Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Review: The Ultimate Foldable Smartphone Experience

There will be many foldable phones available in the market in 2024, but Samsung is the most popular choice because of its durability, dynamic quality, powerful processor, and more. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the latest smartphone of the Samsung Galaxy Z flagship series.

The Samsung Z Flip 5 is well-built with an aluminum frame and many other high-end specifications. It has a unique and appealing design and has been upgraded with a bigger cover display of 3.4 inches and a 6.7-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120Hz. This display is slightly smaller than its rival Razr 40 Ultra, which has a 6.9-inch pOLED display with a higher refresh rate of 165Hz. However in the overall comparison of display, camera, and processor, Samsung Z-Flip 5 wins the race. If you are deciding about getting a foldable phone, you should check our list of top foldable smartphones.

This review examines the Galaxy Z Flip 5’s features in depth, covering everything from its stunning display and powerful processor to its versatile camera and connectivity options.

Design:

The design of Z-Flip 5 is quite similar to its predecessor Z-Flip 4. However, Z-Flip 5 has an advanced hinge design with better durability, reduced crease visibility, and smoother folding action. In terms of dimensions, it is (6.5×2.8×0.3) inches when unfolded and (3.3×2.8×0.6) when folded. It has a dual camera setup and a hole-punch selfie camera. When it comes to display, Z-Flip 5 has a 3.4″ Super AMOLED cover screen and a foldable 6.7″ Dynamic AMOLED main display. It is also essential to remember that foldable phones are not dustproof, like ordinary phones; the Z Flip 5 and Z Flip 4 have an IPX8 dust and waterproof rating, meaning they are water-resistant but not dust-resistant.

Display of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5:

The front display, also called the cover display, has been significantly upgraded from the 1.9-inch screen of the Z-Flip 4 to 3.4 inches with 60Hz AMOLED display, which this Z-Flip 5 has. This display provides quick access to notifications, widgets, and essential apps without opening the phone. Samsung’s rival Motorola Razr+ also upgraded its cover display to 3.6-inch pOLED.

When it comes to the main foldable display, the Z-Flip 5 has a massive 6.7-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display with an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz.The Z Flip 5 includes upgraded Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG), which may increase durability.

Compared to the Motorolla Razr 40 Ultra, the Razr offers a 6.9-inch pOLED display with a higher refresh rate of 165Hz, resulting in better animations and transitions. Both phones use powerful OLED display technology, but the Z Flip 5 has Dynamic AMOLED 2X, which is known for its high color accuracy and brightness.

Processor in Z Flip 5:

The Galaxy Z Flip 5’s heart is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. This AI powerhouse offers lightning-fast performance, beyond-compare connectivity, champion-level gameplay, outstanding capturing, and much more. The processor’s efficiency improves energy management, yet the phone’s battery life could be improved.

Camera quality of Z Flip 5:

The Samsung Z Flip 5 has a dual 12-megapixel wide and ultrawide camera setup and a 10-megapixel hole-punch selfie camera with 1.12μm pixels and an f/2.2 aperture, and the primary camera has the latest coating, which reduces lens flare. Instead of upgrading the camera sensor (Z Flip 4 also has a 12-megapixel camera), Z-Flip 5 image quality relies on a newly upgraded Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which noticeably enhances the photo quality. However, the lack of a telephoto lens might be a downside for those who need powerful zoom capabilities. The overall photo and video quality is appreciable under low light compared to Razr+. We will make a list of the best camera phones soon.

Battery and Additional Features of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5:

Just like its predecessor Z Flip 4, the Samsung z flip 5 has a similar battery capacity. The 3700 mAh battery in the Z Flip 5 can last up to 10 hours, enough for a whole day more than the Z Flip 4. That is because of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is the more power-efficient processor. During my test, I played a game for 2 hours, took a lot of pictures around NYC, and used a map, and I still had 7% at 11:30 pm. During PUBG gameplay of 2 hours, it drops from 100% to 82%. One thing more, the Always On Display consumes a noticeable amount of battery. Z-Flip 5 has a USB-C port and wireless charging.

Software Features of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5:

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers several cool software features that make the most of its foldable design. Here’s a look at what you can do with it:

1. Flex Mode
   • What it is: Flex Mode splits the screen into two parts when the phone is partly folded.
   • How to use it: Watch a video on the top half while controlling playback or browsing on the bottom half. It’s great for video calls and hands-free viewing, too.
2. Cover Screen Widgets
   • What it is: The 3.4-inch cover display has interactive widgets for quick access.
   • How to use it: You can check notifications, control music, see the weather, and use apps like Calendar and Messages without opening the phone.
3. App Continuity
   • What it is: Apps seamlessly transition from the cover screen to the main display.
   • How to use it: Start using an app on the cover screen, then unfold the phone, and the app will expand to the larger screen.
4. Multi-Active Window
   • What it is: This feature lets you use multiple apps at the same time on the main screen.
   • How to use it: Split the screen to browse the web while chatting in a messaging app.
5. Flex Mode Panel
   • What it is: A special panel that appears in Flex Mode, offering extra controls.
   • How to use it: Depending on the app, this panel can include media controls, screenshot options, and more.
6. Edge Panel
   • What it is: Quick access to your favorite apps, contacts, and shortcuts.
   • How to use it: Customize the Edge Panel with the apps and tools you use most.
7. Camera Flex Mode
   • What it is: Use the camera hands-free and get unique angles.
   • How to use it: Place the phone on a flat surface, fold it to the angle you want, and use the bottom half of the screen to control the camera.
8. Dual Preview
   • What it is: Both the photographer and the subject can see the photo preview.
   • How to use it: It’s perfect for selfies or group shots; everyone can check the composition before taking the photo.
9. Quick Shot
   • What it is: Take selfies using the cover screen without unfolding the phone.
   • How to use it: Double press the power button to open the camera, then use the cover screen to frame and take your shot.
10. Samsung DeX
    • What it is: Connect the Z Flip 5 to a monitor or TV for a desktop-like experience.
    • How to use it: Use your phone like a computer by connecting it to a larger screen, which is great for productivity tasks.

These features make the Galaxy Z Flip 5 not just a phone but a versatile and innovative device that adapts to how you want to use it.

Common Issues with the Z Flip 5:

While the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is packed with advanced features and a cool foldable design, some users have reported a few common problems. Here are the main concerns:

1. Durability of the Hinge and Foldable Display
   • Issue: Even with improvements, people worry about how long the hinge and foldable screen will last.
   • Impact: Over time, the hinge might become loose, and the screen could develop a crease or wear out where it folds.
2. High Price
   • Issue: The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is expensive.
   • Impact: The high cost makes it less affordable for many people and might put off potential buyers.
3. Cover Display Usability
   • Issue: The larger cover screen is useful, but some users find it still limited.
   • Impact: Not all apps and features work well on the cover screen, which can limit its usefulness.
4. Screen Protector Issues
   • Issue: The pre-installed screen protector can peel off or get bubbles.
   • Impact: Removing the protector can be tricky, and finding a good replacement isn’t always easy.
5. Limited Dust and Water Resistance
   • Issue: The Galaxy Z Flip 5 isn’t fully dust-proof, though it offers some water resistance.
   • Impact: Dust and debris could get into the hinge and affect how the phone works over time.
6. Availability of Accessories
   • Issue: It can be hard to find compatible cases and accessories because of the phone’s unique shape.
   • Impact: There are fewer options for protecting and customizing the phone than typical smartphones.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a stylish and innovative phone, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues. Knowing these factors can help you decide if this foldable smartphone is right for you.

Conclusion:

Overall, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the best foldable phone available in the market right now. Its build quality, display, and camera results and performance are highly appreciable. Additionally, the the price point is a bit higher, and battery life might not meet the demands of heavy users. However, the foldable design of phones still raises concerns about long-term durability and the potential for a visible crease in the middle of the screen.