Google’s Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G foldable smartphones feature cutting-edge features and beautiful designs. While Samsung has already released its foldable phone onto the market, Google plans to unveil its smartphone in June 2023.
Both devices feature trailblazing technologies, including foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with high refresh rates and advanced camera systems. However, their designs and features differ considerably. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G stands out with an Armor aluminum frame designed for tougher drop and scratch resistance, stylus support, and UWB compatibility.
The Pixel Fold will offer an innovative solution to avoid notches on its display, a strong hinge, and a battery that lasts three days in low power mode. This article compares these devices in detail so you can choose which device best meets your needs.
Google’s Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: Side-By-Side Comparison
| Feature | Google’s Pixel Fold | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | June 2023 | Available |
| Network | 5G | GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, LTE, 5G |
| Display | 7.6-inch foldable OLED internal, 5.8-inch OLED external | 7.6-inch foldable dynamic AMOLED 2X; 6.2-inch dynamic AMOLED 2X cover |
| Dimensions | 158.7 x 139.7 x 5.7mm unfolded, 139.7 x 78.74 x 12.7mm folded | 158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4mm unfolded 158.2 x 67.1 x 14.4-16mm folded |
| Weight | 10 ounces | 9.56 oz |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Chipset | Tensor G2 | Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G |
| CPU/GPU | Eight-core Tensor G2; Mali-G78 | Octa-core (Cortex-X1, Cortex-A78, Cortex-A55); Adreno 660 |
| RAM/Storage | 12GB; 128GB, 256GB | 12GB; 256GB, 512GB |
| Cameras | 48MP main, 10.8MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto with 5x zoom, 9.5MP outer/8MP inner selfie | Triple 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide, 4MP under/10MP cover selfie |
- Big, beautiful clear display
- Open multiple windows at once
- Built-in 5G connectivity for blazing speed
- 25W superfast charging
Google’s Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: What’s the Difference?
Samsung currently leads in foldable smartphones, but Google may pose serious competition by unveiling their Pixel Fold. While Samsung’s foldable features a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Google’s Pixel Fold reportedly boasts an interior OLED display and an external 5.8-inch OLED screen. Here are the differences between them both.
Form Factor and Display Design
The expected feature of the Google Pixel Fold is an inward folding design that will have one large foldable display. Users will be able to fold the phone inwards for easier use without having to repeatedly open and shut it. Rumor has it that its display may measure 7.6 inches OLED with 2208 x 1840 pixels and 120Hz, but could fold smaller when needed. Though its exact folding mechanism remains unknown, many expect a clamshell design similar to Samsung Galaxy Z Flip as its folding mechanism. It has an outer display boasting a 5.8-inch FHD+ and 120Hz, making the Pixel Fold even simpler to use all day without opening and shutting it every time.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G features an inward folding design with two displays — one on the outside and one inside — to accommodate its dual display technology. When unfolded, this phone offers a large 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 2208 x 1768 pixels resolution, 120Hz, HDR10+, and 1200 nits peak. When you fold it, it transforms into a smaller 6.2-inch cover display that allows you to check notifications, make calls, or take selfies quickly. The cover display features an 832×2268 resolution, 120Hz, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. This makes it ideal for quick tasks like checking notifications while making calls or taking selfies. Samsung’s display design has proven popular with customers worldwide.
Display technology-wise, both phones utilize OLED panels and offer a high refresh rate of 120Hz for smooth scrolling and gaming experiences. While the Pixel Fold’s resolution remains unknown at present, it’s expected to match that of Samsung.
Cameras
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G features an impressive triple camera setup consisting of a 12-megapixel main camera, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and a 2-x optical zoom telephoto camera. Each is capable of producing accurate color images under various lighting conditions. In addition, a 4-megapixel under-display selfie camera blends seamlessly into its display for taking selfies seamlessly.
Google plans to equip the Pixel Fold with a 48-megapixel primary camera, a 10.8-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 10.8-megapixel telephoto lens that offers five times optical zoom using its 5x zoom telephoto lens. Additionally, it will include an 8-megapixel under-display selfie camera, which surpasses the cameras on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G. However, its exact capabilities remain unknown at this time.
Software and User Experience
The Pixel Fold is expected to run Android, Google’s popular mobile operating system. It may come equipped with Android 13 or even later software, as Google tends to release flagship devices with cutting-edge software. The Pixel Fold is expected to offer an intuitive user interface without heavy manufacturer skins or additional bloatware because of its stock Android experience. Users can expect to take advantage of Google’s ecosystem integration, including seamless connectivity to services like Assistant, Photos, and Drive. Also, regular software updates should ensure users can take advantage of all the latest features and security patches.
On the other hand, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G operates under One UI’s feature-rich interface and a wide array of customization options. Therefore, earning its place among many Android skins. One UI offers unique features and enhancements designed specifically for Samsung devices. This includes multi-window support for improved multitasking, Edge Panel for quick access to frequently used apps, and Samsung DeX for a desktop-like experience connected to external displays. Samsung provides regular software updates depending on your region and carrier. Bixby integration, for instance, may also come into play here. Samsung regularly releases software upgrades as well.
User experience-wise, Google Pixel Fold will likely offer a sleeker and simpler approach than its predecessors by prioritizing ease of use and efficient navigation. Expectedly, its interface will feature a clean design for optimal usability.
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G features Samsung’s One UI for an interactive experience packed with customization options and multitasking abilities. Thus providing users with a personalized user experience. Users can fine-tune various aspects of its performance and appearance according to personal preference. Multi-window support and other productivity features help power users take full advantage of the multitasking abilities of this versatile device.
Price and Availability
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G was unveiled on August 20, 2021, and is currently available to buy. This foldable smartphone offers different storage configurations, with the base model providing 256GB of internal storage and 12GB of RAM. Pricing began at $1,799, making it one of the premium offerings within this space when it was released. It is currently available for less from various retailers and carriers around the globe.
As of now, Google has not yet officially released the Google Pixel Fold. It is expected to release in June with pre-orders being accepted for it as early as May 2023. Pricing reports place its starting price for 256GB models at around $1,799. This puts it directly in competition with Galaxy Z Fold 5G smartphones in terms of pricing.
Note that pricing and availability information presented here is subject to change at any time. For accurate, up-to-date data, it is wise to contact official sources or retailers for confirmation of pricing and availability information.
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Processing Power and Performance
Both devices use distinct hardware configurations that yield various performance levels regarding processing power and performance. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 5G chipset, developed in a 5-nanometer manufacturing process. This flagship-level processor boasts excellent overall performance. Specifically, its eight cores clocked at 2.84GHz include one powerful Cortex-X1 core running at 2.84 GHz. Three Cortex A78 cores run at 2.42 GHz. In comparison, four energy-efficient Cortex-A55 cores can operate at 1.80 GHz respectively, coupled with Adreno 660 GPU for impressive graphics rendering capabilities. At the same time, 12GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance across the board.
At this time, no definitive details on the Google Pixel Fold’s chipset have been released. However, given Google’s history with Pixel smartphones, it will likely feature Tensor, a custom-designed chipset first seen on Pixel 6 series smartphones that promises powerful performance and advanced AI features. Though its configuration details remain unknown, it is expected to provide competitive offerings regarding performance.
Both devices should provide users with smooth and responsive user experiences, thanks to powerful processors and ample RAM found on each. Both will easily handle demanding tasks like gaming, multitasking, media consumption, and multi-device usage without issue. However, benchmark tests or real-world performance comparisons will be needed in order to establish any differences in processing power or performance between the two.
S-Pen and Stylus Support
One distinguishing characteristic between the Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G devices is their stylus support, such as S-Pens, with stylus support being one of their major draws. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G offers full stylus support, allowing users to take full advantage of the S-Pen, previously exclusive to Galaxy Note series devices. The S-Pen is an invaluable productivity and creativity enhancer, providing precise input and drawing on its large foldable display for note taking, drawing, editing, navigation, or simply taking notes. A dedicated slot within the device houses and charges the S-Pen, so it will always be available when needed.
Despite speculation that the Google Pixel Fold will support styluses similar to those available with Galaxy Z Fold3 5G phones, officials have not yet confirmed whether stylus support will be provided. Although some rumors suggest the possibility, we currently do not have concrete details about any stylus support for the new smartphone. We do not have any potential accompanying stylus accessory introduced by Google for previous Pixel models either. Thus, it remains unknown whether Pixel Fold will offer stylus support or introduce its own accessory in due course.
Stylus support can be an essential asset to those who rely on their device for notetaking, drawing, or other creative projects. The inclusion of S-Pen support in the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G provides users with more freedom and productivity options, while lacking stylus support may hinder its overall capabilities. Pixel Fold may excel in other areas like software integration or camera performance instead.
Software and Operating System
Another major distinction between Google’s Pixel Fold and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold3 5G lies in their software and operating systems. Google’s Pixel Fold runs on Android 12, expected to be released to coincide with the release of the Pixel Fold. On the other hand, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold3 5G uses One UI 3.5, which is based on Android 11.
Google’s Android OS is known for its intuitive, user-friendly design and seamless integration with services such as Google Assistant, Maps, and Photos. Pixel Fold users can expect all the latest features and updates as they become available. Additionally, it may boast exclusive software features from Google, such as Duplex technology for calling out on users’ behalf and setting appointments on their behalf.
In contrast, Samsung’s One UI is known for its feature-rich user experience that provides numerous customization options. Additionally, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G comes equipped with Samsung Notes app, which allows users to take notes with an S Pen stylus. However, as One UI is a heavily modified version of Android OS, updates and security patches can take more time for Samsung devices than their counterparts to receive.
Google’s Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: 10 Must-Know Facts
- Samsung introduced its Galaxy Z Fold3 5G on August 11, 2021, and released it for sale on August 27, 2021.
- The Z Fold3 features a 7.6-inch foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a cover display size of 6.2 inches.
- The Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G chipset powers the Z Fold3, with 12GB of RAM and the option for either 256GB or 512GB internal storage space.
- Z Fold3 comes equipped with three rear camera lenses: 12MP wide-angle, 12MP telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide lenses. It will also have a 4MP under-display selfie camera for selfie-lovers.
- The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G supports stylus input and boasts a side-mounted fingerprint scanner.
- Z Fold3 features an IPX8 rating for water resistance, with an aluminum frame featuring Gorilla Glass Victus protection.
- The Z Fold3 features a 4400mAh battery and supports 25W wired, 11W wireless, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
- Google Pixel Fold is expected to be unveiled and go on sale between June and July 2023. Pre-orders are expected to commence around May 10, 2023.
- The expected prices of the Pixel Fold are $1,799 for the 256GB model and $1,919 for the 512GB model.
- Some speculation is that the Google Pixel Fold may be known as the Pixel Notepad. However, an official name has yet to be confirmed.
Google’s Pixel Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Use?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Google Pixel Fold are two foldable smartphones with distinct features and specifications, but the Pixel Fold has yet to be released to the market. Their designs differ substantially. Samsung has already released its Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G, which features an Armor aluminum frame that offers tough scratch resistance. Experts expect that Google will develop a device that features an in-bezel camera and a shorter/wider outside display. They anticipate that it will include one of the strongest hinges among all foldable phones ever created by any company.
Display-wise, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G boasts a foldable dynamic AMOLED 2X display. People anticipate that the Google Pixel Fold will have an interior OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and average brightness levels of 800nits, as well as an exterior 5.8″ OLED display that is expected to support a 120Hz refresh rate.
Regarding performance, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 5G processor and features 12GB RAM. Meanwhile, Google Pixel Fold is expected to utilize its Tensor G2 processor. This also powers their Pixel 7 devices and 12GB DDR5 RAM memory.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Google Pixel Fold are outstanding options for those searching for a foldable smartphone. However, only the Samsung phone is currently available, and buyers should keep in mind it is not the most recent Z Fold model. The Z Fold4 was released in 2022 and the Z Fold5 is speculated to be released in July or August of 2023. Buyers should carefully consider what features matter to them before making their decision to buy either foldable phone.
- SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G Cell Phone
- Big, beautiful clear display
- Open multiple windows at once
- Built-in 5G connectivity for blazing speed
- 25W superfast charging
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