Foldable phone buying guide: 5 things you should consider before choosing one

Are you thinking about buying a foldable phone? Consider these five key features to help you make an informed decision before your purchase.

By: HT TECH
| Updated on: Oct 16 2024, 14:14 IST
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs Galaxy Z Fold 5: Know which book-style foldable is better
Foldable phone buying guide
1/5 Samsung announced the Galaxy Z Fold 6 with several upgrades on July 10, 2024. The book-style foldable smartphone comes with several upgrades over its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Foldd 5. For starters, the Fold weighs only 239 grams whereas, the Fold 5 weighs 253 grams, making it heavy and bulky. Therefore, the new generation is more light, sleek, and compact in comparison to the older generation model. (HT Tech)
Foldable phone buying guide
2/5 The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes with a larger cover display of 6.3-inch with Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display technology. Whereas, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 comes with a 6.2-inch display and it does not support LTPO technology. In terms of the main display, both smartphones come with a 7.6-inch screen size and 120Hz refresh rate. Therefore, both devices offer somewhat similar specifications when it comes to display technology and size. (Samsung )
Foldable phone buying guide
3/5 For performance, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor coupled with 12GB RAM and up to 1TB storage. On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is equipped with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset paired with  12GB RAM and up to 1TB storage. Additionally, both smartphones support Galaxy AI features, however, the Fold 6 comes with some new AI features.  (Debashis Sarkar/ HT Tech)
Foldable phone buying guide
4/5 In terms of camera, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Fold 5 feature similar cameras with a triple camera setup that includes a 50 MP main camera, a 10 MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. For selfies, both smartphones come with a 4MP under display camera and a 10MP cover-display selfie camera.  (Debashis Sarkar/ HT Tech)
Foldable phone buying guide
5/5 In terms of battery performance, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 5, both come with a 4400mAh battery that supports 25W wired, 15W wireless, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. Therefore, Samsung have not provided many upgrades with camera and battery life for the new generation of foldable smartphones.  (Samsung )
Foldable phone buying guide
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Discover key features to consider when choosing a foldable phone that suits your lifestyle and needs. (Unsplash)

Foldable phones have gained traction in the tech market recently, moving past initial challenges such as high prices and limited functionality. The advancements in design and pricing in 2023 laid the groundwork for a broader selection of devices in 2024. Major brands like Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, Motorola, and Oneplus now offer refined foldable options, making it essential for consumers to understand what to look for when selecting a device.

If you're considering purchasing a foldable phone, keep these five key features in mind:

1. Display Quality

The display serves as the centrepiece of any foldable phone. A high-resolution screen with good pixel density ensures clarity for text and images, especially when unfolded. Consider a device with a bright display for outdoor use. While creases are common in foldable technology, opting for a model where the crease is less noticeable can enhance your viewing experience.

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2. Form Factor: Flip or Fold?

Foldable phones primarily fall into two categories: horizontally folding (book-style) and vertically folding (clamshell-style). Horizontally folding phones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the OnePlus Open, create a tablet-like interface, suitable for multitasking and media consumption. In contrast, vertically folding models such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Motorola Razr 50f focus on portability. Choose the style that aligns with your daily needs.

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3. Hinge Mechanism

The hinge plays a vital role in a foldable phone's usability and durability. A smooth hinge without wobble allows for stable operation. Durability is key; select a hinge designed to endure repeated folding and unfolding. Some models, like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6, feature a “Flex Mode” that permits various angles, adding to their functionality.

4. Camera System

Camera capabilities remain a significant factor when evaluating foldable phones. A versatile camera system with multiple lenses—wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto—can adapt to various photography needs. Devices like the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro and OnePlus Open showcase impressive camera technology. Seek features such as optical image stabilisation and low-light performance. Some foldables allow the cover screen to serve as a viewfinder, enhancing the selfie experience.

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5. Battery Life and Durability

Foldable phones often contain larger batteries due to their expansive displays, yet battery life can vary. Look for a device with substantial battery capacity to support prolonged use. Fast charging features can also help, along with a processor and software designed for power efficiency to limit battery drain. Given the investment in a foldable phone, durability is crucial. Consider models with water and dust resistance, ideally those with an IP rating (e.g., IPX8). A robust screen protector can further safeguard against scratches, while a solid warranty and reliable customer support can offer additional assurance.

By evaluating these five essential features, you can make a more informed choice when selecting a foldable phone that meets your requirements. As technology progresses, the market will likely continue to present innovative and versatile foldable options.

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First Published Date: 16 Oct, 14:14 IST
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