Samsung continues to push the boundaries of innovation with its cutting-edge foldable smartphones, and the Galaxy Z Fold series stands at the forefront of this technological revolution. With the release of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, enthusiasts and users of the Z Fold 4 are eager to know if the upgrade is truly worth it. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the full specs of both devices to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
Galaxy Z Fold 5
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 boasts a refined design, featuring a sleek and slim form factor. The external display measures 6.2 inches, making it convenient for one-handed use. Unfolded, you’ll be greeted by a stunning 7.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED foldable display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth and immersive experience.
Galaxy Z Fold 4
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 also exhibits an impressive design, albeit slightly thicker than its successor. It comes with a 6.3-inch external display and an expansive 7.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED foldable display with a 90Hz refresh rate. While it offers an outstanding visual experience, it falls slightly short compared to the Z Fold 5 in terms of refresh rate.
Verdict: The Galaxy Z Fold 5’s larger external display and higher refresh rate on the main foldable display offer a more modern and visually appealing experience.
Performance and Hardware
Galaxy Z Fold 5
Under the hood, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 packs a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 895 processor (or Samsung’s equivalent Exynos chipset, depending on the region), coupled with 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage. This configuration ensures seamless multitasking and smooth performance for even the most demanding tasks.
Galaxy Z Fold 4
The Galaxy Z Fold 4, on the other hand, is no slouch when it comes to performance. It features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor (or Exynos variant), 12GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of internal storage. While it delivers impressive performance, it falls slightly behind the Z Fold 5 in terms of processing power and storage capacity.
Verdict: The Galaxy Z Fold 5’s higher processing power and storage options offer an advantage for users seeking top-tier performance and ample space for their files and apps.
Camera Capabilities
Galaxy Z Fold 5
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 excels in photography with its versatile camera setup. On the rear, it boasts a triple-camera configuration featuring a 108MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 12MP telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom. The under-display camera on the main foldable display allows for an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Galaxy Z Fold 4
The Galaxy Z Fold 4’s camera setup is equally impressive, but with a few differences. It also sports a triple-camera system, but with a 12MP primary sensor, a 16MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 12MP telephoto sensor with 2x optical zoom. It lacks the under-display camera feature.
Verdict: The Galaxy Z Fold 5’s higher resolution primary sensor and under-display camera make it a more appealing choice for photography enthusiasts.
Battery and Charging
Galaxy Z Fold 5
Powering the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a robust 4,500mAh battery, ensuring all-day usage. It supports fast charging, both wired and wireless, as well as reverse wireless charging for your other compatible devices.
Galaxy Z Fold 4
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 comes with a slightly smaller 4,400mAh battery, which still offers excellent battery life. It supports fast charging and wireless charging but lacks the reverse wireless charging feature.
Verdict: While both devices provide reliable battery life, the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s slightly larger battery and reverse wireless charging capability provide an edge in this category.
Software and Features
Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Fold 4
Both devices run on Samsung’s One UI, providing a smooth and intuitive user experience. Additionally, they come with features optimized for foldable displays, such as Multi-Active Window and App Continuity, enabling seamless app transitions from the external to the internal display.
Verdict: As both devices run on the same software, there’s no significant advantage in this category for either model.
Price and Availability
Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Fold 4
The pricing and availability of both devices may vary depending on the region and carrier offerings. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 is likely to see a price drop with the release of the Z Fold 5, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Verdict: If budget is a significant consideration, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 might be the more attractive choice due to potential cost savings.
Conclusion
The decision to upgrade from the Galaxy Z Fold 4 to the Z Fold 5 ultimately depends on your priorities. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 offers a more refined design, a higher refresh rate, enhanced performance, and an improved camera setup. If you value these upgrades and are willing to invest in the latest technology, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the way to go. However, if you’re content with the features of the Z Fold 4 and are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 remains a compelling choice.
Remember, both devices exemplify Samsung’s commitment to innovation, pushing the boundaries of mobile technology and delivering extraordinary foldable experiences.