Thin. Thinner. Thinnest. The race for the slimmest smartphone has taken the industry by storm, but is this quest truly beneficial for average users? It’s hard to say. While it makes for flashy advertising and playful brand rivalry, the question remains: how does it affect real-world functionality?
With the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, the conversation around thinness has become even more pronounced. However, competing brands like Honor argue differently — in the realm of foldable phones, thinness can indeed have ergonomic advantages, but it can also lead to diminished utility.
Utility encompasses more than mere dimensions; it includes crucial factors like battery life. As the buzz intensified around the Galaxy Z Fold 7, I had the opportunity to test the Vivo X Fold 5. After some time with it, I found it offers a more comprehensive experience than Samsung’s latest.
1. Is Thinness Everything?
When it comes to holding these devices, every detail counts. Both the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Vivo X Fold 5 sport flat sides, but the Vivo’s slightly rounded corners enhance grip and comfort. Check out the specifications:
| Unfolded (mm) | Folded (mm) | |
| Vivo X Fold 5 | 159.68 x 72.60 x 9.2 | 72.8 x 158.4 x 8.9 |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | 159.68 x 142.29 x 4.3 | 143.2 x 158.4 x 4.2 |
The difference in thickness is barely noticeable—just 0.1 mm when unfolded and 0.3 mm when both devices are closed, with only a two-gram weight difference. What really matters, however, is the sturdiness of the phone.
2. Durability Matters
Here, the Vivo X Fold 5 triumphs over the Galaxy Z Fold 7. The latter boasts an IPX48 rating, allowing it to withstand water for a limited time. In contrast, the Vivo X Fold 5 is certified with IPX8, IPX9, IPX9+, and IP5X ratings, meaning it’s far more resistant to dust and water exposure, making it a sensible choice for someone investing in a high-end foldable phone.
With foldable phones being notoriously fragile, choosing a sturdier model pays off in the long run. Samsung, known for repair costs due to fragility, presents a riskier investment without the added layers of protection Vivo is offering.
3. Battery Life: The Game-Changer
One significant downside of foldable phones is their reduced battery capacity, especially with high-resolution displays. Samsung’s latest model comes with a 4,400mAh battery. While this may suffice for regular usage, heavy use could leave you scrambling for a charger.
In stark contrast, the Vivo X Fold 5 packs a powerful 6,000mAh battery, which is a game-changer for daily usage. This dual-cell silicone anode battery promises over a week’s standby time and can endure long hours of video calls without needing a recharge.
4. Charging Speed: Who Takes the Lead?
Charging speeds can make or break your experience. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 relies on 25W wired and 15W wireless charging, notoriously slow for its price range. On the flip side, the Vivo X Fold 5 supports an impressive 80W wired charging, fully powering up in just 45 minutes. Even its wireless charging is quicker, with support for 40W. Plus, unlike Samsung, Vivo includes the fast charging brick in the box.
5. Camera Capabilities: A Better Choice?
When comparing camera quality, Samsung may flaunt a 200-megapixel main camera, but it falls short with its ultrawide and zoom lenses. In contrast, the Vivo X Fold 5 incorporates three 50-megapixel cameras, including a superior periscope zoom lens that outperforms Samsung’s options.
Additionally, where Samsung offers two 10-megapixel front cameras, Vivo includes a pair of 20-megapixel options, ensuring impressive color processing and video quality.
6. Display Quality: More Bang for Your Buck
Samsung’s display peaks at 2,600 nits of brightness, which is impressive, but the Vivo X Fold 5 can reach a staggering 4,500 nits. Moreover, Vivo’s multitasking experience mimics Apple’s Stage Manager, providing a seamless interface for productivity.
Despite Samsung’s advancements, the Vivo X Fold 5 emerges not just as a stylish alternative but as the more functional, all-around device. And at a significantly lower price point, it’s a tempting option.
What advantages does the Galaxy Z Fold 7 offer over its competitors?
While the Galaxy Z Fold 7 presents better brand recognition, its benefits are mostly aesthetic rather than functional compared to more capable rivals like the Vivo X Fold 5.
Can you use the Vivo X Fold 5 for gaming effectively?
Yes, the Vivo X Fold 5 supports high-performance gaming thanks to its strong battery, quick charging capability, and top-tier camera features for capturing in-game moments.
The Vivo X Fold 5 proves to be the more meaningful investment, striking a balance between performance, durability, and cost.
For more insights into tech and gadgets, keep exploring related content at Moyens I/O.