Smartphones have become essential tools for communication, work, and entertainment, but their rigid form factor has stuck around for ages. Foldable phones are shaking things up, letting you carry a compact device that unfolds into a bigger screen for productivity and watching stuff. It’s kind of the best of both worlds—phone and tablet in one.
Modern foldables mostly come in two flavors: book-style, which opens up like a tiny tablet, and flip-style, which folds vertically like those classic flip phones everyone used to have. Book-style is all about that big screen and multitasking, while flip-style leans into portability and nostalgia. Both use flexible OLED displays that can bend a surprising number of times, though the tech is definitely still finding its feet.
Durability is a big deal here—especially the hinge and screen. The hinge has to survive constant folding, and the display needs special protection since it’s not your usual glass. Battery life, software that actually takes advantage of the folding form, and price all factor in too. We spent time with a bunch of foldables to figure out which ones actually deliver on the promise of reliability, innovation, and day-to-day usefulness.
Best Foldable Phones
We tested a stack of foldables to narrow down the models that really hold up in terms of durability, performance, and value. Our favorites have sturdy hinges, good displays, and battery life that won’t leave you stranded halfway through the day.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold with Gemini has the largest display on a phone and brings you the best of Google AI first, so you can do more, effortlessly[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Unlock Gemini Advanced for a year at no cost to you; get access to even more powerful AI features with the Google One AI Premium plan, a total value of $239 at no cost to you[8,9]
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
This foldable delivers Google’s AI expertise in an impressively thin package, though the premium pricing demands careful consideration.
Pros
- Remarkably slim profile makes it genuinely pocketable for a foldable device
- Large unfolded display creates excellent multitasking and entertainment experience
- Advanced AI integration with Gemini provides genuinely useful smart features
Cons
- Camera performance falls short of expectations for a “Pro” labeled device
- Premium pricing puts it out of reach for many potential buyers
- Some units may arrive with carrier locks despite unlocked advertising
Opening the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is honestly a different experience compared to other foldables. It slips into a pocket with none of the bulk you’d expect from something with such a big inside screen.
Google’s AI actually helps in daily use. The Gemini features are more than just buzzwords—smart text suggestions and photo editing tools ended up being features we reached for regularly.
The ultimate foldable experience shows up when multitasking on the big inner display. Running a couple of apps side by side just feels right, and that 120Hz refresh rate keeps everything snappy.
Camera performance, though, is kind of a letdown for something with a “Pro” badge. The triple rear setup is fine for most shots, but it doesn’t blow you away like some other flagships at this price. Tabletop mode is handy for group photos, but image quality is just… okay.
Battery life holds up for a full day of mixed use, though if you’re constantly multitasking on the big screen, you’ll notice it drains quicker. The matte glass back is a nice touch—no more fingerprint smudges everywhere.
- A PHONE THAT FLEXES TO YOU: Galaxy Z Flip7 keeps everything you love about a traditional phone and flips it into something way more convenient. It’s the familiar design you know, reimagined to fit small pockets and big moves.
- A SHORTCUT TO ALL YOUR FAVORITES: Now you can quickly customize your cover screen to do even more while your phone stays shut with the new MultiStar integration. Easily add apps, widgets and shortcuts right to your FlexWindow for on-the-go access.
- ALL SCREEN WHEN SHUT: Galaxy Z Flip7 puts what matters on the front screen, right where you need it. With a redesigned, edge-to-edge cover screen, it’s easier than ever to check texts, change songs or stay in the know at a glance.
Galaxy Z Flip7
The Galaxy Z Flip7 offers impressive flexibility and features that make it worth considering for anyone wanting a compact phone that transforms into a full-sized device.
Pros
- Cover screen handles most daily tasks without opening the phone
- Compact folded size fits easily in small pockets and tight spaces
- Camera quality delivers sharp photos in various lighting conditions
Cons
- Main display feels somewhat delicate during regular use
- Interface occasionally freezes during navigation and app switching
- Learning curve exists for users switching from traditional smartphones
Opening the Galaxy Z Flip7 gives you a surprisingly roomy screen. The flip from compact to full display is smooth and oddly satisfying.
We found the cover screen genuinely useful for most quick tasks—checking messages, music controls, widgets—without even opening the phone. The Galaxy Z Flip7 adapts pretty well to whatever you throw at it.
Battery held up better than we expected with regular use, usually making it through the day without stress.
Camera performance was solid in most situations. Low-light shots looked good, and the hands-free shooting modes were actually practical for group photos and selfies.
The phone feels sturdy, thanks to the aluminum frame, but we did stay cautious with the main screen since it’s definitely more flexible than most displays.
- Comes with 6 months of Google One and 3 months of Youtube Premium with purchase of OnePlus Open. (New accounts only for each service to qualify)
- Thin & Light Design: The OnePlus Open is the thinnest & lightest foldable in North America*. With aerospace-grade materials & a custom Flexion hinge design, the OnePlus Open delivers a ergonomic user experience. With carbon fiber support structures & titanium alloy, the Open is as durable as it is premium. *Comparison does not include flip-style foldable phones. Thinnest measurement excludes rear-facing camera.
- Premium Displays: OnePlus Open features a 6.31" exterior display & 7.82" foldable interior display. Experience a premium viewing experience with a near-invisible crease, Dolby Vision, & 10-bit color, & 2800 nits peak brightness.
OnePlus Open
The OnePlus Open delivers exceptional build quality and performance that makes it worth considering for anyone wanting their first foldable phone.
Pros
- Remarkably thin profile that feels comfortable during extended use
- Excellent camera system produces vibrant photos with natural color accuracy
- Smooth multitasking experience with intuitive app switching capabilities
Cons
- Battery life struggles during heavy multitasking sessions
- Premium price point limits accessibility for budget-conscious buyers
- Learning curve required to master all folding gestures and features
The OnePlus Open is surprisingly light for a foldable. The aerospace-grade materials do give it a premium feel without making it a brick in your pocket.
Unfolding it reveals a gorgeous 7.82-inch display with barely any creasing. We liked how the OnePlus Open stayed bright, even outdoors.
The triple camera setup is genuinely impressive. Portraits come out with nice bokeh, and the periscope zoom lens actually delivers sharp shots from a distance.
Multitasking is a breeze with Open Canvas. Dragging stuff between apps just works, and you can juggle a few apps at once without slowdowns.
The 67W fast charging is a lifesaver when you’re in a rush. That said, the 4805mAh battery does take a hit if you’re using both screens a lot.
- Universal unlocked: Compatible with all major U.S. carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and other prepaid carriers.
- Ultimate style meets iconic design: Ultra-compact and beautifully durable, featuring new, exquisitely crafted finishes inspired by understated luxury.
- Access almost everything even when closed: Easily use your favorite apps on the most intelligent and interactive external display—all without opening the phone.
Motorola Razr Ultra
We recommend the Motorola Razr Ultra for users who prioritize premium materials and fast charging, though the durability concerns may give some buyers pause.
Pros
- Luxurious Alcantara and wood finishes feel exceptional in hand
- Lightning-fast 68W charging gets you powered up incredibly quickly
- External display handles most tasks without opening the phone
Cons
- Screen durability issues reported by some users after minimal use
- Price point puts it in premium territory with mixed user satisfaction
- Limited long-term reliability data given the newer foldable technology
The Razr Ultra stands out right away for its build. The Alcantara back feels really nice, and the wood accents add a bit of style you don’t usually see on phones. We caught ourselves just enjoying the feel of it.
Battery life was better than we expected, especially thanks to that crazy-fast charging. The 68W TurboPower got us back to full in about 40 minutes, which is wild. The external screen is more useful than we thought, letting us handle messages, calls, and basic apps without flipping the phone open every time.
That said, we did see some worrying feedback about screen durability. A few users reported issues with the display after not much use, so we’re not totally convinced about its long-term toughness yet. The fold feels sturdy, but foldables in general still have some trust to earn compared to regular smartphones.
Camera results were decent in most lighting, but don’t expect flagship-level photos. The AI features are alright for quick tweaks, but nothing revolutionary.
- BIGGER, YET SLIMMER THAN EVER: Who would’ve guessed that wider could also be lighter? The design of Galaxy Z Fold7 is refined to feel like a traditional smartphone with its expanded cover display.
- BEST CAMERA ON A FOLD YET: You asked for more – now you can have the most. Galaxy Z Fold7 now boasts an ultra-premium 200MP camera with Pro-Visual Engine so you can effortlessly take incredibly detailed pics.
- SCREENSHARE FOR STREAMLINED ASSISTANCE: Intrigued by something you see? Go Live with Google Gemini, then screenshare or point your camera at it for additional info or assistance on the fly.¹
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
The Galaxy Z Fold7 delivers excellent multitasking capabilities and premium camera performance, making it ideal for users who need both productivity and entertainment in one device.
Pros
- Exceptional 200MP camera system produces sharp, detailed photos with impressive color accuracy
- Smooth multitasking experience allows three apps to run simultaneously without noticeable lag
- Refined design feels more balanced and comfortable compared to previous foldable generations
Cons
- Charging time takes over two hours to reach full capacity, which feels sluggish
- Premium pricing puts it out of reach for many potential buyers
- Cover screen still feels somewhat narrow when transitioning from traditional smartphones
After spending weeks with the Galaxy Z Fold7, we found ourselves constantly impressed by its camera capabilities. The 200MP sensor captures stunning detail in both daylight and low-light conditions. Photo editing becomes particularly enjoyable on the large inner screen, where we could make precise adjustments without squinting.
The multitasking performance stands out as one of the best features we’ve experienced on any smartphone. Running three apps simultaneously feels natural and responsive. We frequently found ourselves streaming videos while editing documents and checking messages, all without any stuttering or slowdowns.
Build quality impresses with its sturdy hinge mechanism and premium materials. The device survived our daily drops and bumps without issue. Battery life easily lasted through full workdays of heavy usage, though the slow charging speed became frustrating during busy periods.
The transition between the cover and inner displays works seamlessly for most applications. We appreciated being able to start tasks on the smaller screen and continue them when unfolded. However, the cover screen’s narrower width took some adjustment time, especially when typing longer messages.
Buying Guide
When evaluating foldable phones, we need to examine several critical factors. The display technology and durability rank as top priorities.
Screen Quality and Durability
Look for phones with reinforced hinge mechanisms and protective screen layers. We recommend checking the folding cycle ratings, which indicate how many times the device can fold before potential issues arise.
The inner display should offer vibrant colors and sharp resolution. Consider the crease visibility, as some models show more prominent fold lines than others.
Performance Specifications
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Processor | Latest flagship chipset |
| RAM | Minimum 8GB, preferably 12GB+ |
| Storage | 256GB or higher |
| Battery | 4000mAh minimum |
Processing power matters significantly for multitasking across folded screens. We suggest prioritizing devices with ample RAM to handle split-screen applications smoothly.
Form Factor Considerations
Decide between book-style folds and flip-style designs based on your usage patterns. Book-style models offer tablet-like experiences when opened.
Weight and thickness when folded affect daily portability. Check the closed dimensions to ensure comfortable pocket storage.
Software Optimization
Verify that the operating system supports foldable-specific features. App continuity when folding and unfolding should work seamlessly.
Look for customizable split-screen modes and enhanced multitasking capabilities. These features maximize the foldable form factor’s advantages.
Price and Warranty
Factor in the premium pricing typical for foldable technology. Extended warranty coverage provides additional protection for the complex hinge mechanisms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buyers often ask about essential features like hinge durability and display quality when choosing foldable phones. Price-to-performance ratios and brand comparisons between Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo also drive purchasing decisions.
What features should I look for in a top-rated foldable phone?
We recommend prioritizing hinge mechanisms rated for at least 200,000 folds. The main display should offer 120Hz refresh rates and peak brightness above 1,000 nits.
Battery capacity matters significantly in foldable phones. Look for models with 4,400mAh or higher capacity to support dual-screen usage patterns.
Camera systems should include at least three rear sensors with optical image stabilization. The cover screen needs to be functional enough for quick tasks without opening the device.
Which foldable phone model offers the best value for its cost in 2025?
The OnePlus Open provides excellent value at $1,699 with flagship specifications. It includes a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 16GB RAM configuration.
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers the most refined software experience at $1,899. The device includes five years of security updates and established app optimization.
Google’s Pixel Fold delivers superior camera performance for $1,799. The computational photography features outperform competitors in most lighting conditions.
What are the latest advancements in foldable phone technology for this year?
Ultra-thin glass technology now measures just 30 micrometers thick. This advancement reduces crease visibility by approximately 40% compared to 2024 models.
Hinge designs incorporate aerospace-grade materials like titanium alloys. These improvements extend durability ratings to 400,000+ fold cycles.
New battery cell arrangements increase capacity while reducing thickness. Advanced power management extends usage time by 15-20% over previous generations.
How do the latest Xiaomi and Oppo foldable phones compare to Samsung’s offerings?
Xiaomi’s Mix Fold 4 features a larger 8.02-inch inner display versus Samsung’s 7.6-inch screen. The Xiaomi device also includes faster 67W charging speeds.
Oppo’s Find N3 Fold weighs 239g compared to Samsung’s 253g Galaxy Z Fold 6. The lighter weight improves one-handed usability significantly.
Samsung maintains advantages in software optimization and app compatibility. The company’s partnerships with developers ensure better foldable-specific features across popular applications.
Can you recommend a foldable phone with a robust hinge design and durable screen?
We recommend the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 for maximum durability. The hinge uses dual-rail design with hideaway mechanics that protect internal components.
The device features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on exterior surfaces. IPX8 water resistance rating provides protection against liquid damage.
Honor Magic V3 offers comparable durability with titanium hinge construction. The ultra-thin glass display includes enhanced scratch resistance coatings.
Are there any major differences between foldable phones planned for release in the coming year?
Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone might finally bring MagSafe to a folding device. If it happens, you can probably expect that signature iOS polish—maybe even a smoother experience than what we’ve seen from Android so far.
Meanwhile, LG and TCL are supposedly working on rollable displays. Instead of folding, these screens just stretch out, which is honestly a pretty wild idea. Makes you wonder how people will actually use them day-to-day.
Looks like under-display cameras are about to be everywhere on high-end foldables. No more annoying notches or punch-holes on the inside—just uninterrupted screen, which is hard not to like.
