Samsung's latest clamshell foldable, the Galaxy Z Flip 6, brings modest improvements over its predecessor but at a steeper price point. While it refines the formula, questions remain about its value proposition in an increasingly competitive market.
Key Updates
- Design: The Z Flip 6 features a return to matte aluminum sides and boasts an IP48 dust resistance rating - a first for Samsung's foldables.
- Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and 12GB of RAM, it offers flagship-level speed.
- Camera: A new 50MP main sensor replaces the previous 12MP camera, promising improved detail and sharpness.
- Battery: Capacity increased from 3,700mAh to 4,000mAh, aiming for all-day use.
- Display: The main screen now offers up to 2,600 nits of peak brightness, a significant jump from the Z Flip 5.
The Price of Progress
At $1,099, the Z Flip 6 comes with a $100 price increase over last year's model. This positions it $200 above Motorola's competing Razr Plus, which maintains its previous price point.
Familiar Territory
While the Z Flip 6 refines Samsung's clamshell design, it doesn't dramatically reimagine the concept. The 3.4-inch cover display remains unchanged from the Z Flip 5, falling short of the Razr Plus' more expansive and versatile 4-inch external screen.
Performance and Heat Management
The powerful internals deliver smooth performance across tasks, but heat management remains a challenge. Users may notice the device warming up during normal use, with temperatures climbing higher during gaming sessions.
Camera Capabilities
The new 50MP main camera offers noticeable improvements in detail capture and low-light performance compared to its predecessor and the Motorola Razr Plus. However, the ultra-wide camera still struggles in challenging lighting conditions.
Software and AI
Running on One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, the Z Flip 6 includes Samsung's suite of foldable-optimized features. New AI capabilities like context-aware replies and live translations are present, though their impact feels limited compared to more ambitious AI implementations on the horizon.
Battery Life and Charging
The slightly larger 4,000mAh battery provides adequate power for a full day of use, but heavy users may still find themselves reaching for a charger before bedtime. Samsung hasn't made any significant advancements in charging speeds for this generation.
Missing Features
It's worth noting that unlike its larger sibling, the Z Fold 6, the Z Flip 6 does not include Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. This omission may disappoint users looking to take advantage of precise location tracking or advanced car key functionality.
The Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 refines an already solid foldable experience with incremental upgrades. While it remains the most polished clamshell foldable on the market, the higher price tag and strong competition from Motorola make it a less clear-cut recommendation than in previous years. Prospective buyers will need to weigh the improvements against the increased cost and consider their specific needs in a foldable device.
