Samsung recently introduced its fifth-generation foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5. Since its debut at MWC 2019, Samsung has continuously made iterative upgrades to keep up with new entrants in the foldable space. The Galaxy Z Foldables boast improved hinges, better screens, enhanced cameras, faster processors, and an overall refined design for both the Z Fold5 and Z Flip5.
Design
Before the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5, Samsung’s rivals had zero-gap hinges, prompting Samsung to introduce a waterdrop hinge for both phones. The waterdrop hinge allows the phones to close completely and offers a slimmer, flatter design. Both devices have an IPX8 rating for water resistance, with no dust rating due to the new hinge having brushes to keep dust away. The phones feel solid and premium, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection for the display and glass back, as well as an Armor Aluminium frame for enhanced scratch and drop resistance.
Display
The screens on both devices are relatively brighter at 1750 nits, with a new shock-absorbing layer beneath to prevent cracking over time. The crease is still visible, but the Fold5’s 7.6-inch AMOLED main screen and the Flip5’s 6.7-inch AMOLED main screen offer vibrant visuals. The Fold5 also includes a Flex Window feature for a larger cover display, providing access to multiple small screen widgets, notifications, a camera viewfinder, and some apps.
Camera
The Z Fold5 features a penta-camera setup, including a 50MP main camera with OIS, 12MP ultrawide, and a 12MP telephoto with OIS and 3x optical zoom. The Flip5 has a dual 12MP camera setup. Both devices support video capture up to 8K 24fps and 4K 60fps. The Flex Window allows live previews on the cover screen for hands-free shots, and the Flex mode panel enables some apps to split controls when the screen is folded halfway.
Performance
Powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processors for Galaxy, both devices deliver excellent performance with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. The Fold5 offers up to 12GB RAM with storage options going up to 1TB. Running on Android 13 and OneUI 5.1.1, the devices support up to four major Android OS updates. The multitasking capabilities of the Z Fold5 are noteworthy, supporting multiple windows and a seamless user experience.
Battery Life
The Z Fold5 and Z Flip5 offer impressive battery life with capacities of 4400mAh and 3700mAh, respectively. While the Fold5 easily lasts a full day with heavy use, the Flip5 may require a top-up for mixed-use scenarios. Both devices support 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
Camera
Both devices feature the same camera setups as their predecessors. The Z Fold5 boasts a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide, and a 12MP telephoto with OIS and 3x optical zoom. The Flip5 has a dual 12MP camera setup. Both devices capture impressive photos and videos, even in low light, with vibrant colors and sharp details.
Verdict
Samsung continues to make pragmatic progressions with its foldables, maintaining a slight edge over competitors. The Z Fold5 and Flip5 lead the pack, making them great upgrades, especially for users transitioning from older foldable models. Despite increasing competition, Samsung’s foldables remain at the forefront of innovation.
Pricing and Availability
The Z Flip5 (256GB) starts from Ksh 193,000, while the Z Fold5 (256GB) is priced at Ksh 325,000, available at Samsung Experience Stores and online. The devices come with a manufacturer’s warranty period of 24 months, and Samsung offers device financing plans through strategic partners for greater accessibility.
