Smartphone Comparison: Realme 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme 8 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | The Z Flip4 folds in half for a more compact form factor when not in use; Realme 8 is a standard slate phone. |
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 165.2 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Z Flip4 is taller but narrower and thinner when unfolded. The Realme 8 is slightly more compact in width but thicker. |
| Weight | 177g | 187g | Realme 8 is slightly lighter, which may be more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive experience; Realme 8 is slightly smaller and more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip4 has a slightly higher resolution, leading to sharper text and images, though the difference may not be noticeable to most users. |
| Pixel Density | 411 PPI | 426 PPI | Both have very similar pixel density, so clarity should be comparable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Not specified | Realme 8's AMOLED display offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors. Lack of this information for Z Flip4 is a limitation in this comparison |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip4's 120Hz refresh rate provides much smoother scrolling and animations, offering a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 is noticeably brighter in direct sunlight, improving outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Flip4's flagship-level chipset offers significantly superior performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 offers vastly better performance for demanding tasks. The Realme 8 is suitable for daily usage and light gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4 has a much more powerful GPU, providing better graphics performance in games and other GPU-intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3700mAh | Realme 8's larger battery should offer longer battery life for typical users. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Realme 8 offers slightly faster charging than the Z Flip4. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Fast charging 25W, 50% in 30 min, Fast wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | Z Flip4 offers more advanced charging features, including wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.70µm | 12.2MP, f/1.8, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | Realme 8 has a higher resolution sensor, but the Z Flip4 has larger individual pixels for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Lens | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | Realme 8 has a higher resolution sensor, but the Z Flip4 has slightly larger pixels, resulting in a slight difference in low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.25 | 13MP, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | Z Flip4 has a higher resolution wide-angle lens for capturing more detail in group photos or landscapes. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme 8 includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, which is absent on the Z Flip4. |
| Black & White lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme 8 includes a dedicated black and white lens, which is absent on the Z Flip4. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p options, Slow-mo 240fps | 4K@60fps with HDR, 1080p@240fps with HDR, 720p@960fps with HDR, Slow-mo 960fps | Z Flip4 offers superior video recording quality and additional HDR capabilities, as well as a higher slow-motion framerate. |
| DXOMARK Score | Not Tested | Mobile: 112, Photo: 125, Video: 113 | Z Flip4 is a tested camera with a decent score, while the Realme 8 has not been tested so its performance is not quantifiable. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (Upgradeable to 14) | Z Flip4 has a more recent Android version, and is upgradable, receiving more support from Google and newer features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Z Flip4 supports newer Wi-Fi standards for faster speeds and better performance in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1 | Z Flip4 has more advanced audio codec support, along with additional features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo (L1+L5) | Z Flip4 supports more satellite bands for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Z Flip4 offers eSIM compatibility for more flexible carrier options. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB or 256GB or 512GB | Z Flip4 has more storage options, allowing for more files, apps, and media to be stored directly. |
| RAM | 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB | 8GB | Z Flip4 has a fixed 8GB RAM. The Realme 8 has options but if you choose the model with 4GB of ram it might struggle with heavier tasks. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Stereo Speakers | Z Flip4 provides stereo sound for a more immersive audio experience, whereas the Realme 8 has hi-res audio output. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 uses a more modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 uses superior screen protection, meaning better resistance to scratches and cracks. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Z Flip4 has a more comprehensive suite of sensors, including a barometer for altitude measurements, and a compass for better navigation, whereas the Realme 8 uses a magnetometer instead of a compass |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life.
- Faster Charging (Slightly): The 30W charging is marginally faster than Z Flip4's 25W.
- Dedicated Macro and B&W lens: Offers versatility for certain types of photography.
- Hi-Res Audio: Better audio output quality for audiophiles.
- Lower Cost: Significantly more affordable.
Practical Implications for Realme 8:
- Ideal for users who prioritize long battery life and affordability.
- Suitable for casual users who don't need top-tier performance.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: More compact when folded and a unique form factor.
- Superior Performance: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 offers a flagship-level experience.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate for a much more fluid user experience.
- Brighter Display: 1200 nits for better outdoor visibility.
- Better Video Recording: Includes HDR capabilities and higher slow-motion framerates.
- Wireless Charging: Supports wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- More Storage Options: Up to 512GB of internal storage.
- Better Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster speeds.
- More Satellite GPS Bands: Better location accuracy.
- More Advanced Audio Codecs
- More Modern Security: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
- More Sensors: Has Barometer, and compass, which are better for navigation and other applications.
Practical Implications for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Appeals to users who want the latest technology and top-tier performance.
- A fashionable device that can be a conversation starter.
- Suitable for users who need high-performance for gaming or content creation.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Realme 8: Compromises on performance, display smoothness, and features compared to the Z Flip4.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4: More expensive, potentially shorter battery life due to a smaller battery, and is not made for users that want to take macro or black and white photos.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who value long battery life and a large display for media consumption.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday social media browsing and messaging.
- Streaming videos and music.
- Casual gaming.
- Users who prioritize battery life.
- Price-to-Value: Good value for the price, providing a reliable user experience for basic tasks.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts, professionals, and users who desire a premium device with top-tier performance and a unique design.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming and content creation.
- Multitasking between demanding apps.
- On-the-go productivity.
- Taking high-quality photos and videos.
- Fashion-conscious individuals.
- Price-to-Value: Higher price point, but offers flagship performance and features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your budget? The Realme 8 is significantly more affordable than the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
- How important is performance? The Z Flip4 offers flagship-level performance, while the Realme 8 is suitable for general usage.
- Do you value a unique form factor? The Z Flip4's folding design sets it apart from standard smartphones.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget-Conscious): If your primary concern is budget, the Realme 8 is a more sensible option.
- Scenario 2 (Performance Focused): If you need the best performance and a modern user experience, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the superior choice.
- Scenario 3 (Unique Design): If you are looking for a head-turning design with the latest technology, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the phone to buy.
Personal Decision
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. While the Realme 8 has some advantages, such as its larger battery, the Z Flip4's superior performance, smoother display, better cameras and additional features make it a more compelling option for my personal use cases. I also find the foldable design to be very interesting and a welcome change from traditional smartphones. The price difference is considerable, but the Z Flip4 offers a much better user experience, making it worth the additional investment for me.
