Since the 2019 launch of the Samsung Galaxy Fold, folding smartphones have seen substantial development. These days, they are more reasonably priced, more compact, more robust, and, well, not quite inexpensive. It would not have been feasible five years ago to use a foldable phone as your primary device. These days, with so many versions on the market, these devices are actually good choices. We at Engadget can assist you in making a decision if you’re thinking about upgrading to a foldable phone or making the transition. The greatest foldable phones on the market right now have undergone extensive testing and evaluation by us.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, which retails for $1,900, is among the most prominent models in the foldable phone market. With its new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which offers robust performance and enhanced energy efficiency, this phone provides a flexible and well-rounded experience. Its chassis made of Enhanced Armor Aluminum is stronger and lighter. Together with other AI-powered capabilities, the phone also has a new ultra-wide-angle camera sensor. But compared to its predecessor, it costs more, and the S Pen is an additional expense.
Another top contender is the Google Pixel Fold, which offers a different design approach with its wider 5.8-inch exterior display that feels more usable than the Z Fold 5’s 6.2-inch cover screen. The Pixel Fold’s main screen has a landscape orientation, making it convenient to watch TV shows or movies without needing to rotate the device. Despite being Google’s first foldable, it is thinner than Samsung’s alternative and boasts better camera quality with a longer 5x optical zoom. It also features Google’s excellent Pixel-only software, including Hold for Me, Call Screener, and the Pixel Recorder app. Priced at $1,299, the Pixel Fold is an appealing option for those who value a sleek design and solid battery life.
For those seeking a more affordable flagship foldable, the OnePlus Open is a noteworthy option at $1,699. It features slightly larger and brighter displays than the Z Fold 5, a thinner and lighter design, and good battery life. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip offers comparable performance to the Z Fold 5, and the Open Canvas software provides an innovative tile-based UI for multitasking. While the triple rear camera module is bulky, the image quality is on par with, if not better than, the Z Fold 5. OnePlus also offers a trade-in deal that can bring the price down to $1,500, making it a more affordable option for those wanting a high-end foldable phone.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, priced at $1,000, is the best flip-style foldable phone. It features a faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, improved cameras, and longer battery life compared to the previous Flip 4. The new Flex Hinge makes the phone thinner and eliminates the gap between the screen when closed. The 3.4-inch external display allows users to perform many tasks without opening the phone, including displaying rich notifications, widgets, and buttons. The display is also brighter and more colorful than its rivals, making it a compelling choice for those who prefer a compact foldable device.
The Motorola Razr+ is another strong flip-style foldable option, priced at $600. It features a soft vegan leather back in three colors and a roomy external display that wraps around its cameras. Unlike Samsung’s flip-style foldable, the Razr+ is easier to use without needing to adjust many settings. It also includes a retro UI easter egg for those nostalgic for the original Razr. However, its water resistance is limited, only rated to withstand spills or small splashes, which is a downside compared to its competitors.
At £800 (U.S. pricing to be confirmed), the less expensive Moto Razr, dubbed the Razr 40 abroad, is available for purchase. A slower Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 CPU, less powerful cameras, and a smaller 1.5-inch external display are its key features. But because of its weaker processor, it can only support 144Hz viewing frequency as opposed to 165Hz, just as the Razr+. Soft vegan leather is used on the back in all hues, giving them a fashionable appearance and texture. Without compromising too much on practicality or appearance, this device provides a more affordable entry point into the foldable phone industry.
The same factors that matter when assessing regular smartphones also matter when evaluating foldable smartphones: responsive performance, vivid displays, crisp cameras, and long battery life. To accommodate a range of user preferences, foldables are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. For power users and those looking to maximize productivity, book-style foldables offer a larger screen, while flip-style foldables offer a sleek and compact form with adjustable inner displays.
Since foldable phones’ flexible screens are more likely to be damaged, durability is a crucial component. Screen protectors are installed by default on the majority of foldable devices, and customers are recommended against removing them until authorized service centers provide assistance. But Google costs between $29 and $129, depending on the device’s warranty status, and Samsung provides a free replacement screen protector for one replacement. For the purpose of preventing lasting stains, users should also be careful to keep sharp items away from screens. Foldable phones are still delicate and need to be handled with care, even if their durability has greatly increased.
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