Foldable Durability Review: Are the Latest Designs Reliable?

Foldable smartphones have evolved from a futuristic gimmick to a mainstream option, with brands like Samsung, Huawei, and Google pushing the boundaries of flexible displays and hinge mechanisms. However, one question looms large for potential buyers: Are these devices durable enough for everyday use? In this post, we dive into the durability of the latest foldable designs, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and what recent advancements mean for reliability.

The Core Challenge: Hinges and Screens

Foldable phones face two primary durability concerns: the hinge mechanism and the flexible display. The hinge must withstand thousands of folds while maintaining structural integrity, and the screen—often made of ultra-thin glass or plastic—needs to resist scratches, creases, and cracking. Early foldables, like the first-generation Samsung Galaxy Fold, faced criticism for fragile screens and debris-prone hinges. But have newer models addressed these issues?

Hinge Durability

Modern foldables, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Huawei Mate X5, boast improved hinge designs. Manufacturers now claim their hinges can endure 200,000 folds or more—equivalent to roughly 5-10 years of use, assuming 100 folds daily. For example:

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Features a dual-rail hinge that distributes stress evenly, reducing wear. Samsung also introduced a dust-resistant design to prevent particles from jamming the mechanism.
• Google Pixel Fold 2: Uses a multi-alloy steel hinge that feels sturdier than its predecessor, with a smoother folding action.
• Huawei Mate X5: Incorporates a lightweight carbon-fiber hinge, which enhances durability while reducing weight.

However, real-world testing reveals mixed results. While lab tests simulate ideal conditions, daily use introduces variables like dust, temperature fluctuations, and accidental drops. Some users report creaking hinges after a year of heavy use, particularly in older models like the Galaxy Z Fold 4. Newer designs seem to fare better, but long-term data is still limited.

Screen Durability

The flexible display remains the Achilles’ heel of foldables. Most devices use ultra-thin glass (UTG) or polymer-based screens, which are more prone to scratches than traditional Gorilla Glass. Recent improvements include:

• Stronger Materials: Samsung’s latest UTG is 50% thicker than earlier versions, improving resistance to scratches and impacts.
• Protective Layers: Devices like the Oppo Find N3 include a pre-applied screen protector to mitigate scratches, though removing it risks exposing the softer display underneath.
• Crease Reduction: The visible crease at the fold point has been minimized in models like the OnePlus Open, thanks to a waterdrop hinge design that reduces screen stress.

Despite these advancements, screens remain vulnerable. Drop tests by tech reviewers show that foldable displays crack more easily than rigid screens, especially at the hinge. Additionally, removing debris like sand from the screen without scratching it can be tricky, as the surface is less robust than traditional glass.

Real-World Testing: What the Data Says

Independent tests and user reports provide insight into foldable durability. For instance:

• Drop Tests: YouTube channels like JerryRigEverything have tested devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which survived multiple drops from waist height but showed hinge misalignment after extreme stress. The Google Pixel Fold 2, however, cracked along the hinge after a single drop on concrete.
• Environmental Stress: Foldables exposed to dust or sand (common in pockets or bags) can develop hinge issues over time. Samsung’s IPX8 water resistance rating is a step forward, but dust resistance remains a work in progress across most brands.
• User Feedback: On platforms like X, users report varied experiences. Some praise the longevity of devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 5, while others note screen protector bubbling or hinge stiffness after 12-18 months.

Innovations Improving Reliability

Manufacturers are tackling durability concerns with innovative approaches:

• Self-Healing Displays: Some prototypes, like those shown at CES 2025, feature self-healing polymers that can repair minor scratches over time.
• Hinge Lubrication: Newer hinges use advanced lubricants to reduce friction and wear, extending lifespan.
• Modular Designs: Brands like Honor are experimenting with modular hinges that can be replaced without swapping the entire device, potentially lowering repair costs.

The Cost of Durability Issues

Repairs for foldables remain expensive. Replacing a cracked screen on a Galaxy Z Fold can cost $300-$600, and hinge repairs often exceed $200. While brands like Samsung offer care packages (e.g., Samsung Care+), these add to the already high cost of foldables, which often retail for $1,200-$2,000. This makes durability a critical factor for buyers weighing long-term value.

Are They Reliable Enough?

The latest foldable designs are significantly more durable than their predecessors, with stronger hinges, better screens, and improved resistance to daily wear. However, they’re not yet as robust as traditional smartphones. If you’re careful with your device—avoiding drops, keeping it clean, and using a case—modern foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 or OnePlus Open can last several years. But for rough-and-tumble users or those in harsh environments, the risk of damage remains higher than with a standard phone.

Foldable smartphones are no longer the fragile experiments they once were, but they’re not bulletproof either. The latest designs strike an impressive balance between innovation and reliability, with hinges rated for years of use and screens that are tougher than ever. Still, buyers should weigh the cost of potential repairs and consider their usage habits. For tech enthusiasts who handle their devices with care, foldables are a reliable and exciting choice. For everyone else, a traditional flagship might still be the safer bet.

Have a foldable? Share your durability experiences in the comments or on X!