Samsung - Galaxy Z Fold5 256GB (Unlocked) - Icy Blue
Built-in Storage
256GBColor
Icy BlueFREE shipping to
More Buying Options
Related Item
Specifications
- Screen Size7.6 inchesRear-Facing Camera50 megapixelsCarrier CompatibilityAT&T, Boost Mobile, Cricket, Google Fi, H2O Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Ting Mobile, Ultra Mobile, US Cellular, VerizonBuilt-in Storage256 gigabytesProcessor ModelSnapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for GalaxyPhone Memory (RAM)12 gigabytes
- Key Specs
- Screen Size: 7.6 inches (Size of the screen, measured diagonally from corner to corner.)
- Rear-Facing Camera: 50 megapixels
- Carrier Compatibility: AT&T, Boost Mobile, Cricket, Google Fi, H2O Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Ting Mobile, Ultra Mobile, US Cellular, Verizon
- Built-in Storage: 256 gigabytes
- Processor Model: Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy (Your computer's processor is like its brain. Working in combination with system memory, the power of the processor determines the complexity of software you can run, how many programs you can have open at the same time, and how fast those programs will run. Most computers feature an AMD, Intel or Snapdragon processor.)
- Phone Memory (RAM): 12 gigabytes (Random-access memory (RAM) temporarily stores data so that it can be accessed quickly. The size of the RAM determines how efficiently the phone can handle large amounts of information at once, such as switching between several open apps.)
- General
- Brand: Samsung
- Model Number: SM-F946ULBAXAA
- Product Name: Galaxy Z Fold5 256GB (Unlocked)
- Color: Icy Blue
- Series: Galaxy Z Flip/Fold5 (Part of a group of the same product type with similar features.)
- Year of Release: 2023
- Display
- Screen Size: 7.6 inches (Size of the screen, measured diagonally from corner to corner.)
- Screen Resolution: 2176 x 1812 (Screens come in a range of resolutions (measured in pixels, horizontal x vertical). The higher the resolution, the greater the picture quality.)
- Display Type: OLED
- Screen Type: AMOLED
- Foldable Screen: true
- Camera
- Integrated Camera: Front, Rear
- Front-Facing Camera: 10 megapixels
- Rear-Facing Camera: 50 megapixels
- Video Recording Resolution(s) and Frame Rate(s): 7680 x 4320 (8K) recording resolution (Refers to the number of pixels, both horizontally and vertically, and the frame rate used to capture the video. The higher the resolution the finer the video detail that can be seen. The faster the frame rate the smoother the playback for higher motion activities like sports.)
- Network
- Carrier: Unlocked
- Carrier Compatibility: AT&T, Boost Mobile, Cricket, Google Fi, H2O Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Ting Mobile, Ultra Mobile, US Cellular, Verizon
- Network Connectivity: 4G LTE, 5G (The manner in which a device sends data to another device over a long distance using a cellular network.)
- Unlocked: true (Can be used with any carrier, typically by exchanging the phone's SIM card with another one compatible for the intended area of service. Can be used with a new or existing cellular service plan.)
- No-Contract: true (Can be purchased without committing to a contract with a cellular service provider. No-contract phones are only compatible with a specific carrier.)
- Mobile Hotspot Capability: true (A hotspot-enabled device is able to connect wirelessly to a cellular network and share the connection via Wi-Fi with nearby compatible devices.)
- Connectivity
- Headphone Jack: false (The device features an interface that allows for the connection of headphones.)
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC (The manner in which a device sends data to another device over a short distance without the use of wires or cables.)
- Power
- Battery Capacity: 4400 milliampere hours (The amount of energy stored in the battery.)
- Wireless Charging: true
- Wireless Charging Standard: Qi
- Fast Charging Capability: Wired, Wireless
- Fast Charging Technology: Adaptive Fast Charging, Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 (Quick charge technologies typically use higher voltages and/or charging interfaces to fill a device's battery capacity faster than standard charging speeds.)
- Device Power Sharing: Wireless
- Battery Chemistry: Lithium
- Compatibility
- Charging Interface(s): USB-C (The connection for transmitting power to charge the device.)
- Voice Assistant Built-in: Bixby, Google Assistant (A digital assistant built into the device that uses voice commands to answer questions and control smart devices.)
- Works With: Amazon Alexa, Arlo, Cortana, Google Home, Hue, Nest, Ring, SmartThings, Wink (Compatible with or able to be connected to other smart devices or applications.)
- SIM Card Size: Nano SIM
- SIM Card Slots: Single SIM
- Stylus Dock: None
- Stylus Included: false
- Features
- Model Family: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
- Usage Time(s): Up to 21 hours of video playback (All battery claims depend on network configuration and many other factors; actual results will vary. Battery has limited recharge cycles and may eventually need to be replaced. Battery life and charge cycles vary by use and settings.)
- Sensors: Accelerometer, Barometer, Fingerprint sensor, Geomagnetic sensor, Gyro sensor, Proximity sensor (Detects stimuli such as heat, light, sound, motion, or pressure and responds accordingly by operating a control or initiating a function of the device.)
- GPS Enabled: true
- Mobile Payment Service Supported: Google Pay, Samsung Pay
- Protective Qualities: Dust resistant, Water resistant
- Maximum Depth Of Water Resistance: 5 feet (Measurement of the maximum depth of water in which the product is able to resist some degree of water penetration.)
- Ingress Protection (IP) Rating: IPX8 (A 4 to 6 character code classifying a product's degree of protection against intrusion of solid particles and liquids as well as impact. Each number in the IP Code denotes a level of protection, determined through testing and published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The first digit represents the degree of protection against solid foreign objects or particles and the second digit represents the degree of protection against water ingress.)
- Built-in Storage: 256 gigabytes
- AI
- AI Processing: Cloud-based (Artificial Intelligence (AI) processing can be performed in the cloud or on the device itself. Cloud-based processing can allow for higher processing performance but may entail higher data usage and involve information sharing. On-device processing allows for more privacy and security but may limit processing performance.)
- AI Photo/Video Capture Features: Brightness adjustment, Depth adjustment, Facial recognition (Artificial Intelligence (AI) can automatically adjust various elements to optimize your shot before and while it’s being taken.)
- AI Photo/Video Editing Features: Adjust background, Adjust image, Adjust objects, Image story creation, Remove objects, Reposition objects, Resize objects (Artificial Intelligence (AI) can allow you to edit photos and videos to give you an optimal or customized shot.)
- AI Document and Search Features: Document summary, Transcription (Artificial Intelligence (AI) can allow you to more efficiently search and retrieve documents as well as assist with personalized content.)
- AI Translation: Language translation, Speech recognition, Speech-to-text, Text-to-speech (Artificial Intelligence (AI) can automatically translate some speech and text functions to allow for conversations with others even if you don’t speak the same language.)
- Performance
- Operating System: Android 13 (The operating system manages all software and hardware, including files, memory and connected devices. Most importantly, it lets you interact with your device and your programs in a visual way; otherwise, you'd be typing computer code to get anything done.)
- Processor Brand: Snapdragon
- Processor Model: Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy (Your computer's processor is like its brain. Working in combination with system memory, the power of the processor determines the complexity of software you can run, how many programs you can have open at the same time, and how fast those programs will run. Most computers feature an AMD, Intel or Snapdragon processor.)
- Processor Speed: 3.36 gigahertz (Actual central processing unit (CPU) speed may vary by device configuration and design. Also referred to as clock speed, this is how quickly the central processing unit (CPU) can receive and interpret instructions. The higher the number, the more operations per second that can be completed. Working in combination with system memory, the power of the processor determines the complexity of software you can run.)
- Phone Memory (RAM): 12 gigabytes (Random-access memory (RAM) temporarily stores data so that it can be accessed quickly. The size of the RAM determines how efficiently the phone can handle large amounts of information at once, such as switching between several open apps.)
- Dimensions
- Product Height: 6.1 inches (The out of box height of the item. Height is measured as the vertical distance from the bottom of the item to the top as it would be primarily used or placed.)
- Product Width: 5.1 inches (The out of box width of the item. Width is measured as the horizontal distance from one side of the item to the other as it would be primarily used or placed.)
- Product Depth: 0.24 inches (The out of box depth of the item. Depth is measured as the distance from the front of the item to the back as it would be primarily used or placed.)
- Product Weight: 8.9 ounces (The out of box weight of the item.)
- Storage
- Media Card Slot: None
- Warranty
- Warranty - Parts: 1 year
- Warranty - Labor: 1 year
- Other
- UPC: 887276766409
Galaxy AI is here. Search like never before,¹ get real-time interpretation on a call,² format your notes into a clear summary,³ and effortlessly edit your photos⁴ - all from your smartphone, all with AI. Unfold an expansive screen and immerse yourself in your favorite entertainment on the go with Galaxy Z Fold5. The massive 7.6” interior screen opens up to elevate your streaming and gaming. Dual App Viewing allows you to master multitasking across multiple windows at once. And when folded, the front display is perfect for one handed use on the fly. Go big. Live large. With Galaxy Z Fold5.
- Circle it, search it,¹ find it. Just like that.: What’s your favorite influencer wearing? Where’d they go on vacation? What’s that word mean? Don’t try to describe it use Circle to Search with Google¹ and get the answer in a snap. Simply circle it on your screen to learn more.
- Break down barriers to language barriers: Speak foreign languages on the spot with AI-powered Live Translate.² Unlock the power of convenient communication with near-real-time voice translations right through your Samsung Phone app.
- Take a great photo. Then make it better.: Turn every photo into a post-worthy masterpiece with Galaxy AI. Move or remove objects. Fill in empty space. Simply snap a pic, and then take it from great to jaw-dropping with Generative Edit³
- Be lost in conversation, not translation.: Wish you always had an interpreter on hand? Now you do with Galaxy AI. Simply hold up your phone during face-to-face conversations and receive real-time translations.⁴
- Expansive screen. Cinematic experience.: Streaming on the go with this big screen is a big deal. Unfold the massive 7.6" screen on Galaxy Z Fold5 and lose yourself in your favorite content, no matter where you are.⁵
- Your gaming experience, elevated: Your gaming deserves a powerful device perfect for portable play. With Galaxy Z Fold5, enjoy your favorite mobile games on the cover screen, or unfold the expansive interior screen for a more immersive experience.
- The future of doing more: With Dual App Viewing, you can do more with more screen on Galaxy Z Fold5. Drag and drop photos into a text message, shop two sites side by side or stream videos while checking your feed.
- Impressive precision. More productivity.: Precision meets portability with S Pen capability on Galaxy Z Fold5. Write directly on the large screen and go from to do to done.⁶
- Full screen outside. Massive screen inside.: Enjoy two experiences in one. The 6.2" cover display is perfect for one handed scrolling and quick tasks. Or unfold the massive 7.6" interior screen for everything else. No matter which you choose to use, you’ll have bright screen on hand, open or closed.⁵
- Fold it don’t hold it: Put your Z Fold5 in Flex Mode and do more at once with hands free video calling. Chat with your friends while searching for movie times. Or take notes during a video call. It’s easy with Galaxy Z Fold5.
- Hands free Watching: Put Z Fold5 in Flex Mode and watch hands free. Simply adjust the screen to your preferred angle and enjoy your favorites while eating, writing or just relaxing.
- This big screen is a big deal: Impress everyone with the sleek design. Impress them even more when you unfold the massive 7.6" interior screen. It’s easy to turn heads with Galaxy Z Fold5 now in three unique colors.⁵
- Unfold with confidence: With Gorilla Glass Victus 2 external protection and IPX8 water resistance, you can unfold your world no matter where life takes you.⁷
- Sync your world. Simplify your life.: Unfold more possibilities with a connected Galaxy. Maximize productivity by sending files, videos and images from your Galaxy Z Fold5 to other devices in a flash with Quick Share.
- Circle it, search it,¹ find it. Just like that.: What’s your favorite influencer wearing? Where’d they go on vacation? What’s that word mean? Don’t try to describe it use Circle to Search with Google¹ and get the answer in a snap. Simply circle it on your screen to learn more.
- Break down barriers to language barriers: Speak foreign languages on the spot with AI-powered Live Translate.² Unlock the power of convenient communication with near-real-time voice translations right through your Samsung Phone app.
- Take a great photo. Then make it better.: Turn every photo into a post-worthy masterpiece with Galaxy AI. Move or remove objects. Fill in empty space. Simply snap a pic, and then take it from great to jaw-dropping with Generative Edit³
- Be lost in conversation, not translation.: Wish you always had an interpreter on hand? Now you do with Galaxy AI. Simply hold up your phone during face-to-face conversations and receive real-time translations.⁴
- Expansive screen. Cinematic experience.: Streaming on the go with this big screen is a big deal. Unfold the massive 7.6" screen on Galaxy Z Fold5 and lose yourself in your favorite content, no matter where you are.⁵
- Your gaming experience, elevated: Your gaming deserves a powerful device perfect for portable play. With Galaxy Z Fold5, enjoy your favorite mobile games on the cover screen, or unfold the expansive interior screen for a more immersive experience.
- The future of doing more: With Dual App Viewing, you can do more with more screen on Galaxy Z Fold5. Drag and drop photos into a text message, shop two sites side by side or stream videos while checking your feed.
- Impressive precision. More productivity.: Precision meets portability with S Pen capability on Galaxy Z Fold5. Write directly on the large screen and go from to do to done.⁶
- Full screen outside. Massive screen inside.: Enjoy two experiences in one. The 6.2" cover display is perfect for one handed scrolling and quick tasks. Or unfold the massive 7.6" interior screen for everything else. No matter which you choose to use, you’ll have bright screen on hand, open or closed.⁵
- Fold it don’t hold it: Put your Z Fold5 in Flex Mode and do more at once with hands free video calling. Chat with your friends while searching for movie times. Or take notes during a video call. It’s easy with Galaxy Z Fold5.
- Hands free Watching: Put Z Fold5 in Flex Mode and watch hands free. Simply adjust the screen to your preferred angle and enjoy your favorites while eating, writing or just relaxing.
- This big screen is a big deal: Impress everyone with the sleek design. Impress them even more when you unfold the massive 7.6" interior screen. It’s easy to turn heads with Galaxy Z Fold5 now in three unique colors.⁵
- Unfold with confidence: With Gorilla Glass Victus 2 external protection and IPX8 water resistance, you can unfold your world no matter where life takes you.⁷
- Sync your world. Simplify your life.: Unfold more possibilities with a connected Galaxy. Maximize productivity by sending files, videos and images from your Galaxy Z Fold5 to other devices in a flash with Quick Share.
Whats Included
- Device
- USB-C Data Cable
- SIM ejection tool
- Quick start guide
- Device
- USB-C Data Cable
- SIM ejection tool
- Quick start guide
Disclaimers
- ¹Requires internet connection; results may vary by uniqueness, clarity and framing of circled image and related factors.
- ²Samsung account login required. Calls must be made using the native Samsung dialer.
- ³Requires Samsung account login and internet connection. For text in Samsung Notes only (200 –4,000 characters)
- ⁴Requires Samsung account log in and language preset (English and Spanish pre-installed; other languages require free download). Results may vary.
- ⁵Display measurements are diagonal, and actual viewable area is less due to rounded corners and camera hole punch.
- ⁶S Pen sold separately, compatible only with main display. Requires S Pen Fold Edition or S Pen Pro.
- ⁷Consistent with IPX8 rating, water resistant in up to 5 feet of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. Rinse residue/dry after wet. Not advised for beach or pool use. Not dust or sand resistant.
- ⁸Camera Controller is supported on Galaxy Watch4 and later released Galaxy Watch models when paired with Galaxy S9 Series and later.
- ⁸For Galaxy to Galaxy or any other devices : Quick Share between Galaxy devices available with the following OS: smartphones and tablets with Android OS version 10.0 (Q) and One UI 2.1 or above, PCs running Windows 10 or later. Requires Samsung account and Wi Fi and Bluetooth connection.
- ⁸Quick Share to iOS and Android devices available by sending shared link: individual files shared cannot exceed 3GB (for a total of 5GB per day) and link will expire after two days; requires a Samsung account and internet connection.
- ¹Requires internet connection; results may vary by uniqueness, clarity and framing of circled image and related factors.
- ²Samsung account login required. Calls must be made using the native Samsung dialer.
- ³Requires Samsung account login and internet connection. For text in Samsung Notes only (200 –4,000 characters)
- ⁴Requires Samsung account log in and language preset (English and Spanish pre-installed; other languages require free download). Results may vary.
- ⁵Display measurements are diagonal, and actual viewable area is less due to rounded corners and camera hole punch.
- ⁶S Pen sold separately, compatible only with main display. Requires S Pen Fold Edition or S Pen Pro.
- ⁷Consistent with IPX8 rating, water resistant in up to 5 feet of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. Rinse residue/dry after wet. Not advised for beach or pool use. Not dust or sand resistant.
- ⁸Camera Controller is supported on Galaxy Watch4 and later released Galaxy Watch models when paired with Galaxy S9 Series and later.
- ⁸For Galaxy to Galaxy or any other devices : Quick Share between Galaxy devices available with the following OS: smartphones and tablets with Android OS version 10.0 (Q) and One UI 2.1 or above, PCs running Windows 10 or later. Requires Samsung account and Wi Fi and Bluetooth connection.
- ⁸Quick Share to iOS and Android devices available by sending shared link: individual files shared cannot exceed 3GB (for a total of 5GB per day) and link will expire after two days; requires a Samsung account and internet connection.
Q: Is the Z Fold 5 any lighter (less weight) than the Z Fold 3?
A: Yes it is
Q: Why is this $1800+ dollars and why are people paying it?
A: It is definitely a brand that I recommend in terms of quality, it works perfectly and its battery is incredible.
A: No problems at all
Q: Can I use it for boost mobile
A: Greetings Panama, thank you for finding the unobstructed time out of your bustling day to ask us your question about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5. Yes, the advertised unlocked Z Fold5 is compatible with Boost Mobile as well as AT&T, Cricket, Google Fi, H2O Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Ting Mobile, Ultra Mobile, US Cellular, and Verizon. Let us know if you have additional questions for us by contacting Samsung Support at your leisure. Thank you for being a dedicated Samsung customer. - Debra
A: Aloha Kboy, thank you for finding the opportunity to ask us your question about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5. The advertised unlocked Galaxy Z Fold5 is compatible with AT&T, Boost Mobile, Cricket, Google Fi, H2O Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Ting Mobile, Ultra Mobile, US Cellular, and Verizon. Feel free to reach out to the wireless carrier of your choice to begin service on this device! If you have any additional questions for us, feel free to contact Samsung Support. Thank you for being a staunch Samsung customer. - Debra
A: Yes
Compare similar products
Galaxy AI is here. Search like never before,¹ get real-time interpretation on a call,² format your notes into a clear summary,³ and effortlessly edit your photos⁴ - all from your smartphone, all with AI. Unfold an expansive screen and immerse yourself in your favorite entertainment on the go with Galaxy Z Fold5. The massive 7.6” interior screen opens up to elevate your streaming and gaming. Dual App Viewing allows you to master multitasking across multiple windows at once. And when folded, the front display is perfect for one handed use on the fly. Go big. Live large. With Galaxy Z Fold5.
Galaxy AI is here. Search like never before,¹ get real-time interpretation on a call,² format your notes into a clear summary,³ and effortlessly edit your photos⁴ - all from your smartphone, all with AI. Unfold an expansive screen and immerse yourself in your favorite entertainment on the go with Galaxy Z Fold5. The massive 7.6” interior screen opens up to elevate your streaming and gaming. Dual App Viewing allows you to master multitasking across multiple windows at once. And when folded, the front display is perfect for one handed use on the fly. Go big. Live large. With Galaxy Z Fold5.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 SM-F946U is an innovative foldable smartphone that merges cutting-edge technology with a unique design. Featuring a foldable AMOLED display, it provides users with a versatile experience, allowing seamless transitions between a compact form factor and an expansive tablet-like screen. The device is powered by a high-performance processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient operation. The camera system on both the front and rear contributes to a comprehensive photography experience. With a focus on pushing the boundaries of conventional smartphone design, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 caters to users seeking a distinctive and forward-thinking device.
Expand what’s possible with Galaxy Z Fold7, the foldable that’s designed to do so much more than before. The expanded 6.5" cover display is made to feel like a traditional smartphone, making it more convenient to handle daily tasks from text replies to checking the weather without needing to unfold. For even more possibilities, open up the impressive 8" screen to create, unwind, multitask and more. For the first time ever for a foldable, Galaxy Z Fold7 boasts a 200MP camera with ProVisual Engine so you can take stunning photos with ease. Perfecting your pics feels just as effortless. Enjoy plenty of room on the expansive inner screen to make tiny adjustments, like zooming in to delete that stranger in the background with Photo Assist or ensuring everyone’s eyes are open in the group selfie with Best Face. Whether you’re at home or on the go, creating on the large screen of Galaxy Z Fold7 is as comfortable as it gets. View up to three windows at once and edit your content on one side while streaming videos and scrolling social feeds on the other. While you multitask, the customized Snapdragon 8 Elite processor for Galaxy keeps your experiences smooth from start to finish. Plus, you can do it all without fear. Galaxy Z Fold7 is crafted with time tested durability that stands up to everyday wear and tear. Now that Gemini Live can analyze what you see, Galaxy Z Fold7 also expands the ways AI can assist you. Simply open up Gemini Live, and then screenshare or point your camera at whatever interests you for additional info or answers on the fly. Live life to the fullest see more, do more and expand what’s possible with Galaxy Z Fold7.
| Pros for Samsung - Galaxy Z Fold5 256GB (Unlocked) - Icy Blue | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| There were no pros for this product— | There were no pros for this product— | There were no pros for this product— | Overall Performance, Camera Quality, Screen Size, Portability, Design |
Specs
Reviews
Customer Images
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
- Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Elevating experience with premium features
My journey with the Z Fold 5 from Best Buy has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I'm excited to share why this phone stands out in the crowd. State-of-the-Art Display: The Z Fold 5 boasts a display that truly defines state-of-the-art technology. Its foldable design adds a unique touch, making it incredibly convenient to use when folded. The smaller front screen, though compact, is remarkably handy. Unfold the phone, and you're greeted with a seamless, crease-free full screen that's not just smooth but visually stunning. The craftsmanship is evident, making the display a true eye-catcher. Premium Finish: The phone's finish is nothing short of amazing. Crafted with precision, the Z Fold 5 radiates premium quality. When using this phone, it's hard not to notice the attention to detail in the design. Camera Excellence and 5G Connectivity: The camera is a standout feature, capturing moments with exceptional clarity. Paired with 5G connectivity, streaming, gaming, and sharing content become seamless and lightning-fast. Beautiful Processor and Impressive Battery Life: The phone's processor is not just beautiful but also powerful, ensuring smooth performance across various tasks. Despite the large screen, the battery life is impressive, making it ideal for gaming sessions and extended multimedia use. Immersive Multimedia Experience: As a gamer and soccer enthusiast, the Z Fold 5 elevates my experience. The stunning display makes watching highlights and live matches a visual delight. The multitasking capabilities are a game-changer, allowing me to seamlessly juggle between tasks. Effortless Multitasking: One of the standout features is the phone's ability to multitask effortlessly. Whether I'm attending virtual classes or meetings, the spacious screen enables me to split my focus efficiently. It's a productivity boost for scheduling, note-taking, and more. In conclusion, the Z Fold 5 transcends expectations with its blend of cutting-edge technology, exceptional display, and versatile features. Best Buy not only provided an unbeatable deal but also facilitated an unparalleled customer experience. I wholeheartedly recommend the Z Fold 5 to anyone seeking a premium, multitasking powerhouse in their pocket.
This review is from Samsung - Galaxy Z Fold5 256GB (Unlocked) - Phantom Black
Posted by Muhammad
- Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Perfect form factor for reading
This device converted me from iOS to Android, I'll explain why. Firstly, Best Buy offered a great deal on this, otherwise I couldn't justify the full price. This review is in the context of this device costing about as much as the iPhone 15 Pro Max when on sale (a little more, but sell your iPad and trade in an old phone and you can beat the Apple price). I've been pondering a switch from iPhone to Android for a few years now, but Android falls short in a number of small annoying ways that, when coupled with lack of iMessage and Facetime, kept me on iOS. Then I took a risk on this device when I wanted to finally get a premium phone (coming from iPhone SE) and compared this to the iPhone Pro Max. I have an iPad I could use for reading. Why would i want this bulky phone? Firstly, it isn't much bulkier than the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Secondly, I find myself reading much much more with this phone. Who carries and iPad around with them? One could always read on an iPhone 15 Pro Max, but in practice the experience is constricting and uncomfortable for many people, myself included. The iPad is great for reading in terms of size, but not as comfortable to hold in hand while reading as the Galaxy Fold 5 is, nor convenient to have around all the time. I've not for a second picked up the iPad since I've gotten this phone because I strongly prefer the size and comfort of reading on this device. In retrospect, the iPhone was more of a passive reading experience, where the trouble to take a deeper dive by switching over to the iPad, if it was even nearby, resulted in lots of unread or skimmed articles. With the Fold, if I find an interesting article, or even a technical PDF, I just unfold the phone and start reading it with ease. It feels like a mini superpower coming from a regular smartphone. It is big enough to be a pleasant reading experience, but small enough that I can walk around while reading without worrying about tripping (doesn't obscure as much field of vision like a bigger device might). All to say, this is my daily driver going forward. I still miss some things about iOS, such as the ease of imessage and facetime since most friends and family use iOS. But dollar for dollar, comparing this device (on sale) against the iPhone 15 Pro Max as near-cost peers, this is a far superior product for someone who reads often and wants a device that encourages deep reading verses the scrolling consumption that iOS is great at. Further points: * Best fingerprint sensor on a phone. 100% success rate, as good or better than Touch ID on the iPhone SE line. * Durable. This phone is absolutely solid. I feared I might have to treat it delicately, but no, after a few days I just treat it like I would any other phone-cautiously but not annoyingly so. I've taken it on hikes---using the unfolded screen for maps while hiking is just incredible. * Screen: Samsung is fantastic with screens, but what about the crease in the middle? I don't notice it when reading unless I glance at it from an angle. After a few weeks the verdict on the crease is: not a problem. * Android: While I like the Pixel stock android experience when I've tried it, modern Samsung android experience feels more polished and closer to the Apple experience, while being more customizable than either. I do miss the iMessage experience, but the benefits of this device helping me become a deeper reader has far outweighed that lack. In addition, notifications on Android is a superior experience than on iOS. * Price: I've already mentioned price, and it didn't feel great paying this much money for a phone. But this feeling has faded as I've grown deeper in love with the deeper reading experience this phone provides on a daily basis. If I think about the price spread out over two years, I can justify it with the value it brings in intellectual growth from the fact that I've gone from a scroller to a deeper reader. * The S-PEN on the Fold...is OK. Definitely not as good as on the Ultra line, but it gets the job done. If the S-PEN experience is important to you, stick with the Ultra line or at least give this a serious test before buying it. * Cameras are fantastic, I've taken some great pictures on hiking. They are beautiful. I've included one with this review which is a zoom in, finding that zoom works great as well. * Battery life is great, just short of excellent. Excellent would be the iPhone Plus line, which could get you two days without charging in many cases. I end the day usually well above 20%, but wouldn't dare try going two days without a charge between.
This review is from Samsung - Galaxy Z Fold5 256GB (Unlocked) - Phantom Black
Posted by TJCA
- Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Nice
I traded in my Pixel 7 Pro for this phone at my local BB and got a $600 credit as well as a $100 GC. Best Buy wanted $40 to do the data transfer, but they did let me sit at one of their work areas and perform the transfer myself. it only took about 30 minutes and I was out the door. The phone is everything I had hoped it would be--fast, easy to use, and sturdy. Great camera. Of course, I added a case and screen protectors, and I would advise anyone else to do the same. I haven't had any app issues or crashes, and cannot think of a single thing not to like about this phone, other than the price.
This review is from Samsung - Galaxy Z Fold5 256GB (Unlocked) - Phantom Black
Posted by Bohucka