Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G and the Galaxy S24. This isn't just about spec sheets; we're looking at how these differences play out in your daily life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | Z Flip3 is a pocketable phone when folded, S24 is a traditional slab design. |
| Dimensions | 166 × 72.2 × 6.9 mm | 147 × 70.6 × 7.6 mm | Z Flip3 is taller and a bit wider when unfolded; S24 is more compact. |
| Weight | 183g | 167g | S24 is lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.2" | Z Flip3 has a larger screen, great for media consumption. S24 is more pocketable |
| Resolution | 1080x2640 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp, though the Z Flip3 has a slightly higher pixel count. |
| Pixel Density | 426 PPI | 416 PPI | Both offer a sharp viewing experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both feature vibrant, high-contrast displays. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 2600 nits | S24 is significantly brighter, much better for use in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | S24 has a much newer, more powerful and efficient chip. |
| AnTuTu Score | 898,700 | 1,639,695 | S24 is significantly faster for gaming, apps, and multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | S24 has a more advanced GPU for superior graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12.2MP, f/1.8, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.0µm | S24 has significantly higher resolution and a larger sensor. Better image detail and low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | 12MP, f/2.2 | S24 has a slightly higher resolution and wider aperture for better selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9", 1.0µm | S24 offers optical zoom capabilities; Z Flip3 doesn't have this option |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | S24 has a wider aperture and larger sensor for better wide shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR | Up to 8K@30fps with HDR, EIS | S24 supports higher video resolution and offers better stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | 111 (mobile) | N/A | The Z Flip3 has been tested for its camera capabilities. S24 is not tested yet. |
| Features | Tracking AF | Night Mode 2.0, Optical Zoom, 8K Video | S24 offers more advanced camera features. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 3300mAh | 4000mAh | S24 has a larger battery, likely offering better battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | S24 offers faster charging capabilities. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Reverse Charging, Bypass Charging | S24 offers additional bypass charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 (upgradable to 21) | S24 offers the latest Android version with more years of updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24 supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering higher performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | S24 has a newer version of Bluetooth with enhanced features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | S24 supports more satellite systems for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | Both support dual SIM configurations. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB | S24 offers higher internal storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8GB or 12 GB | S24 has more RAM for better multitasking options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, Noise Cancellation Microphone | S24 has noise cancellation for better calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Z Flip3's side-mounted sensor offers faster access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S24 has a slightly improved version of Gorilla Glass. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Z Flip3 features additional biometric sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Strengths:
- Unique Form Factor: The foldable design is a major selling point, offering a compact and eye-catching device.
- Larger Display (Unfolded): The 6.7" screen provides a great viewing experience for media and multitasking.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: The side mounted sensor is faster and more practical for daily usage.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset provides significantly better performance in benchmarks, apps, and gaming.
- Enhanced Camera System: The S24 has better camera with higher resolution and optical zoom capabilities.
- Brighter Display: The 2600-nit display makes it vastly superior for outdoor visibility.
- Longer Battery Life & Faster Charging: S24 has a larger battery and faster charging speeds.
- Latest Software: Comes with the latest Android version and will receive more years of updates.
- Better Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 offer a more modern experience.
Trade-offs:
- Z Flip3: Sacrifices performance and battery life for a unique form factor. Its camera and screen, while good, lag behind the S24.
- S24: Loses the cool foldable design of the Z Flip3 for a traditional slab design. It does however have the newest chipset, better camera and display for a premium experience.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G:
- Fashion-Forward Users: Those who prioritize design and a unique, compact phone.
- Casual Gamers: Users who are interested in playing casual games but don't need the absolute best performance.
- Media Consumers: Users who appreciate a larger screen for watching videos.
- Social Media Enthusiasts: Users who enjoy taking quick photos and posting them on social media.
Samsung Galaxy S24:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, or demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want excellent camera performance for photos and videos.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a screen that remains visible in direct sunlight.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest tech, software, and connectivity features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to ask yourself:
- How much do you value a unique, compact form factor?
- If the foldable design is a must-have, the Z Flip3 might be appealing. If not, the S24 offers a more traditional smartphone experience.
- What kind of performance and camera capabilities do you require?
- If you need the best performance and image quality, the S24 is the clear winner. If you don't need the absolute best performance and quality, then Z Flip3 will suffice.
- How important are software updates and longevity?
- If long-term software support and the latest Android version are crucial, the S24 is the better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Tech Innovator: If having the latest and greatest technology is your priority, the S24 is a no-brainer. Its powerful processor, better camera system, and long-term software updates make it a superior device from a purely technical perspective.
- For the Casual User Who Values Style: If having a phone that stands out with a compact form factor is your top concern, the Z Flip3 is the device for you.
- For the Photography Buff: If image and video quality are what matter most, then the S24 offers far better capabilities thanks to its higher resolution main camera, optical zoom, and superior stabilization.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy S24. While the Z Flip3's foldable design is undeniably cool and innovative, the S24 wins on practicality and overall performance. The dramatically brighter display, combined with the superior chipset, enhanced camera, and better battery life, makes the S24 the more versatile and reliable device for my day-to-day needs. Although the foldable form factor is an attractive feature, it's simply not enough to justify the sacrifice of performance, battery, and camera capabilities. As a tech journalist who often needs to capture images and videos on the go, the S24's camera capabilities alone push it into the lead.
