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To restore a Samsung Smart Switch backup, use the route that matches where the backup is saved: open Smart Switch on a Windows PC or Mac and restore over a data-capable USB cable, or open Smart Switch on the Galaxy device and restore from supported microSD or USB storage. The available categories and screen labels can vary by device and software version.
Choose the restore route that matches your backup
| Backup location | What you need | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Windows PC or Mac | Smart Switch computer program, a USB cable that transfers data, and permission to access the connected phone if prompted. | Click Restore in Smart Switch on the computer. |
| microSD card | A Galaxy model that supports microSD, with the card containing the backup. | Open Smart Switch on the phone and tap the storage icon. |
| USB storage | USB OTG-compatible storage and, if needed, an adapter that fits the phone’s charging port. | Connect the storage, open Smart Switch, and tap the storage icon. |
Samsung describes these as separate restore paths; the right one depends on where the backup already lives and what your Galaxy device supports. See Samsung’s computer restore instructions and its external-storage instructions.
How do I restore a Smart Switch backup from my PC or Mac?
- Confirm the backup is on the computer and note its location. Smart Switch backups are normally saved to a default folder unless you chose another location; the paths are listed below.
- Open Smart Switch on the computer and connect your Galaxy phone or tablet using a USB cable that supports data transfer. A charge-only cable will not work for this connection.
- Unlock the phone and allow the access request if Smart Switch prompts you.
- In the computer program, click Restore. If you see Select your backup data, choose the categories you want to restore. Available choices can include contacts, messages, and photos; the actual selection depends on the backup and software.
- Choose the latest backup or select another backup if the one shown is not the one you need. Click Restore now or the equivalent restore command, then wait for the transfer to finish and confirm with OK if prompted.
- Safely eject the phone using the operating system’s eject flow before disconnecting it. Samsung provides Windows and Mac guidance in its computer restore instructions.
Where is my Smart Switch backup stored?
Samsung’s US support guide lists these default computer backup locations:
- Windows 10:
C:Users[username]DocumentsSamsungSmartSwitch - Windows 11:
C:Users[username]AppDataRoamingSamsungSmartSwitchPCtoPC - Mac:
/Users/[username]/Documents/Samsung/SmartSwitch/backup
These are default paths, not a guarantee of where a particular backup was saved. The location can differ if you selected another folder or use a different Smart Switch version. Check the program’s backup selection and the location you chose if the expected backup does not appear. Source: Samsung’s Galaxy backup and restore guide.
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#1 Best Overall
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 512GB, Black
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Can I restore from an SD card or USB storage?
- Check that your phone supports the storage type. Samsung notes that not all Galaxy phones and tablets support microSD. USB storage must connect to the phone’s charging port, sometimes through a compatible adapter.
- Insert the microSD card or connect the USB storage. If a USB notification asks to enable file transfer or MTP, follow the prompt.
- Open Smart Switch on the phone and tap the SD card or storage icon in the upper-right area.
- Under Restore from, select the storage containing the backup.
- Select the data categories you want, tap Next, then tap Restore. Complete any remaining on-screen steps.
- Before disconnecting USB storage, safely unmount it through the phone’s file-management or USB notification flow.
Samsung says you can repeat the external-storage restore process to transfer additional data later. Available storage space can limit what fits on external media. Follow Samsung’s external-storage steps and storage compatibility guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can I restore only some data?
When Smart Switch offers Select your backup data on the computer, choose the categories you want rather than starting a full selection. For external storage, choose categories on the phone before tapping Restore. The options depend on the backup, device, and software version, so do not assume every app or file type can be restored. Samsung advises users to check supported file types and select from the categories presented: computer restore guidance.
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Bestseller No. 2
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Samsung Galaxy S26, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 256GB, Black
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Blue
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
Sale
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #2
Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
If Smart Switch cannot find the backup
- Computer backup missing: Check the Windows or Mac default folder above, then verify whether you chose a different folder when backing up. In Smart Switch, use the option to select another backup if it is available.
- Phone is not detected: Make sure the cable supports data transfer, reconnect it, and approve any access prompt on the phone.
- Storage icon or backup is missing: Confirm the card or USB drive is connected correctly and supported by the Galaxy model. For USB OTG, check the adapter and follow any file-transfer notification.
- Restore choices differ from these steps: Follow the labels shown on your device. Samsung notes that restore screens and available data categories can differ by device and software version.
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