The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 is the latest top phone in Samsung's range of foldable handsets. Its ambition is to test the boundaries of mobile technology once again. But is it a genuinely new idea that justifies the extra-high cost or a new idea that doesn't quite measure up to the hype? We've subjected the Fold6 to all manner of real-world testing to help you make sense of whether it is worth your hard-earned cash.
Quality of Design and Build
Samsung upped the design quality of the Fold6 to enhance wearing comfort and durability. The hinge mechanism is also far smoother and sturdier than in previous generations, enough to make the act of folding and unfolding feel seamless and trustworthy. The device's frame is constructed out of premium materials, so it does not feel flimsy in your hand. It's also a bit lighter than the Fold5, making it easier to carry around.
That crease along the fold is still visible, but it is no longer as pronounced as it once was, especially in brighter light. The device is still a bit thick when folded, which could be uncomfortable to carry in your pocket.
What You Need to Know About the Real World:
- The hinge has not loosened or worn out after weeks of regular use, and the Fold6 did not break when it fell, which indicates Samsung's durability improvements are working.
Good things:
- High-quality sturdy construction with a smooth hinge
- From the old model, a bit lighter and easier to manage
Cons:
- The crease is still there.
- It's not necessarily the most convenient to carry around when folded up.
Show and Performance
The 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display has colorful, deep blacks and high resolution, so you can watch videos and get work done in style. Scrolling and gaming are smoother, thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate. The cover display is vibrant and responsive, too, so you can quickly accomplish tasks without needing to open the case.
The Fold6 can support plenty of apps at once, play games, and get work done without a hitch, thanks to the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 chipset and up to 16GB of RAM. Samsung's software gains specific improvements for foldables, making it easier for apps to function on both the cover and main display.
What the Real World Can Teach Us:
- It's simple to switch between folded and unfolded modes and use multiple apps simultaneously.
- There are still games and apps that don't totally optimize for the foldable screen, but that's getting better.
Pros:
- Huge screen that is amazing and satisfying to view
- Durable performance for demanding jobs
Cons:
- It's a bit bulky when it folds up.
- Not all apps are foldable-optimized.
What the Camera Can Do
The Fold6 packs a folding triple rear camera array with wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses. Photos are sharp and rich in the daytime. The camera does a better job processing images in low light. The under-display selfie camera is a nifty new design that allows us to view through the main display with no obstructions. However, the image quality is still not as good as that of traditional front cameras.
Real-Life Knowledge:
- Users add the photo quality is great for everyday use, though selfies taken with the under-display cameras may look slightly soft or less detailed.
- The cover display camera is superior for video calls or selfies.
Pros:
- Adaptive camera setup for different shooting scenarios
- Improved low-light photography
Cons:
- The under-display selfie camera is of lower quality than regular cameras.
Life of the Battery
The Fold6's battery will get you through a full day of normal use (browsing, texting, and playing media). Those who rely heavily on their phones for gaming or making lengthy video calls may find themselves needing to charge by the end of the day. Fast wired and wireless charging options keep everything running smoothly.
A Look at the Real World:
- Using a large main screen a lot can draw down the battery faster, so monitoring screen brightness and app usage will help keep the battery running longer.
Pros:
- All-day battery life for most people
- Compatible with quick charging and wireless charging
Cons:
- Using the main screen too much will drain the battery more quickly.
Experience with Software
Samsung One UI 5 is optimized for foldable devices, so you can effortlessly transition from folded to unfolded mode. The combination of the taskbar and split-screen multitasking makes it easy to work. Samsung has continued to push out software updates to ensure apps work better and that features specific to the fold function properly.
Real-Life Insight:
- Most apps are fine, though some third-party apps still have bugs or aren't optimized with all of the benefits (and limitations) of the fold.
- Samsung's continued software support is an encouraging sign.
Pros:
- Folding-friendly software that works well
- Great multitasking capabilities
Disadvantages:
- We still don't have perfect app compatibility from time to time.
Good Value for Money
The Galaxy Z Fold6 is expensive for a smartphone, but that's partly because it features cutting-edge technology and is constructed from premium materials. It's a great value proposition for folks seeking a distinctive dual phone and tablet device. But for those who care deeply about getting the best performance for their money or prefer traditional phones, the price is a tough pill to swallow.
Real-World Insight:
- Tech lovers who want to get things done will find the Fold6's versatility worth the premium charge.
- Casual users may opt for less expensive alternatives.
Pros:
- Best folding tech on the market
- A unique and versatile user experience
Disadvantages:
- The price is too high for many people to buy.
In Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 is the best of the best for anyone who needs the best. Its sleek design, gorgeous screen, fast performance, and software that plays well with folding all make it a great option for people who love technology and want to be productive. Its big brother is a huge leap forward in foldable technology, although it has some issues to overcome — such as the visible crease and some apps that won't work with it — and costs a mint.
If you're intrigued by the concept of a phone that transforms into a tablet and have cash to burn on the latest gadget, you should definitely consider the Galaxy Z Fold6. For everyone else, it may still be a fascinating gadget that continues to evolve.
