In 2023, folding smartphones have become a staple in the world of Android smartphones. If Google decides to release the Pixel Fold, the face-off with the Galaxy Z Flip4 would be an intriguing matchup between foldable devices. However, at this moment, it‘s still unclear whether Google still has plans for its first foldable device grand debut.
As Samsung still tops the list of the best foldable phones, we hope the release of the Pixel Fold will be the best competitor for the Galaxy Z Flip4 as well as Samsung‘s future foldables. Although the Pixel Fold is still a rumor, here is an idea of how the Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Z Flip4 comparison would play out based on what we have seen on Samsung‘s device and the rumors about this possible Google release.
Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Z Flip4: Side-By-Side Comparison
Google Pixel Fold | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | |
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Release Date | May 06, 2023 (Expected) | August 10, 2022 |
Manufacturer | Samsung | |
Display size | 7.69-inch | 6.7-inch |
CPU Clock Speed | 2.85Hz Octa Core Processor | 3.2 GHz Octa Core Processor |
Battery Capacity | 5000 mAh, Li-Po Battery | 3700 mAh, Li-ion Battery |
Display Resolution | 1440 x 3120 pixels | 1080 x 2640 pixels |
Foldable Display | Yes | Yes |
RAM | 12 GB | 8 GB |
OS | Android v13 | Android v12 |
Chipset | Google Tensor G2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 + Gen 1 |
Best Overall: SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Flip 4 – $571.22
128 GB / 256 GB, 5G, 6.7" screen size, Flex Mode enables hands-free video calls, Customizable external display, Water resistant in up to 5‘ of water for up to 30 minutes
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01/29/2024 09:27 am GMT
Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Z Flip4: Key Differences
The Galaxy Z Flip4 is undoubtedly an outstanding phone on its own merits. With each version, Samsung has continuously enhanced its foldable design and has equipped the current models with a robust processor. Even the cameras are enhanced to some extent by incorporating a brighter main sensor, for improved low-light photos.
While the rumored Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip4 have some similarities, they differ significantly in design, features, and performance. The best choice for you depends on your personal use and preference. Here are the key differences between the two foldables.
Price and Availability
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 went on sale in late August 2022 and you can currently get it at a price starting from $999 with 128 GB of storage space and 8 GB of RAM. If you want some more storage space, you can pay $1,059 for a 256 GB or the new 512 GB version for $1,179.
For the Pixel Fold, there is no clear guide on when, or if it would appear. However, rumor has it may be released in May 2023 which will align with the Google I/O 2023 date, where it has previously reviewed most of its phones. If there are rumors about the release of the Pixel Fold, so is the potential price. It‘s speculated that the price will range from $1,799, which is a match to the Galaxy Z Fold 4 current price. The Pixel Fold price might be slightly lower after the release, to distinguish it from Samsung‘s foldables.
Design and Display
The Galaxy Z Flip4 doesn‘t look any different from the outside. If the clamshell foldable design is your go-to design, you will be OK with this. It fits perfectly in the pocket without sticking out like most big phones. In the previous year, Samsung offered a variety of slate color options for the Galaxy Z Flip4. If you are into something sensible, there is a Graphite option, but you can opt for Pink Gold, Bora Purple, or Blue which are more lively options.
The Galaxy Z Flip4 on the inside sports a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display comprising a 1080p resolution and an adaptive refresh rate of 1-120Hz. Out of the box, it has a typical Samsung deep color saturation that showcases the capabilities of the AMOLED screen.
In terms of brightness, the Galaxy Z Flip4 falls short of both the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 13 Pro. It supports 772 nits which is commendable, especially outdoors, but it‘s difficult to overlook the displays on the iPhone and the S22 plus once you get used to them.
On the other hand, rumor suggests the Pixel Fold will have a similar design to the Oppo Find N and Oppo Find N2, having a cover display on the exterior and a bigger, tablet-like display when folded open. It will feature a 7.69-inch inner display and is speculated to have a refresh rate of 120Hz similar to a Samsung phone. Like Oppo Find N, it will use a multi-access hinge technology, enabling both screens to completely flash with each other. It‘s a notable difference from the gap near the hinge found on Galaxy foldables.
Cameras
While on the subject of cameras, the Galaxy Z Flip4 features a 12MP main sensor. Samsung says this is 65% brighter than its previous model, Galaxy Z Flip3. The 12MP ultra wide camera performs similarly to the 10MP internal selfie camera. You can easily take selfies using the rear camera since the Galaxy Z Flip4 folds in half.
As for the Pixel Fold, there is a lot of speculation regarding the camera‘s hardware. Some rumors suggest the Fold could adopt a triple camera setup on the rear lenses, consisting of a 50MP main camera and two 12MP lenses. This is possibly one for ultra wide shots and the other for telephoto shots. Other speculations suggest it will only have a single 12MP rear camera. The two rumors represent diverse possibilities. If we had to guess, we would figure a camera setup comparable to the Pixel 7 Pro‘s 50MP main camera, 12MP ultra wide camera, and 48MP telephoto camera would not be out of the realm of possibility.
Hearsay suggests that for front cameras, Google will use a similar sensor for the outside camera as it does for the inside camera of the unfolded phone, though rumors on the megapixel rating vary between 8MP and 9.5MP.
Performance
A new year comes with a new chipset, and Samsung went for the latest silicon from Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1, to drive the Galaxy Z Flip4, along with 8GB of RAM. While the CPU functions of the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 in the Z Flip4 are not a significant upgrade over the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 used in the Galaxy S22, the GPU has undergone some improvements, especially when compared to the Snapdragon 888 in the Z Flip3.
Meanwhile, we anticipate Pixel Fold will replicate other leading Pixel devices and utilize Google‘s Tensor chipset. If the Pixel Fold will be released at the anticipated time (early 2023), it will use the Tensor G2, similar to what Pixel 7 family uses.
Battery Life
Foldables have previously fallen victim when it comes to battery life, which is understandable given that they have a bigger display to keep powered up, and probably a secondary display on the outside of the phone. The two displays can be a big drain on power.
The Galaxy Z Flip4 battery capacity bumped up an extra 400 mAh to a cumulative capacity of 3700 mAh. While it doesn‘t seem much, it has certainly made a difference in the device‘s performance. It also improved the charging to 25W (no charger included), all resulting in Z Flip4 lasting almost three more hours longer.
Rumor suggests the Pixel Fold will feature a battery capacity of 5000 mAh, which makes it fall on the best phone battery life list. With the battery size, the Pixel Fold will support its large display, and surface as the best Google foldable device in battery life. The rumors on charging speed are yet to surface, but it certainly has a challenge ahead, as the Z Flip4 rates at 25W.
Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Z Flip4: 5 Must-Know Facts
- Google‘s Pixel Fold is still a rumored foldable smartphone, expected to make its grand debut in May 2023.
- The Galaxy Z Flip4 features a 6.7-inch super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2640 x 1080, while the Pixel Fold is rumored to feature a 7.69-inch foldable display and Google‘s Tensor chipset.
- The Pixel Fold has a rumored price of $1,799 which is a match to the Z Fold4, whereas the Z Flip4 is priced at around $999.
- The Galaxy Z Flip4 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset along with 8GB of RAM.
- Rumor suggests the Pixel Fold will feature a battery capacity of 5000 mAh, which makes it fall on the best phone battery life list.
Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Z Flip4: Which Is Better? Which One Should You Use?
If you want a flip or foldable device, the Galaxy Z Flip4 is the only real option at the moment. Incremental improvements such as introducing a new hinge design and a slightly larger battery capacity, with a dual-camera setup consisting of a 12MP wide and 12MP ultra wide camera, make the Z Flip4 a fun device. Compared to the rumored Pixel Fold, it‘s much cheaper with such high-end features.
Currently, we only have rumors surrounding the Pixel Fold, and Google hasn‘t yet confirmed any details about its release. Until the phone is launched, the best option between the two rivals remains the Galaxy Z Flip4.
Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip4: Technology Updates
Lately, there haven‘t been any formal declarations regarding technological enhancements for either the Pixel Fold or the Galaxy Z Flip4 mobile phones. As of now, it appears that no official updates have been disclosed for these mobile phone models.
Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip4: Looking Forward
Anticipated on the horizon for the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Flip4 are a host of prospective technology updates that have the potential to redefine the foldable smartphone experience:
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Cutting-Edge Flexible OLED Panels: The evolution of foldable OLED panels continues unabated, with the future promising even greater strides in durability and performance. As innovation propels forward, we can envision the emergence of panels boasting enhanced robustness and efficiency, potentially leading to foldable phones characterized by slimmer, lighter, and more aesthetically appealing designs.
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Elevated Camera Capabilities: While foldable phones are still in their nascent stage, the realm of camera technology is primed for advancement. Future iterations of these devices could showcase notable improvements in camera performance, featuring higher resolution sensors, refined image processing algorithms, and innovations like optical image stabilization. This evolution could bridge the gap between foldable phones and traditional counterparts in terms of camera prowess.
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Fortified Durability: Recognizing the inherent delicacy of foldable phones, the future holds the promise of enhanced durability. This could materialize through a fusion of strategies, encompassing the use of sturdier materials, augmented hinge protection mechanisms, and displays rendered more resistant to scratches and fractures. This amalgamation of factors could herald a new era of foldable devices that offer both innovation and resilience.
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Prolonged Battery Longevity: The energy demands of foldable phones are a prominent consideration, but future iterations could address this concern by extending battery life. This could materialize through a combination of factors, such as more efficient processors, larger battery capacities, and refined power management techniques. The result might be foldable smartphones that sustain users through prolonged usage periods.
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Innovations in Software Interaction: Foldable phones introduce a novel interaction paradigm, and the future holds the potential for innovative software features that exploit this unique form factor. Envisaged advancements encompass split-screen multitasking, multi-window support, and novel touch gestures that leverage the foldable display‘s capabilities. These enhancements could reshape how users engage with and navigate their devices.
Up Next…
- Galaxy Z Flip3 vs. Z Flip4: Which One Wins?
- Galaxy Fold vs. Galaxy Z Flip 4: Which One Wins?
- Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Fold: Which One Wins?
The image featured at the top of this post is ©tinhkhuong/Shutterstock.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Google release the Pixel Fold?
There is no official release date, but rumors suggest it will be released on May 2023.
Is the Galaxy Z Flip 4 worth buying?
Galaxy Z Flip 4 is the best foldable you can purchase right now. It strikes a balance between design and performance, making it a highly desirable device. Some of its key features include a 6.7-inch foldable screen, a Snapdragon 888 processor, 8GB of RAM, 128GB/256GB of internal storage, a 3700mAh battery, and a dual 12-megapixel rear camera setup. If you value the foldable design and want a smartphone that can fold into a more compact size for easy portability, the Galaxy Z Flip 4 may be a good choice. The foldable screen also allows for multitasking and offers a larger display when opened up. However, the Galaxy Z Flip 4 is a premium device and comes with a high price tag. Additionally, foldable screens are still relatively new technology, so it‘s important to consider the potential risks, such as screen durability issues and higher repair costs.
Ultimately, whether the Galaxy Z Flip 4 is worth buying depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you‘re looking for a high-end smartphone with a unique design and advanced features, and you‘re willing to pay a premium price for it, then the Galaxy Z Flip 4 may be worth considering. However, if you don‘t value the foldable design or are concerned about the potential risks, you may want to consider other options.
How much will the Pixel Fold be priced?
There are rumors the price will match the Galaxy Z Fold 4 at $1,799, which is more expensive than the Z Flip 4 priced at $999.
What is the expected camera setup on the Pixel Fold?
There is a lot of speculation regarding the camera‘s hardware. Some rumors suggest the Fold could adopt a triple camera setup on the rear lenses, consisting of a 50MP main camera and two 12MP lenses, possibly one for ultrawide shots and the other for telephoto shots. Other speculations suggest it will only have a single 12MP rear camera. The two rumors represent diverse possibilities.
Does Galaxy Z Flip4 protect against water splashes?
It is waterproof to some extent, with an IPX8 rating. The Z Flip 4 offers protection against fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. However, the salty and chlorine-based water found at beaches and pools is extremely harmful to the phone.
Does the Samsung Z Flip4 phone generate heat?
Yes, when used extensively for gaming, streaming, or video conferencing over 5G, this phone gets hot but is not uncomfortable. Overall, this phone shows an improved thermal design from the older Z Flip3.