Buying a foldable phone? What to know before deciding

Foldable phones have been around for about five years, but they haven’t always been easy to recommend. High prices, limited software features, and fragile builds hinder their appeal. That starts to change in 2023, when foldable phones take leaps forward in design, versatility, and even price.

Not only are there more foldable phone options than ever thanks to new bendable devices from the likes of Google and OnePlus, but last year also saw the emergence of cheaper devices like Motorola’s $700 Razr (2023). While there’s still plenty of room for improvement in the software experience, companies like Samsung, Google, and Motorola are certainly making great strides in 2023.

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For example, phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Motorola Razr Plus have larger external screens, allowing you to actually use apps without opening the phone, rather than just view notifications. Google’s Pixel Fold and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 both have language translation capabilities that utilize both external and internal screens.

Sales of foldable phones are only expected to increase, with International Data Corporation reporting that global shipments could reach 54.3 million units by 2027, up from an estimated 20.4 million units in 2023.

If you’re considering buying a foldable phone, consider factors like your budget and how you plan to use the phone. Check out CNET’s lists of the best flip phones and best foldable phones to learn more about our top picks.

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What is your budget?

The most important question is how much you’re willing to spend on a new phone. While foldable phones aren’t as expensive as they were in 2019, they’re still significantly more expensive than most standard phones. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at $1,900, while the Google Pixel Fold starts at $1,800 (no trade-in required). The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is priced at $1,100, and the Motorola Razr Plus is priced at $1,000. The Motorola 2024 Razr is one of the most affordable options, priced at $700.

Book-style foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6, OnePlus Open ($1,700), and Pixel Fold are among the most expensive phones you can buy. The flip phone costs about the same as high-end non-folding devices like the iPhone 15 Pro and Pixel 8 Pro, both of which start around $1,000. If you’re used to budgeting for devices in this price range, spending money on a flip phone won’t make much of a difference.

But there are signs that prices may continue to fall in the near term. Chinese electronics manufacturer ZTE just released a $600 flip phone called the Nubia Flip 5G, which is cheaper than the iPhone 15, Galaxy S24, and Pixel 8.

If you’re interested in buying a foldable phone right now, don’t forget to keep an eye out for discounts and trade-in deals to make current prices more affordable. Keep in mind that many of these deals usually require you to meet some type of requirement, such as opening a new line with a carrier or trading in your old phone for a new one.

Are you an Android fan?

Loyal iPhone users hoping to buy a foldable phone as soon as possible may be out of luck. Although rumors of a foldable iPhone have been circulating for years, we still don’t know when or if Apple will release a foldable phone. However, a report from The Information suggests that Apple is developing at least two flip phone prototypes.

This is far from the first time rumors about Apple’s plans for a foldable phone have surfaced. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities, an analyst known for predicting Apple’s future products, has previously reported that the company is developing a device to match the iPad Mini, as MacRumors reported in 2021 Foldable devices of the same size.

But these reports suggest that a foldable iPhone is still a long way off, meaning those who really want a phone that folds in half will need to embrace Android now.

Are you careful with your cell phone?

While today’s foldable phones are sturdier than earlier models, the simple fact that they have hinges and bendable screens still makes them more fragile than regular phones. For example, shortly after Google launched the Pixel Fold in June 2023, some Reddit users reported screen damage. Most foldable phones are not dustproof, and the waterproof rating is lower than standard equipment like the Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 series. But Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 do have some level of dust protection: IP48, to be precise, which means it can withstand solid objects larger than 1mm.

If you work outdoors, are prone to dropping or handling your phone roughly, or don’t want to use a protective case, be careful when switching to a foldable phone. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the repair options from the device manufacturer and third-party services.

Is now a good time to buy a foldable phone?

Like many electronics, foldable phones are usually released seasonally. You need to consider this to avoid spending $1,000 or more on equipment that may soon become obsolete. While you can sometimes find compelling discounts on older models, it’s usually a good idea to opt for the latest version if you can.

Companies typically only support new versions of Android on their phones for a few years. For example, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6 will receive seven generations of operating system upgrades, while the Pixel Fold will receive three years of Android platform updates.

Samsung usually releases new foldable phones in the summer, and it has maintained this pattern this year, releasing the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6 in July. Meanwhile, Motorola launched the 2024 Razrs in June.

Google will announce its next foldable phone, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, at the Pixel product launch event on August 13. If OnePlus releases a new foldable phone this year, it will likely launch in the fall like last year, although rumors have suggested a 2025 release.

The Black Friday shopping weekend is also a great time to find deals on foldables, especially since this year’s new models are already launching. For example, Motorola’s Razr Plus is $300 off on Amazon over the Black Friday weekend.

What do you want from a new phone?

Next to budget, this is probably the most important consideration. Foldable phones are expensive and have some disadvantages compared to regular devices.

For example, due to their unconventional design, they sometimes feel bulky and difficult to use when closed. Cameras on foldable phones are generally not as advanced as those on premium non-folding phones like the iPhone 15 Pro, Galaxy S24 Ultra, and Pixel 8 Pro. There’s also a bit of a learning curve when using a foldable phone for the first time, especially with the larger book-style foldables. On top of that, many of today’s foldable devices still have noticeable creases on their screens.

For the right buyer, these compromises can be worth it. If you often watch movies and play games on your phone, a phone-tablet hybrid like the Galaxy Z Fold or Pixel Fold might be worth buying. When I switched to the Galaxy Z Fold 4 for a few weeks in 2023, I loved having a larger canvas for writing and reading emails. I even left my tablet at home during the flight and just used my phone to watch Netflix on the plane. Think carefully about whether you need a phone that doubles as a tablet and are willing to pay more for it.

Flip phones are for people who want a regular-sized phone that’s easier to fit into pockets and purses. Since phones like the Motorola Razr and Galaxy Z Flip essentially have a built-in stand, they’re also ideal for those who like to take selfies and group photos without looking for anyone else to take them.

Newer flip phones like the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and later and the 2023 Motorola Razr Plus and later also have protective screens that allow you to run full apps when the device is closed. Not only does this make it easier to quickly check Google Maps or Spotify from the palm of your hand, but I’ve found it turns my phone into a mini smart display. For example, when I was testing the 2023 Razr Plus, I liked opening it up like a tent to play music, view album art, and jump to the next song in my playlist while doing housework.

With that in mind, flip phones are best for those who prioritize convenience and portability over everything else in their smartphone.

Overall, deciding whether to buy a foldable phone depends on your budget and what you want from a new phone. Factors like durability and time are also important, but it all depends on how much you’re willing to spend and what you want to get out of the device.