Samsung Galaxy Z Flip (8GB + 256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

PCMag describes the original Samsung Galaxy Z Flip as the first foldable phone that truly works, featuring a pocketable design with a 6.7-inch OLED display and a durable hinge for "Flex Mode". Key pros include strong performance, excellent 4G connectivity, and a unique form factor, though the device lacks 5G support and features a small, limited outer display. Despite being a functional luxury item, the $1,380 price tag and fragile, scratch-prone screen make it a niche device for early adopters rather than a mainstream recommendation.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip (2020) offers a nostalgic, compact clamshell design with a 6.7-inch folding screen, delivering "snappy" performance via the Snapdragon 855+ processor and versatile functionality, such as holding the device half-open for photos. Key drawbacks include the high £1,300 price, lack of water/dust resistance, and a soft, scratch-prone screen protector over the foldable glass. While the 27-hour battery is serviceable and the camera is adequate, the small 1.1-inch external display limits quick, in-depth notifications.

The original Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, reviewed in early 2020, was considered a significant step in foldable phone technology due to its sturdy hinge and "foldable glass" display, offering a compact design with a powerful Snapdragon 855 Plus processor and solid build quality. The device introduced "Flex Mode" for hands-free use with its dual 12MP cameras but was hampered by cons like a tiny 1.1-inch external cover display, lack of 5G, no headphone jack, and no water or dust resistance. Durability concerns regarding the scratch-prone "Ultra Thin Glass," a high $1,380 price for features like "so-so" battery life, and cameras not matching the Galaxy S20 series were noted, though the phone was praised for proving foldables could be practical despite reliability uncertainties.

Shelly Palmer’s review of the Samsung Z Flip reveals a surprising transition to the device, driven by its exceptional portability and the "cool factor" of its foldable design. Despite initial skepticism, the device won him over by solving pocket-space issues, ultimately replacing his iPhone 11 Pro Max and Galaxy Note 10+ for daily use. Pros include its compact form factor, full Android 10 functionality, and the convenient "Single Take" camera feature. However, the review notes the Z Flip is a lifestyle choice rather than a top-tier flagship, with camera sensors and technical specs that do not match the S-series.

The original Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is characterized as a stylish, nostalgic device that introduces a unique, foldable 6.7-inch screen to the premium market. Key pros include the "Flex Mode" for versatile usage, a compact form factor, and solid performance. However, cons include an older Snapdragon 855+ processor, a 3,300mAh battery with slow 15W charging, and a modest dual 12MP camera system. Additionally, the screen features a visible, tactile crease, is protected by a fragile plastic layer, and the device lacks water or dust resistance. What Hi-Fi? +2

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is a compact, vertical "clamshell" foldable featuring a durable 6.7-inch "Ultra Thin Glass" display and unique "Flex mode" for hands-free use. Despite its innovative design, the phone utilizes a previous-generation Snapdragon 855 Plus chipset, and its dual 12MP cameras lack a dedicated telephoto lens. Key drawbacks include disappointing battery life that falls below the smartphone average, slow 15W charging, a visible screen crease, and a lack of water or dust resistance. Tom' Recommended for early adopters, the $1,380 device is praised as an "exquisite feat of engineering" that makes foldable technology practical for daily use. Tom'

The original Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is considered a significant advancement in foldable phones due to its Ultra-Thin Glass display, offering a more premium feel than earlier plastic screens. Its design allows it to fold into a highly portable clamshell while unfolding into a large 6.7-inch screen. However, the device has notable drawbacks, including cameras that lack telephoto zoom found in competitors, performance slightly behind contemporary flagships due to an older chipset, and battery life only sufficient for average users. The small 1.1-inch cover display is also limited, primarily serving for notifications or selfies.

Three months later, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip remains a compelling device due to its high "delight" factor, compact, pocketable design, and durable screen, according to CNET. The phone’s primary pros include its "Flex Mode" for hands-free, tripod-like functionality and the satisfying, nostalgic act of flipping it closed. However, significant cons include a high $1,380 price tag, mediocre battery life, and average cameras that lack the specs of top-tier, non-folding competitors. Additionally, the 1.1-inch external display is noted as having limited functionality, and the device lacks water or dust resistance. Ultimately, while the screen crease is easily ignorable over time, the phone's slippery coating and high cost make it a niche choice for those prioritizing style over utility.

The New York Times review dismisses the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip as a "dud" due to extreme fragility, requiring careful handling to protect the screen. While its primary pro is its compact "pocketability" that folds a 6.7-inch screen into a small square, this benefit is overshadowed by the need for a tedious, two-handed unfolding process. Key cons include a nearly useless tiny outer screen, a prominent and tactile display crease, and unreliable, slow biometric security. Furthermore, the $1,380 device offers only satisfactory performance, with a camera comparable to older models, mediocre battery life, and high maintenance requirements. The

In his 2020 Forbes review, Ben Sin highlights the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip as a stylish, durable device with an improved hinge allowing for versatile hands-free viewing. Pros include the intuitive One UI 2 software and a durable, "true" folding design compared to the Galaxy Fold. However, the device is criticized for a tiny 1.1-inch outer display that requires constant unfolding, mediocre cameras, and short battery life. Ultimately, the review concludes that while the Z Flip is a "cool" innovation for casual users, its lack of productivity features makes it less appealing for power users seeking a larger, tablet-like experience.

The 2020 CNBC review characterizes the $1,380 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip as a "fun and unique" device featuring a more durable glass-metal construction, a compact clamshell design, and useful "Flex Mode" for hands-free operation. While offering high-end performance, the device is criticized for a delicate screen, a lack of 5G, and a small 1.1-inch external display. The review advises against purchasing, noting the high price and lack of premium features like water resistance or advanced cameras found in traditional flagships.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is characterized as a refined, pocketable alternative to the original Galaxy Fold, featuring a sturdy "Flex Mode" hinge that enables hands-free video calls and photography. Key advantages include its compact, stylish design, high-end internal specifications comparable to the S10, and a responsive software experience with Android 10. Conversely, the review notes drawbacks such as a small 1.1-inch external display, a visible screen crease, and limited utility for the cover screen.