the best foldable phone you can buy Foldable phones have emerged as a unique segment in the smartphone market, offering innovative designs and functionalities that appeal to a diverse range of users.
the best foldable phone you can buy
Understanding Foldable Phones
Foldable phones are not for the faint of heart. They are generally heavier, pricier, and often have less capable cameras than traditional slab-style smartphones. While advancements have been made in durability, foldables still do not match the robustness of regular smartphones. However, thanks to companies like Google, we now have foldable phones that can withstand more rugged conditions, making them more appealing for everyday use.
Currently, there are two primary types of foldable phones: book-style and clamshell-style. Book-style foldables resemble a phone plus a tablet, offering a larger inner screen for multitasking and media consumption. In contrast, clamshell-style foldables are akin to a phone plus a smartwatch, featuring a smaller outer display for quick interactions. This distinction caters to different user preferences—those who desire a more expansive screen experience versus those who prefer a compact, easily portable device.
Regardless of the type, potential buyers should consider purchasing an extended warranty. Repairs for foldable phones can be costly, and not all repair shops are equipped to handle them. Without a warranty, users should be prepared for the financial implications of potential damage, especially in environments like the beach where sand can wreak havoc on delicate screens.
Best Book-Style Foldable
Google Pixel Pro 10 Fold
Score: 8
- Pros: Full dust resistance, Qi2 support with built-in magnets
- Cons: Heavy and chunky, cameras not as good as other 10 Pro models, pricier than standard phones
Where to Buy: $1799 at Amazon (256GB), $1799 at Best Buy (256GB), $1799 at Google (256GB)
The Google Pixel Pro 10 Fold represents a significant milestone in foldable technology, offering an IP68 rating for full water and dust resistance. This means users can confidently take the device on outdoor adventures without the fear of damage from environmental elements. The device features an 8-inch, 2076p, 120Hz OLED inner screen and a 6.4-inch, 1080p, 120Hz OLED cover screen, powered by Google’s Tensor G5 processor. The camera setup includes a 48-megapixel main camera, a 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto lens, and a 10-megapixel ultrawide lens, although its camera performance, particularly in low light, falls short compared to other models in the Pixel lineup.
Battery life is another consideration; while it can last all day with minimal use of the inner display, heavy usage may lead to a drained battery by the end of the day. Despite its shortcomings, the Pixel Pro 10 Fold stands out as a well-rounded option in the foldable market.
Best Flip-Style Foldable
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Score: 8
- Pros: Large cover screen, all-day battery life, reliable camera
- Cons: More susceptible to dust than standard phones, limited app functionality on the cover screen
Where to Buy: $1099.99 at Amazon (256GB), $1099.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $1219.99 at Samsung (512GB)
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 may not have the novelty of the latest Razr Ultra, but it offers several enhancements that make it a strong contender. The new 4.1-inch edge-to-edge cover screen allows for easier interaction without needing to unfold the device. The Flip 7 is also thinner than its predecessor and boasts a larger 4,300mAh battery, providing better longevity.
The camera system remains unchanged, featuring a 50-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, which continues to deliver impressive image quality. However, the device retains an IP48 rating, which raises concerns about long-term durability against dust. Samsung compensates for this with a robust warranty and repair program, along with a commitment to seven years of OS and security updates.
The Most Fun Foldable
Motorola Razr Ultra (2025)
Score: 7
- Pros: Attractive design, great battery life, useful outer screen
- Cons: AI button is underutilized, long-term durability is uncertain, inconsistent camera processing
Where to Buy: $1299.99 at Amazon (512GB), $1299.99 at Best Buy (512GB), $1299.99 at Motorola (512GB)
The Motorola Razr Ultra is a standout in terms of aesthetics, featuring a gold-bronze chassis and a wooden back panel that exudes elegance. The device includes a 7-inch inner screen and a 4-inch outer screen, both boasting a 165Hz refresh rate, making for a smooth user experience. The titanium hinge offers improved durability over previous models, although concerns about camera processing persist.
Battery life is commendable, and the outer screen is particularly useful for quick notifications and actions. However, Motorola’s commitment to only three OS upgrades and four years of security updates raises questions about the device’s longevity in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Best Battery Life in a Foldable
Oppo Find N5
Score: 8
- Pros: Extremely thin, excellent battery life, nearly invisible crease
- Cons: Limited availability in the US and Europe
Where to Buy: $2499 at Oppo (512GB), $2099 at Oppo (512GB)
Unfortunately, the Oppo Find N5 is not available in the US or Europe, limiting its accessibility. However, for those in China or other Asian markets, this device offers a remarkable combination of features. It boasts an 8.12-inch, 2248p, 120Hz OLED inner screen and a 6.62-inch, 1140p, 120Hz OLED outer screen, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
One of the standout features is its impressive battery life, supported by a 5,600mAh battery that can easily last through a busy day. The device is also fully water-resistant, making it a practical choice for users who lead active lifestyles. Its thin profile and lightweight design make it easy to carry, providing a seamless experience when switching between the inner and outer screens.
Other Foldables to Consider
Several other foldable devices are worth mentioning, each with unique features that may appeal to different users:
- Huawei Mate XTs: This trifold phone offers a stunning design and several new features, including stylus support and an upgraded Kirin 9020 chipset. Priced at approximately $2,520, it remains on the higher end of the market.
- Motorola Razr Plus 2025: This device features a titanium hinge for better durability and an IP48 rating for dust and water resistance, making it a solid alternative to the Ultra.
- Standard Motorola Razr 2025: Starting at $699, this model offers improved performance and battery life, making it an attractive entry point for those new to foldables.
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Google’s second attempt at foldables, this model offers a user-friendly design but lacks formal dust resistance.
- Galaxy Z Fold 7: A lightweight option with a spacious inner display, though it lacks full dust and water resistance.
What’s Coming Next?
Samsung has been teasing a trifold device, which is expected to launch later this year. The prototype features a unique design that folds inward, differing from the accordion-style of Huawei’s Mate XTs. Details regarding pricing and specifications remain scarce, but given the starting price of the Z Fold 7 at $1,999, consumers should prepare for a premium cost.
As the foldable market continues to evolve, it is clear that these devices offer exciting possibilities for users who seek innovation and versatility in their smartphones. With improvements in durability, battery life, and overall functionality, foldables are set to become a more mainstream choice for consumers.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: October 29, 2025 at 5:37 am
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