Sometimes bigger just is better. Historically Samsung has always been first in exploring bigger screen sizes in their phones, and it is one of the things I highly appreciate about the brand. But did they succeed in re-mixing phone and tablet? Let’s find out as we explore the best foldable phone of 2024!
Design
As the name suggests, the Samsung Fold 5 is a foldable phone that folds vertically in half. Initially, I wondered if it would feel like having two phones back to back, and the answer is somewhat yes. The Fold 5 had a bit of a dadbod and is on the heavier side, although it has been noticeably lightened compared to its predecessor, the Fold 4. Surprisingly, I found that I adjusted to the size and weight quite quickly. I also noticed when using it for longer periods less weariness compared to larger single-screen phones. The new Gorilla Glass Victus 2 should also decrease the chance of collecting scratches over time.
The Hinge
The new simplified and improved hinge makes all the difference compared to the Fold 4. Gone are the gaps where dust and debris can creep in and start damaging the inside screen. Because of the changes to the hinge, the phone now folds completely flat and feels more rigid.
Folded mode
I’m okay with a phone having a bit more weight, particularly if it means having quality features. It’s essential, though, that the phone has good dimensions; otherwise, it’s a recipe for screen repairs. The Fold 5 excels in this aspect when folded up. Its narrow and tall design (6.2 inches) allows for confident one-handed operation without the fear of it slipping. Additionally, it ensures easy access to all parts of the screen without needing to adjust your grip on the phone.
Immersive powerhouse
Folding open the phone has a huge wow effect. The screen (7.6 inches) is pretty amazing and holds an immersive quality. This is achieved by an under-display camera and relatively slim bezels. Relatively because there is a rubberized ring around the screen to prevent damaging the device, although it depends on the lighting conditions, I’m personally still adjusting to the crease that runs through the middle of the screen.
The display boasts vibrant colours, sharp details, and smooth responsiveness with the bump up to 1750 nits it performs great outdoors. I am amazed at how much better you can read longer pieces of text on the Fold 5. When you make use of public transport and love to read this is the phone to get. And oh yeah of course this is great for watching movies.
Camera’s
The Samsung Fold 5 features impressive camera capabilities, offering users a variety of lenses and advanced imaging technology. It holds up well when capturing landscapes, close-ups, or action shots. Transitioning from phones of other brands, it’s noticeable that the colours appear somewhat more vivid than what we’ve grown accustomed to, reflecting Samsung’s signature vibrancy.
The option to use both cameras in both the folded mode and the unfolded mode introduces easiness in setting up creative shots. No longer do you need a tripod if you’re out and about and shooting on your own. Find a nice surface pop open the screen at a 90-degree angle and Bob’s your uncle! shooting videos the flex mode works amazingly well in tracking you or even multiple people in the frame.
The under-display camera on the Samsung Fold 5 presents a trade-off. While it enhances the immersive experience in tablet mode by eliminating camera notches or islands, it may not perform optimally under all conditions. Based on my experience, the under-display camera tends to excel in well-lit environments, however, for those who frequently use their phone for video calls while on the go, this aspect is worth considering before purchasing the device.
Productivity
If you are currently a wizard in multi-tasking on your single-screen phone, then you are going to love the Fold 5. Especially with all the new AI tools landing on Android, the split screen mode makes a lot of sense. I also like this feature during long and boring video meetings. When you long press on the bottom of the screen you get the new and improved taskbar now supports up to 4 recently used apps.
Multimedia Heaven
Of course, summoning a tablet wherever you are is amazing for consuming multimedia. The brightness of the screen makes up for the super reflective screen protector (which you can’t replace or take off yourself) and makes for a good viewing experience. Watching traditional-sized movies you will have 2 black bars under and above the content. But due to Samsung’s signature vibrance and the AMOLED technology, you don’t notice these. The speaker has a nice clear neutral balance and can be pumped up pretty loud.
Ecosystem
If you want to use a stylus with your Fold 5, make sure to use a soft-tipped one as the softish screen protector on the inside could otherwise be damaged. You can use the newest S-Pen with your Fold 5 which does bump up the productivity even further. Bringing this to the office does make your less tech-aware colleagues wonder if this is a device from the future. Small drawback the pen does not reside inside the phone as with the Samsung Note or Ultra. There is a stick-on pocket you can buy to attach the pen to the back of the phone.
If I am going to be running the Fold 5 I am considering pairing the phone with the Samsung Freestyle Gen 2 and have like a on-the-go theatre. I’ve yet to test the Samsung earbuds and watch, I will be reporting on this in the future.
Conclusion
Strong Points
| Premium Build Quality and Design | ✅ |
| Slim size overall when folded | ✅ |
| Immersiveness of the inside screen | ✅ |
| High-Quality Vibrant Displays | ✅ |
Weaknesses
| Camera performance | ⛔️ |
| Weight | ⛔️ |
| No S-Pen storage | ⛔️ |
Previously sceptical about the practicality of foldable phones versus dedicated tablets, I now stand thoroughly convinced. Samsung’s latest offering introduces a refined foldable device that seamlessly caters to both multimedia consumption and productivity tasks. Although the initial price tag was steep at $1,800 / €2,259, current deals have rendered it more enticing. However, to fully justify the expense, I maintain that the external camera should have matched the quality of the Samsung 24 Ultra. Additionally, the absence of a dedicated storage slot for the S-Pen feels like a missed opportunity. Nonetheless, as someone who relies on this phone as their daily driver, I am deeply impressed, particularly by the immersive experience offered by the internal screen. It unquestionably stands as the pinnacle of foldable phones.
