Google and Samsung have both contributed innovations to the foldable phone market. It is evidenced by recently leaked images showing the Pixel Fold device stepping into the foldable smartphone arena. This is after years of speculation, delays, and rumors. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G clamshell foldable phone has already made an impactful statement, offering amazing performance features in a compact form factor.
Google’s Pixel Fold remains shrouded in mystery, while Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G has already proven itself as an exceptional foldable phone. It offers flagship-level performance with a 120Hz refresh rate display and an extremely reasonable price point. Thus, making it an attractive option for those seeking foldable phones. Google is yet to surprise us all by unveiling unique features to push foldable design further than ever before.
As we anxiously await a full comparison of both devices, the battle of foldable phones begins here. Let’s break down both devices!
Google Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Features | Google Pixel Fold | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Outer: 5.79-inch OLED Inner: 7.69-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate | 6.7-inch plastic OLED, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Camera | Rear: 48MP main, 10.8MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto with 5x zoom Outer: 9.5MP Inner: 8MP | Rear: 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP selfie |
| Processor | Tensor G2 | Snapdragon 888 |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| Battery | 3,300mAh | 3,300mAh |
| Biometrics | Fingerprint scanner in the power button and face unlock | Capacitive fingerprint sensor, face recognition |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11 |
- Dual SIM (single SIM + e-SIM)
- 12GB + 256GB storage
- U.S. warranty
- Obsidian
- Available for pre-order
- Unlocked
- A compact design that folds open
- Fast charging
- You can view notifications and check the weather on the external screen
- Allows you to launch two apps simultaneously
Google Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G: What’s the Difference?
The Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G foldable phones are two highly anticipated handsets on the market. For all the features and differences between these phones, here is what distinguishes these phones from each other.
Screen Technology
The Pixel Fold will have two OLED panels. The inner display is 7.69 inches and has a 2,208 x 1,840p resolution at 120Hz. The outer panel has an FHD+ OLED display with a 17:4:9 aspect ratio and 120Hz refresh rate.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G has a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. It comes with a 1,080 x 2,640p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. The Corning Gorilla Glass Victus makes it scratch-resistant and durable. While both displays use similar refresh rates, the OLED technology found on Pixel Fold is generally considered superior. This is because it produces brighter displays with accurate colors as well as being more energy-efficient than AMOLED displays used by Galaxy Z Flip 3.
The Pixel Fold’s inner display has a higher resolution than the Galaxy Z Flip 3. This allows for sharper images and text. Additionally, the wider outer display makes checking notifications and performing quick tasks easier without needing to unfold the device.
Although both displays offer great displays, OLED technology gives the Pixel Fold an edge in this category.
Camera System
Reports suggest that the Pixel Fold will have a triple camera setup on its rear. The main camera will be 48MP, with an ultrawide camera of 10.8MP and a telephoto camera also of 10.8MP. The telephoto camera is expected to have 5x optical zoom capability. Additionally, the device is expected to have a 9.5MP selfie camera on the outer display and an 8MP bezel above the inner display.
Contrastingly, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G features a dual camera setup on its rear with 12-megapixel main and 12-megapixel ultrawide cameras. In front, there’s a 10-megapixel sensor located within a punch-hole cutout on its inner display for front-facing photography capabilities. Although serviceable, the Pixel Fold’s triple camera system and additional selfie camera provide it with significant photography advantages over its rival device.
The Pixel Fold has a 5x optical zoom telephoto camera for clear shots from a distance. Its main camera has a large f/1.7 aperture for better low-light performance. Google is known for making top camera phones, so it likely put significant effort into developing the Pixel Fold’s camera system. The camera system on this phone is expected to be impressive.
Price and Availability
Prior reports indicate that the Pixel Fold could cost around $1,700, but there has been no official confirmation regarding its pricing. This places it within the higher price range for foldable phones. It should be noted, however, that its release has yet to occur. Thus, final prices may change accordingly.
In August 2021, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G foldable phone at a lower price point. The phone comes in 128GB and 256GB storage options. The starting price for the 128GB variant is $999, while the 256GB model costs $1,049. This pricing strategy shows Samsung’s efforts to make foldable devices accessible to more consumers. The reduced pricing also indicates the mainstreaming of foldable devices.
Regarding availability, Google has not officially confirmed a release date for their Pixel Fold. Rumors indicate it could become available for pre-order from partners and carriers on May 30, with a retail release possible as early as June 27.
Software and Ecosystem
Another key distinction between the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G lies in their software and ecosystem offerings. The Pixel Fold is powered by Google’s software, giving users a pure Android experience with real-time updates from Google directly. The Pixel Fold, a Google device, integrates seamlessly with services like Photos and Assistant. It also connects with Drive to provide a cohesive ecosystem experience. This feature benefits individuals heavily reliant on these services as they can now use them in one device.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G runs on Samsung’s customized version of Android called One UI. This software provides a unique user interface and additional features specific to Samsung devices. One UI offers various customization options that cater specifically to Samsung users; in addition, there is a suite of services like Samsung Pay, Health, and Bixby that provide their own ecosystem for users who prefer Samsung products and services.
The choice between the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G in terms of software and ecosystem depends on individual preferences. Some may prefer Google’s services for ease of integration, while others may value additional features and customization possibilities available through Samsung software. It should be noted that both devices offer smooth, optimized user experiences. However, their underlying software and ecosystem will differ based on manufacturer approaches.
©Bhubeth Bhajanavorakul/Shutterstock.com
Chipset and Performance
Google’s Pixel Fold is expected to use their custom-designed Tensor G2 chipset, with details unknown yet. Although specific information on its functions is unavailable, it likely provides a high-performance processor optimized for Google’s software and AI capabilities, ensuring smooth multitasking, gaming, and overall responsiveness.
Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 chipset; this flagship-level processor boasts powerful performance while being energy-efficient and providing exceptional CPU and GPU performance for resource-intensive tasks such as gaming. Furthermore, its AI processing and advanced camera features make it an ideal choice for high-performance smartphones.
Both chipsets can deliver outstanding performance, although an exact comparison between Google’s Tensor G2 and Snapdragon 888 would require real-world testing to gauge performance accurately. Note that Google may add unique AI features tailored specifically for use on Pixel Fold compared with Snapdragon 888, which has proven itself in numerous flagship devices across various vendors.
At the core, choosing between the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G in terms of chipset and performance ultimately comes down to personal choice and specific use cases. Users who prioritize Google’s software integration and AI capabilities may prefer the Pixel Fold and its custom-designed Tensor G2 chipset. In contrast, those who value the established performance track record and versatility of Snapdragon 888 may prefer the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life and charging capabilities are essential for smartphone selection, and the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G vary significantly in these regards.
Reports suggest that the Pixel Fold will have a large battery that can last for three days in low-power mode. However, the details of the battery capacity have not been disclosed yet. Its optimized software and potential power-saving features could contribute to longer-lasting battery life than other smartphones like the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G.
By including such a large capacity battery capacity, the Pixel Fold aims to address one of its primary shortcomings as foldable device users can depend on it throughout their day without frequent recharging needs compared with the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G. Its inclusion will address one of its primary weaknesses compared with foldable devices by providing users with all-day support without frequent recharging needs.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G comes equipped with a relatively smaller 3,300mAh battery compared to some of its flagship competitors. Although this might appear low at first glance, one should take into account how efficiently its Snapdragon 888 chipset and display optimizations function together to provide enough juice to last through one full day of moderate usage without needing a recharge. Heavy users or those engaging in resource-intensive activities may require to recharge before their day ends.
Charging capacities on both devices include fast charging capabilities. Although we have not received any information about the Pixel Fold’s fast charging support, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G supports 15W fast charging and wireless compatibility. These features provide users with convenient cable-free charging options.
Display Size and Form Factor
We expect that the Pixel Fold will offer a larger display for users seeking an immersive viewing experience. According to reports, its 7.69-inch inner display provides enough screen real estate for multimedia consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks. This larger screen enhances the overall user experience when used as a tablet-mode device.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, though smaller than that found on the Google Pixel Fold’s inner display. However, its unique form factor sets this device apart from others in its class. When folded, it becomes more compact for storage purposes and can access its outer display, measuring 1.9 inches for notifications, time-keeping, and basic functions without fully unfolding its device.
The Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G offer unique user experiences thanks to their differing display sizes and form factors, each tailored toward particular preferences. For instance, the larger inner display on the Pixel Fold makes it more suitable for productivity tasks, media consumption, and immersive viewing experiences. On the other hand, its compact form factor and smaller outer display make the Galaxy Z Flip 3 more pocket-friendly and convenient for those seeking portability and quick access to essential information.
Google Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G: 10 Must-Know Facts
- Google’s Pixel Fold is its debut foldable phone and should prove an aggressive competitor against Samsung devices in this space.
- The Pixel Fold is said to feature a shorter design compared to its Galaxy Z Fold 5 counterpart, making it more pocket-friendly and comfortable to hold in your hand.
- Rumors have swirled that the Google Pixel Fold will boast powerful cameras, an enhanced battery, and its own Tensor chip for a truly groundbreaking debut in the foldable phone market.
- The anticipated retail release date for the Google Pixel Fold is set for June 27, with pre-orders starting on May 30.
- Speculations suggest that the Pixel Fold may be named the Pixel Notepad, potentially offering stylus support.
- Leaked renders and a mock model of the Pixel Fold showcase its design, which aligns with previous rumors.
- It has been speculated that the Pixel Fold will sport an impressive 7.69-inch inner display and 5.79-inch outer display when open, and dimensions will reportedly measure 158.7mm depth x 130.7mm width x 5.7mm thickness.
- This device should feature an embedded fingerprint sensor in its power button as well as Face Unlock support.
- The Pixel Fold is anticipated to feature an internal display with a resolution of 2,208 x 1,840p and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing users with a high-quality viewing experience.
- It has also been anticipated that the external display will feature an FHD+ OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and 17:4:9 aspect ratio.
- Dual SIM (single SIM + e-SIM)
- 12GB + 256GB storage
- U.S. warranty
- Obsidian
- Available for pre-order
- Unlocked
- A compact design that folds open
- Fast charging
- You can view notifications and check the weather on the external screen
- Allows you to launch two apps simultaneously
Google Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G: Which One is Better?
The Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G both offer unique features and capabilities in the foldable phone market. Google’s first foldable phone offering promises easier pocket storage thanks to a smaller design, strong cameras, and a larger battery capacity, as well as their innovative Tensor chip technology. Rumors swirling about its specifications, such as the 7.69-inch inner display size (5.79 outer display), durable hinge, and potential stylus support, make this an exciting device.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G, currently the best clamshell foldable available, boasts an elegant design, exceptional performance, and a generous 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate — not quite up to par with flagship smartphones, but offering pocketability and flexibility in user experience.
Decisions between these two options depend primarily on personal preferences and priorities. If software expertise, innovative features, and potential camera capabilities are of particular interest, the Google Pixel Fold may be your top pick. Otherwise, if affordability and tried-and-tested foldable designs are more important to you, then the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G would likely be suitable.
As with any emerging technology, it is important to carefully consider factors like pricing, durability, software support, user reviews, and the like before making a definitive choice. Both the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G represent significant advances in foldable phone technology; both possess strengths that cater to specific user preferences.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Karlis Dambrans/Shutterstock.com.
