Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Note20: Familiar, pocketable. Z Fold4: Larger screen real estate when unfolded, unique multitasking capabilities, but bulkier when folded. |
| Dimensions | 161.6 × 75.2 × 8.3 mm | 155.1 × 130.1 × 6.3 mm (unfolded) | Note20: Easier one-handed use. Z Fold4: More screen for content consumption and productivity. |
| Weight | 192g | 263g | Note20: More comfortable for extended use. Z Fold4: Noticeably heavier, may require two hands. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Z Fold4: Better scratch and shatter resistance for both inner and outer displays. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 7.6" (Main) | Z Fold4: Significantly more screen space for multitasking, watching videos, and browsing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1812x2176 | Z Fold4: Sharper, more detailed image, especially noticeable on the larger screen. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 373 PPI | Note20: Slightly sharper smaller display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Note20: Potentially better color accuracy and contrast. | |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Z Fold4: Smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experience. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 990 (7 nm+) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Fold4: Significantly faster and more efficient. Better for gaming, demanding apps, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 515,090 | 1,232,800 | Z Fold4: Noticeably faster app loading and overall system responsiveness. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB | Z Fold4: Better multitasking and ability to keep more apps open in the background. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Z Fold4: Potentially better image quality, especially in low light, and more detail. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/2.0 | 10MP, f/2.4 | Note20: Higher zoom range. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Both fairly comparable. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.0 | 10MP, f/2.2 | Note20: Slightly better low-light selfies due to the wider aperture. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 8K@24fps | Similar video recording capabilities |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | 124 | Z Fold4: Objectively better camera performance. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4300mAh | 4400mAh | Similar battery life, though Z Fold4's larger screen may drain faster. |
| Charging | 25W Wired, 9W Wireless | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless | Z Fold4: Faster wireless charging. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, Fast Qi/PMA wireless charging | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W | Z Fold4: Bypass charging can reduce heat during gaming and prolonged use while plugged in. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | Z Fold4: Higher storage options, beneficial for users who store many large files (photos, videos, games). |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, so choose storage option carefully |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: Easier to carry and use one-handed.
- Potentially slightly better camera zoom: The 64MP telephoto lens offers higher zoom.
- Lower Price: Generally more affordable.
- Dolby Digital Plus Audio
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Offers a tablet-sized screen in a pocketable form factor, enhanced multitasking.
- Significantly more powerful processor: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 provides better performance for gaming and demanding apps.
- Higher Refresh Rate Display (120Hz): Smoother visuals.
- Larger Display: Immersive viewing experience.
- More RAM: Enables smoother multitasking.
- Higher Storage Options: Up to 1TB for storing large files.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.2 LE Low energy consumption
- Stereo Speakers
- Superior Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+
Trade-offs:
- Z Fold4: Higher price, heavier, bulkier when folded.
- Note20: Older processor, smaller display, standard form factor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize affordability, portability, and a traditional smartphone experience.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday communication (calls, texts, social media).
- Casual photography and video recording.
- General productivity tasks.
- Price-to-Value: Good value for users seeking a capable smartphone at a mid-range price.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4:
- Ideal User: Power users who want a device for productivity, entertainment, and multitasking.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile professionals who need to work on the go.
- Gamers who want a larger screen and powerful performance.
- Content creators who need a versatile device for photography, video editing, and media consumption.
- Price-to-Value: Justified for users who will fully utilize the foldable design and high-end features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone?
- Form Factor Preference: Do you value portability and one-handed use, or do you want a larger screen for productivity and entertainment, even if it means a bulkier device?
- Performance Needs: Do you need a phone for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing, or will it primarily be used for everyday communication and casual use?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You need a reliable, affordable phone for everyday use: Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G.
- Scenario 2: You want a powerful device for gaming and multitasking on a larger screen: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4.
- Scenario 3: You are a mobile professional who needs a device for productivity and content creation: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. Although it's more expensive and heavier, the enhanced productivity and immersive experience offered by the foldable display, combined with the superior performance of the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, make it a worthwhile investment. I frequently multitask, consume media, and occasionally engage in mobile gaming, and the Z Fold4 would significantly enhance these activities. The newer software and better screen protection are also valuable advantages.
