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For a broad, restorable backup, use Samsung Smart Switch on a compatible Windows PC or Mac. To put selected photos and files into ordinary folders you can browse, connect the Galaxy by USB and copy them manually. Smart Switch does not include every app or account item, so choose the method based on what you need to preserve.
Choose the right backup method
| Method | Best for | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Switch on a computer | Backing up supported categories for later restoration through Smart Switch | A category-based backup. Some media may be readable on the computer, but not every item is available as an ordinary file. |
| Manual USB file copy | Saving selected photos, videos, documents, or other files in a computer folder | Normal browseable files in the folder you choose; copy only the items you select. |
| SD card or USB storage | Keeping a copy on removable storage, where the Galaxy model supports it | A backup or file copy on external storage, subject to device, adapter, and drive-power compatibility. |
Samsung documents both Smart Switch and manual copying. Smart Switch is not a complete image of the phone: supported content varies, and exclusions can include app data in private storage, some externally synced calendar appointments, and certain account-linked contacts. Samsung also notes that messages in a Smart Switch backup cannot be viewed on the PC, while photos, videos, and audio may be readable. Samsung’s Smart Switch guide describes supported content and backup limits.
Back up a Galaxy with Smart Switch on a computer
Check compatibility and storage first
Samsung’s US support guidance lists Android 4.3 or later for general transfers and Android 7.0 or later for encrypted data transfer. Its computer requirements are Windows 10 or later or macOS 10.9 or later; Chromebooks are not compatible with Smart Switch. These requirements are Samsung’s stated guidance, and support can vary by phone model and location, so check the current Smart Switch page for your device. Make sure the computer has enough free space for the backup. Samsung Smart Switch support provides the compatibility and setup information.
Run the backup
- Install Smart Switch on the compatible computer and Galaxy phone. Samsung’s Smart Switch guide links to the relevant downloads.
- Unlock the phone and connect it to the computer with a USB cable that supports data transfer.
- If the phone asks for permission, tap Allow.
- Open Smart Switch on the computer and select Backup. Review the available categories and deselect anything you do not want included.
- Start the backup and wait for Smart Switch to report completion. Samsung says this can take several minutes but does not give a general duration; the time depends on the amount and type of content.
- Safely eject the phone before unplugging it.
To restore from a Smart Switch backup later, connect the phone, open Smart Switch on the computer, select Restore, choose a backup and its categories, then start restoration.
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Copy selected photos and files into computer folders
Use this method when you want files that can be opened and organized directly in standard folders, rather than a Smart Switch backup. The phone must be unlocked, and the USB connection must allow file transfer.
- Unlock the Galaxy and connect it to the computer using a compatible USB data cable. Approve the connection on the phone if prompted.
- If the phone does not appear for file browsing, open its USB notification and choose Transferring files or MTP. Menu wording can differ by Galaxy model and software version.
- On Windows: Open File Explorer, select the Galaxy under Devices, browse to the relevant folders, and copy the items to a folder on the PC.
- On Mac: Samsung’s guide describes opening Finder, selecting files on the phone, and dragging them to a folder or the desktop.
- Safely eject the phone before disconnecting it.
Samsung’s Galaxy file-transfer instructions cover the USB connection and computer workflows. A direct copy only saves the files you select; it does not create the broader category-based Smart Switch backup.
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Use an SD card or USB storage instead
If your Galaxy model supports removable storage, Smart Switch can back up to an SD card or USB storage. You can also use the phone’s My Files app to copy files to USB storage. Model support varies: some Galaxy phones do not have microSD support, and some external drives may require a USB OTG adapter or may not work if they draw too much power. Check compatibility for the specific phone, drive, and adapter. Unmount removable storage safely before disconnecting it. See Samsung’s backup guide and Smart Switch external-storage guidance.
If the computer does not see the Galaxy
- Unlock the phone and accept any on-screen permission request.
- For a manual file copy, check the phone’s USB notification and select Transferring files or MTP.
- Try a cable that supports data transfer; a cable or port setup that only supplies power will not provide the required file connection.
- Check that the computer meets the Smart Switch requirements if you are using the app. Samsung says Chromebooks are not compatible with Smart Switch for computer backup.
These checks follow Samsung’s connection guidance; they do not guarantee every cable, port, or device configuration will work.
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Find the Smart Switch backup and manage space
Samsung’s US support page lists these default Smart Switch backup locations. A different location may have been selected in the app.
- Windows 10:
C:Users[username]DocumentsSamsungSmartSwitch - Windows 11:
C:Users[username]AppDataRoamingSamsungSmartSwitchPCtoPC - Mac:
/Users/[username]/Documents/Samsung/SmartSwitch/backup
Check available computer storage before starting another backup. Samsung says Smart Switch does not automatically delete old backup data, so review the backup folder if space is running low. Do not delete a backup you may need for restoration.
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- Long-Lasting: The usb c charger cord uses integral seamless stretch process, high pressure resistance and nylon braided adding tangle-free, can bear 20000+ bending lifespan
- Wide Compatibility: USB Type C cable fast charging for most C -port devices, for Samsung Galaxy S26 S26+ S26 Ultra S25 S25+ S25 Ultra S24 S24+ S24 Ultra S23 S22 S21 S20 A53 A14, for LG, for Moto, for Pixel, for iPhone 18 17 16 15 Pro Max. Not compatible with iPhone older models before iPhone 15
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- What You Get: You will get 2 pack 3 ft etguuds Gray usb-a to usb-c nylon braided charging cable
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