The simplest way to transfer Galaxy photos to a computer is with a USB cable that supports data: unlock the phone, connect it, allow access, choose Transferring files or MTP if prompted, then copy images from the DCIM folder. For compatible Windows PCs, Quick Share and Link to Windows offer wireless alternatives. Copy the files first and check that they open on the computer before deleting anything from the phone.
Copy photos to a Windows PC with USB
- Connect the phone. Unlock your Galaxy and connect it to the PC with a USB data-transfer cable. If the connectors do not match, use a compatible adapter. Samsung notes that some cables and adapters may not work for every phone and computer. Samsung’s USB transfer guide explains the setup.
- Allow file access. Approve the phone’s prompt if one appears. If the PC cannot browse the phone, open the USB notification on the Galaxy and select Transferring files or MTP. Menu wording can differ by model, software version, and region.
- Open the photo folder. In Windows File Explorer, open the connected phone and browse its internal storage to DCIM. If the photos were saved to a memory card, check the card’s DCIM folder instead. Samsung identifies DCIM as the usual location for photos.
- Copy the images. Select the photos and copy and paste them, or drag them into a folder on the PC. Copying leaves the originals on the phone. Open a few transferred files on the PC to confirm the copies work before considering any cleanup.
If the PC does not detect the phone or show its photos
- Check the cable. A cable that charges the phone may not carry data. Try a cable explicitly described as supporting data transfer, then try another USB port. Samsung also recommends checking that any connector or adapter is suitable for the devices.
- Unlock and allow access. Keep the Galaxy unlocked while connecting and accept any access prompt. If the device appears but its contents do not, check the USB notification and change the mode to Transferring files or MTP.
- Reconnect. Disconnect the phone and connect it again after checking the cable and USB mode.
- If Smart Switch cannot recognize the phone, Samsung’s Smart Switch desktop app includes an option to reinstall the device driver. This applies to troubleshooting Smart Switch, not to every ordinary File Explorer problem. See Samsung’s Smart Switch guidance.
Wireless ways to send photos to Windows
Wireless transfer avoids plugging in a cable, but the available setup depends on the Galaxy, PC, software, and region. Samsung documents Quick Share for sending one or multiple photos and Link to Windows for accessing phone photos on a compatible PC. Bluetooth is another option in Samsung’s Windows instructions; its exact steps can vary by computer manufacturer. For setup details, see Samsung’s Windows photo-transfer options and Samsung Germany’s device-link instructions.
Samsung Germany describes a Windows 11 device-link setup that requires Android 10 or later and both devices on the same Wi-Fi network. Those requirements apply to that regional setup; they should not be treated as universal requirements for every Quick Share or Link to Windows configuration. Samsung’s US guidance also describes Samsung Flow for wireless media transfer, with availability and supported features depending on the phone and computer.
Transfer photos to a Mac or create a broader backup
Samsung’s UK guidance says Smart Switch is available for PC and Mac and can back up a Galaxy to a computer over a data-capable USB cable. In Smart Switch, select Backup and allow access on the phone if prompted; backup items can be selected in the app’s preferences. This creates a broader device backup rather than simply copying photos into a folder. Samsung says some content, including DRM-protected content, cannot be transferred, and certain app data or login information may not transfer. See Samsung’s Smart Switch support page.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Latest Version USB C 3.2 Gen 2 Cable】ZeroneTeck latest USB C for Thunderbolt cable: ①This 20Gbps USB C to USB C data cable is capable of meeting your ultra-fast data transfer needs. ②USB C to USB C monitor cable support 4K@60Hz Ultra HD video output ③In addition, this Type c to Type c cable also has a faster than normal 60W data cable with 100W ultra fast charging. Makes it easy for you to solve all your problems with just one cable.
- 【20Gbps USB C Data Cable】USBC to USBC data transfer cable provides explosive transfer speed up to 20Gbps, connect hard drives and SSDs, Also suitable for phone to laptop data transfer, transfer large files in seconds and save you more work time. Meanwhile, USBC to USBC 3.2 gen 2 20gbps data transfer cable backward compatible with USB 3.1, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0.(*Note: Maximum speeds are achieved when both upstream and downstream devices are Thunderbolt 3/4 interfaces.)
- 【4K@60Hz USB C Cable for Monitor & Plug and Play】Plug and play, no drivers or applications required to use this cable! USB C monitor cord to stream 4K@60Hz (3840*2160) content directly from your phones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers to large screens such as monitors, HDTVs and projectors. You will enjoy stunning Ultra HD video and colorful image quality. (Note: Please make sure your device has a USB-C port and supports DP Alt mode).
- 【5A/100W Fast Charging Cable】USB Type C fast charging cable with E-Marker IC chip, safely charges your devices with up to 100W power. It can fully charge a MacBook Pro 60%, an iPad Pro 75%, a iPhone 15 85%, and a Switch 95% in 35 minutes. Fully satisfies the charging power needs of professionals for MacBooks Pro, Android devices, Samsung and iPad Pro. Charge any USB-C device at maximum speed for timely use and no more waiting. *Note: Requires a C-port adapter of appropriate power.
- 【Dual Vehicle System】 Flawlessly supports CarPlay & Android Auto for seamless navigation/music streaming. 20Gbps ultra-speed — 40× faster than USB 2.0 CarPlay cables with enhanced signal stability.
Samsung Germany also describes connecting a Galaxy by USB and using the Mac Photos app. Exact app names, menus, and compatibility can change with macOS and Galaxy software, so consult Samsung’s regional Mac and USB instructions for device-specific guidance. If you only need image files on the Mac, use a photo-import or file-copy workflow and verify the imported files rather than assuming a full-device backup is necessary.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use cloud sync for access across devices
Samsung lists Google Drive, Verizon Cloud, OneDrive, and Dropbox as cloud storage options, and Samsung Germany points to Google Photos or OneDrive for automatically synchronized photos. Cloud access requires the relevant service and account; it is different from a one-time USB copy. Synchronizing or uploading photos does not, by itself, establish that local originals have been removed from the Galaxy. See Samsung’s US file-transfer guidance and Samsung Germany’s guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 240W Superfast Charging: Empower your devices with Superb 240W PD 3.1, charging a MacBook Pro 16" to 56% in 30 minutes. Backward compatible with 140W/100W/65W devices, ensuring future-proof performance for laptops, phones, and accessories
- Lightning 80Gbps Data Transfer: Transfer a 20GB 4K movie in just 3 seconds with USB4 Gen4's 80Gbps bandwidth, 8x faster than standard USB C cables. Perfect for photographers, developers, or anyone moving massive files between SSDs, NAS, or dual computers
- Industry Leading HD Display: Unlock cinematic visuals with DisplayPort 2.1 mode, supporting up to 16K@60Hz and extending to dual 8K@60Hz or triple 4K@144Hz Display. Ideal for gaming rigs, 3D rendering workstations, or multi screen traders demanding ultra smooth, zero lag visuals
- All-in-One Solution: A single USB C to C cable handles 240W charging, 80Gbps data syncing, and 16K max video output. Seamlessly connect USB C laptops, such as MacBook Pro Air, Dell XPS, phones,such as iPhone 16, Galaxy S24, tablets like iPad Pro, monitors, and accessories. Supports Thunderbolt 4 3, USB4, USB 3.2 3.1 3.0, and more
- Sturdy and long-lasting: Solid and durable nylon braided cable ensures longer service life up to 10,000 bends. Double sided USB C connectors with over molded strain relief are designed for frequent insertions, Aluminum housing, high purity copper wire, and triple shielding will keep long lasting fast charging performance
Rank #4
- 【Up to 40Gbps Data Sync】Delivers up to 40Gbps high speed transaltion, 4x faster than USB 3.2 cable, 2x faster than previous generation USB4 cable. It can copy 10GB files in seconds, avoid waiting, and effortlessly get everything you want. Plug and play, no drive needed.*The final performance depends on whether your device supports USB4, Thunderbolt 4/3.
- 【240W Rapid Charging】Up to 240W (48/5A) power supply when paired with a compatible charger. Backward compatible with 100W, 140W, 180W in Extended Power Range(EPR). It is ready to provide you with enough power at any time. Equipped E-Marker chip for safety, stability, and battery protection. Support PD 3.1, QC 4.0, FCP, AFC fast charging technology for future proof.
- 【8K HDR Design for Professionals】 Provide a single 8K@60Hz / 5K@60Hz / 4K@144Hz or dual 4K@60Hz display support. Connect your laptop or dock to a monitor and get a crisp detail and 10-bit color depth view. Support MST Daisy Chain, release your efficiency and improve the professionalism of the project.
- 【Future-proofed Compatibility】The USB 4 cable fully supports the function of Thunderbolt 4. Backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 2 x 2, USB 2.0. It works seamlessly with all Thunderbolt 4 / 3 / Type-C devices. Compatible with Apple Studio Display, Mac Studio, Mac Mini, MacBook, Surface, iPad Pro, iPhone 17/16, docking station, SSD, power bank, GaN charger, etc. We recommend using cables below 5FT when connecting to the docking for stable performance.
- 【Top-Notch Material】Aluminum shell ensures efficient heat dissipation and protects the chip. Experience unprecedented durability with our unique 48-strand braided techniques. It offers 3x protection without tangle and gets worry-free usage. Triple protection with EMI-resistant tinplate, 28 AWG OFC conductors, and stainless steel connectors improves signal quality and ensures long-lasting connections.
Rank #3
- Move Files Fast: Transfer music, movies, or entire seasons of TV shows in seconds at 40 Gbps.
- HD Display: Connect your laptop to an external monitor to mirror or extend your screen in up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz.
- Huge Range of Power: Supports a maximum 240W charge when paired up with a compatible charger. Charge virtually any USB-C device from phones and accessories to laptops.
- Built to Last: Proven in lab tests to withstand up to 5,000 bends.
- What You Get: Anker 515 USB-C to USB-C Cable (USB4, 3.3ft), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #2
- [ Excellent Performance ] This USB C 3.1 cable connects a portable external USB C 3.1 SSD to a computer for speedy file transfer or syncs and charges Samsung smartphones or tablets equipped with the USB C port. Data synchronization is 20 times faster than USB 2.0 cables (480Mbps). (Does not support video output.)
- [ Fast Charging & High Speed Data Transfer ] This usba to usbc data power cable can sync your favourite photos, videos and music at a data transfer rate of up to 10Gbps(1250MB/s). Files can be synchronised in seconds. In addition, it can quick-charge your USB-C devices at up to 3A safe charging power. Tested charge Samsung Galaxy S22 from 0 to 60% in 30mins with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology.Tips: USB 3.1 Gen 2 renamed to USB 3.2 Gen 2 by USB-IF in 2019.
- [ Extreme Durability & High Quality ] : Unique ABS case with the reinforced connector withstand 10000+ bending test. Durable TPE cable not only stay tangling-free but also flexible enough to be wrapped up and put in a bag ! (PS:The connector shell is wrapped around by a piece of plastic film to protect the shell from scraching ,feel free to remove the film when you use it.)
- [ Universal Compatibility ] This USB C to USB A Charger cable is Compatible with almost all USB-C devices. For Samsung Galaxy S24/S24+/S24 Ultra/S23/S23+/S23 Ultra/S22/S21/S20/S10/S9/Note 20/10/A70/A80/A90/A54, iPhone 16/16 Plus/16 Pro/16 Pro Max, iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, Google Pixel 9/8/7/6/5/, Moto G9/G8/G7/G Pure, LG G7/G6/V50, Sony XZ, Bose 700, GoPro, Nintendo switch, Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, iPad Pro 2018 11''/12.9", Samsung T7/T5, Crucial X8/X6, LaCie Rugged SSD, G-Drive, WD My Passport, Seagate Fast, SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD etc. (OnePlus phones are not supported.)
- [ What You Get ] 1 X Super-Fast USB-A to USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 Cable (3 ft including both ends), our worry-free LIFETIME WARRANTY and friendly customer service. NOTE: If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we will be happy to serve you and give you an easy and pleasant shopping experience.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
