Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 review: the most powerful folding phone-tablet

Samsung's latest folding phone-tablet is setting new benchmarks for cutting-edge gadgets, albeit at a significant price point. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 marks a crucial update for Samsung, as it contends with formidable competition from Google's Pixel lineup. Priced at £1,749 ($1,799.99/A$2,599), the new foldable comes in at £100 more than its impressive predecessor, the Fold 4, matching the premium cost of Google's Fold.

These avant-garde devices transcend the conventional definition of smartphones. Samsung positions the Fold 5 as a complete PC, tablet, and phone that can be conveniently folded and stowed away. Undoubtedly, it stands as the most versatile Android device available on the market.

Refinements in design are evident in this year's model compared to its predecessor, as the wedge shape has been abandoned in favor of a flat-fold when closed, a transformation attributed to the innovative hinge design shared with the Z Flip 5 – a noteworthy enhancement. The device boasts a slimmer profile and is 10g lighter than its forerunner, with the crease along the screen fold being less pronounced.

While it remains slightly thicker than a standard phone, it's merely 13g heavier than an iPhone 14 Pro Max. Carrying it in one's pocket feels less cumbersome, proving notably lighter than its primary competitor.

Although the external 6.2-inch display may seem a bit narrow, leading to a slightly cramped keyboard, its aesthetics are pleasing, and it performs capably for phone-related tasks such as messaging and quick interactions like music control. For more involved activities, the unfolded 7.6-inch internal display continues to astonish with its grandeur.

Improvements in brightness compared to the previous year make outdoor use more enjoyable by mitigating glare. Samsung asserts a 25% durability boost due to a new design, yet like other folding screens, it remains more delicate than traditional tablet glass, necessitating careful handling.

Here are the specifications of the device:

**Main Screen:** 7.6-inch QXGA+ 120Hz Amoled flexible display

**Cover Screen:** 6.2-inch HD+ 120Hz Amoled

**Processor:** Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

**RAM:** 12GB

**Storage:** Available in 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB

**Operating System:** One UI 5.1, based on Android 13

**Camera:** 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x telephoto; 10MP and 4MP selfie cameras

**Connectivity:** 5G, dual SIM, eSIM, USB-C, WiFi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS

**Water Resistance:** IPX8 (Can withstand immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes)

**Dimensions Folded:** 154.9 x 67.1 x 13.4mm

**Dimensions Unfolded:** 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1mm

**Weight:** 253g

Powering the Fold 5 is Qualcomm's premium Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, which is also featured in the Galaxy S23 Ultra, accompanied by 12GB of RAM. This combination renders it one of the most formidable Android devices on the market. Interestingly, the device's potency is not just theoretical – it can handle running eight apps concurrently on its screen without breaking a sweat.

In terms of battery life, the Fold 5 impresses with approximately 48 hours of endurance between charges. This usage span involves a balanced utilization of both the external and internal screens, totaling about six hours. This performance surpasses that of its predecessor, stands significantly ahead of its main competitors, and aligns with the longevity observed in top-tier conventional smartphones.

While handling the device requires a touch more caution compared to a standard phone, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 boasts remarkable speed and adaptability within its compact form. Notably, its extended battery life and unparalleled folding display position it as a market leader. The device's robust software enhances its value, offering heightened productivity and optimal utilization of the folding design even with apps not tailored for it.

Although the camera performance falls slightly short of the Google Pixel Fold, and the slimmer outer display results in a more snug keyboard for messaging, the Fold 5 clinches the title of the finest foldable available, despite the hefty price tag.

**Pros:** Combining phone and tablet functionality, robust multitasking capabilities, convenient external screen, exceptional tablet display, top-notch performance, impressive battery life, water resistance, seamless closure, and reduced weight.

**Cons:** Notably expensive, more delicate than standard devices and costly to repair, lacks dust resistance, thicker than conventional phones, and exhibits incremental advancements over its predecessor.

The Fold 5 offers a great experience for activities such as watching videos in a mini-laptop style, especially during commutes or while seated at a desk.

Please support the Guardian's journalism if you can. There are compelling reasons to back us: 

1. Our investigative journalism serves as a vigilant check on the increasing influence of the affluent and influential.

2. We remain independent, devoid of any billionaire owner's influence, ensuring your contribution directly fuels our reporting.

3. The cost is minimal, and donating takes less time than reading this message.

Empower the future of the Guardian's journalism, whether through a small or more substantial contribution.