#01
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Samsung's thinnest foldable yet pairs flagship 200MP cameras with an 8-inch display, but battery life and durability questions linger beneath the premium surface.
1/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents the first foldable device that doesn't force users to compromise flagship features for the sake of form factor innovation. Its revolutionary ultra-thin design, measuring thinner than traditional flagships when unfolded, paired with a genuinely usable 6.5-inch cover display and expansive 8-inch main screen, finally delivers on the foldable promise. The addition of a flagship-grade 200MP camera system and Snapdragon 8 Elite processor ensures performance matches premium expectations. However, the modest 4,400mAh battery struggles with heavy use, slow 25W charging feels dated, and the loss of S Pen support disappoints productivity enthusiasts. Camera processing inconsistency and emerging durability concerns around hinge longevity temper an otherwise exceptional device. For users who prioritize productivity, multitasking, and cutting-edge form factor over maximum battery endurance, the Z Fold 7 stands as the most refined and capable foldable phone available.
Pros
- Ultra-thin and lightweight design: At 0.17 inches unfolded and 7.58 ounces, the Z Fold 7 is thinner and lighter than flagship slab phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Significantly improved 200MP main camera: First Fold series device to feature flagship-grade camera sensor, delivering professional-quality images and 8K video recording
- Enhanced 6.5-inch cover display: Wider aspect ratio matches the S25 Ultra, making the device fully usable while folded without needing to open it
- Expansive 8-inch main display: Matches iPad mini size, offering exceptional multitasking capabilities and immersive content consumption
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor: Delivers flagship-level performance for demanding applications, gaming, and seamless multitasking
Cons
- Limited battery capacity: 4,400mAh battery struggles with heavy use and drains faster than competing foldables with larger batteries
- Modest charging speeds: 25W wired charging is slow by current flagship standards, taking approximately 90 minutes for full charge
- Inconsistent camera processing: Samsung's image processing produces variable results, with users often discarding multiple shots to find keepers
- Limited optical zoom capabilities: Only 3x telephoto compared to 10x on S25 Ultra, disappointing for a flagship-tier device
- No S Pen support: Samsung eliminated stylus compatibility on this generation, removing a key productivity feature
#02
Motorola Razr Ultra
A flagship-grade folding flip phone powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, featuring dual high-refresh displays, genuine premium materials, and exceptional battery life that challenges what flip phones can deliver.
2/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Motorola Razr Ultra represents a decisive shift in flip phone priorities, eschewing compromise for flagship-level performance. Equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 16GB RAM, and a 4,700mAh battery, this foldable delivers desktop-class processing power in a compact, pocketable format. The device features a 7-inch main AMOLED display alongside a 4-inch cover display, both refreshing at 165Hz. Motorola differentiates with premium material choices including genuine wood and Alcantara finishes. While the camera system delivers competent results across three 50MP sensors, image processing remains Motorola's weakest link. Battery endurance stands out as a category leader, surpassing competing flip phones by meaningful margins. At \$1,300, the Razr Ultra commands a premium over previous Razr models, positioning itself directly against Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip series.
Pros
- Snapdragon 8 Elite processor delivers flagship-tier performance with 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage
- Class-leading 4,700mAh battery with 68W wired and 30W wireless fast charging
- Dual 165Hz AMOLED displays with 4,500 nits peak brightness on the main screen
- IPX8 water resistance rating enables underwater submersion protection
- Genuine premium materials including wood and Alcantara back options with titanium-reinforced hinge
Cons
- Camera image processing lags behind flagship standards, particularly in low light and zoomed shots
- Moto AI suite feels incomplete with limited app compatibility and unclear data handling practices
- $1,300 starting price represents a $300 premium over previous Razr Plus models
- No charging brick included in the box despite high-wattage charging support
- Call muting issues when phone contacts face during calls in folded position
#03
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
A refined foldable with expanded displays and improved durability that makes fewer compromises than ever before, though the Exynos processor and modest battery hold it back from perfection.
3/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 represents the culmination of years of iteration in the flip phone category. With a larger 6.9-inch internal display, an edge-to-edge 4.1-inch cover screen, and a slimmer profile, this is the device Samsung promised from the start. It delivers flagship performance in a pocketable form factor, making it ideal for anyone who values portability without sacrificing screen real estate. The phone now runs Android 16 out of the box and includes seven years of software support, matching Google's commitment. However, the decision to use Samsung's Exynos 2500 processor instead of Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite creates performance gaps compared to competitors, and battery life remains a weak point. Despite these limitations, the Z Flip 7 has evolved from a style-focused device to a genuinely practical flagship that no longer requires major compromises.
Pros
- Expansive dual displays: The 6.9-inch main AMOLED screen matches the Galaxy S25 Ultra in size while the 4.1-inch cover display features the thinnest bezels ever on a Galaxy device
- Improved crease visibility: The hinge mechanism produces a shallower, less noticeable crease compared to previous generations
- Compact portability: When folded, the device measures just 85.5mm tall and weighs 188g, fitting easily into small pockets and bags
- Enhanced durability: IP48 water resistance protects against submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the exterior
- Superior camera modes: Portrait mode and Food mode deliver class-leading results, with AI editing tools that seamlessly remove unwanted objects
Cons
- Exynos 2500 performance: The processor underperforms compared to Snapdragon 8 Elite in every benchmark category, affecting speed and efficiency
- Limited battery endurance: The 4,300mAh battery struggles with heavy use and lasts approximately 6.5 hours less than the Motorola Razr Ultra in lab tests
- No telephoto lens: The camera system lacks optical zoom, relying only on 50MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide lenses
- Dust vulnerability: IP48 rating only protects against particles larger than 1mm, leaving the hinge exposed to fine dust and sand
- Complex software implementation: Basic features like running apps on the cover display require navigating hidden settings buried in "Labs" menus
#04
Motorola Razr 2025
The Motorola Razr 2025 delivers practical foldable design, strong battery life, and usable external display at an accessible entry point, though software support and performance trade-offs remain.
4/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Motorola Razr 2025 represents a significant step forward in making foldable phones accessible to mainstream buyers. At \$700, this clamshell foldable combines practical design improvements including a titanium-reinforced hinge and IP48 rating with a MediaTek Dimensity 7400X processor, 8GB RAM, and a 4,500mAh battery that consistently delivers full-day performance. The 3.6-inch external display enables genuine productivity without constant unfolding, while the 6.9-inch internal OLED screen offers vibrant colors and 3,000 nits peak brightness. Critics praise the refined design, excellent battery life, and functional dual-display experience, though the device compromises on processor power, camera performance in low light, and software support compared to traditional smartphones at similar price points. Consumer feedback highlights satisfying build quality and portability, but notes occasional software glitches and performance limitations during intensive tasks.
Pros
- Titanium-reinforced hinge with IP48 dust and water resistance provides improved durability over previous generations
- 4,500mAh battery consistently delivers full-day performance with over 50% remaining charge at day's end
- 3.6-inch external pOLED display enables full app usage without unfolding, reducing screen time and improving one-handed usability
- 6.9-inch internal OLED screen delivers 3,000 nits peak brightness with vibrant colors and smooth 120Hz refresh rate
- Pantone-validated color finishes with textured nylon and leather-inspired materials provide excellent grip without requiring a case
Cons
- Three years of OS updates and four years of security patches lag behind competitors offering longer support
- MediaTek Dimensity 7400X processor delivers midrange performance unsuitable for intensive gaming or 4K video editing
- 13MP ultrawide camera struggles significantly in low-light conditions with soft images and loss of detail
- Preinstalled bloatware and promotional app folders persist despite premium pricing
- Protective film on internal display creates more glare than traditional glass screens in direct sunlight
#05
Honor Magic V5
This impossibly slim foldable combines class-leading cameras, exceptional battery life, and flagship performance, though software refinement lags behind its premium hardware execution.
5/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Honor Magic V5 enters a competitive foldable market with audacity, positioning itself as one of the thinnest book-style foldables available while refusing to compromise on core functionality. At just 4.1mm unfolded and 8.8mm folded, this device challenges conventional thinking about what's possible in foldable engineering. Beyond its slender dimensions, the Magic V5 packs a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 5,820mAh silicon-carbon battery, and a triple camera system that genuinely competes with dedicated camera phones. Honor's collaboration with Google on AI features brings practical utility to the software experience, even if the MagicOS interface itself shows its age. With IP58/IP59 dust and water resistance ratings that surpass competitors, seven years of promised software support, and pricing that undercuts Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7, the Magic V5 presents a compelling proposition for users seeking alternatives to the Korean giant's foldable dominance.
Pros
- Exceptional thinness without compromise: At 4.1mm unfolded, the device feels like a regular smartphone when closed while maintaining a 5,820mAh battery and full flagship specifications
- Outstanding camera system for foldables: The 50MP main sensor with OIS, 64MP 3x periscope telephoto, and 50MP ultrawide deliver detailed photos that trade blows with dedicated camera phones
- Industry-leading battery life and charging: Silicon-carbon battery technology enables multi-day usage with 66W wired and 50W wireless charging completing refueling in under 50 minutes
- Superior display technology: Both the 6.43-inch cover and 7.95-inch inner OLED panels reach 5,000 nits peak brightness with 4,320Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort
- Best-in-class ingress protection: IP58/IP59 ratings provide greater dust and water resistance than any competing foldable currently available
Cons
- Software interface lacks polish: MagicOS 9 retains design elements from older builds and feels less cohesive than competing Android skins from Samsung, Vivo, and OnePlus
- Ships with Android 15 instead of 16: Launches one generation behind the latest Android version with no confirmed timeline for the Android 16 update
- Oversized camera module creates usability issues: The prominent octagonal camera island doubles device thickness to 16.5mm and causes wobbling when placed flat on surfaces
- Processing artifacts in low-light photography: Night shots show oversharpening and slow shutter speeds struggle to freeze moving subjects even in good lighting
- Thermal management limitations: The thin form factor restricts cooling capabilities, causing the device to throttle earlier than traditional phones during sustained gaming
#06
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
A dramatically improved second generation foldable that balances phone and tablet use with an 8 inch display, premium build, and flagship camera performance wrapped in an impressively thin form factor.
6/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant leap forward from the original Pixel Fold, addressing nearly every criticism leveled at its predecessor while establishing itself as a serious contender in the foldable smartphone market. This device takes a phone first, tablet second approach with a 6.3 inch outer display that matches the standard Pixel 9 Pro in size, paired with an expansive 8 inch inner screen that delivers exceptional brightness and clarity. Powered by the Tensor G4 chip with 16GB of RAM, the device handles demanding tasks smoothly while delivering battery life that outpaces competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 by more than three hours in testing. The camera system maintains Pixel quality standards with a 48MP main sensor, 10.5MP ultrawide with macro capabilities, and a 10.8MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom, though it makes some compromises compared to the flagship Pixel 9 Pro models. Google engineered this foldable to be remarkably thin, measuring just 5.1mm when unfolded, making it one of the slimmest foldables available globally.
Pros
- Exceptionally thin profile at 5.1mm unfolded makes it one of the slimmest foldables on the market
- Large 8 inch internal display with 2,700 nits peak brightness and minimal crease visibility
- Outstanding battery life that exceeds 23 hours on internal display and 27 hours on external display
- Robust hinge mechanism engineered with multi alloy steel rated for 100,000 folds over 2.5 years
- Comprehensive AI integration including Gemini Live, Magic Editor, and Made You Look features
Cons
- IPX8 water resistance only with no dust resistance rating unlike competitors with IP48
- Inner display uses ultra thin glass that remains more fragile than standard smartphone screens
- Camera hardware compromised compared to Pixel 9 Pro models due to space constraints
- Fingerprint sensor placement too high on power button creates awkward one handed unlocking
- Heavier than standard smartphones at 257g which becomes noticeable during extended use
#07
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung's sixth-generation flip phone refines the formula with flagship performance, improved durability, and a better camera, but its cautious cover screen approach leaves versatility on the table at a higher price point.
7/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 represents a measured evolution rather than revolution in foldable design. Critics and users consistently praise its flagship-grade Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, improved IP48 water and dust resistance, and enhanced 50MP camera system that finally brings respectable photography to the flip format. The reduced crease, premium matte finish, and extended seven-year software support demonstrate Samsung's commitment to long-term refinement. However, the \$1,099 starting price brings heightened scrutiny to persistent weaknesses: a restrictively limited 3.4-inch cover screen experience that requires workarounds to unlock basic functionality, slow 25W charging that lags competitors by nearly half, and battery life that struggles through intensive days despite a capacity increase to 4,000mAh. While Galaxy AI features add utility for productivity tasks, generative tools feel underbaked. For users prioritizing durability, performance, and software longevity over experimentation, the Z Flip 6 delivers a polished experience that justifies its flagship status, even if it plays it safer than rivals.
Pros
- Flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset delivers exceptional performance that outpaces most competitors including some iPhone Pro models in benchmarks
- IP48 rating provides meaningful water resistance and protection from objects larger than 1mm, a durability upgrade over the previous IPX8 rating
- Upgraded 50MP main camera produces significantly better image quality than previous 12MP sensor with improved zoom capabilities up to 10x
- Reduced display crease is less visible than ever before, improving the viewing experience on the 6.7-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED screen
- Seven years of guaranteed Android OS updates and security patches demonstrates Samsung's long-term commitment and should improve resale value
Cons
- Cover screen functionality remains severely restricted with only five apps officially supported without third-party workarounds through Good Lock
- Slow 25W wired charging takes approximately 85 minutes for full charge, significantly slower than competitors offering 30-45W speeds
- Battery life disappoints with 10-11 hour test results falling short of flat flagship phones and struggles to survive intensive full days
- Phone becomes uncomfortably warm during extended gaming sessions with limited space to dissipate heat in the compact folded design
- $100 price increase over Galaxy Z Flip 5 brings the starting price to $1,099, making it harder to justify against flat flagship alternatives
#08
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Samsung's latest book-style foldable refines weight, design, and performance while maintaining market leadership, but incremental upgrades and a higher price tag reveal growing complacency against emerging competitors.
8/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 represents the sixth generation of Samsung's flagship foldable smartphone, arriving with subtle but meaningful improvements to design, weight, and display technology. At 239 grams, the device achieves near-parity with traditional flagship phones while delivering enhanced brightness, a refined hinge mechanism, and the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The slightly wider 6.3-inch cover display and brighter 7.6-inch main screen address longstanding usability concerns, while new Galaxy AI features add productivity and creative capabilities. However, unchanged camera hardware, modest battery life improvements, and a \$100 price increase to \$1,899 position this as an iterative rather than revolutionary update. Critics consistently praise the execution and build quality while questioning whether the refinements justify the premium pricing in an increasingly competitive foldable market.
Pros
- Exceptional display quality: Both screens deliver 2,600 nits peak brightness with vibrant, accurate colors and improved visibility in direct sunlight
- Significantly lighter design: 14-gram weight reduction brings total mass to 239g, comparable to traditional flagship phones while maintaining foldable functionality
- Refined hinge mechanism: Dual-rail hinge design achieves optimal balance between smooth opening action and stable positioning, with improved durability testing to 500,000 folds
- Strong performance capabilities: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor with 12GB RAM and enhanced vapor chamber cooling delivers flagship-level performance for multitasking and gaming
- Comprehensive software support: Seven years of promised updates combined with mature OneUI optimization for foldable form factor and multitasking features
Cons
- Unchanged camera system: Retains 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP 3x telephoto cameras from previous generations, falling behind S24 Ultra and competing foldables in zoom and overall image quality
- Modest battery performance: 4,400mAh battery delivers 10-11 hours in testing, barely improving over Fold 5 and trailing competitors despite more efficient processor
- Slow charging speeds: 25W wired and 15W wireless charging lag significantly behind competitors offering 67W or faster charging capabilities
- Persistent screen crease: While improved over previous generations, the crease remains visible and tactile, particularly noticeable with screen off or in certain lighting
- Premium pricing increase: $1,899 starting price represents $100 increase over Fold 5 despite minimal hardware upgrades and no included S Pen
#09
OnePlus Open
OnePlus delivers hardware refinement and multitasking innovation that challenges Samsung's foldable dominance with superior battery life, minimal crease, and practical display proportions.
9/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The OnePlus Open marks an unexpected turning point in foldable phone development, arriving with the hardware polish typically reserved for third or fourth generation devices. Co-developed with OPPO, this debut foldable leverages extensive engineering expertise to deliver one of the thinnest and lightest book-style phones at 239 grams while maintaining a 4,805mAh battery and Hasselblad-tuned triple camera system. The device distinguishes itself through a practical 6.31-inch cover display with normal smartphone proportions rather than the awkwardly narrow screens found on competing foldables, plus an innovative Open Canvas multitasking system that allows three full-sized apps to coexist without cramped split-screen compromises. Testing reveals exceptional battery performance exceeding 11 hours in standardized benchmarks, making it the longest-lasting foldable available. The minimal display crease, achieved through a 69-component hinge design, surpasses Samsung and Google implementations in both tactile feel and visual imperceptibility. While lacking wireless charging and carrying only IPX4 splash resistance, the Open compensates with 67W fast charging that reaches 50% in 15 minutes, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, and four years of Android updates. Critics position the hardware execution and software innovation as category-defining achievements that establish OnePlus as a legitimate foldable competitor.
Pros
- Exceptionally thin 5.8mm unfolded profile and 239g weight makes extended one-handed use comfortable compared to heavier competing foldables
- Outstanding battery performance delivers 11 hours 45 minutes in testing, the best longevity among all foldable phones evaluated
- Minimal display crease thanks to innovative 69-component Flexion Hinge design that creates shallower fold line than Samsung or Google implementations
- Innovative Open Canvas multitasking allows three full-sized apps arranged along screen edges with dynamic view switching superior to Samsung and Google approaches
- Practical 6.31-inch cover display with normal 20:9 aspect ratio functions like traditional smartphone rather than awkward narrow screen
Cons
- No wireless charging support despite premium positioning, relying solely on 67W wired charging
- Limited IPX4 splash resistance provides only basic water protection, not full submersion capability like Samsung's IPX8 rating
- Weak low light camera performance produces underexposed, muddy images with strange orange hue compared to Samsung and Google alternatives
- Massive camera hump with sharp edges makes phone top-heavy and difficult to type on when laid flat
- Software customization options lag behind Samsung with no adjustable home screen grid density or separate widget layouts for displays
#10
Motorola Razr Plus
Motorola's flagship flip phone combines an industry-leading cover display with solid performance, though camera quality and durability concerns temper an otherwise impressive package that redefines foldable usability.
10/10
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Motorola Razr Plus represents a significant leap forward in foldable flip phone design, primarily distinguished by its oversized cover display that transforms how users interact with a clamshell device. After multiple generations of refinement, Motorola has crafted a flip phone that balances style with genuine utility, making it particularly appealing to content creators and users seeking a compact form factor without sacrificing functionality. The device delivers smooth performance powered by flagship processors, features bright and vivid displays, and introduces a gapless folding design that feels premium in hand. While camera performance lags behind traditional flagship smartphones and some users report durability concerns with the folding mechanism, the Razr Plus successfully makes the case for flip phones as practical daily drivers rather than novelty devices.
Pros
- Industry-leading cover display: The expansive external screen runs full Android apps and eliminates the need to constantly unfold the device
- Gapless folding design: The hinge closes completely flat with no visible gap, creating a more compact and premium feel
- Smooth performance: Flagship Snapdragon processors deliver fluid navigation, fast app launches, and capable gaming performance
- Excellent display quality: Both internal and external OLED screens offer vibrant colors, high brightness levels, and fluid refresh rates
- Content creator friendly: Unique form factor and dual camera setup excel at vlogging and selfie capture
Cons
- Subpar camera quality: Image processing struggles with color accuracy, detail preservation, and low-light performance compared to competitors
- Durability concerns: Multiple users report screen crease issues, premature screen protector cracking, and hinge failures
- Modest battery life: Smaller battery capacity and power-hungry dual displays result in less than stellar endurance
- Limited software support: Three years of Android updates falls short of competitors offering longer support cycles
- Device heating: Processor can warm noticeably during intensive tasks like gaming or video recording