Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

I’ve spent the last few weeks with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5, putting it through its paces from day-to-day casual use to more demanding tasks. Samsung’s foldable lineup continues to innovate, and the Galaxy Z Flip5 is no exception. With a larger cover screen, improved hinge design, and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, Samsung aims to refine the foldable experience. But is it worth the investment?

Let’s dive into my experience with the Galaxy Z Flip5, covering its camera, battery life, performance, and more, while comparing it to other flagships like the iPhone 15 and Google Pixel 8 Pro.

Galaxy Z Flip5 Specs

Here’s a quick overview of the Galaxy Z Flip5’s specifications, which are comparable to those of the competition.

Pros and Cons of Galaxy Z Flip5

Pros

• Improved Cover Screen: The 3.4-inch cover screen is significantly larger, making it more practical for notifications, quick replies, and even using apps without unfolding the phone.
• Durability: Samsung’s new hinge mechanism feels more solid and crease-less than previous models, making the folding experience smoother.
• Performance: With the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 8GB of RAM, the phone handles multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps with ease.
• Compact and Stylish: The flip design offers a compact form factor, ideal for those who prioritize portability and unique design.

Cons

• Battery Life: At 3,700mAh, the battery is smaller compared to most flagship phones. Heavy use will require a midday top-up.
• Camera Performance: While the 12MP cameras are solid, they don’t quite match up to the 200MP systems on phones like the Galaxy S23 Ultra or the iPhone 15 Pro Max, particularly in low-light settings.
• No Telephoto Lens: Unlike other flagship devices, the Z Flip5 lacks a telephoto lens, limiting its zooming capabilities.

Key Features of Galaxy Z Flip5

1. Cover Screen

The standout feature of the Galaxy Z Flip5 is its much larger cover screen. At 3.4 inches, it allows users to access notifications, reply to messages, use apps like YouTube or Google Maps, and even take selfies without opening the phone. It’s one of the most practical implementations of a secondary screen in a foldable yet.

2. Performance

Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the Galaxy Z Flip5 holds its own in terms of performance. From gaming to multitasking, the phone runs smoothly without any noticeable lag. Compared to Google’s Tensor G3 on the Pixel 8 Pro, the Snapdragon still edges out in terms of raw power and efficiency.

3. Durability and Design

Samsung’s improved hinge mechanism reduces the visible crease on the main display, which has been a common issue with foldables. The phone feels solid when folded and unfolded, and the hinge feels durable enough for everyday use. The design continues to be sleek and pocket-friendly, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional smartphones.

4. Camera

The Galaxy Z Flip5 features dual 12MP cameras – a main and an ultrawide. While the cameras are capable, they don’t match up to flagship models with high megapixel counts or telephoto lenses. In good lighting, the photos are sharp and vibrant, but in low light, the performance lags behind competitors like the Google Pixel 8 Pro or Galaxy S23 Ultra.

5. Battery Life

The 3,700mAh battery is decent but may struggle to last a full day under heavy use. Moderate users will find it sufficient for everyday tasks, but if you’re using the cover screen a lot or gaming, expect to charge before the day’s end. Phones like the Galaxy S23 Ultra with a 5,000mAh battery offer more endurance, but the Z Flip5's compact design comes with a trade-off.

My Final Thoughts

After using the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 for a few weeks, it’s clear that Samsung continues to refine its foldable lineup. The larger cover screen and improved hinge design make this the best Z Flip yet, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 ensures excellent performance.

However, there are still compromises—most notably, the smaller battery and camera performance compared to other flagships. But if you’re looking for a stylish, compact phone that’s a conversation starter, the Galaxy Z Flip5 is a fantastic option.

For me, the Galaxy Z Flip5 delivers an innovative experience that’s worth considering for those who value design, portability, and the unique flip form factor. While it might not be the best choice for power users or photography enthusiasts, it stands out as a solid foldable in today’s market.