Foldable phones are a new category of smartphones that come with unique benefits and drawbacks compared to conventional devices. Here are seven advantages and seven disadvantages of foldable phones, with real device examples and their features.
Pros of Foldable Phones
1. Makes multitasking easier
Foldable phones have bigger screens that let you run several apps at once or drag and drop content between apps. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 7.6-inch inner screen that can run three apps at the same time.
2. Better gaming
Foldable phones offer more immersive gaming on larger, more vibrant displays. Many games support foldables and adjust their aspect ratio automatically. The OnePlus Open has a 120Hz refresh rate and a 6.8-inch outer display that opens into a 10.1-inch tablet-like screen.
3. Preview while taking a photo or video
You can use the outer display to show your subject a preview, or use the inner display as a large viewfinder to adjust pose, angle, and lighting. The Honor Magic V2 has a 108MP main camera and a 10.8-inch inner display that folds down to 6.7 inches.
4. Extra space for hardware
Foldables can fit larger batteries, better processors, and extra components that boost performance and endurance. The Google Pixel Fold packs a 5000mAh battery, a flagship processor, and water resistance.
5. A great single-camera setup
Some foldables use the same main camera for both selfies and regular photos, removing the need for extra sensors while improving photo and video quality. The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra uses a 64MP camera for both modes.
6. Innovative design
Foldable phones look striking and futuristic, and they come in book-style, clamshell, and even rollable forms. The TCL Rollable concept extends from 6.7 inches to 7.8 inches by sliding out the side.
7. Portability
When folded, these phones fit easily into pockets and bags, and the main screen stays protected. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 has a 6.7-inch display that folds into a compact square.
Cons of Foldable Phones
1. High price tag
Foldable phones are much more expensive than traditional smartphones because they need advanced engineering and premium materials. The average foldable costs around $1,800, more than double the price of many flagship phones.
2. Average battery life
Large, bright displays use more power, and the folding mechanism takes up space that could hold battery. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 4400mAh battery compared with 5000mAh in the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra.
3. Thick and heavy
Hinges, dual displays, and extra parts make foldables thicker and heavier, which can be less comfortable for long use. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 weighs 271 grams and is about 16mm thick when folded, compared with 229 grams and 8.9mm for the Galaxy S21 Ultra.
4. Durability issues
Moving parts and flexible screens are more prone to wear. Dust, moisture, scratches, and crease lines are common concerns. The plastic screen layer on devices like the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra can develop bumps and marks over time.
5. Compatibility issues
Some apps don't scale well on unusual screen sizes, and some accessories such as cases or wireless chargers may not fit or work properly with foldable designs.
6. Limited availability
Only a few manufacturers make foldables, often in limited quantities, and replacement parts and specialist repairs can be hard to find. The Honor Magic V2, for example, launched in limited markets.
7. Early adopter risks
Foldable technology is still maturing and can suffer from software bugs or hardware defects, and new models quickly make older ones outdated. The Royole FlexPai, the first foldable launched in 2018, faced performance, software, and design problems that hurt its reception.
For more on the latest phones, see our best mobile phones 2024 top 10 picks.
