Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3: Are Foldables Finally Ready for the Mainstream?
For over a decade, flexible displays have been teased at tech shows, promising a future where our devices bend to our will. Samsung has been a driving force in this evolution, launching the groundbreaking Samsung Galaxy Fold in 2019. Now, in 2021, Samsung is pushing the boundaries even further with the third generation of its flagship foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 3, and the second generation of its stylish clamshell phone, the Galaxy Z Flip 3. Both devices offer significant improvements over their predecessors, hinting at a future where foldable technology might finally go mainstream. But are these foldables just for tech enthusiasts, or are they truly ready to be embraced by everyone?
The Galaxy Z Fold 3: A Multitasking Beast in a Refined Package
The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a powerhouse of productivity, offering a large, immersive display for work and play. Its predecessor was already a head-turner, but Samsung has taken things to the next level with a slew of refinements.
More Durable Than Ever
The first thing you’ll notice is the ‘Armor Aluminium’ frame, which makes the Fold 3 feel remarkably robust and reassuringly sturdy. The folding mechanism produces a satisfying "snap" when closed, and there’s zero unwanted flex in any of the panels. This, combined with UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) protection over the main display, gives the Fold 3 a sense of durability that was previously lacking in foldable devices.
Dual 120Hz Displays for a Smoother Experience
Samsung has finally given the cover screen, or outer display, a 120Hz refresh rate to match the main display within. This makes navigating the Fold 3 in its compact mode incredibly smooth and responsive. While the cover screen’s resolution is only HD+, content still appears fairly sharp. The narrow width of the cover screen does pose a challenge when typing, but with some practice, you might get used to it.
Under-Display Camera: A Step Towards Seamlessness
The Fold 3 boasts a "under-display camera" for selfies, a technology that promises a more immersive experience by eliminating the need for a cutout or punch-hole on the internal display. While the camera is technically hidden beneath the screen, you can spot it under lighter backgrounds due to the lower pixel density in that area compared to the rest of the display. This is a minor blemish that might be more noticeable under certain lighting conditions. However, for darker content, the camera becomes completely invisible, offering a truly seamless viewing experience.
S Pen Support for a More Precise Experience
For the first time in a foldable device, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 supports Samsung’s S Pen stylus. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for note-taking, drawing, and precise control. However, you’ll need to purchase the specialized Fold Edition S Pen or the S Pen Pro, as the styluses that come with the Galaxy Note and Galaxy Tab series won’t work.
Folding Display: A Near-Imperceptible Crease
The Fold 3’s internal display measures 7.6 inches with a QXGA+ resolution (2208×1768), making it perfect for multi-tasking and consuming media on a grand scale. While the crease along the folding axis is still present, it’s barely noticeable with the display turned on and when viewing content head-on. This improvement makes the Fold 3’s display even more immersive and enjoyable.
The Galaxy Z Flip 3: Pocket-Sized Style with a Powerful Punch
For those who prefer a more compact and stylish smartphone, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 is a compelling choice. It maintains the classy clamshell design of its predecessor but introduces a host of improvements that make it even more appealing.
Larger Cover Screen for Enhanced Functionality
The most significant upgrade for the Flip 3 is the 1.9-inch cover screen. This is a considerable increase from the 1.1-inch display on the previous model, making it much more useful. While the pixel count remains the same, the larger size and improved responsiveness allows for a whole new level of functionality. Now, you can preview emails, add widgets, interact with notifications, and even take quick selfies, all without opening the phone.
Premium Design with a Matte Finish
The Galaxy Z Flip 3 weighs the same as its older sibling but is slightly thicker when unfolded. It features an improved camera system that will be put to the test in a full review. The Flip 3 is available in a wider range of colors, and the matte finish on the aluminum frame adds a touch of sophistication that is more desirable compared to the glossy finish of the previous model.
Folding Display with 120Hz Refresh Rate
The Flip 3 leverages the same UTG glass technology as the Fold 3, adding durability to the foldable display. It also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate for a super smooth experience. The hinge feels less springy than before, but you still need two hands to open it. The foldable display delivers vibrant colors, and while the crease is still visible, it’s only noticeable when viewing content off-axis.
Shared Features: Power, 5G, and Water Resistance
Both the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 SoC, ensuring lightning-fast performance and 5G connectivity. Another significant shared upgrade is the IPX8 water resistance rating. This marks the first time that any foldable phone has offered this level of protection, making them more durable and usable in real-world scenarios.
The Future of Foldables: Beyond Enthusiasts?
Samsung’s first generation of foldable phones were groundbreaking, but they felt more like novelty items for tech enthusiasts. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 represent a significant leap forward. They are built with durability, versatility, and style in mind, indicating a genuine effort to make foldable technology mainstream.
The Galaxy Z Fold 3 caters to those seeking the ultimate multi-tasking experience, offering a large, immersive screen, a unique under-display camera, and the support for a S Pen. The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is a compelling choice for fashion-conscious consumers who want a compact and stylish device that still packs a punch in terms of performance and functionality.
While these foldables are undoubtedly impressive, there are still concerns about durability and mass adoption. The high price point might be a barrier for some, and the learning curve for using foldable phones might not be for everyone. However, with each generation, foldable technology is becoming more refined and accessible, indicating a future where these unique devices could become commonplace.
This is just an initial impression, so stay tuned for our full reviews, where we’ll delve deeper into the software, cameras, battery life, and overall experience of the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3. We’ll be exploring whether these devices are true game-changers or just another passing fad in the world of smartphones.