The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: The Biggest Upgrade Ever

The newly announced Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 might seem puzzling at first glance. When compared to Samsung’s highest-end phones available at similar prices, it appears to fall short in several areas. Its cameras are smaller and less capable, the battery charges more slowly and depletes about 20% faster, and its chip doesn’t perform as well due to less cooling space. While it’s more compact in some respects, it’s also thicker, making the overall volume similar. Despite these drawbacks, the Z Flip 5 has captivated my interest, compelling me to give it a try as my daily driver.

One of the most significant improvements in the Z Flip 5 is the increased storage capacity, doubling from 128GB to 256GB, although this comes with a price hike. The build quality is another notable upgrade. The phone is about two millimeters thinner when folded, thanks to a new hinge design that allows it to close almost completely without a gap. This gapless design not only looks better and takes up less space but also reduces the risk of dust and particles getting inside and scuffing the inner screen.

The inner screen itself is now 25% more resistant to scratches, and the outer body is protected by Armor Aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which has the strength of ceramic. However, I have a minor gripe: when you open the phone, it doesn’t snap into a fully open position, leaving it slightly bent. Samsung should make opening the phone as satisfying as closing it.

The most significant leap since the first Flip is the cover screen. It’s 278% larger than the previous model, transforming from a small peek window into a fully functional secondary display. It now supports 13 widgets at launch, with more on the way, allowing users to check notifications, access quick settings, and even type messages with a full QWERTY keyboard. This front screen is highly customizable, letting users adjust everything from the battery percentage indicator to the exact shade of colors.

Samsung has heavily emphasized the phone’s fashion angle, offering numerous cases, including smart ones that sync wallpapers across your phone and Galaxy Watch. The front screen now supports specific apps optimized for its unique shape, making it versatile and user-friendly.

Despite its improvements, the Z Flip 5 isn’t without flaws. The inner screen still has a noticeable crease, and while it’s a 120Hz display, the cover screen is locked at 60Hz, which wastes battery life. The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, offering a performance boost and improved image processing for better photos and videos.

The Z Flip 5’s camera capabilities, though not groundbreaking in hardware, benefit from new software features, such as improved portrait modes and the ability to frame shots more accurately using the larger cover screen. This phone might not be as ambitious as some competitors, like the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra with its edge-to-edge cover screen or the Oppo N2 Flip with its crease-free design, but Samsung isn’t resting on its laurels. They continue to be a leader in foldable phone software, promising four years of major Android updates and seamless integration of foldable features into third-party apps.

The Z Flip 5’s updated flex mode adapts apps to utilize the phone’s folding design, enhancing functionality and user experience. This level of continuity and integration is something other manufacturers are still catching up with.

So why do people choose the Z Flip style over more technically advanced foldable phones? The answer lies in its unique blend of style, functionality, and mindfulness. The compact, foldable design offers a nostalgic, almost toy-like appeal, making it fun and engaging to use. The ability to use the same set of cameras for both rear and front shots is a practical advantage, offering consistent photo quality.

The Z Flip 5 also promotes a mindful approach to smartphone use. Keeping the phone folded allows you to stay reachable without being constantly distracted. Samsung’s thoughtful design ensures that the cover screen is more than just a miniaturized version of the inner screen, encouraging users to select only essential apps for quick access.

Despite its smaller 3,700mAh battery, efficiency improvements offer an extra hour of use compared to the Flip 4. The compact design makes it ideal for users with limited pocket space, particularly in women’s clothing, where pockets are often shallow.

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a significant upgrade, blending style, functionality, and mindfulness. It offers a unique user experience that justifies its compromises, making it a compelling choice for those seeking something different in a smartphone. If you have any questions about the Z Flip 5, feel free to ask, and I’ll be happy to answer them.