The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 has arrived, bringing with it a host of improvements that solidify its position as the best foldable smartphone on the market. With enhanced performance, refined design, and a range of new features, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 aims to impress both tech enthusiasts and mainstream consumers alike.

Enhanced Performance

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is its enhanced performance. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset, the device offers a significant improvement in processing power compared to its predecessor. Benchmark tests reveal a 10% increase in multi-core processing performance, resulting in faster app loading times and seamless multitasking capabilities. Whether you’re running resource-intensive applications or engaging in graphically demanding mobile gaming, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 delivers an exceptional user experience.

Refined Design and Display

In terms of design, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 maintains the familiar foldable form factor of its predecessors. However, Samsung has made subtle refinements to enhance the device’s aesthetics and usability. The “Armour Aluminium” frame offers durability and a premium feel, while a slimmer hinge and narrower cover screen bezels contribute to a more streamlined and elegant appearance. The device is also IPX8 certified, making it waterproof and providing added peace of mind for users.

The Galaxy Z Fold 4 features a dual-display system, with a 6.2-inch cover display and a larger 7.6-inch inner display. Both displays offer a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, resulting in fluid scrolling and seamless animations. The inner display boasts improved color accuracy and brightness, making it ideal for media consumption and productivity tasks. However, the vertical crease in the middle of the foldable display is still noticeable, and there are concerns about long-term durability.

Camera Capabilities

Samsung has equipped the Galaxy Z Fold 4 with a camera system comparable to its flagship Galaxy S22 series. The device features a 50MP main sensor, a 10MP 3x telephoto lens, and a 12MP 123-degree ultrawide lens. The image quality is exceptional, with vibrant colors, excellent detail capture, and enhanced low-light performance. The device supports up to 8K video recording and offers a range of creative shooting modes and features.

However, the under-screen selfie camera remains a weak point. While it provides a more seamless and immersive display experience, the image quality is compromised compared to traditional front-facing cameras. Portrait selfies lack definition, and there is a noticeable bloom in the background. Users who prioritize high-quality selfies may find this aspect disappointing.

Value and Competition

The Galaxy Z Fold 4 comes with a higher price tag compared to its predecessor, starting at £1,649 for the 256GB model. While the increased price may deter some potential buyers, it is important to consider the unique value proposition of a foldable smartphone. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 offers a truly innovative and versatile device that combines the functionality of a smartphone and a tablet in one package.

When comparing to other foldable options, such as the Huawei Mate Xs 2, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 stands out with its superior design, performance, and access to Google’s core suite of applications. In the non-folding smartphone segment, competitors like the iPhone 13 Pro Max and Sony Xperia 1 IV offer comparable high-end features but at similar or higher price points.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in the foldable smartphone market. With its enhanced performance, refined design, and impressive camera capabilities, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 sets a new benchmark for foldable devices. While the higher price and durability concerns of the flexible display and under-screen selfie camera may be drawbacks for some, the overall experience and versatility offered by the Galaxy Z Fold 4 make it the best foldable smartphone available.