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the best foldable phone you can buy Foldable phones have evolved significantly since their inception, offering unique features and experiences that cater to tech enthusiasts and gadget lovers.

the best foldable phone you can buy

Understanding Foldable Phones

A foldable phone isn’t for the faint of heart. They’re generally heavier, pricier, and have less capable cameras than a standard slab-style phone. While they have become more durable since their initial launch, foldables still face challenges that traditional smartphones can often withstand. For instance, dust intrusion in the hinge mechanism can lead to significant issues. However, for those who are adventurous and enjoy cutting-edge technology, a folding phone can be a rewarding investment.

Currently, there are two primary types of foldable phones: book-style and clamshell-style. Book-style foldables resemble a phone combined with a tablet, while clamshells are akin to traditional flip phones, offering a compact design. Here’s a breakdown of both:

Book-style foldables: These devices feature an outer screen for everyday phone tasks and an expansive inner screen for multitasking, gaming, or media consumption.
Clamshell-style foldables: These phones come equipped with a smaller outer display, allowing users to check notifications and perform quick tasks without fully opening the device.

Choosing between these two styles largely depends on individual preferences. If you desire a more extensive interface for productivity, a book-style foldable may be ideal. Conversely, if you prefer a more compact device for casual use, a clamshell-style foldable might be the better option. Regardless of your choice, it is advisable to consider purchasing an extended warranty, as repairs can be costly and not all repair shops are equipped to handle foldable technology.

Best Book-Style Foldable

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Score: 8

Pros: Ridiculously slim and light for a foldable; all-day battery life with moderate use; outer screen feels normal.
Cons: Priced at $2,000; durability remains a concern; camera bump causes wobbling on flat surfaces.

Where to Buy: $1,999.99 at Amazon (256GB), $1,999.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $2,119.99 at Samsung (512GB).

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a significant advancement in foldable technology. Unlike its predecessors, which had a long and narrow form factor, the Z Fold 7 features a more familiar 21:9 aspect ratio, making it easier to handle. At just 8.9mm thick, it is nearly as slim as standard slab-style devices, making it comfortable to carry.

Its spacious inner display is perfect for multitasking, gaming, or simply enjoying more screen real estate. The device boasts a commendable battery life, lasting a full day with moderate use, which is a notable achievement for a foldable phone.

However, the Z Fold 7 is not without its drawbacks. Its starting price of $1,999 positions it as a luxury device, making it less accessible to the average consumer. Additionally, the outer display has a lower resolution than the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the camera bump can cause the phone to wobble when placed on flat surfaces. Nonetheless, the camera system is impressive, featuring a 200-megapixel lens that excels in low-light conditions.

Overall, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has successfully dethroned the Pixel 9 Pro Fold as the top book-style foldable, thanks to its stunning hardware and improved usability. However, concerns about long-term durability and the high price tag remain significant factors for potential buyers.

Best Flip-Style Foldable

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7

Score: 8

Pros: Features a large cover screen; all-day battery life; reliable camera.
Cons: More susceptible to dust than traditional phones; limited app functionality on the cover screen.

Where to Buy: $1,099.99 at Amazon (256GB), $1,099.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $1,099.99 at Samsung (256GB).

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 introduces several improvements over its predecessor. Notably, Samsung has upgraded the cover screen to a larger 4.1-inch edge-to-edge display, allowing for easier access to notifications and quick tasks without fully opening the phone.

Additionally, the Flip 7 is thinner than its predecessor and features a larger 4,300mAh battery, enhancing its overall performance. The camera system remains unchanged, but the 50-megapixel main shooter continues to deliver impressive images.

Despite these advancements, the Flip 7 retains the same IP48 rating as its predecessor, raising concerns about long-term durability against dust. However, Samsung offers a robust warranty and repair program, along with seven years of OS and security updates, making it a solid investment for those who prioritize style and functionality.

The Most Fun Foldable

Motorola Razr Ultra (2025)

Score: 7

Pros: Exceptional design; great battery life; useful outer screen.
Cons: AI button feels unnecessary; long-term durability is uncertain; camera processing can be inconsistent.

Where to Buy: $1,299.99 at Amazon (512GB), $1,299.99 at Best Buy (512GB), $1,299.99 at Motorola (512GB).

The Motorola Razr Ultra is the latest addition to Motorola’s foldable lineup, boasting a higher-resolution inner screen and a more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Its elegant design, featuring a gold-bronze chassis and wooden back panel, sets it apart from the competition.

The 4-inch outer screen is particularly noteworthy, covering nearly the entire front of the device. This feature allows users to check notifications, respond to messages, and perform quick actions without opening the phone. The titanium hinge is another upgrade, enhancing durability compared to previous models.

However, the Razr Ultra is not without its flaws. Users have reported inconsistent camera processing, and Motorola’s promise of only three OS upgrades and four years of security updates raises concerns about the longevity of the device.

The Best Battery Life in a Foldable

Oppo Find N5

Score: 8

Pros: Extremely thin; excellent battery life; nearly invisible crease.
Cons: Not available in the US or Europe; still fragile.

Where to Buy: $2,499 at Oppo (512GB).

The Oppo Find N5 is a remarkable device, particularly for users in China and select Asian countries. Its thin design and impressive battery life make it a standout in the foldable market. The phone features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a large 5,600mAh battery, ensuring it can handle heavy use throughout the day.

Despite its impressive specifications, the Find N5 is not available in the US or Europe, limiting its accessibility. Additionally, while it is one of the thinnest book-style foldable phones, it still shares the fragility concerns common to foldable technology.

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 chipset. However, its high price tag of approximately $2,520 may deter potential buyers.
Motorola Razr Plus 2025: This model features a titanium hinge for improved durability and an IP48 rating for dust and water resistance. While it looks similar to its predecessor, it offers notable enhancements.
Standard Motorola Razr 2025: Starting at $699, this model serves as a more affordable entry point into the foldable market, offering improved performance and battery life.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Google’s second attempt at a foldable phone features a lightweight design and a bright inner screen but suffers from a downgraded camera system and a lack of formal dust resistance.

What’s Coming Next

Looking ahead, Google has announced the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, available for preorder starting at $1,799, with a launch set for October 9th. This device is noteworthy for being the first foldable to earn an IP68 rating, offering full water and dust resistance. It will also feature Google’s new Tensor G5 chip, improved displays, and support for Google’s magnet-based Pixelsnap system.

As the foldable market continues to evolve, consumers can expect more innovative designs and features that push the boundaries of smartphone technology. With each new release, manufacturers are addressing previous concerns, making foldable phones an increasingly viable option for a broader audience.

In summary, while foldable phones come with their own set of challenges, they offer unique functionalities that can enhance the user experience. Whether you prefer a book-style or clamshell-style device, there are options available that cater to various needs and preferences.

Source: Original report