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 |
| 16 MP, f/2.2, 12mm (ultrawide) | 12 MP, f/2.2, 123˚, 12mm (ultrawide) | 12 MP, f/2.2, 123˚, 12mm (ultrawide) |
| Selfie | 10 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide) | 4 MP, f/1.8, 2.0µm, under display | 4 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 2.0µm |
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.