Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip series has revolutionized pocket-sized phones with its innovative foldable design. Each new version brings enhancements to the hinge, display technology, cameras, and overall user experience. The latest model, the Galaxy Z Flip 6, includes several upgrades. Here’s a detailed comparison between the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and its predecessors – Flip 5, Flip 4, and Flip 3 – to highlight the advancements over the years.
Display
All Z Flip models feature a spacious 6.7-inch main display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The Z Flip 6 stands out with a peak brightness of 2600 nits, surpassing the Flip 5's 1600 nits and the 1200 nits of the Flip 3 and 4. This enhancement makes the Z Flip 6 ideal for outdoor use or bright environments.
Regarding the cover display, the Flip 3 and Flip 4 have a smaller 1.9-inch screen, while the Flip 5 introduces a more practical 3.4-inch option, maintained in the Z Flip 6. This size is perfect for quick notifications, music controls, and some app interactions without unfolding the phone. The refresh rates remain consistent across all models, despite some users hoping for a 120Hz upgrade for the cover display.
Performance and Storage
The Z Flip 6 features the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, offering a significant performance boost over the Snapdragon 888 in the Flip 3 and the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 in the Flip 4. The Flip 5 uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, positioning it between the Flip 4 and 6 in terms of performance.
All models come with 8GB of RAM in their base variants, with higher storage options offering additional RAM. The Z Flip 6 raises the bar with a 12GB RAM option for the most demanding users. Storage options remain consistent across models, with 256GB and 512GB choices available.
Cameras
The camera setup in the Z Flip 6 changes significantly. It replaces the dual 12MP sensors of previous models with a new 50MP main sensor, alongside the existing 12MP ultra-wide sensor. This upgrade promises sharper photos with better detail, especially in low-light conditions. The 10MP front camera remains the same across all models.
Software features like Nightography and AI-powered image processing are present in all models, but the Z Flip 5 and 6 may offer further refinements due to their newer processors.
Design and Durability
The foldable design is a staple across the Z Flip series. Samsung has consistently improved the hinge mechanism, with the Z Flip 6 featuring a “dual rail structure” for better shock absorption and a slimmer profile when folded (14.9mm) compared to the Flip 5 (15.1mm). The Flip 3 and Flip 4 have a thickness of 17.1mm when folded.
Material choices include Armor Aluminum for the frame across all models, but the Z Flip 6 boasts improved IP48 dust and water resistance, while the Flip 3, Flip 4, and Flip 5 have an IPX8 rating. The Z Flip 5 and 6 use Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for better scratch resistance, while the Flip 3 and 4 use Victus+.
Battery and Charging
The battery capacity has gradually increased over the generations. The Z Flip 3 has a 3300mAh battery, while the Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 5 increase it to 3700mAh. The Z Flip 6, with the largest battery at 4000mAh, offers potentially longer usage time.
Fast charging capabilities have also improved. The Z Flip 3 offers 15W fast charging, while the Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 5 support 25W. The Z Flip 6 retains the 25W fast charging and 15W Qi wireless charging.
Software
Software-wise, the Flip 3 launched with Android 11 and One UI 3.1. The Flip 4 and Flip 5 come with Android 12/13 and One UI 4.1/5.1, respectively. The Flip 6 leads with the latest Android 14 and One UI 6.1.1. The Flip 6 will also receive seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates.
The Z Flip 4 introduced FlexCam for hands-free video capture or selfies at various angles by partially folding the phone. The Z Flip 5 expanded on this with a larger Flex Window and the ability to switch between widgets with a pinch gesture.
The Z Flip 6 furthers AI features with Note Assist, Circle to Search, Interpreter, Live Translate, and more. It also introduces a vapor chamber cooling system, a first for the Flip series, to manage the increased processing power without overheating.
Pricing and Availability
The base model pricing (with 256GB storage) has remained relatively consistent, starting at around $999. The Z Flip 3 and Z Flip 4 are no longer available directly from Samsung but can be found through retailers or carriers. The Z Flip 5 starts at $999.99, while the Z Flip 6 starts at $1099.99, reflecting its upgraded processor and camera.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series has evolved significantly, with each generation building on the strengths of its predecessors. The Flip 6, with its brighter display, upgraded processor, enhanced camera capabilities, improved durability, and larger battery, offers a compelling upgrade. For those considering an upgrade from an older Z Flip model or new to foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is an excellent option. However, for cost-conscious users, the Z Flip 5 remains an attractive choice with many core features at a lower price point.
