Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 Review: Folding Phone Luxury Tested

content: The Foldable Phone Dilemma

Considering a ₱100,000 foldable phone? After testing Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 4 for a week, I've discovered where this luxury device shines—and where it falls short. Unlike traditional flagships, foldables demand compromises. The Z Fold 4 isn't for everyone, but for multitaskers needing tablet-like functionality in a pocketable form, it delivers unique advantages that justify its premium. Based on my hands-on experience and Samsung's iterative improvements, here's what potential buyers must know before investing.

Design Evolution

Samsung refined the Z Fold 4's aluminum frame with flatter edges and reduced weight (263g vs. predecessor's 271g). While still heavier than Galaxy S22 Ultra (229g), the redesigned hinge allows flexible angles for hands-free photography. The matte-finish Beige model resists fingerprints remarkably well—a practical upgrade for glossy-phone haters. However, the protruding camera module causes significant wobble on flat surfaces, a trade-off for the upgraded 50MP sensor.

Water resistance (IPX8) remains, but dust resistance is absent—avoid beach or construction environments. For portability, the Z Flip 4 suits pockets better; the Z Fold 4 thrives in bags or jackets.

content: Display and Multitasking Mastery

Samsung widened the 6.2" cover display, making typing feasible without unfolding. The 7.6" main screen features slimmer bezels and a less noticeable crease. Crucially, the under-display camera (UDC) blends seamlessly during video playback—only visible against white backgrounds at specific angles.

The game-changer is the persistent Taskbar (enabled by default), mirroring PC-style app switching. Swipe up with two fingers to split-screen apps instantly—ideal for workflows like messaging while watching YouTube. During testing, I maintained 80% productivity gain versus traditional smartphones.

Key limitations:

Instagram displays cropped content in full-screen mode
Many apps lack tablet-optimized layouts
Flex Mode transforms the bottom display into a touchpad for camera/YouTube controls

content: Performance and Camera Realities

Powered by Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, the Z Fold 4 handles intensive gaming smoothly. My 256GB review unit never lagged during multitasking, though heavy media users should consider 512GB/1TB models—no SD card support exists.

Camera upgrades are meaningful:

50MP main sensor (up from 12MP) captures sharper details
3x telephoto (vs. 2x previously) enables better zoom
Cover Screen Preview activates rear cameras for selfies while folded
Capture View shows recent shots without exiting camera app

While not matching S22 Ultra's zoom capabilities, the Z Fold 4 outperforms its predecessor in low-light shots. The 4MP UDC produces grainy selfies—use rear cameras via preview for quality results.

content: Battery and Charging Constraints

The 4,400mAh battery lasted a full day during my Malaysia testing (5-6 hours screen time), but 25W charging feels outdated at this price point. Competitors like Xiaomi 12 Pro offer 120W charging. Reaching 50% takes 30 minutes—unacceptable for a "luxury" device.

Actionable buyer checklist:

Test app compatibility with split-screen workflows
Compare telephoto performance against S22 Ultra
Verify charging speed meets your daily routine needs
Assess crease visibility under store lighting
Check pre-order bundles for free 25W charger

content: Final Verdict

The Z Fold 4 represents foldable refinement, not revolution. It's ideal for executives needing spreadsheet-email multitasking or creatives using Flex Mode for framing shots. However, casual users should consider the Z Flip 4 or traditional flagships.

Samsung's hinge engineering and Taskbar innovation set industry standards, but app optimization gaps and slow charging hold it back. As foldables transition from "future tech" to "present reality," the Z Fold 4 proves durable enough for daily use—if you accept its compromises.

"Would you prioritize multitasking flexibility or faster charging in a premium device? Share your deal-breakers below!"