Foldable phones have transitioned from futuristic prototypes to a must-have tech gadget, showcasing innovation in both hardware and software. As the technology matures, two of the latest premium models—Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6—are competing for the top spot in the foldable market. These devices not only boast flexible displays but also pack in a host of features that could change how we use smartphones.

But the big question is: which foldable phone should you invest in? Whether you’re a tech enthusiast who loves to experiment with the latest innovations or a casual user looking to upgrade, this comprehensive comparison of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 will help you decide.

In this review, we’ll break down every aspect of these two foldables, from their design, display, performance, and camera capabilities, to their battery life and pricing. So, let’s dive into the details and figure out which foldable phone is truly worth your money.

Table of Contents

1. Design: Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Galaxy Z Fold 6
2. Display Comparison
3. Performance: Power Under the Hood
4. Camera Capabilities
5. Battery Life and Charging
6. Software Experience
7. Durability and Longevity
8. Price and Value for Money
9. Conclusion: Which Foldable Should You Choose?

Design: Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Galaxy Z Fold 6

When it comes to smartphone design, first impressions are crucial. Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 have evolved from their predecessors, sporting improvements in form factor, materials, and overall aesthetics. Let’s break down the design elements of these two foldable giants.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Design

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold introduces a more refined look compared to the original Pixel Fold, but it still carries some of the same characteristics. One thing that users will immediately notice is its slightly chunkier build. While this may not be a deal-breaker for everyone, it does give the Pixel a more industrial feel.

• Weight and Thickness: At 257 grams, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is lighter and thinner than its predecessor, yet it remains bulkier than the Galaxy Z Fold 6. For users who prioritize a lightweight, compact device, the thickness might be noticeable when folded. However, when unfolded, it feels balanced in the hand, making it ideal for media consumption and multitasking.
• Material and Finish: Google has opted for Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for added durability, but the matte finish can be a fingerprint magnet. While the phone feels sturdy, its somewhat minimalistic design may not appeal to users who prefer a variety of color options. With only two available colors—porcelain and obsidian—the Pixel lacks the customization that Samsung offers.
• Hinge Mechanism: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s hinge has been improved, offering a smoother folding experience compared to the original Pixel Fold. However, it’s still bulkier than the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s hinge, which could impact its portability.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Design

Samsung has consistently refined the Galaxy Z Fold series, and the Z Fold 6 is no exception. It boasts a more sleek and compact design, making it easier to handle when both folded and unfolded.

• Weight and Compactness: Although slightly heavier at 263 grams, the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s design feels much more compact in hand. This is due to its streamlined hinge and ergonomic frame. When folded, it feels more like a regular smartphone, and when unfolded, it offers an immersive tablet-like experience.
• Material and Finish: Samsung has chosen Armored Aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, giving it a solid, premium feel. The matte finish is less prone to fingerprints than the Pixel, making it a better option for users who want a phone that looks cleaner without constant wiping.
• Color Variety: One of Samsung’s strengths lies in offering a wider range of colors. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes in multiple colors, allowing users to pick a shade that matches their personal style.
• Hinge Durability: The Galaxy Z Fold 6’s hinge is both slimmer and stronger than the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s. Samsung has perfected the folding mechanism, making it feel more secure and less prone to wear and tear.

Design Verdict

If you’re after a phone that feels sleek, compact, and premium, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the clear winner. Its streamlined design and slimmer hinge make it easier to handle, especially if you’re used to traditional smartphones. However, if you’re willing to trade some bulk for a larger unfolded screen and a stock Android experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold could be a solid option.

Display Comparison

A foldable phone’s display is arguably its most important feature. Both the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 offer expansive screens that unfold to deliver a near-tablet experience. But how do they stack up against each other in terms of display quality, brightness, and overall usability?

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Display

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts an impressive display configuration that sets it apart from the competition, especially in outdoor visibility.

• Cover Screen: The 6.3-inch OLED cover screen offers a resolution of 1080×2424 pixels and a brightness level of up to 2700 nits. This makes it one of the brightest cover displays available, ensuring excellent visibility even under direct sunlight. Users who spend a lot of time outdoors will appreciate the Pixel’s ability to maintain clarity in bright environments.
• Main Display: Unfolding the Pixel 9 Pro Fold reveals an 8-inch screen with a resolution of 2076×2152 pixels. The display’s LTPO technology ensures a smooth refresh rate, adjustable between 10Hz and 120Hz, which conserves battery life while still providing fluid scrolling and gaming experiences. The aspect ratio of 20:9 makes it ideal for web browsing, text messaging, and reading, as it mimics the proportions of a traditional smartphone when folded.
• Color Accuracy and Brightness: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold excels in color reproduction, offering more natural tones compared to the oversaturation often found in Samsung displays. Its brightness levels are also unmatched, making it the go-to option for users who prioritize outdoor use.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Display

Samsung has consistently set the standard for smartphone displays, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is no different.

• Cover Screen: Measuring 6.2 inches, the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s cover screen is slightly smaller than the Pixel’s but feels more ergonomic due to its compact dimensions. The screen resolution of 2268×832 pixels provides crisp visuals, and while its brightness isn’t as high as the Pixel’s, it remains plenty visible in most lighting conditions.
• Main Display: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 unfolds to a 7.6-inch display with a resolution of 1856×2160 pixels. Though smaller than the Pixel’s main screen, it features Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which ensures vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The 120Hz adaptive refresh rate keeps interactions smooth and fluid, particularly when gaming or navigating between apps.
• Customization and Adjustability: One of Samsung’s advantages is its display customization options. The Z Fold 6 allows users to tweak the color temperature, saturation levels, and screen settings to suit their preferences. For users who enjoy vibrant and exaggerated colors, Samsung’s display settings offer unmatched flexibility.

Display Verdict

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold wins in terms of brightness and outdoor usability, making it perfect for users who need their phone to perform well under direct sunlight. On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is ideal for those who appreciate vibrant visuals and customization. Both displays offer smooth performance and excellent resolution, but if outdoor visibility is your priority, the Pixel takes the crown.

Performance: Power Under the Hood

A phone’s performance determines how well it handles everything from daily tasks to demanding applications like gaming and video editing. Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 are packed with top-tier processors, but there are key differences in how they perform under pressure.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Performance

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, which delivers solid performance for most daily tasks and light gaming. However, there are certain limitations when it comes to handling more intensive applications.

• Everyday Use: The Tensor G4 chipset excels in running multiple apps simultaneously, offering smooth multitasking. Users can run Google’s suite of apps seamlessly, and the Tensor chip’s deep integration with Android 14 ensures a smooth, intuitive experience.
• Gaming: For casual gamers, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold performs well, but for heavier titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, you might notice occasional frame rate drops and some heating after extended sessions. While it’s not a deal-breaker for light gaming, power users may be disappointed by its lack of sustained performance in resource-intensive applications.
• AI and Machine Learning: One area where the Tensor G4 chipset shines is in AI-driven tasks like image processing, voice recognition, and real-time language translation. Google’s emphasis on AI enhances the overall usability of the Pixel, especially in scenarios where quick, real-time adjustments are needed, like photo editing or voice-to-text.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Performance

The Galaxy Z Fold 6, on the other hand, is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which is one of the most powerful chipsets currently available.

• Everyday Use: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 offers blazing-fast performance across the board. Whether you’re browsing the web, streaming videos, or using multiple apps at once, the Z Fold 6 handles everything smoothly. The combination of Samsung’s One UI and Qualcomm’s chipset ensures that even the most demanding users will be satisfied.
• Gaming: For gamers, the Z Fold 6 is the better option. It handles even the most graphically intensive games like Fortnite and PUBG without breaking a sweat. Frame rates remain consistently high, and the phone doesn’t overheat, even after extended gaming sessions.
• Battery Efficiency: Another area where the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 excels is in battery efficiency. It optimizes power consumption during heavy tasks, ensuring that the phone’s battery lasts longer during gaming and multitasking.

Performance Verdict

If gaming and multitasking are high on your priority list, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the clear winner with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. However, if you’re more focused on AI-driven tasks like voice recognition, photo editing, and a smooth stock Android experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a strong contender.

Camera Capabilities

For many users, the camera is the most critical feature of a smartphone. Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 have impressive camera setups, but they cater to slightly different needs.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Camera

• Main Camera: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a 48MP main sensor, which performs admirably in most lighting conditions. Its image processing is one of the best in the industry, thanks to Google’s superior software that optimizes photos with accurate colors, great dynamic range, and crisp detail.
• Ultra-wide Camera: With a 10.5MP ultra-wide lens, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold captures wider scenes without losing much detail. However, it doesn’t perform as well in low-light conditions compared to its main sensor.
• Telephoto Camera: The 10.8MP telephoto lens offers 5x optical zoom, which is fantastic for capturing distant subjects. The Super Res Zoom technology also helps enhance the detail at higher zoom levels, making it one of the standout features of the Pixel.
• Low-light Performance: Where the Pixel 9 Pro Fold really shines is in low-light photography. Google’s Night Sight feature has been further refined, allowing for stunning night-time photos with minimal noise and excellent exposure control.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Camera

• Main Camera: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes with a 50MP main camera, delivering sharp and vibrant photos. Samsung’s image processing tends to exaggerate colors, which may appeal to users who prefer bolder, more saturated images. The camera is also equipped with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), ensuring steady shots even in low-light conditions.
• Ultra-wide Camera: With a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 captures impressive wide-angle shots, but like the Pixel, it struggles slightly in low-light conditions. The colors, however, remain vibrant and punchy, which is characteristic of Samsung’s camera processing.
• Telephoto Camera: The 10MP telephoto lens offers 3x optical zoom, which is slightly less powerful than the Pixel’s. However, the Z Fold 6 excels in Pro mode, where users can manually adjust settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance to get the perfect shot.
• Selfie Cameras: Both phones have impressive selfie cameras, but Samsung’s under-display camera offers a more immersive experience when using the main display for video calls or selfies.

Camera Verdict

Both phones offer excellent camera systems, but they cater to different types of users. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is ideal for those who want accurate colors and superior low-light performance. On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is perfect for users who prefer vibrant photos and more manual control over their shots.

Battery Life and Charging

A phone’s battery life is crucial, especially for foldable devices, which tend to consume more power due to their large screens and multi-tasking capabilities.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Battery

• Battery Size: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with a 4,650mAh battery, which is slightly larger than the Z Fold 6’s battery. This allows the Pixel to last through a full day of heavy usage, including streaming videos, browsing the web, and using the camera.
• Battery Efficiency: Google’s Tensor G4 chipset is more power-efficient than previous models, helping the Pixel 9 Pro Fold conserve energy during light tasks. Users can expect to get around 6-7 hours of screen-on time, depending on usage.
• Charging Speed: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold supports fast charging, but at 23W, it’s slightly slower than Samsung’s charging speed. It can charge from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes, which is sufficient for most users, but it falls short compared to the Z Fold 6’s 25W fast charging.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Battery

• Battery Size: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 features a 4,400mAh battery, which is smaller than the Pixel’s. However, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s power optimization helps the Z Fold 6 last almost as long as the Pixel, even during intensive gaming or multi-tasking.
• Battery Performance: While the Z Fold 6 can easily get through a full day of moderate use, users who engage in heavy gaming or multitasking may need to top up during the day. Thankfully, its 25W fast charging capability means you won’t have to wait long for a full charge.
• Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, but Samsung’s 15W wireless charging speed is slightly faster than the Pixel’s.

Battery Life Verdict

If battery life is your top priority, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the better option due to its larger battery and slightly more efficient chipset. However, if you value faster charging speeds, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers a better experience with its 25W fast charging.

Software Experience

One of the most important aspects of any smartphone is the software experience. Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 offer distinct software experiences that cater to different user preferences.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Software

• Stock Android Experience: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs Android 14 with Google’s stock UI, which is known for its clean, bloat-free experience. Users who prefer minimalistic software with little to no pre-installed apps will enjoy the simplicity of the Pixel’s software. Google also offers timely updates and security patches, ensuring that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold remains up-to-date with the latest features and bug fixes.
• Foldable-Specific Features: Google has integrated several foldable-specific features into Android 14. For example, users can easily run multiple apps side-by-side, and Google’s App Continuity feature ensures a seamless transition between the cover screen and the main display when unfolding the device.
• Google Assistant and AI Features: Google’s deep integration of AI into the Pixel’s software is one of its biggest strengths. The Google Assistant is more responsive and accurate, and features like real-time translation, call screening, and smart suggestions are incredibly useful in day-to-day usage.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Software

• One UI Customization: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 runs on Samsung’s One UI 6 (based on Android 14), which is known for its extensive customization options. Users can customize everything from icons to themes and widgets, making the software highly flexible. However, some users may find One UI to be more cluttered compared to Google’s stock Android.
• Multi-Window Experience: Samsung has been a pioneer in multi-window features, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 takes this a step further. The Taskbar allows users to quickly switch between apps, and up to three apps can be run simultaneously on the unfolded screen, making it a productivity powerhouse.
• S Pen Compatibility: One unique feature of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is its S Pen compatibility. For users who enjoy note-taking or drawing, the ability to use the S Pen on the large, unfolded display is a huge advantage.

Software Verdict

If you prefer a clean, simple software experience with timely updates, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the better option. However, if you value customization and multi-tasking features, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers a more robust and flexible software experience, especially with the added S Pen compatibility.

Durability and Longevity

Foldable phones are more fragile than traditional smartphones, so durability is a major consideration for users. Let’s take a look at how the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 6 fare in terms of build quality and long-term durability.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Durability

• Build Quality: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is built with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back, which provides protection against drops and scratches. However, the hinge is slightly more fragile than Samsung’s, which could lead to long-term durability concerns if not handled carefully.
• Water and Dust Resistance: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has an IPX8 rating, meaning it is resistant to water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. However, the lack of dust resistance is a concern, as dust particles could get trapped in the hinge mechanism over time.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Durability

• Build Quality: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is built with Armored Aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, making it one of the most durable foldable phones available. The hinge mechanism has been refined to offer more durability, withstanding up to 200,000 folds according to Samsung.
• Water and Dust Resistance: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 has an IP68 rating, which makes it both waterproof and dust-resistant. This gives it an edge over the Pixel in terms of long-term durability, especially for users who frequently expose their phones to dust or water.

Durability Verdict

For long-term durability, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the clear winner, thanks to its IP68 rating and more robust hinge mechanism. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is still durable, but its lack of dust resistance could be an issue for some users.

Price and Value for Money

When purchasing a foldable phone, the price is an important factor to consider. Both the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 6 are premium devices, but they cater to slightly different segments of the market.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Pricing

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is priced at around $1,799, making it slightly more affordable than the Galaxy Z Fold 6. For users who want a foldable phone with a clean Android experience and excellent camera performance, the Pixel offers good value for money.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Pricing

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is priced at $1,999, positioning it as one of the most expensive foldable phones on the market. However, its advanced features like S Pen compatibility, superior multi-tasking capabilities, and durability justify the higher price for power users who need the best in performance and productivity.

Price Verdict

If you’re looking for a more affordable foldable phone with great performance and a clean Android experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the better option. However, if you’re willing to pay a premium for additional features like S Pen compatibility and better multi-tasking capabilities, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is worth the extra cost.

Conclusion: Which Foldable Should You Choose?

Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 are incredible devices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold excels in battery life, outdoor visibility, and camera performance, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a clean Android experience and reliability.

On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a more well-rounded device with better gaming performance, advanced multi-tasking capabilities, and S Pen compatibility. Its superior durability and customization options make it perfect for power users who need a device that can handle everything from gaming to productivity.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Do you prefer a stock Android experience with a focus on photography? Or are you a power user who values multi-tasking and customization? Either way, both foldables offer a glimpse into the future of smartphones.

Which foldable phone would you choose, and why? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!