Those looking for a fun yet handy smartphone can consider exploring the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series this year. Comfortable switching from phone to tablet modes, this smartphone series has quickly gained popularity among those who enjoy bigger screens. While flip phones can be nostalgic, the advances in design and quality of foldable phones can meet all the contemporary needs of buyers. So, here is everything one should know about Samsung Galaxy Z Fold phones: 

Key features
Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold Series in 2019. It is a foldable phone with a vertical axis. So far, the brand has launched five models in the series, from the Fold to Fold 5. It is important to note that this series differs from the Z Flip series, which folds horizontally. Here is a look at two of the key features of top models in the series: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Fold 5.

1. Body and display
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 comes in four colors—phantom black, beige, gray-green, and burgundy. With a 7.6-inch Infinity Flex display and a metallic finish, this folding phone has a stylish exterior. Additionally, this model has pushed-back bezels that fit perfectly into the display, camouflaging the fold perfectly. On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 comes in three shades: icy blue, phantom black, and cream. Two exclusive colors in its online-only Urban lineup are blue and grey. In terms of brightness, the Z Fold 5 offers 1750 nits—much higher than the 1200 nits of the previous model. This upgrade helps improve the visibility of the screen, even in direct light. Videos can play in Flex mode and normal mode, giving one an immersive experience along with Samsung’s Dolby Atmos sound. Further, both phones come with a 120 Hz refresh rate, offering a smooth gaming and viewing experience. 

2. Water resistance and durability
With IPX8 water resistance being a common feature on both Z Fold phones, the devices can survive up to 30 minutes in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater. Further, Samsung promises a sturdy exterior with tough aluminum frames. Finally, getting the Samsung Care+ can help protect the folding phone from accidents. 

3. Camera
The Galaxy Z Fold Series prioritizes its rear camera, space zoom, and night photography to help users get the best pictures. The massive outer screen can be used as a viewfinder. Users get a 50MP main camera, a 10MP 3x telephoto camera, a 23 MP ultra-wide camera, a 10 MP cover camera, and a 4MP under-display camera.

4. Battery and processor
Samsung offers a 4,400 mAh battery in both Z Fold models, promising an average of 9 hours and 28 minutes in standard mode (60Hz) and 8 hours and 19 minutes in adaptive mode. Additionally, the advances in processor allow the phone to efficiently adjust the power usage according to user needs and habits, making every charge last longer. While the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, the Z Fold 5 comes with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor for a smoother and more powerful gaming experience. 

5. RAM and storage
Both smartphones come with three storage options: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Further, 12GB RAM on the models makes it easy for users to quickly switch between apps as well as multi-task. What’s more? Users can keep up to three windows open on the unfolded screen and simultaneously browse, stream, play games, make notes, and listen to music on the phone. The taskbar can hold up to 12 apps at a time, enabling users to switch between tasks effortlessly. Adding the S Pen can help enhance the user experience. The new taskbar on the Samsung Z Fold phones holds the four most recent apps, letting one easily switch between them. 

6. Sustainability
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 and 5 are made from a variety of recycled materials. Here, Samsung has utilized pre-consumer recycled glass, aluminum, and post-consumer recycled plastics obtained from discarded old fishing nets and PET bottles in the sea. 

As the two popular Z Fold models come with minor design differences, both of them offer exceptional performance and utility. So, if one is looking for foldable phones with great cameras, storage options, and multitasking abilities, the Galaxy Z Fold series is worth considering.