Google has finally acknowledged the existence of the Pixel Fold, its first foray into the foldable phone market. With the reveal generating major buzz, how does this highly-anticipated device stack up against Microsoft‘s Surface Duo from 2020? Let‘s dive into a detailed side-by-side comparison.
Foldable Phone Frenzy
Foldable smartphones represent an exciting leap forward in mobile technology. With their flexible displays, these devices can transform from phones to mini tablets, expanding your screen real estate for work and play.
Major brands like Samsung and Motorola already have popular foldable lines. Now with the Pixel Fold, Google aims to compete using its premium hardware and software capabilities.
Meanwhile, the Surface Duo took Microsoft‘s prestigious Surface line into a foldable dual-screen direction back in 2020. However, middling reviews found too many compromises in its attempt to be ultra-thin.
Still, with a tablet-style design and innovations like app continuity between displays, the Duo laid ambitious groundwork. So how might its 2023 rival, the Pixel Fold, compare? Let‘s break it down piece by piece.
Pixel Fold vs. Surface Duo: Key Specs
Dimensions and Form Factor
Folded up, the Pixel Fold measures a pocketable 139.7 x 79.5 x 12.1mm, then expands to a wider 158.7 x 139.7 x 5.8mm open. That‘s slightly bigger but thinner than Samsung‘s latest Galaxy Z Fold models.
The Surface Duo is even more slender at unfolded 186.9 x 145.2 x 4.8mm and folded 145.2 x 93.3 x 9.9mm. However, its book-like form houses two distinct 5.6 inch screens rather than one flexible display.
Screen Size and Display Tech
Speaking of displays, the Pixel Fold centers on a folding 7.69 inch OLED with crisp 2208 x 1840 resolution and slick 120Hz refresh rate. A secondary 5.78 inch OLED tops the cover.
Each Surface Duo AMOLED screen offers 1800 x 2700 pixels on 5.6 inches with Gorilla Glass protection, adding up to an 8.1 inch viewable area at matched 60Hz rates.
Performance Hardware
Google brandishes its next-gen Tensor G2 processor to power the Pixel Fold, plus 12GB of speedy LPDDR5 RAM. Storage starts at 256GB.
The Surface Duo came equipped with 2019‘s Snapdragon 855 chip and 6GB RAM, though still responsive. It launched with 128GB base storage.
photography and Video Recording
The Pixel Fold looks set to continue Google‘s photographic pedigree with rear cameras consisting of 48MP main, 10.8MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom and 10.8MP ultrawide lenses. Its front camera will offer 9.5 megapixels.
Microsoft‘s Surface Duo shocked many by arriving with just a single 11MP f/2.0 aperture camera above one display. This means no rear or zoom options, let alone 4K video.
Battery Size and Charging
One concern for foldables is battery drain from power-hungry screens. The Pixel Fold packs a respectable 4821mAh cell with 30W USB-C charging while its smaller screens mean less draw.
Each 5.6 inch AMOLED in the Surface Duo relies on an integrated 1825mAh battery for a total 3577mAh, though rated for just 10 hours video playback. 18W charging seems dated now.
Software and Features
Running Android 13 out the gate with 3 years of updates, Pixel Fold buyers can expect Google‘s latest AI and customization capabilities. Seamless transitions between cover and inner screens represent another perk.
Microsoft‘s Surface Duo launched with Android 10 and so far only supports an upgrade path to Android 11. But dual screen continuity for apps like Office still appeals, as do Surface Pen capabilities.
Design and Ergonomics
In terms of build, Google opts for a polished aluminum frame on the Pixel Fold with Gorilla Glass Victus guarding its cover display. A seamless hinge allows free motion between positions.
The Surface Duo features similar premium construction with Gorilla Glass 5 on both sides as well as a grippy polymer frame. Its unique hinge feels almost like two separate mini tablets joined together.
At folded measurements of 79.5mm, the Pixel Fold should fit most pockets without issue and unfurl for enhanced productivity. Its curved edges and metal body promise easy handling during use.
By contrast, Surface Duo‘s 4.8mm thinness when unfolded comes at the cost of camera hardware. And dimensions exceeding 145mm folded could bulge from some pants. Still, its super portable frames do allow comfortable one-handed reading.
Both brands claim extensive testing for hundreds of thousands of folds without failure. And with IPX water resistance, Pixel Fold buyers need not worry as much about exposing its seam. The Surface Duo carries no rating though and likely remains more vulnerable.
Displays and Visuals
That 7.69 inch flexible OLED display on the Pixel Fold with Samsung panel tech should really shine, building on improvements seen in phones like the Pixel 7 Pro. Images and video will share crisp detail.
By adopting two separate AMOLED screens, the Surface Duo benefits from slimmer construction but increases the central bezel area substantially. Content flows more naturally on the Pixel Fold as a result.
The buttery smooth 120Hz rate likely gives the Pixel Fold another advantage for scrolling feeds or gameplay. Yet both achieve exceptional touch sensitivity for styluses via their capacitive designs, capable of recognizing pressure and tilt.
It will be exciting to see how Google leverages its folding interface for unique experiences, like using the cover screen as a controller. Microsoft‘s Continuous Design concept focused mainly on easier workflow.
Cameras
Optics represent an obvious Pixel Fold victory, possessing the same Sony IMX sensor found in Google‘s Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. So expectations are high for photographic excellence across standard, telephoto with 5x optical zoom, and ultrawide angles.
Microsoft‘s Surface Duo did itself no favors by equipping just one 11 megapixel selfie shooter. Without any rear or special lenses included, photo and video quality suffer greatly from this phone. Things like low light performance and stabilization are also major weaknesses.
The Surface Duo 2 arrived later with a much improved triple camera system (including telephoto) that buyers demanded. But neither Duo variant seems likely to touch Google‘s traditional camera prowess going back through the Nexus and Pixel lineups.
Performance and Battery Life
Outfitted with Google‘s next generation Tensor G2 silicon built on 4nm architecture, the Pixel Fold promises cutting edge speed and efficiency. Paired with 12GB of speedy LPDDR5 RAM too, any app or game should absolutely fly.
The Surface Duo relied on Qualcomm‘s Snapdragon 855 upon launch, no slouch for 2020 but outpaced by newer chipsets on benchmarks. Combined just 6GB RAM as well, limits to demanding gaming or creative work arise quicker. Still, interface navigation remains pleasingly responsive.
Stamina ratings for the 4821 mAh Pixel Fold cell translate to over 24 hours battery during normal usage, not bad considering power demands from its inner display. And low battery mode can stretch longevity to 72 hours, according to Google. 30 watt charging replenishes at decent pace.
Microsoft ekes admirable daily runtime from the Surface Duo‘s 3577 mAh too but its standby times could be better optimized. Plus quick charging exceeding 18 watts would have helped offset constant screen drain. Regular top ups are advised to avoid shutdowns.
Software, Apps and Features
The Pixel Fold launches natively with Android 13 out of the box, ensuring optimal compatibility with all the latest apps and functions. Google plans to support OS upgrades for at least the next three years as well.
Android 11 now marks the end of the update road for Surface Duo buyers unfortunately. Yet Microsoft does preload its productivity suite like Outlook and OneNote. The dual displays inherently empower multi-tasking too.
Both foldables feature user interface tweaks to handle transitions between cover and interior displays smoothly, say when moving a video call or game to the bigger screen. App Continuity allows whatever‘s open to sync seamlessly.
Google seems focused on enhancing entertainment experiences as well, like using the cover display as a controller for games running internally. However, the Surface Duo‘s dual independent panels retain an advantage for document work.
And creatives benefit from tailored Surface Pen integration across the Duo‘s two screens. The Pixel Fold‘s flexible display may not register stylus presses with the same precision.
Price and Value Comparison
Rumor points to a Pixel Fold starting price around $1799 USD for a 256 GB model when orders open, topping out close to $2000 for 512 gigs. No pricing has been formally confirmed yet.
Microsoft‘s Surface Duo released at $1399 USD, considered rather expensive then given its camera and battery limitations. Today though, you can readily grab a unit for under $500.
Obviously the three year gap between these devices explains much of the pricing difference as mobile hardware costs evolve. And Google looks to cram its very latest innovations into the Pixel Fold.
Yet for shoppers seeking a quality dual screen phone on tighter budget, the heavily discounted original Surface Duo still tempts. Its productivity slant and dual app potential remain enticing perks.
So Google targets early adopters hungry for bleeding edge foldable tech with money being no object. But patience pays for those open to older but surprisingly still solid ideas like the OG Surface Duo.
Which Should You Buy?
For most users interested in maximizing versatility and performance from a cutting edge foldable device, I have to recommend waiting on the Google Pixel Fold. Assuming leaked details and rumors hold true, it appears set to deliver an exceptional experience.
Brilliant photography, smooth software, a gorgeous folding screen with 120Hz fluidity, and high-end power for work and play. This reshapes expectations of what our phones can achieve. Desktop-like multitasking finally fits in pockets thanks to the Pixel Fold.
However, folks attracted specifically by the dual independent display concept behind the Microsoft Surface Duo should still give it consideration. Especially with discounted pricing now, its novel book-style form stands out from typical foldables.
Although cameras and battery life may disappoint, Surface Duo‘s seamless integration across Microsoft apps and services will resonate with many. And buying into an Android tablet that fits your jeans offers undeniable appeal.
In closing, Google seems ready to claim foldable phone superiority as rumors indicate. Yet as the Surface Duo‘s mixed reception proved, first generation devices often still lack polish. So weigh reviews post-launch before jumping to pre-order.
Either way, credit goes to Microsoft for taking foldable devices in a creative new direction well before rivals like Google. The Pixel Fold clearly followed notes from the Surface Duo‘s design inspiration too.
But by learning from its predecessor‘s shortcomings to perfect the formula, the Pixel Fold may ultimately unfold as 2023‘s foldable champion. Shoppers have much to consider choosing between these striking yet very different mobile marvels!
