If you’ve ever hesitated to invest in a folding phone, chances are cost, size, or weight crossed your mind. The new Galaxy Z Fold 7 addresses two of these primary concerns, setting a new standard for folding phones.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts an impressive thickness of just 4.2mm when unfolded, making it the slimmest folding phone on the US market. It edges out the Honor Magic V5, which is only slightly thinner but feels bulkier due to its prominent circular camera hump.
Weighing in at 215 grams, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is also significantly lighter than its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which comes in at 239 grams. Competing models like the Magic V5 and Oppo Find N5 are marginally heavier, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes the title for the heaviest at 254 grams.
What Makes the Galaxy Z Fold 7 a Design Marvel?
Samsung’s ambitious goal with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 was to create a folding phone that feels just like a standard smartphone when folded. While it measures 0.7mm thicker than the Galaxy S25 Ultra, it manages to be lighter by 3 grams. This design feat has caught the attention of 30 average users who felt it in their hands; over a third remarked on the improved thickness and weight, surprised upon unfolding it.
Unlike its predecessors, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 offers a form factor that feels remarkably normal in hand, making it an ideal option for those wary of the heft often associated with folding devices.
Is the Galaxy Z Fold 7 Peak Folding Phone Design?
Holding the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has sparked questions about the future of foldable design. Samsung has hinted that the next model could be approximately 0.2mm thinner, but merely reducing thickness may not be enough to compel an upgrade. The current design is already a substantial improvement over the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and offers a mature, solid experience.
However, improvements could still enhance its existing features. For instance, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 sports a robust 200MP main camera comparable to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, its other cameras—12MP ultrawide and 10MP telephoto—fall short in competition. The noticeable camera bump also leads to a slight wobble when the phone is laid flat, something that rival designs have addressed with a circular camera layout, albeit at the cost of added thickness.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7’s squared display edges may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they do provide a firm grip. Many competitors have opted for rounded edges, sacrificing screen size for user accessibility. Ultimately, these design choices elevate the phone’s comfort while handling.
What Are the Key Areas for Improvement?
While the Galaxy Z Fold 7 showcases significant advancements, there’s still room for enhancement. The battery capacity is one area of concern; at 4,400 mAh, it lags behind competitors like the Honor Magic V5 (5,820 mAh) and Oppo Find N5 (5,600 mAh), both of which are thicker yet offer larger batteries.
Additionally, while equipped with a powerful primary camera, the supporting lens options on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 aren’t as competitive as those found in its rivals.
Improving these specific areas without compromising the overall exceptional design is pivotal to Samsung’s success. I’d highly recommend the Galaxy Z Fold 7 for anyone interested in a well-crafted foldable phone. It truly makes a strong case that folding phones have reached a new pinnacle in design.
What features should you consider when selecting a folding phone?
When choosing a folding phone, prioritize design, weight, camera quality, and battery life. Look for balance among these features to ensure a satisfactory user experience.
How does the Galaxy Z Fold 7 compare to older models?
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 features a slimmer and lighter design than its predecessors, along with enhanced usability that distinguishes it from earlier models.
Can the Galaxy Z Fold 7 compete with non-foldable phones?
Yes, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 rivals non-foldable phones in terms of performance and usability while offering the unique advantage of a larger, foldable screen.
What are common problems with folding phones?
Common issues include battery life, thickness, and camera performance, though devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 have made strides in these areas.
Finally, if you’re exploring the world of folding phones, dive deeper into related content at Moyens I/O. There’s a wealth of information waiting for you!