Expert review of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Samsung Flip 5
- You can fold the Flip 5 closed and easily take it with you in your pocket.
- Fold the device into a 90-degree angle and keep your hands free during a video call.
- You can also control the device on the new, large screen on the outside.
- The 3700mAh battery doesn't last as long as that of other smartphones.
- The device doesn't have a telephoto lens, so photos don't look sharp if you zoom in.
First impression of the Samsung Flip 5
The Samsung Flip 5 has a luxurious look thanks to the glass back. The new hinge looks nice and ensures that opening and closing the device feels sturdy. The large screen has a plastic protective layer that you can't remove, because it protects the Flip 5 when you fold it. This layer feels a bit softer than glass, and I also notice more fingerprints on it. The Flip 5 easily fits in my pocket when closed. So I can easily take it everywhere with me.
I can feel and see the fold, but it doesn't bother me
When I open the Samsung Flip 5, it's difficult to control the large screen with one hand. I can slightly see the folding line. It depends on the light how clearly this line is visible. You get used to the folding line quickly, so it doesn't bother me when I use the Flip 5. I can feel a small indentation where the fold is. This doesn't bother me much when I use it, because I rarely scroll over the center of the screen.
Large screen on the outside
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I can open clear widgets on the outer screen
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I can send WhatsApp messages without opening the Flip 5
The outer screen of the Flip 5 is a lot larger than that of its predecessors. In my opinion, the screen with notifications, the widgets for my calendar, and the weather report are very clear. With a detour via Settings, I can open a small number of apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, and Maps on the small screen. That works well, but I notice that these apps work better when I open the device. I do have to get used to having to open my smartphone every time before using it.
Useful for video calls, photos, and videos
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I can keep my hands free during video calls
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I can place the device upright and take selfies without holding the Flip 5
I think it's very convenient that I can place the Samsung Flip 5 at a 90-degree angle. This allows me to make video calls without always having to hold my smartphone. I can also easily take a group photo or selfie. When I raise my hand, the Flip 5 briefly counts down and then takes a photo. During the photo moment, I can see if everyone's in the frame on the large outer screen. The Flip 5 remains stable at multiple angles thanks to the sturdy hinge.
Battery life is a bit disappointing
The first few days, I noticed that the battery runs out very quickly. I sometimes had to recharge the device twice. Luckily, the Flip 5 monitors your usage and adjusts the background consumption accordingly. After a few days, the battery life improved a bit. The battery remains small, so I still have to charge the Flip 5 when I get home from work. I only travel 15 minutes by train. If you have to travel further, you'll have to charge the Flip 5 before you leave.
Beautiful photos, but lower quality when you zoom in
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The photos are sharp and you can see a strong contrast.
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You can see clear differences in the colors of the sky.
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Even in the dark, photos are sharp and colorful.
The Samsung Z Flip 5 is suitable for the most demanding tasks. I can smoothly switch between different apps. Demanding 3D games or image editing apps aren't an issue either. In addition, I can take razor-sharp photos. Even with bright backlight. Even when it's dark outside, the photos look sharp and colorful as well. For a smartphone in this price category, I think the lack of a telephoto lens with optical zoom is definitely a shortcoming. When I zoom in with the Flip 5, my photos and videos are less sharp.
Conclusion
Even though the Samsung Flip 5 is foldable, it feels very sturdy. The foldable screen has many unique options for video calls, taking photos, and recording. With the new large screen on the outside, Samsung takes the Flip 5 to a higher level. The battery usually lasts a working day, but I sometimes have to charge it during the day as well. The cameras are sharp, but the lack of a telephoto lens with zoom is a shortcoming if you take a lot of photos.
