “Disable” to turn it off.

This prevents DeX from running, but it won’t remove the app from your device.

Can I turn off the phone screen while using Samsung DeX?

Yes, you can turn off your phone’s screen while using DeX. This saves battery and prevents accidental touches.

To do this, connect your phone to a monitor using DeX. Then press the power button to turn off the phone screen.

DeX Action Galaxy S22 Galaxy Tab S7 Galaxy S8
Disable Settings > Connections > Device Connection Quick settings panel Settings > Connections > More connection settings
Quick Exit Swipe down, tap DeX icon Swipe down with two fingers, tap DeX icon Notification panel, tap DeX icon
Screen Off Press power button while connected Press power button while connected Press power button while connected