Smartphone Comparison: Asus Zenfone 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-05-13 | 2023-08-11 | The Fold5 is significantly newer, benefiting from newer technology |
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Fold5 offers a larger screen when unfolded, enhanced multitasking, but bulkier when folded |
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm | 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1 mm | Zenfone 8 is much smaller and more pocketable, Fold5 is wider unfolded, and thinner when folded. |
| Weight | 169g | 253g | Zenfone 8 is significantly lighter, easier to hold for extended periods |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 7.6" | Fold5 provides a much larger screen for immersive media consumption and enhanced productivity |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1812x2176 | Fold5's higher resolution provides more detail and sharper text |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 446 | 373 | Zenfone 8 has a sharper display, with finer details, while Fold5 has bigger pixels and less dense screen. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | Zenfone 8 has a superior display with deep blacks and vibrant colors. Fold 5 display technology is not specified |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Zenfone 8 offers much better visibility in bright sunlight. Fold 5 brightness spec is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Fold5 has a newer, more powerful processor, better app performance, gaming and efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 1,538,914 | Fold5 offers significantly faster performance in all use cases including heavy gaming |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 740 | Fold5 has a newer and more powerful GPU for superior graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 50MP | Zenfone 8 offers slightly higher resolution, Fold5 has larger sensor |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/1.57" | Fold5 larger sensor may perform better in low light |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 12MP | 10MP | Zenfone 8 offers slightly higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.2 | Fold5's selfie camera has a slightly wider aperture, potentially better in low light |
| Telephoto Lens | No | Yes | Fold5 offers optical zoom capabilities |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | Yes | Fold5 can capture broader scenes |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | Yes | No | Zenfone 8 can capture both wide and macro photos using same lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@480fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Both offer excellent video quality; Zenfone offers high framerate slow motion and Fold5 captures video up to 960fps slow motion |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 116 | 128 | Fold5 has superior overall image quality based on DxoMark scores |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4400mAh | Fold5 offers a slightly larger battery, but real-world difference depends on screen size and usage |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Zenfone 8 offers slightly faster charging |
| Wireless Charging | No | 15W | Fold5 offers wireless charging capability |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes | Fold5 can be used to charge other wireless devices |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 13 (Upgradable to 17) | Fold5 provides a newer Android version and support, with the potential for more software upgrades. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | Fold5 offers faster wifi speeds with lower latency and better congestion handling. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 | Both offer Bluetooth 5.2, Fold5 has wider profile support |
| GPS | Extensive satellite support | Extensive satellite support | Zenfone 8 offers slightly more robust satellite navigation options |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Fold5 offers greater flexibility with eSIM support for digital carrier selection. |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | Fold5 offers significantly more storage options, up to 1TB |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 12 GB | Zenfone 8 offer more ram for extensive multitasking and heavy use cases. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 provides higher quality audio playback; Fold5 has Dolby Atmos for enhanced spatial audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Fold5 uses a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, generally faster and more convenient |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Fold5 has a slightly newer version of Gorilla Glass. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint, Barometer | Fold5 has a more complete set of sensors |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Compact Size & Lightweight: Significantly smaller and lighter, making it much easier to handle and carry in pockets.
- Sharper Display: Higher pixel density results in a noticeably sharper and crisper display.
- Brighter Screen: Much higher brightness for better visibility in direct sunlight.
- Faster Charging: Slightly faster wired charging.
- Hi-Res Audio and Superior Microphones: Better audio playback and recording capabilities for audiophiles and content creators
- More RAM (Optional): Offers more ram options up to 16GB (vs 12GB on Z Fold 5), which is better for heavy multitasking.
Practical Implications: The Zenfone 8 is designed for one-handed use, portability, and those who value a compact device with a sharp and bright display.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Advantages:
- Foldable Design & Larger Display: Offers a much larger display when unfolded for immersive viewing, multitasking, and productivity.
- More Powerful Performance: Newer and much faster processor for demanding tasks, gaming, and better future-proofing.
- Superior Cameras: Better camera system, including telephoto and wide angle lenses.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: More versatile battery features with wireless and reverse wireless charging capabilities.
- Newer Software and Better Support: Ships with a newer version of Android and is expected to receive more updates.
- More Storage Options: Offers more options up to 1 TB of internal storage, better for media lovers and power users
- eSIM Support: More flexible connectivity with the option to use an eSIM.
- Better audio features: Dolby Atmos for enhanced spatial audio.
- More sensors: Barometer.
Practical Implications: The Fold5 is for those who want the benefits of a tablet and phone, ideal for multitasking, media consumption, and content creation.
Trade-offs:
- Zenfone 8: Lacks the large screen, flexible form factor, and powerful camera system of the Fold5.
- Fold5: Much bulkier and heavier than the Zenfone 8, and comes at a much higher cost.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Asus Zenfone 8:
- Users who prioritize portability and one-handed use.
- Those seeking a high-quality display with excellent sharpness and brightness.
- Price-conscious buyers looking for flagship-level performance at a lower cost (relative to the Fold5).
- Audiophiles who value Hi-Res audio and superior audio recording quality.
- Those who need a pocketable phone with good performance and fast charging
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday phone use, web browsing, and social media
- Casual gaming
- Audio recording and playback
- Outdoor activities where screen visibility is essential
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5:
- Power users who want the benefits of both a phone and tablet in one device.
- Multitaskers and professionals who value productivity.
- Media consumers who enjoy watching videos, reading, and playing games on a larger screen.
- Content creators who need a versatile camera system.
- Users who want the latest technology and features, regardless of cost.
- Users who prefer flexibility in carrier options (eSIM)
- Users who prefer the added functionality of wireless charging
Specific Use Cases:
- Business professionals who need to work on the go
- Gamers who want a more immersive experience
- Content creators who need a powerful and versatile device
- Users who multitask heavily between various apps
- Traveling or long commute users who like to watch videos on the go
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is portability and one-handed use?
- What is your primary use case for the phone (e.g., gaming, productivity, media consumption)?
- What is your budget?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You need a compact, reliable, and affordable phone for everyday use. Choose the Asus Zenfone 8. It excels in portability and offers excellent value for its performance.
- Scenario 2: You are a power user who values a large screen and multitasking capabilities. Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5. Its foldable design offers a unique user experience for productivity and media consumption.
- Scenario 3: You prioritize the best camera experience and versatility. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 offers a more complete camera system with telephoto and wide-angle lenses and better software image processing.
- Scenario 4: You are an audiophile who uses the phone to record and playback quality audio. The Asus Zenfone 8 excels in this area due to Hi-Res Audio, and superior microphones.
My Choice and Explanation
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, despite its considerably higher price and larger size. My primary use case involves both productivity tasks, such as writing and email management, along with heavy media consumption. The expansive screen of the Fold5, while being much bigger, offers a unique and valuable experience that would significantly enhance my workflow and enjoyment. The newer processor and superior cameras are important for my use cases which require capturing quality photos and performing demanding tasks.
While the Zenfone 8 is a superb phone, particularly for its compact size and affordability, it does not match the versatility and advanced features provided by the Fold5. The trade-off in size and cost would be worth it for the significant benefits in productivity and immersive entertainment, and the advanced features like wireless charging, eSIM, and newer wifi. The Zenfone 8 would be a great backup phone, but for primary usage, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 suits my needs better.
