Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Should You Buy the New Samsung Smartphone

Samsung is currently at the pinnacle of innovation with its foldable, as evidenced by the iterative updates we've received over the last year. This year was no exception, with the July release of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. Aside from the standard changes, like a faster processor, Samsung has utilised a revamped hinge mechanism, which has helped slightly reduce the phone's weight and thickness. This does not alter the game but is a step in the right direction. Current Galaxy Z Fold 4 owners can easily skip this generation and wait for next year's model.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Price in India

Surprisingly, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 starts at the same price as last year's model (which is still officially offered in India). For Rs. 1,54,999, you get 256GB of storage and 12GB of RAM. Two other models have the same amount of RAM but more extensive storage. The 512GB variant costs Rs. 1,64,999, while the 1TB variant costs Rs. 1,84,999. Given that you cannot enlarge the storage, such options are advantageous. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 comes in three colours: Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream.

The Galaxy Z Fold 5 does not have Samsung's S Pen, which must be purchased separately. If you intend to do so, acquiring the S Pen case is preferable, which includes a docking station for the stylus on the back.

Design of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is practically indistinguishable from its predecessor. Still, if you look closely, you can tell the two apart by minute differences, such as the placement of the LED light and the colours. Because of the shatter-resistant glass on the front and back and the aluminium frame, it remains one of the best-built horizontally-folding phones. When folded, the redesigned hinge allows the two parts to sit virtually flush, reducing the gap. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5  phone is water resistant to IPX8 standards.

Both Galaxy Z Fold 5 displays are identical to the Fold 4, except for the folding display's peak brightness, which has increased to 1,750 nits from 1,200 nits. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 display dimensions remain the same as previously, with a 6.2-inch HD+ AMOLED outer display with a refresh rate of 120Hz and a 7.6-inch QXGA+ core display with a refresh rate of 120Hz.

Except for a SIM removal tool and a USB Type-C connector, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 comes with a few accessories. For such a device, paying extra and acquiring the S Pen cover case, which includes additional protection and the stylus, is sensible.

Battery life and performance: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a real flagship that does not falter even when pushed. The substantial RAM and strong SoC ensure that there is always enough power, no matter what programs you use. Whether multitasking or gaming, performance is outstanding.

The S Pen works excellently, but the outer screen doesn't support it, forcing you to open the phone to take notes or do anything with it. It's also worth noting that the S Pen for standard S series phones (like the S23 Ultra) would not work because the Z Fold 5 only supports a specific Pen for the Fold edition of the stylus. Despite having the same battery capacity as last year's model, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 can provide more than a day's battery life under moderate to heavy use.

Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5?

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 costs 1.5 lakh rupees. Consider the practicality before purchasing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. It is undoubtedly the most excellent phone for a productivity junkie or a mobile gaming enthusiast, and if you are sure that you will benefit from this form factor and are willing to endure the peculiarities of living with such a smartphone.

However, it may not be easy to live with for many people. Folding and unfolding the phone can rapidly become a pain, and those who acquire it for novelty or bragging rights may regret their decision a few months later. If you still want to spend this much money but want something more manageable, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the next best thing. It, too, supports the S Pen and has far superior cameras. Consider the new iPhone 15 Pro Max.