Galaxy Z Fold 5 in 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying Today?
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 once stood as a marvel in foldable phone technology. Now, with 2025 here and new contenders capturing attention, you might be wondering: is the Z Fold 5 specification still relevant, or has time left it behind? Letβs take a deep dive and find out if the Z Fold 5 deserves a spot in your pocket today.
The Z Fold 5 Specification: Quick Recap
Before assessing its current value, itβs essential to revisit what made the Z Fold 5 so special. Launched in 2023, it aimed to set benchmarks in both innovation and practicality for foldables.
- Display: The main foldable display offered a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel. Crisp visuals, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support delivered immersive viewing, while the 6.2-inch cover display made one-handed use easy.
- Processor: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the Z Fold 5 could handle multitasking, gaming, and productivity apps with effortless speed.
- RAM and Storage: Ships with 12GB RAM and options for 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of internal storageβnon-expandable but generous for most needs.
- Camera Array: Triple rear lens setup (50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto) delivered sharp photos and 3x optical zoom. Selfie and under-display cameras rounded out versatility.
- Battery and Charging: 4,400mAh battery, 25W wired and 15W wireless charging kept it running through a full day for average users.
- Software: Samsungβs One UI 5.1 atop Android 13 at launch, with promised updates for several years.
- Other Features: Robust hinge design, IPX8 water resistance, S Pen compatibility (sold separately), and improved multitasking interface.
These Z Fold 5 specifications made it a productivity powerhouse and entertainment center in one device.
How Does the Z Fold 5 Hold Up in 2025?
The world of foldable phones moves quickly, but not all devices age at the same speed. Hereβs how the Z Fold 5 fares two years later.
Performance in 2025
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, still found in some high-end flagships, means the Z Fold 5 runs modern apps with little lag. Its 12GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, whether youβre editing photos, switching between videos and documents, or using split-screen features.
Heavy games and demanding productivity tools perform almost as well as on the latest modelsβthough you might see marginally faster app opens on brand new processors. For the vast majority of users, the Z Fold 5βs speed remains more than sufficient.
Display Quality in 2025
Although newer foldables now push beyond 7.8-inch unfolded screens or offer higher peak brightness, the Z Fold 5βs display still delights. Its 120Hz refresh keeps scrolling fluid. Colors remain vibrant, contrast is rich, and HDR streaming looks cinematic.
Long-term durability is perhaps your biggest question. Thankfully, Samsungβs hinge and ultra-thin glass on the Z Fold 5 hold up well when treated with reasonable care. After two years, with a screen protector in place and judicious folding, most users report negligible wear.
Camera Capabilities
Camera technology is advancing quickly, especially with AI enhancements and larger sensors. However, the Z Fold 5βs triple camera system, paired with strong processing, still delivers flagship-grade images.
β’ Daylight photos are sharp, with lively color.
β’ Low light shots benefit from well-tuned night mode.
β’ Telephoto and ultrawide lenses add flexibility.
Whatβs missing compared to the newest models? Some recent phones use larger sensors or advanced periscope zooms. Those obsessed with mobile photography might notice, but casual and even enthusiast users rarely find the Z Fold 5βs cameras lacking for day-to-day use.
Battery Endurance in 2025
Battery health can vary, but most Z Fold 5 units retain around 85-90% capacity after two years of typical charging. That means the phone usually lasts from morning to evening, though heavy multitasking or extended gaming sessions will drain it faster.
Todayβs flagship foldables might offer somewhat larger batteries or faster charging, but the Z Fold 5 still delivers reliable daily performance, especially with good charging habits.
Software Updates and Security
Samsung has built a reputation for long and consistent OS updates. The Z Fold 5 originally shipped with Android 13, and in 2025 it typically runs Android 15 or 16, with regular security patches.
The interface remains intuitive and customizable. Multitasking featuresβlike taskbars, three-app splits, drag-and-dropβwork as intended, enabling a hybrid phone/tablet experience.
For users focused on device longevity and privacy, nothing is more critical than this: the Z Fold 5 still receives core patches and feature upgrades, keeping your investment relevant in both performance and protection.
Everyday Usability: Is the Z Fold 5 Still Practical?
A deviceβs specification sheet tells only half the story. Real-world usage can differ.
- Portability: The Z Fold 5, when folded, is about the thickness of two regular phones. It fits in most pockets but might feel bulky in tighter jeans or smaller bags.
- Ergonomics: Thanks to an improved hinge and lighter weight (compared to earlier generations), handling is pleasant. The cover screen is usable enough for texting or calling, so you donβt always have to unfold.
- Durability: IPX8 water resistance means accidental splashes or short immersions wonβt ruin it, but dust ingress remains a risk. Invest in a decent case for peace of mind.
- Accessories: S Pen support transforms the Z Fold 5 into a digital notepadβhandy for note-takers, artists, or those who annotate PDFs.
Who benefits most from Z Fold 5 features?
- Professionals who split time between emails, documents, and presentations
- Avid readers or YouTube fans enjoying content on a wide screen
- Travelers valuing a single device that replaces both phone and tablet
- Anyone eager to try foldable innovation without the full flagship price
Value and Cost Considerations in 2025
By 2025, new foldable launches often mean previous models drop significantly in price. Youβll likely find the Z Fold 5 for halfβor lessβof its original retail cost. Refurbished and open-box options are plentiful, bringing flagship features to more manageable price points.
New vs. Refurbished: What to Watch For
- Refurbished Z Fold 5s: Often come with a warranty, certified battery health, and new screens or hinges if needed. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
- Used Units: Check for hinge stiffness, screen wear, dead pixels, and battery life. Avoid listings without clear inspection or return guarantees.
Buying secondhand can be rewarding, but ensure youβre purchasing from a reputable source and understand the warranty terms.
Resale Value
Foldable tech depreciates faster than traditional phones, largely due to its novelty and rapid generational changes. Still, a well-kept Z Fold 5 holds surprising valueβespecially as not everyone needs the βlatest and greatestβ to enjoy the foldable experience.
If you plan to upgrade soon, the device could still fetch a fair price, especially with original packaging, accessories, and proof of gentle use.
The Z Fold 5 Specification Compared to 2025βs Needs
To figure out whether the Z Fold 5 suits your lifestyle today, letβs match its capabilities against common smartphone use cases.
Entertainment and Media
- Screen size: Bigger than most candy-bar phones, ideal for streaming and comic reading.
- Audio: Still solid, with stereo speakers that are loud and clear.
- Gaming: Processor and graphics remain powerful. Most modern mobile games run flawlessly, though you may notice longer load times versus 2025βs newest chips.
Productivity and Multitasking
- Multi-window: Three-app splits still work perfectly, letting you email, browse and take notes all at once.
- S Pen: Still responsive and accurate for jotting, sketching, or editing documents.
- Connectivity: 5G support, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 are up to date, ensuring fast wireless connections even in 2025.
Photography and Videography
- Quick capture: Access cameras instantly from the cover or main screen, great for spontaneous moments.
- Photo editing: Big, bright inner display is excellent for detailed touch-ups.
Durability and Longevity
- Build quality: Hinge hasnβt shown widespread wear issues, but always test before purchase.
- Repairability: Samsungβs network of service centers means replacement parts are accessible for a few more years.
Downsides and Limitations to Consider
No device is flawless; hereβs what may give you pause.
- Weight and thickness: Itβs heavier and thicker than regular phonesβmight bother those who value low-profile devices.
- No dust resistance: Avoid beach or construction-site usage.
- Battery isnβt top-tier: Competing foldables in 2025 might last longer per charge.
- Camera modestly outpaced: The main lens is still strong, but the absence of cutting-edge periscopic zoom or super-low-light modes may matter to some.
- Learning curve: Mastering gestures, splits, and multitasking features takes some patience if coming from a standard smartphone.
Who Should Still Buy the Z Fold 5 in 2025?
Given its Z Fold 5 specification profile, solid durability, ongoing updates, and dramatically reduced price, this foldable remains a savvy choice for:
- Professionals needing a pocket-size productivity device
- Tech enthusiasts eager to try foldables without todayβs premium
- Remote workers who crave multi-app workflows on a go-anywhere screen
- Students seeking both tablet and smartphone benefits on a budget
Itβs also ideal for those who want a blend of reliability, modern features, and innovative designβwithout splurging on the very latest model.
Troubleshooting and Support for Z Fold 5 Owners
In 2025, Samsung still supports the Z Fold 5 with regular updates and repair services. Replacement screens, hinges, and batteries remain available in most regions.
- Screen protector replacement: Easy to find, as third-party providers and service centers stock compatible films.
- Hinge lubrication/repair: Samsung offers this service, which preserves the smooth folding action.
- OS updates: Expect one or two more Android updates and continued security patches for at least another year.
If you buy a used or refurbished unit, ensure it isnβt region-locked and that all Google services function as expected in your area.
Final Checklist: Is the Galaxy Z Fold 5 for You?
Use this quick guide to decide:
- Looking for a durable, multitasking foldable at a bargain? Z Fold 5 still shines.
- Need bleeding-edge camera and zoom tech? Consider newer options.
- Prioritize pocket-ability and weight over screen size? You may want a traditional model.
- Expecting reliable updates and official support? The Z Fold 5 still qualifies.
If you value unique form and versatile productivity without chasing every new spec, the Z Fold 5 remains an excellent buy.
Conclusion
Even in 2025, the Galaxy Z Fold 5βs specifications, durability, and steady software updates make it a compelling foldable for savvy buyers. If versatility, productivity, and price override an urge for the latest hardware, the Z Fold 5 is still worth consideringβexplore one yourself and experience the foldable revolution firsthand.
