Best Foldable Phones

Picture this: you're reviewing a complex spreadsheet during your commute, then seamlessly switch to watching videos during lunch, all without carrying multiple devices. That transformation happened for me last year when foldable technology finally clicked. What started as curiosity about these bendable screens evolved into genuine appreciation for how they solve real problems.

The foldable smartphone landscape has matured beyond early adoption phases into reliable everyday companions. Modern devices deliver desktop-class multitasking, cinema-worthy displays, and flagship cameras within form factors that seemed impossible just years ago. This guide examines the best folding phones available, focusing on how each device handles real-world scenarios and which compromises matter for different users.

If you're in a hurry, here are my top two recs for foldable smartphones:

Table of Contents:

• Best Foldable Phones: Buying Guide
• Top 5 Foldable Phones in 2025
• Best Foldable Smartphones: Comparison
• Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
• Motorola Razr Ultra 2025
• OnePlus Open
• Motorola Razr 2025
• Foldable Phones: FAQ

Best Foldable Phones: Buying Guide

Shopping for a foldable phone requires different considerations than picking up a traditional smartphone. After testing multiple devices and living with them through real-world scenarios, I've identified the factors that actually matter when you're spending premium money on folding technology.

Form Factor: Book-Style vs Clamshell Design

The first decision shapes everything else: do you want a phone that unfolds into a tablet, or one that folds in half to become incredibly compact? Book-style devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series offer massive screens perfect for productivity and media consumption. They transform your phone into a legitimate work device when you need multiple apps running simultaneously.

Clamshell designs prioritize pocketability and style. When folded, they're remarkably compact. When opened, you get a standard smartphone experience. The choice depends on your priorities: productivity versus portability, multitasking versus minimalism.

Durability and Hinge Engineering

The hinge represents the most critical component of any foldable device. After seven generations, manufacturers have refined these mechanisms significantly. Modern hinges incorporate titanium reinforcement, multiple rail structures, and water droplet designs that reduce creasing while maintaining smooth operation through hundreds of thousands of folds.

Look for devices rated to handle at least 200,000 folds, which translates to roughly 5-7 years of typical usage before mechanical wear becomes noticeable.

Water resistance has become increasingly important. While early foldables avoided water entirely, current models achieve IP48 or even IP68 ratings. The latter represents a breakthrough for foldables, offering the same dust and water protection as traditional flagships. This peace of mind matters when you're carrying a device that costs as much as a decent laptop.

Display Quality and Crease Visibility

Every foldable phone has a crease where the screen bends. That's physics, not a defect. However, engineering improvements have made these creases less prominent. Some manufacturers use ultra-thin glass with multiple protective layers, while others employ advanced hinge mechanisms that create gentler curves.

Screen brightness matters more on foldables because you're often viewing content in varied lighting conditions. Peak brightness ratings around 3,000 nits ensure readability outdoors, while LTPO technology enables adaptive refresh rates that balance smoothness with battery efficiency. The best displays support HDR content and maintain color accuracy across different viewing angles.

Performance and Battery Considerations

Running two displays demands serious processing power. Flagship foldables employ the latest Snapdragon or Tensor processors paired with generous RAM allocations. This combination ensures smooth multitasking even when you're running three apps simultaneously on the unfolded display.

Flip phones 2025 models excel at portability, fitting into pockets that wouldn't accommodate traditional smartphones while maintaining full functionality.

Battery capacity directly impacts daily usability. Book-style foldables typically pack 4,800-5,000+ mAh batteries, while flip phones work with slightly smaller capacities due to size constraints. Fast charging has become standard, with some devices hitting 68W wired speeds. Wireless charging support adds convenience, particularly with the new Qi2 standard bringing magnetic alignment similar to MagSafe.

Camera Systems and Photography

Foldable phones have historically compromised on cameras to accommodate their unique form factors. Recent models challenge that narrative. The best devices now feature flagship-grade camera systems with multiple lenses, advanced computational photography, and the unique ability to use main cameras for selfies thanks to the cover display or folded form factor.

High-resolution sensors (50MP or 200MP), optical image stabilization, and telephoto lenses have migrated from traditional flagships to foldables. AI-powered features like night mode, portrait enhancement, and video stabilization ensure your photos look professional regardless of shooting conditions.

Top 5 Foldable Phones Reshaping Mobile Experience in 2025

After extensive hands-on testing and daily driving these devices, I've selected the five foldable phones that deliver the most compelling combination of innovation, reliability, and value. These represent the cutting edge of what folding technology can achieve.

Best Foldable Smartphones: Comparison

To help you quickly assess the technical differences between these top-tier foldables, here's a detailed comparison table:

Each device brings distinct strengths to different use cases, from Google's AI integration to Samsung's refined ecosystem and Motorola's charging speeds.

Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold Review

Editor's Choice

The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold represents a watershed moment for foldable technology. Google achieved what seemed impossible: the first foldable with full IP68 water and dust resistance. The waterproofing transforms how you interact with the device, eliminating anxiety near pools or during unexpected rain showers.

The gearless hinge design eliminates traditional gear mechanisms, reducing complexity while improving durability. Google engineered this system to handle over 10 years of daily folding, backed by aerospace-grade aluminum construction. The hinge's smooth action requires minimal force to open yet holds firmly at any angle, perfect for hands-free video calls or taking photos at unusual perspectives.

Both displays impress with 3,000-nit peak brightness and 120Hz adaptive refresh rates. The 8-inch internal Super Actua Flex Display handles HDR content beautifully, while the 6.4-inch Actua cover screen functions as a fully capable daily driver. Google widened the cover display slightly from previous generations, making it less cramped for typing and scrolling.

Tensor G5 brings Google's AI expertise directly into the hardware. Magic Cue anticipates your needs by surfacing relevant information during calls or messages. Camera Coach provides real-time guidance for better photography, while Instant View mode splits the unfolded screen between live viewfinder and recent photos for quick comparisons. These features feel genuinely useful rather than gimmicky.

The camera system received meaningful upgrades despite similar specifications. The 48MP main sensor benefits from improved processing, while the 5x telephoto and ultrawide lenses handle most shooting scenarios. Pro Level Zoom leverages AI to extend usable magnification up to 100x, though practical results remain best at lower magnifications. The identical 10MP cameras on both displays enable quality selfies regardless of which screen you're using.

Pixelsnap support (Google's Qi2 implementation) adds magnetic accessory compatibility. This addition opens up an ecosystem of chargers, wallets, and mounts that attach securely without cases. The 15-meter waterproofing depth exceeds most users' needs, enabling snorkeling documentation without additional housings. I found the waterproofing particularly liberating during a beach trip where I could capture photos without worrying about splashes or sand.

Summary: The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold sets a new standard for what foldables should achieve. Its combination of true waterproofing, intelligent AI features, and Google's signature camera processing creates the most refined foldable experience available. The engineering advances solve real-world foldable pain points that have plagued earlier generations.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Review

Best Overall

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 dramatically reimagines what a foldable flagship should be. After years of incremental updates, Samsung delivered the transformation everyone wanted: a device that feels like a normal phone when folded yet provides tablet capabilities when opened. At just 8.9mm folded and weighing only 215 grams, it's lighter than many traditional flagships despite housing two complete displays.

The thinness achievement represents serious engineering. Samsung reduced thickness by 26% compared to the Z Fold 6 while maintaining structural integrity through Advanced Armor Aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2. The latter provides 10X better drop performance than previous glass implementations, addressing durability concerns that have historically plagued foldables.

Samsung's first 200MP camera on a foldable changes the photography equation. Paired with the AI-powered ProVisual Engine, this sensor captures four times more detail than the previous 50MP system. The results show in challenging scenarios: low-light shots maintain clarity, while distant subjects remain recognizable even at moderate zoom levels. The wider 100-degree field of view on the front camera finally makes group selfies practical.

One UI 8 debuts on the Z Fold 7, bringing Samsung's new multimodal AI experience. Gemini Live integration enables real-time screen sharing with contextual AI assistance. The practical application impressed me: displaying furniture on one side of the Multi-Window interface while asking Gemini about color matching for the room shown on the other side. The AI analyzes both screens simultaneously, providing genuinely helpful suggestions.

The Armor FlexHinge represents Samsung's seventh-generation folding mechanism. Its multi-rail structure distributes stress evenly, reducing crease visibility while improving long-term durability. The hinge feels substantial without being stiff, requiring just enough pressure to confirm intentional opening. Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the cover display provides durability previously unavailable on foldables. After testing multiple foldables, I appreciate how Samsung's thinness achievement makes this feel like carrying a regular phone rather than a specialized device.

Battery life meets expectations for a device this thin. The 4,600 mAh capacity provides full-day usage across typical scenarios, though heavy multitasking drains reserves faster than traditional phones. Charging remains conservative at 25W wired and 15W wireless, requiring patience compared to competitors. Samsung's focus on thinness apparently left no room for faster charging hardware.

Summary: Samsung achieved foldable nirvana with the Galaxy Z Fold 7. The dramatic weight and thickness reductions eliminate the last major objections to carrying a book-style foldable. Combined with the 200MP camera upgrade and sophisticated AI features, this represents the most complete foldable package available for those seeking flagship performance.

Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 Review

Bestseller

The Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 makes a bold statement: flip phones can match traditional flagships in every meaningful way. Powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite with 16GB RAM, this clamshell delivers performance that embarrasses many non-folding phones. The combination handles demanding games smoothly while managing thermal performance impressively for such a compact device.

The 7-inch main display extends the usable area compared to previous Razr models, creating a more immersive experience when unfolded. The 165Hz refresh rate represents the highest among current foldables, delivering buttery-smooth scrolling and responsive touch input. Pantone validation ensures color accuracy across the display, something photographers and content creators genuinely appreciate.

Motorola's camera philosophy prioritizes versatility over megapixel counts. The dual 50MP setup pairs a main sensor with an ultrawide that doubles as a macro lens. This configuration proves more practical than telephoto-focused systems for vlogging and close-up photography. The 4x light sensitivity improvement transforms low-light photography, capturing clean shots in conditions that would challenge traditional phone cameras.

The 4.0-inch cover display spans the entire top half when folded, creating the largest external screen on any flip phone. This real estate enables genuine productivity without unfolding. I regularly respond to messages, check weather, and control music playback exclusively on the cover display. The integration feels natural rather than cramped, with intelligent app scaling that maintains usability.

Charging speeds set records for the category: 68W TurboPower delivers power for the day in just 8 minutes. This capability changes how you think about battery management. Quick bathroom stops or coffee runs provide enough charge to eliminate range anxiety. The 4,700 mAh battery itself provides solid all-day performance, typically reaching bedtime with 30% remaining under moderate usage. The charging capability changed how I think about battery management, turning brief stops into meaningful charging opportunities.

Moto AI features include contextual assistance that learns usage patterns. The system surfaces relevant information proactively rather than requiring constant queries. Style customization extends to camera processing, with Signature Style adapting to your preferences across different scene types. These touches demonstrate Motorola's attention to personalization.

Summary: The Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 proves clamshell foldables belong in flagship conversations. Its combination of cutting-edge performance, practical camera system, and the fastest charging speeds available creates a compelling package for anyone prioritizing portability without sacrificing capability. The device delivers genuine flagship components rather than compromised foldable specifications.

OnePlus Open Review

People's Choice

The OnePlus Open nailed foldable design on the first attempt, creating a device that feels perfectly proportioned both folded and unfolded. At 73.3mm wide when closed, it matches traditional smartphone ergonomics rather than feeling awkwardly narrow like some book-style competitors. This small detail transforms daily usability, making the cover display genuinely practical rather than merely adequate.

The 7.82-inch internal display provides the largest viewing area among current foldables. OnePlus achieved this through minimal bezels and intelligent hinge engineering that maximizes usable space. The crease remains remarkably subtle, both visually and tactilely. The display snaps open smoothly without requiring the awkward second push some competitors demand, inspiring confidence rather than concern about potential damage.

Hasselblad partnership elevates the camera system beyond typical foldable compromises. The triple camera setup delivers flagship-grade photography: a 48MP main sensor, 48MP ultrawide, and 64MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. This configuration handles diverse shooting scenarios without obvious weaknesses. The massive camera bump houses premium optics that produce images rivaling dedicated camera phones.

Open Canvas represents OnePlus' interpretation of foldable multitasking. The system enables three apps simultaneously: two displayed side by side with a third accessible via edge gesture. This approach feels more intuitive than traditional split-screen interfaces, creating a fluid workspace that adapts to your workflow rather than forcing rigid layouts.

At 239-245 grams depending on finish, the Open weighs similarly to the iPhone 14 Pro Max despite housing dual displays and a larger battery. This achievement required careful material selection, including a cobalt molybdenum alloy hinge that provides strength without excess weight. The 4,805 mAh battery combines two cells for optimal space utilization, enabling all-day usage despite the power-hungry dual display configuration.

The 67W SUPERVOOC charging delivers full charges in approximately 40 minutes, though wireless charging remains absent. This omission may disappoint some users, though the fast wired charging somewhat compensates. Four OS updates and five years of security patches provide reasonable longevity, though falling short of Samsung and Google's seven-year commitments.

Summary: The OnePlus Open delivers the most balanced foldable experience available, particularly considering its frequent discount availability. While it sacrifices some durability features and update longevity, the superior ergonomics, excellent camera system, and thoughtful software implementation create a device that feels polished and complete. For users prioritizing daily usability over maximum durability ratings, this represents exceptional value.

Motorola Razr 2025 Review

Best Budget

The Motorola Razr 2025 proves that foldable technology need not require flagship pricing. At an accessible price point, this clamshell delivers the essential foldable experience while making strategic compromises that keep costs manageable. The MediaTek Dimensity 7400X processor handles daily tasks smoothly, though intensive gaming or heavy multitasking reveals performance limitations compared to flagship silicon.

The 6.9-inch main display provides ample space for media consumption and general productivity. While the 120Hz refresh rate trails the Ultra's 165Hz, real-world smoothness remains satisfactory for typical usage. Pantone color validation ensures accurate hues across the panel, maintaining visual quality despite the budget positioning. The 3,000-nit peak brightness handles outdoor visibility effectively.

Camera expectations require adjustment at this price point. The 50MP main sensor captures respectable photos in good lighting, with Pantone-validated color reproduction that creates vibrant, shareable images. Low-light performance and fast-moving subject tracking fall behind premium competitors, though the results remain usable for social media and casual photography. The 13MP ultrawide handles group shots and landscapes adequately.

The 3.6-inch cover display, while smaller than the Ultra's 4.0-inch panel, maintains excellent functionality. Motorola's software enables running most apps directly on the external screen, reducing the need to unfold for quick tasks. This practical approach to cover display usage demonstrates that size isn't everything when software optimization compensates effectively.

Battery performance impresses given the dual-display configuration and budget positioning. The 4,500 mAh capacity typically lasts through full days of moderate usage, reaching bedtime with comfortable reserves remaining. The 30W TurboPower charging, while slower than the Ultra's 68W, still provides useful top-ups during brief charging sessions. Fifteen-minute charges deliver enough power to eliminate anxiety about running dry.

Moto AI features carry over from premium siblings, providing contextual assistance and camera enhancements typically reserved for flagship devices. The Photo Enhancement Engine sometimes over-processes images, but manual controls allow bypassing AI intervention when desired. Gemini integration adds voice assistant capabilities familiar to Android users.

Summary: The Motorola Razr 2025 democratizes foldable technology, delivering the core flip phone experience at an accessible price point. While performance and camera quality make clear compromises, the essential foldable benefits remain intact. For budget-conscious buyers curious about folding phones or anyone wanting a compact device without flagship investment, this represents an excellent entry point.

Foldable Phones: Your Questions Answered

After helping numerous people navigate their first foldable purchase and living with these devices daily, certain questions emerge consistently. Here are the answers that matter most.

Are foldable phones durable enough for daily use?

Current hinges handle 200,000+ folds (roughly 7-10 years of typical usage), while screen protectors and reinforced glass reduce damage risks. Water resistance has progressed from nonexistent to IP68 ratings on premium models. That said, foldables remain more delicate than traditional phones. Avoid excessive pressure on folded displays, and consider the replaceable lens guards many manufacturers now offer.

How noticeable is the screen crease?

Every foldable has a crease where the display bends. Visibility depends on viewing angle and content displayed. Under direct overhead lighting or on solid color backgrounds, creases appear more prominent. During actual usage while watching videos or browsing, your brain filters out the crease remarkably well. After a few days of use, most people stop noticing entirely. Touch sensitivity remains consistent across the fold line on quality devices.

Do foldable phones fit in normal pockets?

Clamshell designs excel at pocket portability, folding to approximately half the size of traditional smartphones. Book-style foldables when folded resemble thick traditional phones and fit standard pockets, though they create more noticeable bulk. Women's clothing with smaller pockets may find book-style devices challenging. The thickness (typically 8-12mm when folded) matters more than length or width for pocket comfort.

Is the battery life sufficient for dual displays?

Battery capacities range from 4,500-5,000+ mAh across current foldables, providing full-day usage under typical conditions. Heavy multitasking on unfolded displays drains power faster than traditional phone usage. Fast charging (25-68W) compensates for smaller capacities relative to battery-focused traditional phones. Most users reach evening with 20-40% remaining under moderate mixed usage of both displays.

Can I use a foldable phone with one hand?

Cover displays on book-style foldables enable one-handed operation for common tasks like checking notifications, responding to messages, and quick app usage. The unfolded tablet experience requires two hands for practical control. Clamshell designs when unfolded function like traditional smartphones, supporting one-handed use depending on hand size and device dimensions. Cover displays on flip phones vary in one-handed usability based on size.

Are foldable phones worth the investment?

Value depends on how you use your devices. If you regularly carry both a phone and tablet, consolidating into one foldable justifies the cost through eliminated redundancy. Professionals who multitask extensively benefit from book-style displays. Budget options reduce entry barriers significantly. However, if your phone usage remains primarily single-app focused, traditional flagships provide better value. Consider your actual workflow before committing to foldable technology.

Making Your Foldable Phone Decision

The foldable smartphone category has matured from experimental novelty to legitimate daily driver territory. These devices solve real problems: providing tablet-sized screens without carrying extra devices, enabling serious multitasking on mobile, and offering unmatched compactness in flip form factors.

For book-style supremacy, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 combines remarkable thinness with the 200MP camera upgrade and refined One UI experience. Those prioritizing Google's AI integration and industry-leading waterproofing should consider the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Value seekers find exceptional balance in the OnePlus Open, particularly when discounted.

Flip phone enthusiasts face a choice between flagship performance with the Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 or budget-friendly practicality through the standard Motorola Razr 2025. Both deliver the essential clamshell experience at dramatically different price points.

After months of testing these devices, I've found that the transition to foldable technology requires adjustment but ultimately changes how you interact with mobile computing. Most users find traditional phones feel limiting after experiencing the flexibility foldables provide. Welcome to the future of mobile devices, where your screen adapts to your needs rather than forcing compromise.