the best foldable phone you can buy Foldable phones have emerged as a unique category in the smartphone market, combining the portability of a traditional phone with the expansive display of a tablet.
the best foldable phone you can buy
Understanding Foldable Phones
A foldable phone isn’t for the faint of heart. They tend to be heavier, pricier, and often come with cameras that are less capable than those found in standard slab-style phones. While advancements have been made in durability, foldable devices still lag behind traditional smartphones in this regard. However, thanks to innovations from companies like Google, we now have foldable phones that can withstand various environments, including sandy beaches.
Types of Foldable Phones
Currently, there are two primary types of foldable phones: book-style and clamshell-style. Each caters to different user preferences:
- Book-style foldables: These devices resemble a book when opened and provide a larger inner display, akin to a tablet. They also feature an outer screen for quick access to notifications and basic functions.
- Clamshell-style foldables: These devices fold in half like a traditional flip phone, offering a compact design. They typically have a smaller outer display for quick tasks, allowing users to check notifications without fully opening the device.
Choosing between these two styles largely depends on your usage habits. Book-style foldables are ideal for those who want a larger screen for multitasking, while clamshell-style devices are suited for users who prefer a more compact form factor. Regardless of the choice, it’s advisable to consider purchasing an extended warranty, as repairs for foldable phones can be costly and may not be widely available at standard repair shops.
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 aren’t as good as other 10 Pro models, pricier than a regular phone
Where to Buy: $1,799 at Amazon (256GB), $1,799 at Best Buy (256GB), $1,799 at Google (256GB)
Screen: 8-inch, 2076p, 120Hz OLED inner screen; 6.4-inch, 1080p, 120Hz OLED cover screen
Processor: Google Tensor G5
Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.7 main with OIS; 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto with OIS; 10.5-megapixel ultrawide; 10-megapixel selfie (cover screen); 10-megapixel inner selfie camera
Battery: 5,015mAh
Charging: 30W wired, 15W wireless (Qi2)
Weather resistance: IP68
Durability has long been a significant concern in the foldable category, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold marks a milestone in that journey. With an IP68 rating, it’s the first foldable to offer full water and dust resistance. This means you can confidently take the $1,799 device on outdoor adventures without worrying about environmental hazards damaging it. The inclusion of Qi2 support with built-in magnets for accessories and wireless charging, along with Google’s powerful Tensor G5 chip, makes it one of the most well-rounded foldables available.
However, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is not without its shortcomings. While it offers all-day battery life with minimal use of the inner display, heavy usage can lead to a drained battery by the end of the day. Additionally, despite its improved durability, the camera performance falls short compared to Google’s other 10 Pro models, particularly in low-light conditions. The device is also heavier and thicker than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which may deter some users.
Best Flip-Style Foldable
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Score: 8
- Pros: Samsung finally adopted a larger cover screen, all-day battery life, reliable camera
- Cons: More susceptible to dust than average phones, limited functionality on the cover screen
Where to Buy: $1,099.99 at Amazon (256GB), $1,099.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $1,219.99 at Samsung (512GB)
Screen: 6.9-inch, 1080p, 120Hz OLED inner screen; 4.1-inch, 948p, OLED cover screen
Processor: Samsung Exynos 2500
Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.8 main with OIS; 12-megapixel ultrawide; 10-megapixel selfie (inner screen)
Battery: 4,300mAh
Charging: 25W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless
Weather-resistance rating: IP48
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 may not be as flashy as the latest Razr Ultra, but it offers several new features that enhance its usability. Samsung has replaced the old cover screen with a larger, 4.1-inch edge-to-edge panel, providing more space for quick responses to messages and notifications. The device is thinner than its predecessor and boasts a larger 4,300mAh battery, improving overall performance.
While the camera system remains unchanged from the previous model, it still delivers excellent image quality. However, the Flip 7 retains the same IP48 rating as its predecessor, raising concerns about long-term durability against fine dust particles. Samsung does offer a robust warranty and repair program, along with seven years of OS and security updates, making it a solid choice for users seeking a reliable flip-style foldable.
The Most Fun Foldable
Motorola Razr Ultra (2025)
Score: 7
- Pros: One of the best-looking phones available, great battery life, useful outer screen
- Cons: AI button is wasted space, long-term durability remains uncertain, inconsistent camera processing
Where to Buy: $1,299.99 at Amazon (512GB), $1,299.99 at Best Buy (512GB), $1,299.99 at Motorola (512GB)
Screen: 7-inch 1224p OLED 165Hz inner screen; 4-inch 1080p OLED 165Hz outer screen
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.8 main with OIS; 50-megapixel f/2.0 ultrawide; 50-megapixel f/2.0 selfie
Battery: 4,700mAh
Charging: 68W wired, 30W wireless
Weather-resistance rating: IP48
The Razr Ultra is the latest addition to Motorola’s foldable lineup, boasting a higher-resolution inner screen and Qualcomm’s most powerful mobile processor. Its design is striking, featuring a gold-bronze chassis and wooden back panel that set it apart from other devices. The 4-inch outer screen is nearly the entire front of the phone, making it ideal for checking notifications and responding to messages quickly.
Despite its aesthetic appeal and functionality, the Razr Ultra has some drawbacks. Users have reported inconsistent camera processing, and Motorola’s commitment to only three OS upgrades and four years of security updates raises concerns about its longevity. Nevertheless, it remains a fun and stylish option for those looking to make a statement.
The Best Battery Life in a Foldable
Oppo Find N5
Score: 8
- Pros: Exceptionally thin, excellent battery life, nearly invisible crease
- Cons: Still fragile, not available in the US or Europe
Where to Buy: $2,499 at Oppo (512GB), $2,099 at Oppo (512GB)
Screen: 8.12-inch, 2248p, 120Hz OLED inner screen; 6.62-inch, 1140p, 120Hz OLED outer screen
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.9 main with OIS; 50-megapixel 3x telephoto with OIS; 8-megapixel ultrawide; 8-megapixel selfie cameras (inner and outer)
Battery: 5,600mAh
Charging: 80W wired, 50W wireless
Weather-resistance rating: IPX8/IPX9
Unfortunately, the Oppo Find N5 is not available in the US or Europe, limiting its accessibility. However, for those in China, Singapore, and select Asian markets, this phone offers an impressive combination of thinness and battery life. The Find N5 utilizes silicon-carbon battery technology, allowing for a 5,600mAh battery that lasts through heavy usage.
Despite its impressive features, the Find N5’s availability remains a significant drawback. Its thin profile and lightweight design make it an attractive option for users who want a foldable that feels less cumbersome than traditional devices. The combination of high performance and excellent battery life makes it a standout in the foldable market.
Other Foldables to Consider
Several other foldable devices are worth mentioning:
- Huawei Mate XTs: This trifold phone offers a unique design and several upgrades over its predecessor, including stylus support and an improved Kirin 9020 chipset. Priced at approximately $2,520, it remains a premium option.
- Motorola Razr Plus 2025: This model features a titanium hinge for better durability and an IP48 rating for dust and water resistance. While it looks similar to last year’s model, it offers notable improvements.
- Standard Motorola Razr 2025: Starting at $699, this model provides an affordable entry point into the foldable market, offering improved performance and battery life.
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Google’s sophomore effort offers a well-designed form factor but suffers from a downgraded camera system compared to its slab-style counterparts.
- Galaxy Z Fold 7: This device is a slim, lightweight alternative to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, featuring a spacious inner display for multitasking but lacking full dust and water resistance.
What’s Coming Next
Samsung has been teasing a trifold device, with plans to launch it later this year. The prototype showcased a design that folds inward with a middle portion and two sides, diverging from the accordion-style fold of the Huawei Mate XTs. While details regarding pricing and specifications remain scarce, the anticipation surrounding this device is high, especially given the starting price of the Z Fold 7 at $1,999.
As the foldable market continues to evolve, consumers can expect more innovative designs and features that cater to diverse user needs. The advancements in durability, battery life, and overall functionality indicate a promising future for foldable technology.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: October 29, 2025 at 5:42 pm
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