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The original was posted on /r/samsungdex by /u/Lazy-Top1519 on 2025-02-11 22:12:45+00:00.

Has anyone compared the two? The reason I returned my pixel 9 was because I needed Dex as I don’t have a laptop but I’ve switched on the force desktop mode on my S25+ developer settings and it isn’t too bad to be honest. For what I need to do this will absolutely do the job.

It lacks the notification bar, quick settings and some shortcuts but other than that I’m not noticing any disavantages really.

Have you compared the two? Is there anything else you missed from Dex?

I’ve got 5 days to return my S25+ and I’m seriously considering swapping it for a pixel 9 pro, as with desktop mode on both the pixel has overall better specs, battery life and cameras. I’m thinking:

• desktop mode on android will only get better now across all devices, I can’t imagine Samsung double down on dex and add to many more improvements at this stage
• android 15 now has Linux support built in and is in active development (already in developer settings but Samsung haven’t enabled this, some think because of knox)
• 4k mode works out of the box without good lock
• better overall value for money, pixel is cheaper with better hardware
• there is more apps you can chose from to get a custom desktop experience i.e. taskbar, there will only be more with time
• Google have started selling usb-c to HDMI cable in the Google store, showing a clear shift this way
• Is chrome OS like experience coming to android phones? Samsung has a conflict of interest, as the sell laptops and phones, Google on the other hand has really failed to sell tablets or chromebooks

Downsides of swapping for desktop mode on pixel:

• I miss the quick settings and ability to see notifications on the desktop, but can still open all the apps reply to msgs etc
• the window management is more basic, but I prefer the slimer bezels around each app
• can’t seem to be able to set a wallpaper? I don’t mind that? I like that I can choose between slimmer bezels around each app or the full bar at the top with the button to close, pin etc…