Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Review: The Future of Foldables?

Foldable smartphones have transitioned from a futuristic concept to a tangible reality, and Samsung has been at the forefront of this innovation. The latest iteration of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold continues to push the boundaries of what a smartphone can be. But does it truly represent the future of foldable devices, or is it just a stepping stone? In this review, we’ll dive into the design, performance, display, software, and overall experience of the Galaxy Z Fold to answer that question.

Design and Build: Premium but Practical?

The Galaxy Z Fold’s design is a blend of elegance and functionality. When folded, it’s a compact smartphone with a sleek, glass-and-metal construction. Unfolded, it transforms into a tablet-like device with a large, immersive screen. The hinge mechanism feels robust, with a satisfying snap when opening or closing, and Samsung claims it can withstand thousands of folds without issue.

• Weight and Portability: At around 250 grams, it’s heavier than a standard smartphone but surprisingly portable for a foldable. The slim profile when folded makes it pocket-friendly, though it’s noticeably thicker than non-foldable flagships.
• Durability: The device features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an IPX8 water-resistance rating, a significant step up for foldables. However, the inner screen remains susceptible to scratches, so cautious handling is advised.
• Aesthetics: Available in sleek color options like Phantom Black and Cream, the Z Fold exudes premium vibes. The under-display camera is less intrusive than in previous models, though still faintly visible under certain lighting.

Display: A Window to the Future

The Z Fold’s dual-display setup is its defining feature. The 6.2-inch cover screen is perfect for quick tasks like texting or browsing, while the 7.6-inch main AMOLED display is a game-changer for multitasking, gaming, and media consumption.

• Cover Screen: The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling, and the narrower aspect ratio makes one-handed use manageable, though typing can feel slightly cramped.
• Main Display: The inner screen’s vibrant colors, deep blacks, and HDR10+ support make it a joy for watching videos or editing documents. The crease is still noticeable but fades into the background during regular use.
• Brightness and Visibility: With peak brightness exceeding 1,200 nits, the Z Fold performs well outdoors, even under direct sunlight.

Performance: Powerhouse in Your Pocket

Powered by the latest Snapdragon processor (likely the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or equivalent, depending on the model), the Galaxy Z Fold handles everything from gaming to multitasking with ease.

• Processing Power: Paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, the Z Fold is a beast for power users. Apps launch instantly, and switching between multiple open apps is seamless.
• Gaming: Titles like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile run smoothly on the large display, with the 120Hz refresh rate enhancing the experience.
• Battery Life: The 4,400mAh battery lasts a full day with moderate use, but heavy multitasking or gaming can drain it faster. The 25W fast charging is decent but lags behind competitors offering 65W or higher.

Software: Multitasking Mastery

Samsung’s One UI, built on Android, is tailored for foldables, making the Z Fold a productivity powerhouse.

• Flex Mode: Folding the device at an angle activates Flex Mode, ideal for video calls, watching YouTube, or using the camera hands-free.
• Multitasking: You can run up to three apps simultaneously on the main screen, with drag-and-drop functionality for seamless file sharing. The taskbar feels like a desktop OS, enhancing productivity.
• S Pen Support: The optional S Pen (sold separately) is a boon for note-taking and creative tasks, though the lack of a built-in slot is a minor inconvenience.

Camera: Versatile but Not Perfect

The Z Fold’s camera system is robust but doesn’t quite match dedicated flagships like the Galaxy S series.

• Setup: A triple-lens rear camera (wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto) delivers vibrant, detailed shots in good lighting. The under-display front camera is serviceable for video calls but lacks sharpness.
• Versatility: The foldable design allows unique shooting angles, like using the rear cameras for high-quality selfies by folding the device.
• Low-Light Performance: Night mode is impressive, but it’s not on par with competitors like the Google Pixel or iPhone in challenging conditions.

The Foldable Experience: Is It the Future?

The Galaxy Z Fold excels as a hybrid device, blending smartphone portability with tablet-like functionality. It’s ideal for professionals who need to multitask, creatives who benefit from the S Pen, and tech enthusiasts who crave cutting-edge innovation. However, the high price point—often exceeding $1,800—makes it a luxury purchase, and the inner screen’s fragility requires careful handling.

Pros:

• Stunning, versatile displays
• Unmatched multitasking capabilities
• Premium build quality
• Powerful performance

Cons:

• Expensive price tag
• Inner screen prone to scratches
• Camera not best-in-class
• Battery life could be better for heavy users

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold is a bold step toward the future of foldables, offering a refined design, powerful performance, and a software experience tailored for productivity. While it’s not perfect, it’s the most polished foldable yet, setting a high bar for competitors. If you’re ready to embrace the foldable revolution and can stomach the price, the Z Fold is a glimpse into what smartphones could become. But for the average user, it may still feel like a luxury rather than a necessity.

Is the Galaxy Z Fold the future of foldables? It’s close—but the future is still unfolding.