Galaxy Z Flip 5 The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the fifth generation of Samsung’s compact foldable smartphone, released in August 2023. It builds upon its predecessor with key upgrades, including a larger cover screen and improved hinge design. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Display:
- Cover Screen: 3.4-inch Super AMOLED (upgraded from 1.9″ on the Z Flip 4), supporting more widgets and apps.
Design:
- Hinge: New “Flex Hinge” reduces the crease and allows for a gapless fold.
- Colors: Mint, Graphite, Cream, Lavender, plus exclusive online colors (Gray, Blue, Green, Yellow).
Performance:
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy (4nm, optimized for Samsung).
- RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM + 256GB/512GB storage (no microSD slot).
Cameras:
- Front Camera: 10MP (f/2.2) under-display punch-hole.
- Cover Screen Selfies: Use the rear cameras via the cover screen.
Battery & Charging:
- 3,700mAh battery (similar to Z Flip 4).
Durability:
- IPX8 water resistance (no dust rating).
- Improved UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) for the main screen.
Pros:
- Larger, more functional cover screen.
- Smoother hinge with less visible crease.
- Flagship-level performance (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2).
- Compact and pocketable when folded.
Cons:
- Battery life is still average (due to size constraints).
- No telephoto camera.
- Expensive (starts at $999).
Competitors:
- Motorola RAZR+ (2023) – Similar flip design, faster cover screen (165Hz), but weaker chipset (SD 8+ Gen 1).
- OPPO Find N2 Flip – Bigger cover screen, but limited global availability.
Verdict:
- The Z Flip 5 is the best flip-style foldable from Samsung yet, thanks to its bigger cover screen, refined hinge, and powerful chipset. However, battery life and camera hardware remain trade-offs for the foldable form factor.
Upgraded Flex Window (Cover Screen)
- 3.4-inch Super AMOLED (720×748) vs. Z Flip 4’s 1.9-inch.
- Full QWERTY keyboard support for quick replies.
- Widgets & Apps: Run apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, Google Maps, and Spotify without unfolding.
- Customization: Change wallpapers, add GIFs, and use Samsung’s “Quick Shot” for selfies.
- Limitation: Not all Android apps are optimized (some require workarounds via Good Lock).
2. Hinge & Durability
- New “Flex Hinge” eliminates the gap when closed (prevents dust/debris).
- Less visible crease vs. older fold ABLES, but still noticeable.
- Durability:
- IPX8 water-resistant (can survive 1.5m for 30 mins).
- No official dust rating (avoid sandy environments).
3. Performance & Software
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy (same as S23 series) – excellent for gaming/multitasking.
- One UI 5.1.1 → 6 (Android 14) with foldable-specific features:
- Flex Mode: Splits apps (e.g., video on top, controls below).
- App Continuity: Seamlessly switches between cover/main screen.
- Multi-Window: Run two apps side-by-side (limited to certain apps).
4. Camera Performance
- Same hardware as Z Flip 4 (12MP+12MP), but improved processing.
- Daylight: Sharp, vibrant colors (typical Samsung style).
- Low Light: Decent but falls short vs. S23 or iPhone 15.
- Selfies:
- 10MP front cam is average.
- Better option: Use rear cameras + cover screen for higher quality.
- Video: Up to 4K@60fps (no 8K).
5. Battery Life & Charging
- 3,700mAh battery → 4-5 hours SOT (Screen-On Time) with moderate use.
- Weak point: Heavy users may need a midday charge.
- Charging:
- 25W wired (0-50% in ~30 mins).
- 15W wireless (slower than S23 Ultra’s 45W).
- No charger in box (USB-C cable only).
- Best for:
- Style & portability (fits in small pockets/purses).
- Tech enthusiasts who want the latest foldable experience.
- Not for: Users who prioritize battery life or pro-grade cameras.
7. Long-Term Considerations
- Software Support: 4 years of OS updates (up to Android 17).
- Repair ability: Screen replacements are expensive (~$300+).
- Resale Value: Holds value better than most Android phones.
Final Verdict: 8.5/10
- The Z Flip 5 is the most polished flip phone yet, but it’s still a niche device. Buy it if you love cutting-edge design and can live with average battery life. Skip it if you need all-day endurance or a top-tier camera.
More Than Just Notifications
- Full App Support: Unlike the Z Flip 4, you can run almost any app on the cover screen (even games like Among Us). Enable via Good Lock → Multi Star → “I ♡ Flip Cover Screen”.
- Keyboard Tricks: Swipe typing works! The keyboard is small but surprisingly accurate.
- Camera Quick Launch: Double-press power to open camera → swipe to switch between modes (selfie, video, portrait).
- Limitation: No third-party launchers (yet). Widgets are Samsung-only.