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Which USB-C cable do you need for Samsung DeX on a Mac?

Short answer: Any data-capable USB-C cable between your Galaxy and your Mac. The cable that came with your phone usually works, and it keeps the phone charged while you use DeX. You don't need a monitor, a dock or a special "DeX cable". The most common reason a Mac doesn't see the phone is a charge-only cable; those often come with chargers and power banks.

1. A USB-C to USB-C data cable (most Macs)

Recent Macs have USB-C or Thunderbolt ports, so a USB-C to USB-C cable sold for data (not "charging only") is all you need. A cable of about 1 to 2 meters reaches comfortably from a laptop to a phone stand.

Shop USB-C data cables on Amazon

2. Older Macs with USB-A ports

If your Mac only has the rectangular USB-A ports, use a USB-A to USB-C cable that's sold for data transfer.

Shop USB-A to USB-C data cables on Amazon

3. A phone stand for your desk

With DeX on your Mac's screen, the phone just sits beside it. A simple stand keeps it out of the way and lets the cable reach without strain.

Shop desk phone stands on Amazon

Not the same thing: Pixel to an external monitor

Plugging a Pixel 8 or newer straight into a monitor (Android's desktop mode on the monitor itself) needs a cable that carries video: USB-C to HDMI or USB-C to DisplayPort, as Pixel Phone Help names them. Hubs must support DisplayPort Alt Mode; DisplayLink docks don't work. You don't need this cable to use Deskbridge on your Mac.

Shop USB-C to HDMI cables · Shop USB-C to DisplayPort cables

Questions

How do I know if my cable carries data?

Plug the phone into your Mac. If the phone asks how to use the USB connection, or Deskbridge sees it, the cable carries data. If the phone only charges and nothing else happens, try another cable.

Can I skip the cable entirely?

Yes. Deskbridge can pair over Wi-Fi with Wireless debugging. A cable still gives the smoothest picture and keeps the phone charged.

Which phones and Macs work?

A Samsung Galaxy on One UI 8 or later, and a Mac on macOS 13 or later (Apple silicon or Intel). See compatible phones.

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