The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 represents the latest evolution in Samsung's foldable smartphone lineup, offering several enhancements over its predecessor, the Z Fold 5, and standing out in the competitive foldable market. This comprehensive comparison highlights the key differences and improvements between the Z Fold 6, the Z Fold 5, and notable competitors like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Huawei Mate XT.
Design and Build Quality
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 5:
- Dimensions and Weight: The Z Fold 6 is more compact and lighter than the Z Fold 5. It measures 6.04 x 2.68 x 0.48 inches when closed and 6.04 x 5.22 x 0.22 inches when open, weighing 8.43 ounces. In contrast, the Z Fold 5 measures 6.10 x 2.64 x 0.53 inches closed and 6.10 x 5.11 x 0.24 inches open, with a weight of 8.92 ounces.
- Materials: Both models feature premium materials, including Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back. The Z Fold 6 introduces an IP48 rating, adding dust resistance to the existing water resistance of the Z Fold 5's IPX8 rating.
Competitors:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: This device is slightly taller, thicker, and heavier than the Z Fold 6, measuring 6.1 x 3.0 x 0.4 inches closed and 6.1 x 5.9 x 0.2 inches open, with a weight of 9.10 ounces.
- Huawei Mate XT: Huawei's Mate XT is notable for its innovative trifold design, offering a 10.2-inch display when fully unfolded. However, its availability outside China is limited due to US sanctions and the absence of Google services.
Display
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 5:
- Cover Display: The Z Fold 6 features a 6.3-inch cover display with a resolution of 2,376 x 968 pixels and an adaptive refresh rate of 1 to 120Hz. The Z Fold 5 has a 6.2-inch cover display with a resolution of 2,316 x 904 pixels and a refresh rate of 48 to 120Hz.
- Main Display: Both models offer a 7.6-inch main display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The Z Fold 6 achieves a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, surpassing the Z Fold 5's 1,750 nits.
Competitors:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: It offers a 6.3-inch exterior display and an 8-inch interior display, both vibrant and suitable for outdoor use.
- Huawei Mate XT: The Mate XT's trifold design provides a 10.2-inch display when fully unfolded, utilizing OLED technology for high-resolution visuals.
Performance
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 5:
- Processor: The Z Fold 6 is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for Galaxy, offering a 20% performance boost over the Z Fold 5's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
- Memory and Storage: Both models come with 12GB of RAM and offer storage options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
Competitors:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Powered by Google's upgraded Tensor chip, it provides smooth performance but lags behind the Z Fold 6's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
- Huawei Mate XT: Expected to utilize the Kirin 9010 processor, with configurations up to 16GB RAM and 1TB internal storage.
Camera
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 5:
- Rear Cameras: Both models feature a 50MP wide-angle, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto lens. The Z Fold 6 introduces improved image processing capabilities.
- Front Cameras: A 10MP cover screen camera and a 4MP under-display camera are present in both models.
Competitors:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Boasts a 48MP main camera, excelling in various lighting conditions.
- Huawei Mate XT: Features a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, and a 5.5x optical zoom lens, offering versatile photography options.
Battery and Charging
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 5:
- Battery Capacity: Both models house a 4,400mAh battery.
- Charging: Support for 25W wired and 15W wireless charging remains consistent across both devices.
Competitors:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Despite a smaller battery, it offers a full day's use and charges in just over an hour.
- Huawei Mate XT: Equipped with a 5,600mAh battery supporting fast charging capabilities.
Software and Features
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 5:
- Operating System: The Z Fold 6 ships with One UI 6.1.1 based on Android 14, while the Z Fold 5 is upgradable to One UI 6.1.
- S Pen Support: Both devices support the S Pen, enhancing productivity and creativity.
Competitors:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Offers seven years of updates and AI features like Gemini Live and Add Me.
- Huawei Mate XT: Runs on HarmonyOS 4.2, with features tailored for the Chinese market.
Pricing
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Priced at $1,899.99.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Starts at $1,799.
- Huawei Mate XT: Approximately $2,550, with limited availability outside China.
the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 brings notable improvements over its predecessor, particularly in design, display brightness, and performance. While competitors like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Huawei Mate XT offer unique features, the Z Fold 6's balanced enhancements make it a compelling choice in the foldable smartphone market.
External Sources:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Galaxy Z Fold 5: Should You Upgrade?
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Which Foldable Is Better?
- Huawei Mate XT: The World's First Trifold Mobile Phone
