The foldable phone market is exploding. With manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Motorola continuously innovating, foldable technology is becoming more reliable and accessible than ever before. But with an influx of new models and options, choosing the right foldable for you can be daunting. Do you prioritize a large screen for multitasking or a compact design for portability? This guide dives into the key factors to consider when making your choice, so you can find the perfect foldable smartphone for your needs.
Bigger Displays… Are Not Always a Good Thing
The allure of foldable phones lies in their ability to transform from a compact smartphone into a tablet-like experience. Devices like the OnePlus Open boast impressive inner displays offering a near 1:1 aspect ratio, allowing you to comfortably run multiple apps simultaneously. Imagine navigating with Google Maps, actively chatting on WhatsApp, and enjoying music on Spotify, all at once. For work, you could even set up a mini mobile office with Slack, Outlook, and Chrome running side-by-side.
However, while these large displays excel for multitasking, they aren’t ideal for entertainment. The squarish aspect ratio of most foldable inner displays often leads to letterboxing when viewing video content, wasting screen space. While devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 with a more rectangular 5:6 aspect ratio offer a more tolerable experience, it still pales in comparison to the 6:5 aspect ratio of the Pixel Fold, which is better suited for entertainment.
In reality, you might find yourself watching videos on the smaller, outer display of a horizontal foldable or opting for the wider aspect ratio of a clamshell foldable like the Oppo Find N3 Flip for a more comfortable viewing experience. Additionally, the compact size and lighter weight of clamshell foldables make them more comfortable to hold for extended periods during entertainment.
Going Big with Cover Displays
The cover display is no longer just a small screen for time and notifications. Manufacturers are making cover displays increasingly larger and more functional, especially on clamshell models. The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra, for instance, allows you to run full-fledged Android apps directly on its cover display.
For horizontal foldables, the cover display works well as a traditional smartphone, while the internal display acts as a tablet when needed. However, well-optimized cover display software is crucial for efficient battery life, as it reduces the need to constantly access the larger inner display for simple tasks.
Cover displays also prove advantageous for gaming, as they provide a wider 16:9 aspect ratio, which often fares better with current game design. Plus, the cover display glass is typically sturdier and more damage-resistant compared to the delicate inner flexible display.
Software and Support Are Equally Important
While hardware advancements are driving foldable phone progress, software optimization plays a crucial role in delivering a seamless user experience. Unfortunately, most Android apps are designed for traditional smartphones and lack optimized tablet support. This can lead to stretched layouts and awkward app behaviour on the larger inner displays.
While Google has started supporting foldables with redesigned native apps, many third-party apps still need to catch up. Until app developers implement tablet-like layouts, letterboxing and awkward portrait-mode layouts on horizontal foldables can be a common inconvenience.
Manufacturers are also making strides in optimizing their software to facilitate smooth app transitions between the inner and outer displays. Motorola’s Razr 40 Ultra, for example, stands out for its seamless app switching, regardless of the app or game being used. Notification management is also a much smoother process compared to other foldable devices, providing a similar experience to the main display.
Almost Regular Battery Life… And Some More
Engineers continue to grapple with the challenge of balancing battery life and compact form factors in foldable devices. Thanks to advanced processors and improved battery technology, achieving a full day of usage is becoming increasingly achievable. However, horizontal foldables generally boast better battery life compared to their clamshell counterparts due to the larger space available for batteries.
The OnePlus Open and the Oppo Find N3 Flip both offer impressive battery performance, with horizontal models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 even exceeding a day of usage. This makes them attractive options for users who rely heavily on their smartphones for work and entertainment.
The Camera is King?
Foldable smartphones are rapidly improving their camera capabilities, but the larger surface area of horizontal models allows manufacturers to pack in more advanced imaging technology. While clamshell models like the Oppo Find N3 Flip, which boasts three rear cameras for the first time, are steadily catching up, their smaller size can restrict the size and quality of the sensors.
Ultimately, if photography is a priority, horizontal foldables like the OnePlus Open still offer a clear advantage with their larger sensors and superior capabilities.
Of Hinges and IP Ratings
The hinge, the vital component connecting the two halves of a foldable phone, has undergone significant improvements. While earlier hinges focused on protecting the flexible display, newer designs prioritize compactness and durability. This has resulted in thinner and more aesthetically pleasing devices like the OnePlus Open.
These newer hinges are also less prone to jamming after accidental drops, a common problem with older generations of foldables.
The topic of IP ratings for dust and water resistance is mostly dominated by Samsung and Motorola. Samsung offers an IPX8 rating for water resistance but limited dust resistance. Motorola’s foldables boast an IP52 rating, offering basic protection against water and dust. However, these devices are not ideal for harsh environments like dusty factories or construction sites.
The Perfect Foldable for You:
When it comes to choosing between horizontal and clamshell foldables, consider these key factors:
- Multitasking: If you need a large screen for running multiple apps simultaneously, a horizontal foldable like the OnePlus Open is the better choice.
- Entertainment: For watching videos and gaming, the wider aspect ratio and smaller size of a clamshell foldable like the Oppo Find N3 Flip might be more enjoyable.
- Portability: Clamshell models like the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra are incredibly portable and much easier to carry.
- Battery Life: Horizontal foldables generally offer better battery life due to their larger size.
- Camera Quality: Horizontal foldables often have better cameras due to the available space.
- Software: Look for manufacturers with strong software optimization for foldable devices, especially for smooth app switching and improved notification management.
The foldable smartphone market is rapidly evolving. As technology continues to advance, new models will offer even more incredible functionalities and features. Choosing the right foldable for you requires careful consideration of your individual needs and preferences. By weighing the various factors discussed in this guide, you can find the perfect foldable phone that meets your expectations and enhances your mobile experience.
