Image: Thomas Deehan / Foundry
Innovation in regular smartphones may have plateaued recently, but foldable devices are evolving rapidly.
Since Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold in 2020, various companies have developed their versions, presenting advantages over conventional smartphones.
Modern flip phones utilize folding screens to shrink large models into more pocket-friendly sizes, enabling quick information access through smaller cover displays. Conversely, book-style foldables seek to combine the functionalities of both phones and tablets into a single, larger device.
Currently, all foldable devices run on the Android operating system, with Apple yet to unveil a folding iPhone despite ongoing speculation.
Top Reviews of Flip and Foldable Phones
1. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 – Best Overall
Pros
- Extremely slim and lightweight
- Enhanced camera system
- Less visible crease
- Outstanding software experience
Cons
- No S Pen compatibility
- Lacks battery or charging upgrades
- Gaming can cause throttling
Price When Reviewed: From $1,999
While Samsung was indeed a pioneer with its book-style foldable design, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 embodies the manufacturer finally achieving the goal of a compact, tablet-sized device for your pocket. The previous models were impressive, but the Fold 7’s reduced thickness elevates it significantly.
When unfolded, the Z Fold 7 measures merely 4.2mm thick, and a folded measurement of 8.9mm makes carrying it comparable to a standard smartphone, which is a considerable achievement.
Despite the sleeker profile, Samsung has ensured durability, using Advanced Armor Aluminum for the chassis and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 for the display. With seven years of software updates, users can also trust its longevity.
Camera quality has fluctuated in past Fold models, but the Z Fold 7 improves this with three rear sensors led by a significant 200MP main camera from the S25 Ultra, delivering stunning images full of vibrance.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7?
Ideal for those seeking a top-tier blend of style, software, cameras, and support in a foldable device.
Further Considerations for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
It remains one of the pricier options available, with many more affordable alternatives present.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 review
2. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 – Best Flip Phone
Pros
- Outstanding cover screen
- Impressive internal display
- Excellent primary rear camera
- High-quality software experience
- Seven years of updates
Cons
- Battery life could be improved
- Charging at 25W is rather slow
- Absence of telephoto camera
Price When Reviewed: From $1,099
Best Prices Today:
$849.99
$1273.14
Like its Z Fold counterparts, Samsung once faced significant competition, leading to doubts about its ability to keep up. Fortunately, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 has cemented Samsung’s reputation in the market.
The most prominent upgrade from the predecessor Z Flip 6 is the complete redesign of the cover screen, now featuring a full 4.1-inch panel, enabling a more functional experience without needing to open the phone.
The internal display has also received a slight size bump to 6.9 inches. This larger display is perfect for enjoying movies and shows while on the go.
While it would be great for Samsung to enhance battery life and charging speeds in future models, these minor complaints don’t overshadow the exceptional performance that comes with Samsung’s refined software and commitment to updates.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7?
Ideal for users looking for longevity with numerous promised software updates.
Further Considerations for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Competitors such as Motorola’s flip models outshine it in battery longevity, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE is available at a lower price.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 review
3. Motorola Razr 60 Ultra – Best Flip Phone Design
Pros
- Stunning and durable design
- Brilliant displays
- High-end performance
- Impressive battery life
- Functional cover screen
Cons
- Lacks a telephoto lens
- Only four years of software updates
- Pricey
Price When Reviewed: From $1,299.99
Best Prices Today:
$999.99
The Moto Razr 60 Ultra stands tall among competitors, even with the advancements seen in the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 making the market more competitive.
The Razr 60 Ultra is visually striking, especially in the wood-finish option known as ‘Mountain Trail’, which is sure to grab attention.
Activating the device greets you with a vibrant 4-inch AMOLED display, providing excellent usability without needing to open the phone constantly.
With a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the device performs smoothly, though the software support isn’t as extensive as Samsung’s.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra?
Perfect for heavy users who prioritize battery life.
Further Considerations for the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra
It offers a shorter software update cycle compared to its rivals.
Read our full
Motorola Razr 60 Ultra review
4. Honor Magic V5 – Best Book-Style Alternative
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Rich feature set
- One of the best camera setups for a foldable
- Supports stylus use, unlike some competitors
Cons
- MagicOS may not appeal to everyone
- Smaller main display compared to competitors
- Audio quality could be improved
- Expensive
Best Prices Today:
The Honor Magic V5 builds on the solid groundwork of the Honor Magic V3 (still a worthwhile contender at a discount) and is a great foldable option. With a chassis thickness of merely 4.1mm when unfolded, it feels comparable to an average smartphone when pocketed.
Despite reduced dimensions, the V5 incorporates multiple upgrades, including a robust 5820mAh battery promising long-lasting usage.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset ensures high performance, accommodating tasks like multitasking and gaming with ease. The main display’s brightness matches the outer screen at 5000 nits, offering consistency.
Though MagicOS could use refinement and the Honor AI features need work, the device’s overall operation is commendable. For those hesitant about larger folding phones, the Magic V5 is a stellar alternative to the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Who Should Buy the Honor Magic V5?
Great for anyone averse to larger, bulkier folding devices.
Further Considerations for Honor Magic V5
MagicOS may not offer the smooth experience found in Samsung’s OneUI or Google Pixel.
Read our full Honor Magic V5 review
5. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold – Best Software
Pros
- First foldable with IP68 rating
- Increased battery size
- Brighter displays
- Features built-in Pixelsnap magnets
- Satisfactory performance
Cons
- Performance lags compared to Snapdragon rivals
- Camera upgrades needed
- Somewhat bulky
Price When Reviewed: From $1,799
Best Prices Today:
After initial challenges with its first-generation foldable, Google has refined its approach with the impressive Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which may now be available for lower prices following the launch of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The latest model stands out for its enhanced durability.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold boasts an official IP68 rating, a first for foldables, easing long-standing concerns regarding durability.
Further enhancements include a larger 5015mAh battery and peak brightness of 3000 nits for both displays, significantly improving usability. The new Pixelsnap feature allows for the use of MagSafe-style accessories.
Though the Tensor G5 chipset performs adequately, it falls short against Snapdragon 8 Elite in gaming, making it less favorable for avid gamers.
Who Should Buy the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold?
Best suited for fans of stock Android and Google’s AI features who value durability and seek magnetic wireless charging solutions.
Further Considerations for Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold
Performance with the Tensor G5 pales compared to Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered foldables.
Read our full Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold review
6. Xiaomi Mix Flip – Best Cameras/Battery Combo
Pros
- Solid battery performance for a flip device
- Great photo quality in optimal conditions
- Fast performance overall
Cons
- More expensive than competitors
- Lacks water resistance
- Software can feel cluttered
Best Prices Today:
Even though Samsung and Motorola lead the flip phone market, the Xiaomi Mix Flip still serves as a worthy alternative, especially for those prioritizing superb camera quality and reliable battery life.
Under favorable lighting conditions, the Mix Flip captures vivid photos consistent with Xiaomi’s reputation, producing excellent portraits that highlight subjects beautifully.
Enhancing its photographic capabilities, Xiaomi incorporates a solid photo editor with AI-assisted tools, such as an AI eraser, enabling easy removal of unwanted elements from images.
The 4780mAh battery can comfortably last a day and a half, alleviating battery anxiety, with a swift 67W charging option boosting power quickly.
Who Should Buy the Xiaomi Mix Flip?
Ideal for customers seeking strong daytime photography and battery longevity.
Further Considerations for Xiaomi Mix Flip
Though the Mix Flip is a solid option, it remains pricier than many of its competitors.
Read our full Xiaomi Mix Flip review
7. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 – Best Previous-Gen Flip Phone
Pros
- Robust performance
- Strong primary camera
- Good quality internal display
- Seven years of software updates
Cons
- Cover screen is less user-friendly
- Battery life fails to impress
- Slow recharge times
Price When Reviewed: From £1,099.99 | Model reviewed £1,199.99
While the Z Flip 6 is touted as Samsung’s best flip phone, it still can’t surpass the Motorola model available.
The cover display’s design presents challenges and paired with an average battery life and slow charging times puts it at a disadvantage.
Nevertheless, the camera upgrades are commendable, making the Z Flip 6 efficient for both selfies and general photography. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 offers excellent performance, even if the phone heats up under certain conditions.
The internal display, boasting a subtle crease, enhances user experience, while Samsung’s promise of up to seven years of updates stands unmatched in the market.
At its premium price point and clear shortcomings, it may not be the recommended choice over the Razr’s offerings.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6?
Users interested in Samsung’s Flip models but at a more accessible price point.
Further Considerations for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
While it can often be found for less than the successor, the superior displays of the Flip 7 justify the additional investment.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 review
8. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Best Previous-Gen Book-Style Foldable
Pros
- Functional cover display
- Slim, lightweight design
- High-end build quality
- Helpful Galaxy AI features
Cons
- Very high price point
- Visible crease compared to competitors
Price When Reviewed: From $1899
Samsung has made minimal adjustments to the Z Fold 6, but these refinements enhance its overall usability, even though it doesn’t surpass the OnePlus Open.
This foldable is well worth considering, with boosted cover display design and performance standing out; both the 6.3-inch outer and 7.6-inch internal screens are visually appealing.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, this model delivers exceptional performance. The main rear camera competes favorably against leading non-foldable phones. Notably, Samsung continues its commitment to providing up to seven years of software and security updates.
However, the Z Fold 6 does fall short when compared to the polished experience of the OnePlus Open, which matters considering its hefty price tag.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6?
Those in search of a premium foldable option that don’t mind older specifications.
Further Considerations for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
The Fold 7 surpasses the Fold 6 in nearly every notable aspect.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 review
9. Motorola Razr 50 Ultra/Razr+ (2024) – Best Value
Pros
- Impressive cover screen size
- Stylish and premium design
- Unique software functionalities
- Decent battery life
Cons
- Internal camera performance is lacking
- Device may heat up during use
Price When Reviewed: $999
Best Prices Today:
Motorola’s latest premium flip phone, though known by different names in various markets, stands out as one of the top foldables presently available.
Its experience largely revolves around the larger 4-inch cover screen, which easily manages all apps without additional complications from a closed state (unlike Samsung’s models). It makes for a device that you’ll want to use in its closed position.
The 6.9-inch internal display is equally impressive, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 12GB of RAM—ensuring smooth performance across the board. While a 4000mAh battery may seem small, it adequately delivers good longevity, with charging speeds at 45W being reasonable.
However, the camera quality falls short compared to the Z Flip 6, so avoid using the internal camera when possible, as it may lead to disappointing results. It is important to note that the device can run hot during prolonged use.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra?
For those hesitating between the Z Flip 7 and Razr 60 Ultra, seeking something budget-friendly.
Further Considerations for Motorola Razr 50 Ultra
Expect limited software support compared to others.
Read our full
Motorola Razr 50 Ultra review
10. Nubia Flip 5G – Best Budget Flip Phone
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Unique and attractive design
- Visually appealing displays
- Solid battery performance
Cons
- Software lacks polish
- Cameras have mixed results
- No commitment to software updates
Price When Reviewed: $499
Best Prices Today:
Starting at only £499/$499, the Nubia Flip 5G offers an accessible option for those wanting a foldable phone. Despite its mid-tier pricing, it excels in numerous aspects, featuring a unique circular cover display and a commendable main display.
Despite the impressive design, certain compromises were necessary to keep it within the budget range — particularly evident with the camera quality struggling in low-light instances. Charging speed is relatively slow at 33W, and the absence of water resistance is noticeable.
However, the most significant drawback is the cumbersome software experience, as Nubia’s MyOS presents a cluttered interface and lacks a guarantee of updates.
Who Should Buy the Nubia Flip 5G?
For buyers actively searching for an affordable folding phone.
Further Considerations for Nubia Flip 5G
With careful shopping, previous-gen models from Samsung and Motorola may be available for slightly more.
Read our full Nubia Flip 5G review
Other Flip and Foldable Phones Tested
While the top ten mentioned above currently shine brightest in the flip and foldable category, several additional models almost captured a spot in this roundup.
If it were still widely available, the OnePlus Open would undoubtedly be featured prominently, with its Open Canvas software making multitasking a seamless experience.
Despite being slightly chunky in comparison today, its array of impressive cameras sets it apart from many competitors. Refurbished options may still be worth exploring.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Previous-generation options like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 still hold value, available mostly through refurbished or second-hand purchases. Remaining cautious about their conditions may yield a good deal.
Recent Phone News That May Affect Buying Decisions
Though the OnePlus Open is highly regarded, do not expect its successor anytime soon; the OnePlus Open 2 has been confirmed for a 2026 release.
If a foldable Apple device is what you seek, unfortunately, you may need to wait, as all available intel suggests no such releases are planned for 2025, although speculation for 2026 remains.
Chris Hall / Foundry
Rumors suggest that Samsung may unveil a unique tri-folding phone featuring two hinges to provide three usable screens before the end of 2025, which will likely have an elevated price point.
Should this model pique your interest, it may be worth waiting, otherwise, the existing selection of foldable and flip phones offers substantial value.
Can I Score a Better Deal on Flip Phones?
Each listing here is accompanied by a collection of deals from various retailers, enabling you to spot the best offers conveniently, thus saving time searching elsewhere.
While various discounts arise throughout the year, substantial savings typically align with key sales events, such as Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, although the latter often caters exclusively to Prime members.
Black Friday remains the ideal opportunity since it does not require subscription requirements and offers a good chance of finding substantial discounts across various desired devices.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
If waiting for the next sales event isn’t feasible, look into the best refurbished phone deals and our insights on the best SIM-only deals to help save considerable cash.
Our Testing Methodology for Phones
All phones, whether budget-friendly flips or high-end foldables, undergo rigorous evaluation processes. This includes real-world tests of cameras and battery along with benchmarking utilizing tools such as PCMark and Geekbench, allowing us to understand the capabilities of devices relative to competitors before you decide to buy.
Discover more about our phone testing approach.
Why Trust Tech Advisor for Phone Reviews & Buying Insights?
With two decades of experience in the field of phone reviews and even longer in other tech devices, our expert team is well-positioned to highlight which devices are excellent investments. We strive to deliver thorough and researched purchasing advice to ensure your hard-earned money is well spent on quality products.
Article Curator:
Anyron Copeman serves as Tech Advisor’s Mobile Editor, with numerous reviews to his name taking part in determining which devices are included in this ultimate roundup, alongside Managing Editor Chris Martin, who draws from over 15 years in the field.
Guidelines for Choosing the Best Foldable Phone
Selecting a foldable differs from the process of picking a standard smartphone, with several specific details to focus on. Thankfully, durability across the board for foldables has improved drastically in recent years, but looking out for an IP rating remains important.
If you notice an IP68 or IP69 rating, the phone will have adequate water and dust protection.
Beyond durability, battery life is crucial. Foldables often showcase larger screens, which can affect overall longevity.
Our battery evaluations provide insights, clarifying how long a specific phone can operate before requiring a charge and the time needed to fully recharge it.
Luke Baker
While durability and battery life are paramount when selecting foldable devices, the software’s ability to handle the foldable format is also essential.
This consideration is crucial for productivity, as it impacts the smoothness of multitasking experiences. Currently, OnePlus leads with its Open Canvas software, though competitors are catching up thanks to ongoing optimization.
If your plans involve using a flip or foldable for creative purposes, the main display can facilitate editing tasks, so camera performance should not be compromised. While quality can vary, brands like Samsung and Honor continue to push advancements in this area, making it vital to check our camera evaluations in each review for insights on everyday performance.
FAQ About Flip Phones
1.
Are Foldable Phones Fragile?
Yes! Their screens consist of a flexible glass/plastic composite, and the technology is still emerging. Instances of creases cracking and factory-applied screen protectors peeling from the crease have been observed.
Samsung addresses this concern with excellent warranties in Europe/US, including screen protector replacements and reasonably priced out-of-warranty repairs, available via in-store appointments as well.
Support varies significantly across brands, warranting research pre-purchase for those concerned about longevity.
2.
Are Folding Phones Waterproof?
Not all foldable phones offer water resistance. Certain models from Samsung, Motorola, and others are designed to be waterproof, while brands like Oppo and Honor might not withstand heavy rainfall. Always verify specs before shopping.
3.
Is There a Foldable iPhone?
Currently, no foldable iPhone exists, but possibilities remain. Comprehensive coverage of potential Apple foldable developments is available, yet the company tends to adopt technology after extensive market testing—often resulting in thoroughly polished products.
While Samsung has refined its foldable line, the original Galaxy Fold was initially plagued with issues.
4.
Which Foldables Are Available in the US?
As of now, foldable options in the US market include devices from Samsung, Motorola, Google, and OnePlus. Unfortunately, foldables from Oppo, Honor, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi remain unavailable, and likely will not hit shelves.
5.
Should I Import a Foldable Phone?
Consideration of forgotten global releases may tempt you to import. However, devices only launched in China often come pre-installed with region-specific software and may not include Google Play Store functionality.
Importing means losing support for warranty claims or repairs, so weigh the benefits against the potential obstacles. If you’re determined, ensure the imported model has Google services. In the US, occasionally importing UK devices is feasible, provided you verify compatibility.
