Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 vs Google Pixel Fold: The New Rivals
Which Foldable Is Right For You?
The mobile tech world is flurry as Samsung releases its latest foldable masterpiece - the Galaxy Z Fold 5. But with the Pixel Fold stepping into the spotlight as a fierce competitor, how do these two giants compare? Let's delve into details to help you make an informed decision.
Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is sold almost everywhere that phones are available. It is available in Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream. If you buy directly from Samsung, there are exclusive colors: Gray and Blue. On the other hand, the Google Pixel Fold is only sold in four places: U.S.A, U.K., Japan, and Germany. It comes in two colors: Obsidian and Porcelain.
In the U.S., you can easily find both phones at major retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon. They both cost $1,800 for 256GB of storage. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 has some good deals. Plus, Samsung might give you a better price if you trade in your old phone than Google. But overall, both phones offer similar value for money.
What's in the Box?
Curious about what's inside that luxurious box? If you're expecting a bunch of accessories with the Z Fold 5 and Pixel Fold, think again.
Galaxy Z Fold 5 Box Contents:
- Galaxy Z Fold 5
- Quick start guide
- Type-C USB cable
- SIM card ejector tool ( termed the "Porky pin thing")
Google Pixel Fold Contents:
- Quick Switch adapter
- Quick start guide
- SIM card ejector tool
- User manuals and documentation
Features and Specifications
Design and Build
When you first lay eyes on the Galaxy Z Fold 5, it might evoke a sense of déjà vu. It looks uncannily like its predecessors, the Z Fold 4 and 3. But a glance at its spine will change your mind. Thanks to the new flex hinge, that irksome gap is now history. The absence of a gap when the screen is folded minimizes dust entry, making it sleeker and more durable. Measuring 13.4 mils, it's still thicker than the Pixel Fold, but the difference is slight. Weighing 253 grams, it's lighter than its predecessor and not as heavy as the 283-gram Pixel Fold. The Z-Fold 5's flex hinge design is not just aesthetic; it's functional.
Display Brightness & Clarity
Samsung retains its 6.2-inch external Dynamic AMOLED 2x display, whereas Pixel Fold offers a more compact 5.8-inch OLED display. The Pixel Fold's squatter aspect ratio is a win for one-handed use compared to the Z Fold 5's elongated screen. Both displays promise vibrant visuals for media lovers, with Samsung edging out slightly with brighter and bolder colors, thanks to its maximum brightness of 1750 nits as opposed to the Pixel's 1450 nits. When unfolded, both phones reveal a stunning 7.6-inch screen, with Samsung opting for a Dynamic AMOLED 2x display and Pixel with OLED. The Z Fold 5 offers a more adaptable refresh rate, ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, whereas the Pixel Fold fluctuates between 60Hz to 120Hz.
Durability
Durability is a significant concern with foldables. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 5, adorned with the latest Gorilla Glass Victus on both sides and Samsung's Armor Aluminum around the edges, seems ready for the rough and tumble of life. On the other hand, Pixel Fold sports the original Victus, which seems more prone to scratches, especially around the camera bump. Both phones also share IPX8 water resistance, ensuring they can weather U.S.'s infamous downpours and accidental plunges in water.
Software
While both phones operate on Android 13, they incorporate distinct UX elements. The Pixel Fold uses what many regard as the "standard" Android software, which is remarkable. However, Samsung's One U.I. on the Z Fold 5 offers advanced multitasking. While the Pixel Fold supports two apps in split-screen mode, the Z Fold 5 accommodates three apps and features a resizable window mode for up to five apps. Though having five apps open on one screen might seem overkill, the flexibility of resizable floating windows is advantageous over a limited split-screen setup.
Furthermore, the Z Fold 5 supports Samsung DeX, allowing a desktop-like U.I. on external displays wirelessly or with cables. The Pixel Fold needs to catch up on this feature, especially since its USB-C port doesn't support display output. Both devices include a dock for swift app transitions, but the One U.I.'s design seems more efficient, enabling smooth transitions between multiple apps.
Performance and Speed
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy (4nm). This promises quick app launches, fluid graphics, seamless multitasking and impressive performance. If you're seeking a powerful performance, it's hard to beat this. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel Fold runs on Google's own Tensor G2 chip. Google's proprietary chip aims to deliver enhanced A.I. capabilities and better efficiency. Ideal for those who prioritize Google services and AI-enhanced operations.
Security Features
The Z Fold 5 and Pixel Fold offer facial recognition, but the Pixel Fold's software optimizations make it more reliable and faster. However, the Z Fold 5 also has an inbuilt fingerprint scanner in the power button. It is swift, responsive, and conveniently placed, giving it a slight advantage in unlock options.
Storage
When it comes to storage, both phones start at a baseline of 128GB, which should be plenty for the average user. However, if you're the kind who likes to carry around a large multimedia library or you're just a heavy app user, both phones offer a 256GB and 512GB variant. However, do keep in mind that neither phone has an S.D. card slot, so you can't expand the storage beyond what you initially purchased.
Camera
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 10MP cover camera and a 4MP under-display main screen camera for front-facing shots. It boasts a trio of lenses on the rear: a 12MP ultrawide, a 50MP wide-angle, and a 10MP telephoto. The Z Fold 5 has different camera lenses for all kinds of photos, from wide landscapes to close-up portraits. Plus, its front camera is hidden under the screen, so there's no hole or notch, making it look smooth and modern.
On the other hand, the Google Pixel Fold capitalizes on Google's renowned image processing capabilities. Its front setup includes a 9.5MP f/2.2 outer dual P.D. selfie camera with fixed focus, complemented by an 8MP f/2.0 inner selfie camera. The rear setup is equally impressive, with a 48MP f/1.7 primary Quad P.D. lens that boasts both OIS and CLAF and a 10.8MP f/2.2 ultra-wide lens. However, what sets the Pixel Fold apart is not just the hardware but the software magic that Google infuses into its camera system. Photos taken with the Pixel Fold often have that signature "Pixel" look, with vibrant colors, sharp details, and fantastic low-light performance.
Battery Life
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5's dual battery of 4,400mAh can power through a day. Plus, with 25W fast charging, you're quickly back in action. On the other hand, Google Pixel Fold's 4,821mAh battery might give you slightly more screen time and supports 30W wired fast charging along with Qi wireless charging.
Which Foldable Phone Is The Best?
The Best for Power Users: For those who value productivity, the Z-Fold 5, with its extensive multitasking features and stylus support, is unmatched.
The Best for Leisure Users: If relaxation and entertainment top your list, the Pixel Fold, with its optimized design for video consumption and superior camera, wins the day.
However, choosing between the two takes more work. Both are a testament to technological innovation, albeit catering to different user needs. But remember, the best phone is the one that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. So, which one resonates with you?
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