Unfolding the Future: Samsung Galaxy Fold Series Review

Smartphones have come a long way from being mere communication devices to becoming multifaceted gadgets that blur the lines between phones and tablets. One such groundbreaking innovation is the Samsung Galaxy Fold series. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the specifications, features, and real-world performance of the Samsung Galaxy Fold, Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, and the futuristic Galaxy Z Fold5.

Unveiling the Trio: Fold, Fold3, and Fold5

Samsung Galaxy Fold

Announced: February 2019
Dimensions (Unfolded): 160.9 x 117.9 x 6.9 mm
Weight: 276 g
Display: Foldable Dynamic AMOLED, HDR10+
Size: 7.3 inches, 162.6 cm2
OS: Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12, One UI 4
Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855
Memory: 512GB 12GB RAM
Camera: Triple 12 MP main module, 10 MP selfie
Battery: Li-Po 4380 mAh

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G

Announced: August 11, 2021
Dimensions (Unfolded): 158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4 mm
Weight: 271 g
Display: Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+
Size: 7.6 inches, 179.9 cm2
OS: Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1.1
Chipset: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G
Memory: 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM
Camera: Triple 12 MP main module, 4 MP under-display selfie
Battery: Li-Po 4400 mAh

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5

Announced: July 26, 2023
Dimensions (Unfolded): 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1 mm
Weight: 253 g
Display: Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+
Size: 7.6 inches, 183.2 cm2
OS: Android 13, upgradable to Android 14, One UI 6
Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
Memory: 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM
Camera: Triple 50 MP main module, 4 MP under-display selfie
Battery: Li-Po 4400 mAh

Design: Folding the Aesthetics

The design evolution from the Galaxy Fold to the Z Fold5 is evident. The Fold series boasts a mesmerizing blend of glass, plastic, and aluminum, creating a device that feels as premium as it looks. The weight reduction in the Z Fold5 makes it more ergonomic for prolonged use.

Table: Dimensions and Weight Comparison

Feature	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
Dimensions	160.9 x 117.9 x 6.9 mm	158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4 mm	154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1 mm
Weight	276 g	271 g	253 g

Display: Unfolding Visual Brilliance

The Fold series boasts impressive foldable Dynamic AMOLED displays, offering a cinematic experience. The Z Fold3 5G introduced a 120Hz refresh rate, while the Z Fold5 maintains this feature. The cover displays on these devices enhance usability when folded, providing quick access to notifications and apps.

Table: Display Specifications

Feature	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
Main Display Size	7.3 inches, 162.6 cm2	7.6 inches, 179.9 cm2	7.6 inches, 183.2 cm2
Resolution	1536 x 2152 pixels	1768 x 2208 pixels	1812 x 2176 pixels
Cover Display Size	Super AMOLED, 4.6 inches	Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 6.2 inches	Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 6.2 inches

Performance: Power Unleashed

Under the hood, the devices pack a punch with powerful chipsets and ample RAM. The transition from the Snapdragon 855 in the Fold to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Z Fold5 signifies a significant leap in processing capabilities.

Table: Performance Benchmark Comparison

Benchmark	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
AnTuTu	363,016 (v7)	635,918 (v8), 752,218 (v9)	1,250,358 (v9), 1,519,358 (v10)
GeekBench	11,028 (v4.4)	12,719 (v4.4), 3,239 (v5.1)	4,824 (v5.5), 5,396 (v6.0)
GFXBench	32fps (ES 3.1 onscreen unfolded)	38fps (ES 3.1 onscreen)	65fps (ES 3.1 onscreen)

Camera: Capturing the Unfolded Moments

The camera setups across the Fold series ensure stunning photography. The Z Fold5, with its impressive 50 MP main module, raises the bar for mobile photography within the series.

Table: Camera Specifications

Camera Module	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
Main	12 MP, f/1.5-2.4, 27mm (wide)	12 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide)	50 MP, f/1.8, 23mm (wide)
Telephoto	12 MP, f/2.4, 52mm (telephoto)	12 MP, f/2.4, 52mm (telephoto)	10 MP, f/2.4, (telephoto)
Ultrawide

Battery: Enduring the Unfolded Day

Despite the compact design, the Li-Po batteries in the Fold series manage to deliver substantial endurance. The Z Fold5 stands out with its rapid 25W wired charging, ensuring minimal downtime.

Table: Battery Comparison

Feature	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
Battery Type	Li-Po 4380 mAh, non-removable	Li-Po 4400 mAh, non-removable	Li-Po 4400 mAh, non-removable
Wired Charging	15W	25W	25W (50% in 30 min, advertised)
Wireless Charging	15W	11W	15W
Reverse Wireless	4.5W	4.5W	4.5W

Features: Unveiling the Extraordinary

The Fold series doesn’t just stop at folding displays. It introduces a slew of features such as stylus support, water resistance, and Samsung DeX for a desktop-like experience.

Table: Noteworthy Features

Feature	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
Stylus Support	Yes	No	Yes
Water Resistance	IPX8 (up to 1.5m for 30 min)	IPX8 (up to 1.5m for 30 min)	IPX8 (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
Samsung DeX Support	Yes	Yes	Yes
UWB Support	Yes	Yes	Yes

Price: Unfolding Luxury

While innovation comes at a cost, the Fold series provides a range of options catering to different budgets. The Z Fold5, with its enhanced features, commands a premium price tag.

Table: Price Comparison

Model	Galaxy Fold	Z Fold3 5G	Z Fold5
Price	About 1750 EUR	₹ 84,999 / $ 402.00 / £ 499.00 / € 536.00	₹ 154,000 / $ 1,249.97 / £ 1,049.00 / € 1,390.00

Verdict: Folding the Future

The Samsung Galaxy Fold series has undoubtedly redefined the smartphone landscape with its innovative folding displays and cutting-edge features. Each iteration pushes the boundaries, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile technology. Whether it’s the compact yet powerful Fold, the refined Z Fold3 5G, or the futuristic Z Fold5, these devices cater to users seeking a blend of style, functionality, and unparalleled innovation. The foldable revolution is here, and Samsung is leading the charge.