With the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 launch tomorrow at Unpacked, I've been using my Note 9 in preparation for the Note 10 upgrade. Readers may also know I recently bought an iPad Pro 11. Using these two devices made me realize that one was redundant for my home computing and ZDNet writing needs.
While I use a Surface Pro 6 for my engineering work, in addition to my weekly podcasting with Kevin Tofel, I prefer to have a different setup for my home computer and ZDNet tech writing. I explained how the iPad was going to satisfy that role and it can indeed get the job done. However, my Note 9 with Samsung DeX has proven to perform the role better than the iPad Pro 11 while also saving me hundreds of dollars.
Also: Samsung DeX Executive Guide
So how does a smartphone connected via an HDMI cable to a monitor work better for me than an iPad Pro 11? Let's take a look at the tasks I need this home office setup to do, check the apps on both platforms, and detail why I find DeX works better for me.
In addition, the setup I am looking for needs to function well on my commute, while on business travel, and while out and about. The Note 9 is much smaller than the iPad Pro 11 so there is a compromise in the display size, but because of its size it fits on the train easier than the iPad. I just ordered a small foldable Bluetooth keyboard to do some basic writing with the Note 9 and it was only $30, compared to more than $100 for most iPad keyboards.
Also: My hunt for the right iPad model: Too small, too big, and just right
Lastly, I can also use VMware's Horizon Client to get into my VDI solution at my engineering company with DeX if I leave my Surface Pro in the office or need full access to my work server while on the go. The iPad can also gain this access, but without full mouse support the experience is more limited.
The Note 9 also functions as my phone so it has an always-on connection and while I could also get that with the iPad Pro that is another $130 premium. Again, cost has been a factor in this latest decision to stick with the Note 9 too.
The Apple iPad Pro 11 is a fantastic tablet and I am extremely impressed by the hardware and performance. However, it's an expensive extra to have on hand and to be honest the Galaxy Note 9 with DeX meets my needs better. Given this realization, I am planning to upgrade to the Galaxy Note 10 when it is released later this month.
Have you tried out Samsung DeX? If so, what kind of work do you do with it?