Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5: Our first impressions

In the ever-evolving world of foldable smartphones, Samsung has taken the spotlight once again with the unveiling of its latest offerings: the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5. While these devices undoubtedly showcase impressive improvements, some lingering issues from previous iterations persist. Join us as we delve into our first impressions of these cutting-edge devices.

The long-awaited hinge perfection

The hinge mechanism has been a contentious point for Samsung's foldable lineup since the first Galaxy Fold in 2019. With the teardrop hinge design, previous models suffered from an unsightly triangular-shaped gap when folded, leaving them vulnerable to dust and debris intrusion. Thankfully, Samsung has finally put this issue to rest with the Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5. Both devices close without any hint of a gap, finally providing a seamless and uninterrupted folding experience. It's a victory for Samsung, given the delays in addressing this recurring concern.

The transformation to premium flagships

The new hinge system, along with impressively slim bezels and premium materials, gives the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5 a newfound aura of flagship elegance. The incorporation of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection for the outer glass panels enhances durability, appealing to users seeking top-tier quality. Moreover, the elimination of the gap has allowed for a slight reduction in overall thickness for the Z Fold 5, making it feel less chunky in hand and pocket.

Photos: Mehnaz Irtika

Display brightness and crease challenges

As expected from Samsung, the display technology on both devices is a highlight. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 features a tall-and-narrow 6.1-inch 120Hz AMOLED external display and a larger 7.6-inch 120Hz AMOLED foldable display. The latter boasts a significant boost in brightness, matching the peak brightness of Samsung's top-end Galaxy S23 Ultra. The result is a boon for outdoor viewing, although our initial impressions were hindered by the closed-door event environment.

However, one lingering drawback remains apparent: the central crease. Despite the advancements in hinge technology, the crease remains conspicuous and not much different from its predecessor.

Productivity and viewing experience

Samsung's efforts to enhance productivity have paid off with the Galaxy Z Fold 5's portrait-style design, ideal for split-screen multitasking. The detailed 2K display, slim bezels, and surprisingly reassuring plastic display contribute to an impressive viewing experience. Despite the minor improvements in crease visibility, the foldable's overall design enhances productivity for users who demand multitasking capabilities.

Final verdict

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5 are undeniably significant steps forward for Samsung's foldable lineup, as the company successfully addresses the persistent hinge issue. The premium build and promising innovations position them as strong contenders in the foldable smartphone market. However, the remaining challenge lies in overcoming the crease visibility, where competitors are making notable advancements. As we await an in-depth review of these devices, it is evident that Samsung continues to set the bar high for foldable technology, keeping its position at the forefront of innovation in this rapidly evolving landscape.