Samsung’s latest foldables prove that they are the number one phone manufacturer when it comes to the foldable phone, even with more competitors coming to the market.
The Galaxy Z Fold 3 (and the Galaxy Z Flip 3) are both new models from Samsung. They offer significant improvements over previous models.
Samsung and other smartphone makers dream of making the best folding phones mainstream-friendly. Because it is the first foldable phone under £1,000, the Galaxy Z Flip 3’s lower price could help make this a reality. And with S Pen support on the way for the Galaxy Z Fold 3, it could make it even more attractive, especially to fans of the Galaxy Note.
However, as we await the arrival of more competition, the best foldable phones list looks to be dominated for some time by Samsung.
Which are the best folding phones?
After testing both the Galaxy Z Fold 3 & Galaxy Z Flip 3, we feel that the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is our go-to foldable phone. The larger screen and S Pen compatibility allow you to jot notes or draw on the 7.6-inch display. The Z Fold 3 is also more durable and provides an under-display camera.
However, for many, the best folding phone is the one that they can afford. The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is likely to be that phone, bringing down foldable phones’ cost to below £1000.
The verdict is still out on the Motorola Razr 5G, another major foldable phone. Although we love the Razr’s blast-from the past design, it failed to live up to the hype. The updated Razr model includes key improvements and 5G connectivity.
1. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3
The best foldable phone overall
Specifications
Main screen size: 7.6 inches (2208 x 1768)
Secondary screen size: 6.2 inches (2268 x 832)
CPU: Snapdragon 888
RAM/Storage: 12GB/256GB, 512GB
Size, opened: 6.2 x 5 x 0.25 inches
Size, closed: 6.2 x 2.6 x 0.56 to 0.62 inches
Weight: 9.55 ounces
Reasons to buy
+More durable with water-resistance+Dual 120Hz displays+More multitasking support from apps
Why should it be avoided
-S Pen not included
-Still costly
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 continues its lead in foldable phones. It addresses some of the previous models’ issues and adds new features like a 120Hz refresh rate to both displays. Although we wish the price had dropped more, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 starts at £1,799, less than the Z Fold 2 when it launched in 2020.
This foldable phone now has an IPX8 rating which means it is water-resistant and can withstand average daily use. Samsung also collaborated with other app developers to optimize their software for the Galaxy Z Fold 3’s unique 7.6-inch folding display.
Galaxy Z Fold 3 now supports the S Pen, but it’s still optional as it was for the Galaxy S21 Ultra. You will need to purchase an additional case for the S Pen, as there is no slot on the phone. The Galaxy Z Fold 3’s large main display gives you plenty of space to draw and write down notes.
If you want the most powerful foldable phone – and one of the best productivity-boosting devices overall – then the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a good choice, provided you can deal with the lofty price tag.
2. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3
The first affordable foldable phone
Specifications
Main screen size: 6.7 inches (2640 x 1080)
Secondary screen size: 1.9 inches (260 x 512)
CPU: Snapdragon 888
RAM/Storage: 8GB/128GB, 256GB
Size, opened: 6.5 x 2.8 x 0.27 inches
Size, closed: 3.4 x 2.8 x 0.63-0.67 inches
Weight: 6.5 ounces
Reasons to buy
+More affordable+Enhanced durability+Bigger coverage display
Why should it be avoided?
-Short battery life -No telephoto lenses
The new Galaxy Z Flip 3 replaces the Galaxy Z Flip 5G. The phone is more durable than ever, and the cover display has been dramatically improved. It is larger and displays more information.
The Flip 3’s design has a more modern look with beautiful colours and square edges. The internal upgrades include the Snapdragon 888 processor. While the cameras and battery are the same, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 doesn’t have a Telephoto lens.
The Flip 3 foldable is more affordable but has its limitations. For example, the battery life is not great. The crease in the screen is still noticeable in the middle of the display when the light hits it.
Due to its lower starting price, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 will be the most popular foldable. It’s a beautiful phone that can fold up to fit into most pockets.
3. Motorola Razr 5G
A foldable blast of the past
Specifications
Main screen size: 6.2 inches (2142 x 876)
Secondary screen size: 2.7 inches (800 x 600)
CPU: Snapdragon 765G
RAM/Storage: 8GB/256GB
Size, opened: 6.7 x 2.9 x 0.31 inches
Size closed: 3.6 x 2.9 x 0.63 inches
Weight: 6.77 ounces
Reasons to buy
+Quick View display supports gesture controls+5G-capable
Why should it be avoided?
-Expensive-
Motorola hopes it can do the same thing with the Motorola Razr 5G as Samsung did with its Galaxy Z Fold 2 — a follow-up to a disappointing product launch with a more successful sequel. Although we have not yet reviewed the Motorola Razr 5G, we did test the original to determine if Motorola could go up.
The original Razr was a stylish phone with a retro look that harkened back to flip phones of old. The phone’s build quality was poor, the camera failed to impress and it died after 6 hours of battery testing. Motorola appears to have addressed these issues with the 5G Razr. The Razr’s design features include a tapered chin and durable hinge, as well as a teardrop folded display that keeps both sides of the phone flat when closed. You can now use the Quick View exterior screen to perform more gesture controls. The Snapdragon 765G processor is more powerful and will improve performance while also adding 5G connectivity.
These changes will help the Motorola Razr 5G live to its £1,399 cost. Once we have the opportunity to test it, we’ll be able to tell you.
What should you look for in a foldable smartphone?
You should consider the benefits that a foldable phone will offer you over a regular phone before you decide to buy one. You’ll still have to pay £999 for the Galaxy Z Flip 3, so unless your needs are particular, a phablet, or one of our other top-rated big phones, may be a better choice.
A foldable phone may be the best option for you if you think it will make you more productive. However, you should also pay close attention to how it is constructed. We had to remove some design flaws from early foldable phones, such as the original Motorola Razr and Galaxy Fold.
Samsung made some essential changes to the Galaxy Z Fold 2 that increased the phone’s durability for everyday use. Research the hinge of a foldable phone to find out how many times it will open or close.
When buying a foldable smartphone, there are two screens you should consider: the main internal display and the secondary screen. This is usually located on the exterior of the phone. You should find out what the exterior screen can do as well.
You’ll need to consider other factors, such as size. Closed-foldable phones should be something you can carry around. You should also think about the processor, camera and especially the battery life. Remember, a foldable phone has multiple screens that need to be charged.
Foldable phones are still a relatively new category of smartphones. We expect to see significant changes in this area. Samsung is believed to be developing a scrollable device called the Galaxy Scroll, even after the August launches of new Flip and Fold models.
Others phone manufacturers could also be developing their own devices. Rumours claim that Apple is working on an iPhone Flip. However, that phone is unlikely this year. Rumours suggest that a Google Pixel Fold is also in development, and it could make its debut in autumn, but it’s becoming increasingly unlikely.
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