Galaxy Z Flip 5: A Year in Review
Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 5 made waves when it launched, introducing a larger cover screen and improved hinge design. Now, a year later, we're taking a look at how this foldable phone has held up and whether it's still a worthy contender in the increasingly competitive flip phone market.
Design and Display: Solid Build, Persistent Crease
The Galaxy Z Flip 5's hardware remains a strong point. Its water-resistant design and durable hinge have withstood the test of time, allowing the phone to close completely flat - a significant improvement over its predecessors. However, the display crease continues to be more noticeable than on some competitors, both visually and physically.
Cover Screen: Potential Untapped
While the larger 3.4-inch cover screen was a welcome addition, Samsung's software limitations have held back its full potential. Many apps and functions remain hidden behind menus or require the use of the Good Lock app, making the experience less intuitive than it could be.
Performance and Software: Aging Gracefully
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, the Z Flip 5 continues to deliver smooth performance. The recent update to One UI 6 (based on Android 14) and the addition of Galaxy AI features have breathed new life into the device, enhancing its functionality and user experience.
Camera: Consistent Quality
The camera system, while not groundbreaking, has maintained its reliability. It produces crisp daytime shots and respectable low-light images. New AI-powered editing features like Generative Edit and Instant Slow-Mo add value to the photography experience.
Battery Life: Still a Weak Point
Unfortunately, battery life remains a concern. The 3,700mAh battery struggles to last a full day of heavy use, and the 25W charging speed feels outdated compared to many competitors.
Price and Value
With the impending release of the Galaxy Z Flip 6, the Z Flip 5 is likely to see price drops, potentially making it an attractive option for those looking to enter the foldable market at a lower cost. Currently, deals can be found, such as Amazon's offer of the 512GB version for $270 off its $1,120 MSRP.
Verdict: Still Flipping Good?
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 remains a solid choice in the flip phone category, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. While it has some shortcomings - notably battery life and software limitations on the cover screen - its robust build quality, smooth performance, and recent software updates make it a compelling option for those who don't need the absolute latest model.
As we await the arrival of the Z Flip 6, the Z Flip 5 stands as a testament to Samsung's commitment to the foldable form factor, even if there's still room for improvement in future iterations.
Update: Monday July 08 14:27
When comparing the Galaxy Z Flip 5 to its main competitor, the Moto Razr+, some key differences emerge. The Razr+ offers a more versatile cover screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and better app functionality, while the Z Flip 5 has superior build quality with IPX8 water resistance and a smoother hinge mechanism. Samsung's device has a slight edge in battery life and long-term software support, offering four Android upgrades and five years of security patches. However, both phones have experienced durability issues during testing, highlighting ongoing challenges with foldable technology. The choice between the two ultimately depends on whether users prioritize cover screen functionality or overall build quality and software support.