Unfolding the Future: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Review
Samsung has continued to push the boundaries of mobile technology with the launch of the Galaxy Z Fold5 in July 2023. While the new model may look similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold4, there are some notable changes under the hood. Is the Galaxy Z Fold5 worth the upgrade? Let's explore its features and find out!
Samsung, a pioneer in the world of mobile technology, released the Galaxy Z Fold5 back in July 2023. At first glance, the Galaxy Z Fold5 looks quite similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold4, aside from its camera flash placement. Can the Galaxy Z Fold5 outshine its forerunner? Let's find out.
Samsung's latest release, the Galaxy Z Fold5, features subtle yet meaningful enhancements compared to the Galaxy Z Fold4. At first glance, the two models appear almost identical, except for the camera flash placement. However, under the surface, the Fold5 introduces key improvements that may influence your buying decision.
Comparing Key Specifications: Galaxy Z Fold4 vs. Galaxy Z Fold5
Let's take a quick look at the specs| Galaxy Z Fold4 | Galaxy Z Fold5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Unfolded: 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 mm Folded: 155.1 x 67.1 x 14.2-15.8 mm |
Unfolded: 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1 mm Folded: 154.9 x 67.1 x 13.4 mm |
| Weight | 263 g | 253 g |
| Display | 7.6" Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1200 nits (peak) | 7.6" Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+ |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Operating System | Android 12L, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1.1 | Android 13, One UI 5.1.1 |
| Memory | 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM UFS 3.1 |
256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM UFS 4.0 |
| Main Camera | 50 MP, f/1.8, 23mm (wide), 1.0µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS 10 MP, f/2.4, 66mm (telephoto), 1.0µm, PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom 12 MP, f/2.2, 123˚, 12mm (ultrawide), 1.12µm Video capabilities: 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@60/240fps (gyro-EIS), 720p@960fps (gyro-EIS), HDR10+ |
50 MP, f/1.8, 23mm (wide), 1.0µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS 10 MP, f/2.4, (telephoto), PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom 12 MP, f/2.2, 123˚, 12mm (ultrawide), 1.12µm Video capabilities: 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@60/240fps (gyro-EIS), 720p@960fps (gyro-EIS), HDR10+ |
| Front Camera | 4 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 2.0µm, under display Video capabilities: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS |
4 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 2.0µm, under display Video capabilities: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, tri-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Battery | Li-Po 4400 mAh, non-removable 25W wired, 50% in 30 min (advertised) 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless |
Li-Po 4400 mAh, non-removable 25W wired, 50% in 30 min (advertised) 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless |
| Features | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
Specifications courtesy of GSMArena.
The Galaxy Z Fold5 boasts a more compact and lightweight design than the Fold4, with dimensions of 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1 mm when unfolded and 154.9 x 67.1 x 13.4 mm when folded. It also weighs 253 grams, making it 10 grams lighter than its predecessor. Both models feature a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the Fold5 has upgraded its protection to Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, providing better durability.
One of the standout upgrades is the Fold5's new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, offering superior performance and efficiency compared to the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 in the Fold4. The Fold5 also features UFS 4.0 storage for faster read and write speeds, enhancing overall performance. Both models support up to 1TB of internal storage and 12GB of RAM.
What’s New with the Galaxy Z Fold5?
Design Refinements: The Fold5's lighter build and smaller dimensions make it easier to handle. The repositioned camera flash is a minor visual tweak, while the upgraded materials add durability.
Improved Performance: Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the Fold5 offers faster processing and better efficiency, ideal for multitasking and gaming.
Display Enhancements: The 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen remains unchanged in size, but the new Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides improved scratch resistance.
Should You Upgrade to the Galaxy Z Fold5?
Who Should Consider Upgrading? If you're currently using an older model or need the highest performance available, the Fold5 is an excellent choice. However, if you're already using the Fold4, the differences might not justify the cost of upgrading unless you need the latest tech. Value Proposition: For those looking for a better deal, the Galaxy Z Fold4 remains a viable option, offering nearly the same features at a potentially lower price point.
Where to Buy the Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Galaxy Z Fold5 is available on the Samsung Malaysia website, starting at RM6,799 for the 512GB model. Alternatively, the Galaxy Z Fold4 might offer a more cost-effective solution for those prioritizing value.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Z Fold5 introduces some meaningful refinements and the latest technology, making it a solid choice for those wanting a foldable phone with top-notch performance. Whether the upgrade is worth it depends on your current device and what you need in a phone.
Ready to upgrade? Explore our collection of Samsung foldable phones and find the one that suits your needs!