Galaxy Z Flip 5: Should You Upgrade Your Phone?

galaxy z flip 5 review

Last year, I reviewed the Galaxy Z Flip 4 and then used it for a while personally. I enjoyed it and noticed my wife did too.

However, my interest waned when the Pixel 7 was released a few months later, which I preferred. 

Now, with the Galaxy Z Flip 5, I wondered if it could impress me again, especially with its main improvement.

After using the Galaxy Z Flip 5 that Samsung sent me for review over the past couple of weeks, I have some thoughts to share.

The only significant change is the new cover display. Let’s dive in and see if it’s worth buying.

Here is our Galaxy Z Flip 5 review.

Design

Samsung has clearly put thought into refining the Flip 5's physical attributes:

  • A redesigned hinge brings the two halves almost flush together

  • The cover display expands to a generous 3.4-inch Super AMOLED panel

  • The inner 6.7-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED screen offers vibrant visuals and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate

These upgrades demonstrate Samsung's growing expertise in foldable technology, with the device approaching what many might consider the pinnacle of flip phone design.

Software

While the hardware impresses, the software tells a different story:

  • Limited cover display functionality: Despite its increased size, the external screen lacks support for full app access and quick settings

  • Constant unfolding required: Users often find themselves opening the device for tasks that should be manageable on the cover display

  • UI glitches: Occasional hiccups in gesture navigation mar an otherwise smooth experience

These issues suggest that Samsung's software team hasn't quite caught up to the hardware innovations.

Performance

Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, the Flip 5 handles most tasks with ease. However, the device's battery life fails to meet expectations:

  • Light usage struggles to last a full day

  • Heavy usage days see as little as 2 hours of screen-on time

This lackluster battery performance is particularly disappointing given the impressive power management seen in other devices using the same chip.

Camera

The camera setup remains unchanged from the previous model:

  • 12MP ultra-wide lens

  • 12MP wide lens
galaxy z flip 5 review (2)

While not groundbreaking, the cameras perform adequately for everyday use, with quick focus and decent low-light performance.

However, they fall short of the premium quality expected in this price range.

The Verdict

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 represents a mixed bag of impressive hardware innovations and frustrating software limitations.

While it pushes the boundaries of foldable design, it stumbles in key areas like battery life and user experience.

For tech enthusiasts eager to embrace the cutting edge of smartphone design, the Flip 5 offers an enticing package.

However, for those seeking a reliable daily driver, the constant need to unfold the device and its battery concerns may prove too cumbersome.

As foldable technology continues to evolve, Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 5 serves as both a testament to how far we've come and a reminder of the challenges that still lie ahead in perfecting these innovative devices.