Samsung’s Bid for Foldable Dominance, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 vs Google Pixel Fold.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
In the evolution of foldable, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 emerges as a successor, flaunting a sleeker and lighter design, refining the familiar foldable blueprint.
Pros:
- Flattens neatly
- Reduced weight and thickness
- Heightened performance
Cons:
- Narrower cover screen
- Cameras, though good, remain unchanged
- Absence of the S Pen
Google Pixel Fold
Enter the Google Pixel Fold, a versatile device seamlessly transitioning between a robust smartphone and a compact tablet.
Pros:
- Uncompromised front screen
- Superior build quality
- Impressive large display
- Outstanding cameras
Cons:
- Noticeable bezel around the tablet screen
- Requires a bit of effort to lie flat
- Pricing demands clarification
As the Google Pixel Fold debuts, Samsung confronts a formidable rival in the expansive foldable market. Has the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 managed to reclaim its leading position?
For comprehensive insights, explore our detailed reviews of the Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. This article directly compares the two, delving into their specifications, designs, displays, cameras, chipsets, and prices. Our conclusive thoughts aim to assist you in choosing the foldable flagship that aligns more with your preferences.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: SPECS COMPARISON
In the showdown between Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Google Pixel Fold, let’s dissect the specifications.
| Features | Galaxy Z Fold 5 | Google Pixel Fold |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 7.6-inch OLED / 6.2-inch OLED | 7.6-inch OLED / 5.8-inch OLED |
| Resolution | 1812 x 2176 pixels / 904 x 2316 pixels | 1840 x 2208 pixels / 1080 x 2092 pixels |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Google Tensor G2 |
| Rear cameras | 50MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto w/ 3x optical zoom | 48MP wide, 10.8MP ultra-wide, 10.8MP telephoto w/ 3x optical zoom |
| Front Camera | 10MP and 4MP | 8MP and 9.5MP |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB |
| Battery | 4,400mAh | 4,821mAh |
This head-to-head comparison outlines the distinctive features of each, aiding in your decision-making process.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
Google’s Pixel Fold commenced shipments on June 27, 2023, priced at $1,799 for 256GB and $1,919 for 512GB.
The Galaxy Z Fold 5, unveiled in July and fully available from August 11, starts at $1,799.99 for 256GB, $1,919.99 for 512GB, and $2,159.99 for 1TB.
Essentially, both models align in pricing, resulting in a draw for the initial round.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: DESIGN
In design, these full-sized foldables showcase distinct characteristics despite their 7.6-inch square-ish displays.
Pixel Fold, when closed, resembles a standard phone, while Samsung’s Fold 5 opts for a taller and thinner external display.
The differing approaches extend to the internal display, with Samsung favoring a taller aspect ratio, while Google leans towards width.
Google’s slim design, at 12.1mm when closed, achieves this through a flat hinge and thinner halves, weighing in at 283g. In contrast, Samsung’s Fold 5 is 30g lighter, at 254g, yet maintains a slightly thicker profile.
Although Samsung’s waterdrop hinge enables a flat closure, its screen crease remains noticeable. Both models share an IPX8 rating, indicating water resistance but not dust resistance.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: DISPLAY
In the realm of displays, these foldables diverge significantly in their approach.
| Features | Galaxy Z Fold 5 | Google Pixel Fold |
|---|---|---|
| External Screen | 6.2-inch OLED, 2316 x 904 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate | 5.8-inch OLED, 2092 x 1080 resolution |
| Internal Screen | 7.6-inch 120Hz OLED, 2176 x 1812 resolution | 7.6-inch 120Hz OLED, 1840 x 2208 resolution, optimized for landscape |
| Brightness (Internal) | 1,750 nits | 1,450 nits (30% brighter than Fold 4) |
| Flexibility | Not specified, the potential for creativity and productivity | Offers versatile configurations |
| User Interface (UI) | Samsung’s UI enhances productivity with multi-app functionality | Google’s screen alignment earns an edge |
| S Pen Support | Available for creative and productive use | Not specified, potential for creativity and productivity |
While the Pixel Fold aligns screens effectively, the Fold 5 leverages its established foldable UI for enhanced productivity. Notably, the Fold 5 boasts S Pen support, providing a creative and productive edge. Samsung’s decision on bundling remains undecided.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: CAMERAS
When it comes to cameras on foldable, both the Pixel Fold and the Fold 5 hold their ground admirably.
| Features | Google Pixel Fold | Galaxy Z Fold 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Main Camera System | Triple-camera system, 48MP main, 10.8MP ultra-wide, 10.8MP 5x telephoto | Triple-camera system, 50MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto |
| Performance | Impressive 30x space zoom, but digitally enhanced photos may not hold up well | Capable of capturing lovely, slightly over-saturated imagery |
| Portrait Mode | Overall excellent with bright, sharp shots, and peerless image processing | Notable strength in capturing portraits |
| Optical Zoom | 5x optical zoom, superior to Samsung’s 3x magnification | Samsung’s 3x magnification, lagging behind in optical zoom |
| Space Zoom Capabilities | Impressive 30x space zoom, but digitally-enhanced photos may not hold up well | Noted for AI-based combinations in 30x space zoom, less under close scrutiny |
| Selfie Cameras | Traditional front camera with a thick internal bezel | 4MP under-display solution, aesthetically pleasing but less practical for selfies |
| External Display Selfie Cameras | Equipped with selfie cameras for external displays | Foldable design allows main cameras to function effectively in a selfie context |
In this camera face-off, the Pixel Fold’s triple-camera setup edges out, excelling in optical zoom and performance, while the Fold 5 captures impressive portraits. The unique selfie camera placements add a touch of distinction to each device.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: PERFORMANCE
In the realm of performance, the competition heats up between the Pixel Fold and the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
| Features | Google Pixel Fold | Galaxy Z Fold 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Tensor G2 chip, akin to the Pixel 7 range | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, dominating in benchmarks |
| Performance Benchmarks | Competent, excels in AI and machine learning applications | Outpaced by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, especially in demanding games |
| RAM | Both equipped with 12GB of RAM | Similar RAM capacity, ensuring smooth multitasking |
| Storage Options | 128GB and 512GB options | 256GB, 512GB, and a luxurious 1TB variant for those willing to splurge |
| Software Approach | Intuitively redesigned core apps like Maps, Gmail, Photos, Home, and Drive | Samsung’s focus on productivity shines through after five foldable generations |
| Multitasking | Allows running two apps side by side, limiting use of expansive screen | Samsung offers more robust multitasking, catering to power users |
While the Pixel Fold excels in AI applications, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 dominates in raw performance, particularly evident in benchmark results and gaming. Samsung’s extensive experience in foldables is reflected in its software, tailored for power users, while Google’s approach emphasizes intuitive design. In storage, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 offers a luxurious 1TB variant, reinforcing its supremacy in this performance face-off.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: BATTERY
In the battery arena, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Google Pixel Fold face off.
| Features | Galaxy Z Fold 5 | Google Pixel Fold |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4,400mAh, smaller than Pixel Fold’s 4,821mAh | 4,821mAh |
| Weight Impact | Contributes to a lighter build for the Fold 5 | Results in Pixel Fold’s unusual weight |
| Endurance | Lasts a commendable 13 hours, on par with Pixel Fold | Offers a solid 15 hours of all-day battery life |
| Charging Options | Supports both wired and wireless charging, similar to Pixel Fold | Both models have slow 25W wired charging |
| Charging Speed | Pixel Fold’s maximum charging speed undisclosed | Galaxy Z Fold 5 retains the 25W wired charging limitation |
Despite a smaller battery, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 matches Pixel Fold’s robust 15-hour battery life, owing to its superior processor. Both models offer wired and wireless charging, with a shared limitation of 25W for wired charging. Notably, Google hasn’t disclosed the Pixel Fold’s maximum charging speed.
SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 5 VS GOOGLE PIXEL FOLD: VERDICT
In the clash of foldables, the Pixel Fold impresses, but the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 emerges victorious.
| Aspects | Google Pixel Fold | Galaxy Z Fold 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Advantages | Pixel Fold excels in the cover display, and Z Fold 5 shines when unfolded with a reduced bezel | Refined foldable experience, expansive main screen, speed, portability |
| Review Insight | Pixel Fold excels in the cover display, Z Fold 5 shines when unfolded with a reduced bezel | Z Fold 5 wins on speed, portability, and main screen finish |
| Productivity Edge | Z Fold 5 excels as a productivity tool with advanced multitasking UI and S Pen support | Superior camera, preferably folded-up screen and design |
| Final Verdict | Samsung reclaims the crown with Z Fold 5, but Pixel Fold enters the flagship foldable league | Superior camera, preferably folded-up screen, and design |
In this duel, Samsung’s Z Fold 5 secures victory with a refined foldable experience, speed, and enhanced productivity features. Yet, the Pixel Fold, boasting superior camera hardware, remains a compelling contender, especially considering its potentially more reasonable price.