Alright, let's dive into this comparison between the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the Sony Xperia 5 IV. We've got a fascinating clash of design philosophies here: a foldable powerhouse versus a sleek, traditional smartphone. Let's break down how they stack up in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the key specs and their implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | The Z Fold3 offers a large, tablet-like screen that folds into a more compact phone, while the Xperia 5 IV is a traditional, single-screen smartphone. |
| Dimensions | 158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4 mm (Unfolded) | 156 x 67 x 8.2 mm | Z Fold3 is significantly wider and bulkier when open, while the Xperia 5 IV is slimmer and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 271g | 172g | The Xperia 5 IV is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and one-handed operation. The Z Fold3, is hefty due to the foldable design and extra screen. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 7.6" (Main), 6.2" (Cover) | 6.1" | Z Fold3 provides a large display area ideal for multitasking and media consumption, while the Xperia 5 IV offers a more standard, compact screen. |
| Resolution | 1768 x 2208 px (Main) | 1080 x 2520 px | The Z Fold3 has higher resolution, leading to a more detailed visual experience. |
| Pixel Density | 374 ppi | 449 ppi | The Xperia 5 IV offers a sharper display with a higher pixel density, resulting in clearer text and images. |
| Technology | (Dynamic AMOLED) | OLED | OLED technology on the Xperia 5 IV provides better blacks and contrast. The Z Fold3 is assumed to be Dynamic AMOLED, meaning it has similar color and brightness output. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, enhancing responsiveness and overall visual fluidity. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | The Xperia 5 IV's newer chip offers slightly improved performance and efficiency, resulting in snappier performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 898,700 | 1,021,542 | Xperia 5 IV shows slightly better performance in benchmarks, which translates to smoother and faster app usage. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Xperia 5 IV's Adreno 730 GPU offers a better gaming experience with improved graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", Sony IMX555 | 12MP, f/1.7, 1/1.7", Sony IMX557 | Xperia 5 IV slightly better aperture and sensor size in this case, could perform slightly better in low-light conditions. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.4, 1.0µm pixel size | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.5", Sony IMX650 Exmor RS | Both cameras have the same aperture and pixel size, but the Sony has a larger sensor, possibly giving it a slight advantage. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", Sony IMX258 | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX363 Exmor RS | Xperia 5 IV's wide-angle lens comes with a larger sensor, possibly capturing more light and offering slightly better performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", Sony IMX374 | 12MP, f/2.0, Sony Exmor RS | Xperia 5 IV has a higher resolution selfie camera with a wider aperture, potentially taking better selfies. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS | Up to 4K@120fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Xperia 5 IV offers more versatile video recording options with higher frame rates, OIS, and EIS. |
| DXOMark Mobile | 120 (Photo: 129, Video: 105) | 119 (Photo: 121, Video: 113) | Z Fold3 has the edge in stills, while the Xperia 5 IV is better in video. The Z Fold3 selfie camera is rated at 83, but no data for the 5 IV. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4400mAh | 5000mAh | Xperia 5 IV has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Xperia 5 IV charges slightly faster. |
| Battery Features | Wireless charging, Reverse wireless charging | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable | Z Fold3 has wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. The Xperia 5 IV lacks wireless but has battery bypass when gaming. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 15) | Android 12 (up to 13) | Xperia 5 IV has a more recent out-of-the-box Android version, but may not receive as many years of updates as the Z Fold3. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Both devices have WiFi 6 but Z Fold3 offers MiMO. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 LE, APT-x | Bluetooth 5.2 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Xperia 5 IV offers more versatile codec support for wireless audio. |
| GPS | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, BeiDou (B1) | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Xperia 5 IV has more advanced GPS features, leading to more accurate positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Both phones offer dual SIM functionality, allowing for two lines, one being an eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB | Z Fold3 offers more storage options with 512 GB vs. 256 GB. |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB | Z Fold3 has 12 GB of RAM which may offer a smoother multitasking experience. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage, so pick a storage option carefully. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | The Xperia 5 IV offers additional Hi-Res Audio support for a superior audio experience, but both offer great sound quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Both feature reliable side-mounted fingerprint sensors for quick and secure unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both phones have very good scratch resistance, but neither offers shatter-proofing capabilities. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Gravity, Geomagnetic | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Z Fold3 offers slightly more sensor options. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
Strengths:
- Large, Foldable Display: The key differentiator is the expansive 7.6-inch main display, perfect for multitasking, media consumption, and productivity on the go.
- Multi-Window Capabilities: Enhanced software makes use of the large screen for seamless multi-tasking.
- Premium Build: Offers a unique and premium feel with a foldable form factor, although it comes at the price of increased weight and bulk.
- Wireless Charging: A highly convenient feature, especially for a premium device.
- High RAM: The 12GB of RAM makes it a great multi-tasker and gamer.
Competitive Advantages: Unique form factor, versatile large display, and wireless charging.
Trade-offs: Heavier, bulkier, less pocketable, and slightly lower pixel density and camera performance than the Xperia 5 IV.
Sony Xperia 5 IV:
Strengths:
- Compact and Lightweight: Slim profile and lightweight design for easy handling and portability.
- Sharper Display: Higher pixel density offers a sharper and clearer display.
- Better Video Performance: The camera excels in video recording, offering more flexibility with recording options.
- Superior Audio: Hi-Res Audio support enhances the audio experience.
- Better Chipset: Uses newer, more efficient chipset, leading to better performance and battery life.
Competitive Advantages: Superior display sharpness, better video recording, and a more compact design, along with the latest chip.
Trade-offs: Standard smartphone design, smaller screen, and lacks wireless charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, multitaskers, media enthusiasts, and professionals who value a large screen for productivity and immersive experiences.
- Use Cases: Reading, note-taking, video editing, multi-app use, and gaming on a larger display.
Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize a compact, high-performance phone with a focus on media consumption, and content creation.
- Use Cases: Photography, videography, listening to Hi-Res audio, one-handed use, and enjoying media on a vibrant screen.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are some practical questions to ask when deciding between these two phones:
- Screen Size and Form Factor: Do you prefer a large, foldable display for maximum screen real estate, or a compact, traditional smartphone that’s easy to carry?
- Multimedia Experience: Are you more focused on content consumption (e.g. watching videos) or content creation (e.g. recording videos)?
- Battery Life and Charging: Do you prioritize longer battery life with slightly faster charging, or wireless charging convenience?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Productivity Power User: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G for its large screen, multitasking capabilities, and note-taking potential, despite the weight and bulk.
- For the Content Creator: Pick the Sony Xperia 5 IV for its superior video capabilities, higher-quality audio, and compact design that can easily fit into a pocket.
- For the Everyday User: If you need a reliable all-rounder that's easy to handle, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is the more practical choice due to its size, weight, and excellent performance, although if you want the most screen real estate, the Z Fold3 will excel.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would opt for the Sony Xperia 5 IV. Here's why:
While the Galaxy Z Fold3 is undeniably impressive, my personal preference leans towards a more traditional smartphone design, and the Xperia 5 IV's compact size, superior camera in video, the newer chipset, and the hi-res audio align more closely with my needs and interests. I do appreciate the larger screen of the Z Fold3, but the increase in weight, bulk, and price isn’t as valuable to me as the practical benefits and overall better camera of the Xperia 5 IV. The higher pixel density and improved video recording also make it a more attractive proposition for my daily needs. Plus, that new processor paired with 8 GB of RAM would give me solid everyday performance.
