Key takeaways from ZDNET’s Kerry Wan:
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is more refined, feature-rich, and expensive than ever before, starting at $1,899 for the 256GB variant. It offers flexible use cases, such as the large inner display for mobile entertainment and the hinge design that makes taking photos with the rear camera easier. However, areas for improvement still include camera hardware and battery performance.
Having tested every Galaxy Z Fold model since 2019, Wan believes that the Z Fold 6 is the closest Samsung has come to perfecting the phone-to-tablet form factor. The 7.6-inch screen provides an excellent canvas for various activities, and the device feels like a regular smartphone when closed due to its slimmer and lighter design this year.
Despite minor improvements in dimensions and materials, such as a wider outer screen and a lighter aluminum build, some challenges remain. For instance, the lack of a groove or indent on the flat edges can make unfolding the phone difficult at times.
The Z Fold 6 offers impressive performance with 12GB of RAM and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The brighter display and Samsung’s OneUI software enhance the user experience, although the glossy and reflective inner display and speaker positioning may pose some issues.
The device also introduces new AI features for productivity and creativity, though their reliability may vary. Camera upgrades are limited to a new ultrawide sensor, with photos and videos still vibrant and sharp but lacking some specs found in other flagship devices.
Battery life and charging speed remain similar to the previous model, which may be a drawback considering the increased price. Despite these limitations, the Z Fold 6 offers a refined design, durability, and software support that make it a compelling choice for those seeking the best phone-to-tablet experience.
Ultimately, Wan suggests carefully considering the benefits of the Z Fold 6 compared to other foldable phones before making a purchase, taking into account factors like design, performance, software support, and trade-in offers available.
