Multitask with Samsung DeX and your Galaxy tablet

Do you want to use DeX mode but don’t have an extra monitor lying around? That won’t be a problem if you have a Galaxy tablet. Newer tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S10, Tab S10 FE, and Tab S10 FE+ have DeX built right into them. This means you can use DeX without connecting the tablet to a monitor or TV! Just open up DeX mode on your tablet to start multitasking.
Multitasking with DeX on Tab S8 Ultra
Multitasking with DeX on Tab S8 Ultra

Multitask with Samsung DeX and your Galaxy tablet

Compatibility

You can refer to the list below for compatibility information.

  • DeX cable or HDMI cable: Galaxy Tab S4, Tab S5e, Tab Active Pro, Tab S6, Tab S7 series, Tab S8 series, Tab S9 series, Tab S10 series, and Tab Active 3.

    Note: The Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+, Tab S10 FE, and S10 FE+ are not compatible with HDMI output.
  • DeX mode on tablet: Galaxy Tab S4, Tab S6, Tab S7 series, Tab S8 series, Tab S9 series, Tab A9+, and Tab S10 series.
  • Wireless DeX with a TV or monitor: Galaxy Tab S5e, Tab S6, Tab S7 series, Tab S8 series, Tab S9 series, Tab S10 series, and Tab Active 3.

    Note: The Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+, Tab S10 FE, and S10 FE+ are not compatible with Wireless DeX.
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Use DeX mode on your tablet

Transform your tablet into a desktop-like experience with DeX mode. This feature allows you to enjoy a more productive and efficient way of using your device, making it perfect for work, study, or entertainment. Check out our website if you’re looking for the latest compatible Galaxy tablets.

  1. Just swipe down from the top of the screen using two fingers to open the Quick settings panel. Then, tap the Samsung DeX icon.
    Samsung DeX icon highlighted in the Quick Settings panel on a Galaxy tablet
  2. If it's your first time using this feature, follow the instructions. The DeX interface will load on the tablet the same way it appears on desktops and monitors. You can navigate it using the touch screen, S Pen, a USB or Bluetooth mouse and keyboard, or a Keyboard cover.
  3. You can also switch between Classic DeX and New DeX by navigating to and opening Settings, then tapping Connected devices, and then tapping Samsung DeX. Tap Classic to use Classic Mode.

    Note: This option is not available on all Galaxy tablets. 
  4. To exit DeX, select the Apps icon in the bottom left corner of the DeX screen, and then select Exit DeX.
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Use the S Pen with DeX

A list of icons for the Air command menu on a Galaxy tablet

If you have a Tab S7, S8, S9, or S10, DeX mode will have an extra perk: you can use S Pen features! That’s right, DeX mode will come with the Air command menu. Just hover your S Pen over the Air command icon and tap it to open up the menu. All of your usual shortcuts will be there.

You can also use the S Pen to write down ideas in Samsung Notes, color in the PENUP app, and do a myriad of other things that are easier with a pen.

Use the S Pen in Samsung Notes

  1. Navigate to and open the Samsung Notes app, and then tap the Create note icon (the pencil) to open a new note.
  2. Tap the Handwriting mode icon (it looks like a squiggle) to begin writing with the S Pen.
  3. For different pen and color options, tap the Pen mode icon at the bottom of the screen.
  4. If your handwriting is a little wobbly, you can straighten it by tapping the Clean up handwriting icon (it looks like a pen with a wand) at the bottom. Select Align handwriting, and then tap the checkmark to confirm.
  5. To convert your handwriting into text, tap the S Pen to text icon (it looks like a pen with a T), and then begin writing with the S Pen. Your handwriting will be converted to text.
  6. Tap Back to save your note.

Use the S Pen in PENUP

  1. To find the PENUP app, hover your S Pen over the Air command icon on the Home screen and tap it to open the menu. Then, open the PENUP app.
  2. Tap Continue and allow the permissions when prompted. You will need to sign into your Samsung account to use PENUP.
  3. Next, select Drawing or Photo drawing, and then follow the prompts to set up your drawing page. Begin drawing with the S Pen.
  4. You can choose from different pens, brushes, and tools at the top of the screen, and change the color using the options in the top right.
  5. Tap Back, and then tap Save to save your drawing.

Use the S Pen in search fields, address bar, and other text areas

  1. First, open any app where you can type with an on-screen keyboard.
  2. Hover over the text field with your S Pen, and then start writing.
  3. In some apps, you will need to tap the Handwriting icon (it looks like the letter T) on the keyboard's toolbar to enable handwriting mode.
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Adjust DeX Settings

Samsung DeX settings on a Galaxy tablet

Maybe you’re having some trouble reading the text in DeX mode. Just use the Samsung DeX settings to change any settings related to DeX mode.

  1. Navigate to and open Settings, and then tap Samsung DeX.
  2. From here, you can customize your wallpaper, change display settings, access keyboard settings, try new features with Samsung DeX Labs, hide the task bar, and much more.
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Connect the tablet wirelessly to a TV

Connect wirelessly searching for a device on a Galaxy tablet

Although DeX mode on tablets doesn’t require cables, you can still connect it to a bigger display if you’d like.

  1. Navigate to and open Settings and then tap Connected devices.
  2. Tap Samsung DeX., and then tap Connect wirelessly.
  3. If prompted, review and allow the permissions.
  4. Select your TV from the list, and then tap Start now.
  5. Your TV will prompt you to select Allow before connecting.
  6. Then, tap Start on your tablet to allow the necessary permissions.
  7. You can now use DeX mode on your TV. Whatever you do on the tablet will be mirrored to the TV's screen.
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