I Replaced My Laptop with Galaxy Z Fold 7: Using Samsung DeX as a Portable PC

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Introduction

Let’s be real—phones today are insanely powerful. But what if I told you one could actually replace your laptop? That’s exactly what I did with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, thanks to a hidden gem called Samsung DeX. This foldable isn’t just for scrolling Instagram or bingeing YouTube—it turns into a legit desktop when connected to a monitor. And spoiler alert: it’s way more useful than I expected.

What Is Samsung DeX on the Galaxy Z Fold 7?

Samsung DeX gives your Galaxy Z Fold 7 a full-blown desktop experience. Once you plug it into a monitor—either using a USB-C hub or wirelessly—you’ll see a familiar interface pop up. There’s a taskbar, resizable windows, and apps that feel more like you’re on a PC than a phone. You even get browser tabs that behave like Chrome or Safari on a computer.

Why the Galaxy Z Fold 7 Nails the DeX Experience

• Huge foldable screen: That 8-inch AMOLED display becomes a giant touchpad when unfolded—super handy if you don’t have a mouse.
• Speed to spare: The Snapdragon 8 Elite chip keeps everything flying, even when multitasking.
• Multitasking made easy: Thanks to One UI 8 and Android 16, you can split screens, use Flex Mode, and even keep four windows open at once.
• Portability factor: It’s your phone and your workstation in one—perfect for business travel or working on the go.

Setting Up DeX on Your Z Fold 7

1. Connect using a USB-C to HDMI adapter or go wireless if supported.
2. Add peripherals like a Bluetooth keyboard, mouse, earbuds, or external hard drive.
3. Launch DeX to access the full desktop interface.
4. Optimize your browser by switching to “Desktop site” mode for the best layout.

Real-World Use Cases

• Plug into a hotel TV or projector for travel or work presentations.
• Run multiple apps like Chrome, Gmail, Spotify, and Google Sheets in their own windows.
• Use the unfolded inner screen as a large, responsive touchpad if you don’t have a mouse.
• Enjoy crystal-clear video calls using the Fold 7’s top-tier cameras—much better than any laptop webcam.
• Access files from internal storage, OneDrive, Google Drive, or even print documents using apps like Noko Print.

Watch the setup in action here:

Tips and Extra Features to Try

• Download Good Lock with Multistar for advanced window controls and Sound Assistant to manage audio per app.
• Use Flex Mode for hands-free video calls or note-taking when the device is partially folded.
• DeX supports up to 4K resolution on compatible external displays—everything looks sharp and vibrant.

What You Should Know

• Not all apps work perfectly on DeX. Apps like Adobe Premiere or CAD software won’t run here.
• DeX limits you to five open windows at a time, which might feel limiting for power users.
• If you’re not using an external power source, DeX can drain your battery quickly.
• The Z Fold 7 doesn’t support the S Pen anymore, so finger input is your only option.

Conclusion: Can It Replace a Laptop?

For a lot of users, the answer is yes. If you’re handling web browsing, document editing, content posting, or presentations, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 with Samsung DeX can absolutely fill in for a laptop. It’s especially ideal for travel, remote work, or as a lightweight, on-the-go productivity hub.

However, if your day-to-day involves heavy desktop software like Adobe Creative Suite or 3D modeling tools, you’ll still need a traditional PC. That said, for everything else, having your phone double as your workstation is just brilliant.