Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison between the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the Huawei Pura 70 Pro. These two are very different beasts, and choosing between them comes down to what you prioritize in a smartphone.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specifications, along with their real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Huawei Pura 70 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | The Fold3 offers a unique tablet-like experience, while the Pura 70 Pro is a traditional smartphone. |
| Dimensions | 158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4 mm | 162.6 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | Fold3 is significantly wider when unfolded, Pura 70 Pro is taller & thicker. |
| Weight | 271g | 220g | The Pura 70 Pro is noticeably lighter, making it easier to hold for longer. |
| Display | |||
| Main Screen Size | 7.6" | 6.8" | Fold3 offers more screen real estate for multitasking and media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1768 x 2208 | 1260 x 2844 | Fold3 has a slightly higher overall pixel count, but has a lower resolution when unfolded |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 374 | 460 | Pura 70 Pro's display will appear noticeably sharper with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | OLED | Pura 70 Pro with OLED technology offers better colors, contrast, and deep blacks. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2500 nits | Pura 70 Pro is significantly brighter, offering superior visibility under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Kirin 9010 (7nm) | Different architectures. The Snapdragon 888 is older but performs similarly to the Kirin in benchmark scores. |
| AnTuTu Score | 898,700 | 869,707 | Both offer excellent performance for most tasks; similar scores show comparable speeds |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Maleoon 910 | Different graphics processing units; overall gaming performance is similar. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4400 mAh | 5050 mAh | Pura 70 Pro has a larger battery, likely translating to longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 25W wired, 15W Wireless | 100W wired, 80W Wireless | Pura 70 Pro offers significantly faster wired and wireless charging speeds. |
| Battery Features | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W | Reverse charging, Non-removable, 80W wireless charging, 20W reverse wireless charging | Pura 70 Pro charges at a higher wattage wirelessly. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.4 | Pura 70 Pro has a much higher resolution sensor, and a wider aperture leading to better low light capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP f/2.2 | 13MP f/2.4 | Pura 70 Pro offers slightly more resolution, but Z Fold 3 has a slightly wider aperture |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP f/2.4 | 48MP f/2.1 | Pura 70 Pro has significantly more resolution and a wider aperture, indicating better zoom capabilities |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP f/2.2 | 12.5MP f/2.2 | Similar performance in the ultra-wide category, though the Fold 3 is a tad higher in resolution |
| Video Resolution | 4K@60fps | 4K@30/60fps | Both can shoot in 4k |
| Slow Motion | 240 fps | 960 fps | Pura 70 Pro can achieve much higher frame rates for slow-motion videos. |
| DxoMark Main Camera | 120 | Not Tested | Fold 3 has a good camera score for stills and video according to DxoMark |
| DxoMark Selfie Camera | 83 | Not Tested | Fold 3 has a decent selfie camera according to DxoMark |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Unknown | Android 15 is the latest upgrade for the Fold 3. Pura 70 OS is not specified. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ax | 802.11ax | Both phones support Wi-Fi 6, and similar WiFi standards |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 | Both have similar Bluetooth capabilities. |
| GPS | Multiple Systems | Multiple Systems | Pura 70 Pro supports more GPS constellations, offering better accuracy, Fold 3 uses GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo |
| SIM | Nano + eSIM | Dual Nano SIM | Fold 3 uses both Nano and E-Sim, Pura 70 Pro uses Dual Nano sim |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 256GB/512GB | 256GB/512GB/1024GB | Pura 70 Pro offers a 1TB option, providing more space for media files. |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB | Both are well-equipped for multi-tasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device offers storage expansion via SD card, which could be a deal-breaker for some |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos | Both offer similar audio features |
| Security | |||
| Biometric | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Fingerprint Scanner | The Fold 3 has a side mounted fingerprint sensor which might be easier to access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Z Fold3 uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better scratch and drop resistance |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fold 3 comes with more sensors and can detect barometer pressure |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Strengths:
- Unique Foldable Design: The standout feature is its foldable form factor, providing a tablet-like experience when unfolded, perfect for multitasking and media consumption.
- Versatile Display: While the pixel density isn't as high as the Pura 70 Pro, the large 7.6" display is great for productivity and immersive experiences.
- Good All-Around Performance: The Snapdragon 888 provides strong performance, comparable to the Kirin 9010 in the Pura 70 Pro.
- eSIM Support: Offers the convenience of eSIM for digital carrier switching, in addition to traditional SIM cards
- Advanced Sensor Suite This device has a barometer sensor for weather tracking.
- Established Ecosystem: Benefit from Samsung's mature software ecosystem and app support.
Huawei Pura 70 Pro Strengths:
- Superior Display: The OLED display with significantly higher brightness and pixel density offers a sharper and more vivid viewing experience.
- Exceptional Camera System: A higher resolution main camera, telephoto lens, and wider aperture offer superior low-light performance and zoom capabilities.
- Faster Charging: Both wired and wireless charging are significantly faster, reducing downtime.
- Larger Battery: Likely provides better battery endurance.
- Higher Quality Slow-Motion: The 960fps slow motion is great for detailed slow-motion shots.
- 1TB Storage Option Option for more storage for people who need to store a lot of data.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: Heavier, larger, and the main display is prone to damage because it is a flexible screen. Also, the smaller battery may require more frequent charging and has much slower charging speeds.
- Huawei Pura 70 Pro: Lacks a foldable screen which some may prefer. Also, it's unclear what OS the phone uses.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: Best suited for:
- Power Users: Those who want a large screen for multitasking, reading, and media consumption.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those fascinated by the foldable form factor and its unique capabilities.
- Productivity Focused Individuals: People who need to manage multiple apps and view multiple documents on the go.
- Huawei Pura 70 Pro: Best suited for:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize excellent camera performance, especially in low-light and zoom situations.
- Multimedia Consumers: Those who value a bright, sharp display and want a better experience.
- Users on the Go: Those who appreciate fast charging and a longer-lasting battery.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you choose, consider these three questions:
- What do I value most: screen size or a superior camera? If you need the most screen real estate for productivity, the Z Fold3 is the better choice. If camera quality and a sharper screen are a higher priority, the Pura 70 Pro excels.
- Is battery life and fast charging important? The Pura 70 Pro has much better battery life and faster charging speeds. If you hate being tied to an outlet, the Pura 70 Pro is a better choice.
- Do I prefer a foldable screen experience or a traditional smartphone form factor? If you value the uniqueness of a foldable device and the multitasking capabilities, go with the Z Fold3. If you prefer a traditional experience, the Pura 70 Pro is for you.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: On-the-Go Professional:
- Recommendation: Huawei Pura 70 Pro. The brighter, sharper display and fast charging makes it suitable for the go, especially if your work includes a lot of photography.
- Scenario 2: Home-Based Media Consumption:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G. The large, foldable display is excellent for home based content consumption.
- Scenario 3: Photography Lover:
* *Recommendation:* **Huawei Pura 70 Pro.** The exceptional camera system provides a lot of quality photos.
My Choice and Why:
If I had to choose, I would personally go with the Huawei Pura 70 Pro. While I'm fascinated by the foldable design of the Z Fold3, the superior display quality, exceptional camera system, and significantly faster charging of the Pura 70 Pro align more with my priorities as a tech journalist and someone who takes a lot of pictures on the go. The ability to take excellent low-light shots, alongside quick charging, makes the Pura 70 Pro the more practical option for me.
While the foldable nature of the Fold 3 is compelling, the Pura 70 Pro packs better tech where it counts more for my daily workflow, and that's a superior display, better cameras, and more efficient charging.
