In the realm of mobile technology, the new era of foldable phones has matured over the past few years. Despite their associated drawbacks, such as notably higher price tags compared to traditional smartphones, these innovative devices boast ingenious bendable displays, presenting users with an engaging experience unparalleled by standard handsets. Notably, Samsung stands at the forefront of this market, showcasing its prowess with the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5, each featuring distinct folding forms aimed at captivating potential buyers. However, while Samsung leads the pack, it’s important to note that other formidable contenders have also stepped into the foldable phone arena, expanding the range of choices available to consumers.
The Pixel Fold is the first folding phone from Google. Despite a few quirks, it’s still a solid first effort. Motorola’s folding 2023 Razr Plus flip phone also scored well in our review, and its cheaper Razr is the most affordable foldable we’ve seen yet. Then there are folding phones from Honor and Oppo, which we really like. However, though they’re excellent options for people in Europe, they’re not on sale in the US.
There’s still no sign of a folding iPhone. Sorry, Apple fans.
The folding phones we do have come in two main varieties: candy bar phones that open up to become larger, tablet-size foldable devices (like the Galaxy Z Fold 5) or candy bar phones that fold in half to become smaller and more pocketable (like the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Moto Razr 2022). Because of the still recent technology, all foldables are more expensive than their regular smartphone equivalents. But if you’re looking to turn heads when you whip out your foldable display and bend your phone in half, they’re worth investigating.
Here, then, are our picks for the best foldable phones available to buy now.
Best foldable phones
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 represents a refined evolution within the realm of large-screened foldable phones. Positioned as a top-tier choice, this device seamlessly transforms into a tablet, catering to diverse needs such as viewing work-related documents, multitasking with multiple apps simultaneously, or indulging in a cinematic movie experience. While the Pixel Fold may excel in the camera department, the Z Fold 5’s standout feature lies in its vibrant display, perfectly aligning with Samsung’s vision: delivering a substantial screen that conveniently fits in one’s pocket, emphasizing its core purpose and providing an unparalleled viewing experience on the go.
The Galaxy Z Fold 5’s $1,800 price is still hard to swallow and puts it out of range for most people. But if you can afford it, the Z Fold 5 is the best iteration of Samsung’s phone-tablet hybrid yet.
Pros:
- Better battery life
- New hinge
- Brighter screen
Cons:
- S Pen doesn’t work on cover screen
- Cameras are still just OK
- The $1,800 price
Google made impressive strides in its inaugural venture into the realm of foldable phones. Their debut offering showcases several commendable features, notably the substantial outer screen, allowing seamless usage even when the device is closed. Its sleek design ensures a slim profile that doesn’t overwhelm pockets, prioritizing portability without compromising on functionality. What sets it apart is its ability to close completely flat, transforming effortlessly into a regular phone when snapped shut, while seamlessly transitioning to leverage the expansive 7.6-inch internal screen for moments that demand a larger display, thereby balancing practicality and versatility in a single device.
Its overall performance is solid and the cameras are good too, making it a great all-rounder if you’re wanting to dive into the exciting world of foldables.
Pros
- Large cover screen is great
- Thin design for a foldable
- There’s no gap when the device is shut
Cons
- Expensive
- Thick bezels on the inner screen
- Some apps are not optimized for the internal display
- Drag and drop functionality can be finicky
In the evolution of flip phones, the Motorola Razr Plus set a new benchmark for the contemporary era in 2023. Sporting a convenient 3.6-inch cover screen, this device grants users access to nearly any application without necessitating the phone to be opened, enhancing usability. Notably, its robust battery life ensures endurance, seamlessly powering through demanding days without the need for frequent recharging. Additionally, its slender profile surpasses even the Galaxy Z Flip 5, positioning the Razr Plus as an ideal option for individuals valuing portability above all else in their mobile device selection.
While I recommend the Galaxy Z Flip 5 as the best flip phone overall, the Razr Plus is worth considering if you prefer a thinner design and want to use more apps on the phone’s front screen without much extra fuss. The Razr Plus felt more fragile than the Z Flip 5 during my testing, but it’s certainly thinner, making it a great choice for those who care about compactness above all else.
Pros:
- Large, useful cover screen
- Crease is barely visible
- Thin design
- Good battery life
- Fun photography features like photo previews
Cons:
- Not as many Android updates as Samsung
- Flex View feels limited
- Front screen gathers fingerprint smudges easily
- $1,000 is still expensive