Introduction: A New Era of Smartphones
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series has redefined how users interact with smartphones by blending the flexibility of a tablet with the portability of a phone. With each new generation, Samsung pushes the boundaries of innovation, combining cutting-edge hardware, foldable AMOLED displays, and multitasking-focused software.
This comprehensive review will guide you through the key highlights of the Galaxy Z Fold series, with a strong focus on its price, display space, real-world usage, and whether it’s worth the investment in 2025.
Samsung Z Fold Series Overview
Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Fold lineup as part of its foldable smartphone initiative. These devices aim to deliver a premium experience through two main use cases:
- Phone mode (folded): Acts like a traditional smartphone with a tall, narrow screen.
- Tablet mode (unfolded): Offers an expansive display for multitasking, media, and productivity.
With the Galaxy Z Fold 5, Samsung reached new heights in build quality, performance, and display tech.
Pricing in India (As of 2025)
| Model / Variant | RAM + Storage | Launch Price (₹) | Current Market Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Z Fold 5 (Base) | 12GB + 256GB | ₹1,54,999 | ₹1,09,000 – ₹1,15,000 |
| Galaxy Z Fold 5 (Mid) | 12GB + 512GB | ₹1,64,999 | ₹1,15,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
| Galaxy Z Fold 5 (Top-End) | 12GB + 1TB | ₹1,84,999 | ₹1,45,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
Price Trends Summary:
- The Z Fold series is a premium product line aimed at flagship users.
- Current prices have dropped significantly since launch, making it more accessible.
- EMI and festive offers often bring the base model to near ₹1 lakh range.
Display Space: Folded vs. Unfolded Experience
The Galaxy Z Fold’s most compelling feature is its dual-display format, offering unmatched flexibility.
| Display | Size | Resolution | Type | Refresh Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Display (Open) | 7.6-inch | ~2176 × 1812 pixels | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | 120Hz Adaptive |
| Cover Display | 6.2-inch | ~2316 × 904 pixels | AMOLED | 120Hz Adaptive |
Key Highlights:
- Tablet-like experience in unfolded mode makes multitasking seamless.
- Cover screen is fully functional for calls, browsing, and quick tasks.
- High refresh rates on both displays ensure buttery-smooth usage.
- The inner display has near-invisible crease improvements.
Build Quality and Durability
| Build Material | Details |
|---|---|
| Frame | Armor Aluminum |
| Front & Back Glass | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Hinge Mechanism | Flex Hinge (Improved durability) |
| Water Resistance Rating | IPX8 (water-resistant, not dustproof) |
| Weight | ~253 grams |
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 is durable, thanks to the use of high-grade materials and robust engineering. The water resistance rating adds peace of mind, although users should still avoid dust-heavy environments.
Camera Setup and Imaging Capabilities
| Camera Position | Specification |
|---|---|
| Main (Rear) | 50MP (Wide) + 12MP (Ultra-wide) + 10MP (Telephoto, 3X) |
| Cover (Front) | 10MP |
| Under-display (Main) | 4MP (Minimal visibility, basic selfies) |
| Video Recording | 4K at 60fps, 1080p Super Steady |
While not camera-focused like the Galaxy S Ultra series, the Z Fold 5 delivers strong performance for general users. The 50MP sensor captures detailed shots, and the telephoto lens provides zoom capabilities.
Performance and Hardware
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (For Galaxy) |
| RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage Options | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB UFS 4.0 |
| Battery | 4,400mAh dual-cell |
| Charging | 25W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse |
| Software | One UI 5.1 (Android 13 upgradeable) |
The Z Fold 5 performs like a beast. Whether you’re gaming, editing videos, or juggling multiple apps, the experience is fluid. Storage is ultra-fast, RAM is plentiful, and battery life is respectable for a foldable device.
Software Features: One UI with Multitasking Power
Samsung optimizes its One UI skin to make the most of the large display.
Key software features include:
- Multi-Window: Run up to 3 apps side by side.
- Taskbar Dock: Mimics desktop UI for faster navigation.
- Drag and Drop: Seamlessly move content between apps.
- Flex Mode: Use the phone like a mini-laptop with split screens.
This turns the Galaxy Z Fold into a powerful mobile workstation, especially useful for productivity, social media management, or entertainment.
Real-World Mileage: Battery Life & Daily Use
| Usage Type | Estimated Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Mixed Use (Full Day) | 6–7 hours screen time |
| Video Streaming | Up to 11 hours |
| Gaming | 4–5 hours |
| Web Browsing | 8–9 hours |
The 4,400mAh battery may seem modest, but Samsung’s power optimization and efficient processor ensure respectable endurance. The fast charging could be better (25W feels slow in 2025), but wireless and reverse charging options add flexibility.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Z Fold?
Ideal For:
- Power Users: Those needing multitasking and productivity on the go.
- Frequent Travelers: Large screen for entertainment and work.
- Business Professionals: Seamless blend of work and play.
- Early Adopters: Tech-savvy individuals who appreciate design evolution.
Think Twice If:
- You need a lighter, compact phone.
- You’re on a strict budget.
- You prioritize gaming cameras over multi-display productivity.
10. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning foldable inner display
- High-quality materials and finish
- Strong multitasking and productivity features
- Excellent software support (4+ years updates)
- Discounted pricing makes it more accessible
Cons:
- No dust resistance
- Visible crease still present (though reduced)
- Cameras are good but not flagship-tier
- High repair cost for the foldable screen
- No built-in S Pen slot
Verdict: Is the Galaxy Z Fold Worth It in 202
Yes — if your usage benefits from a larger display, frequent multitasking, and premium build quality, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 (or even the Fold 4) remains a standout device. It’s not just a gimmick anymore; it’s a mature tool that enhances how you use your smartphone daily.
With current prices hovering around ₹1.1 lakh for the base variant, it now presents excellent value for tech enthusiasts and professionals looking for a unique mobile experience.
Final Thoughts
The Samsung Z Fold is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s a reliable, powerful tool ready for everyday use. Whether you need to manage work, edit photos, or just binge-watch content on the go, the Z Fold series delivers it all in a single, stylish foldable package.