Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro. It's a fascinating contrast: a cutting-edge foldable from 2021 versus a budget-friendly powerhouse from early 2024. I’ll break down the specs, offer real-world insights, and help you decide which one might be right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on what it means for you:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | Z Fold3 offers a unique, tablet-like experience when unfolded; M6 Pro is a traditional smartphone. |
| Dimensions | 158.2 × 128.1 × 6.4 mm | 161.1 × 75 × 8 mm | Z Fold3 is significantly wider when unfolded; M6 Pro is more compact and pocketable. Z Fold3 is thinner when unfolded. |
| Weight | 271g | 179g | M6 Pro is much lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. Z Fold 3 is heavier for carrying in a pocket |
| Display | |||
| Size | 7.6" | 6.67" | Z Fold3 offers a much larger screen for media consumption, multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1768 x 2208 | 1080 x 2400 | Z Fold3 has a much sharper display with more detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 374 | 395 | M6 Pro is a bit sharper, but the difference is slight. |
| Technology | N/A | AMOLED | M6 Pro has superior contrast, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1800 nits | M6 Pro is dramatically brighter, better for outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G | Helio G99 Ultra | Z Fold3 has higher-end performance for demanding tasks, gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 898,700 | 450,000 | Z Fold3 is significantly faster for apps, multitasking, gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Z Fold3 offers a more powerful graphics experience. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4400mAh | 5000mAh | M6 Pro has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 67W | M6 Pro charges much faster, convenient for quick top-ups. |
| Features | Wireless, Reverse, Bypass | Non-removable | Z Fold3 has more charging options. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Standard | 12MP (f/1.8) | 64MP (f/1.79) | M6 Pro captures more detail in well-lit conditions. Z Fold3 has a larger sensor, better low light performance |
| Selfie | 10MP (f/2.2) | 16MP (f/?) | M6 Pro captures more detail in selfies. |
| Telephoto | 12MP (f/2.4) | N/A | Z Fold3 offers optical zoom capabilities |
| Wide Angle | 13MP (f/2.2) | N/A | Z Fold3 has a ultrawide lens for more expansive shots. |
| Depth | N/A | 2MP (f/2.45) | M6 Pro allows better depth effects in Portrait shots |
| Macro/Ultrawide | N/A | 8MP (f/2.2) | M6 Pro has an macro camera and ultrawide lens combo |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 1080p@60fps | Z Fold3 can record higher-resolution video. |
| DxOMark Mobile | 120 | N/A | Z Fold3 has a proven mobile camera performance. |
| DxOMark Selfie | 83 | N/A | Z Fold3 has a proven selfie camera performance. |
| Camera Features | More Feature Rich | Some Feature Rich | Z Fold3 has more camera features such as: RAW, Manual Focus, Laser AF, Optical Zoom, Night Mode, Laser autofocus (LAF) |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Up to 15) | Android 13 | M6 Pro offers a more modern out-of-the-box software experience. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | Z Fold3 supports faster Wi-Fi speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 with more features | 5.2 with APT-x, LDAC | Z Fold3 has comprehensive Bluetooth features. |
| GPS | more satellite systems | more satellite systems | M6 Pro supports more GPS satellite for improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Dual Nano SIM | Z Fold3 supports eSIM for flexibility with carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Both offer ample storage options. |
| RAM | 12GB | 6GB/8GB/12GB | Z Fold3 comes standard with a massive amount of RAM, M6 Pro is highly configurable |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos + Hi-Res | M6 Pro offers slightly better spatial audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted | Basic fingerprint | Z Fold3 has a more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Z Fold3 has a more scratch-resistant screen. |
| Sensors | More Environmental Sensors | Ultrasonic proximity | Z Fold3 has a Barometer and Environmental sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: Strengths
- Unique Foldable Design: The standout feature, offering a tablet-like experience. Great for reading, multitasking, and media consumption.
- Powerful Performance: Top-tier Snapdragon 888 chipset handles demanding tasks and gaming with ease.
- Superior Display Quality: While slightly lower PPI, the higher resolution of the larger screen offers a more immersive experience.
- More Comprehensive Camera Setup: Includes a telephoto and ultrawide lens, offering greater versatility for photography, along with additional camera features.
- More Comprehensive Charging Options: Offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and bypass charging.
- Additional Connectivity: Supports eSIM, the latest Wi-Fi standard and comprehensive Bluetooth capabilities.
- More Environmental Sensors: Includes environmental sensor such as barometer and hall sensor.
- More Powerful build: Superior screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus
Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro: Strengths
- Modern AMOLED Display: Offers superior contrast, deep blacks, and vibrant colours with better power efficiency for dark themes.
- Excellent Brightness: Dramatically better visibility outdoors and in bright sunlight.
- Larger Battery & Faster Charging: Longer battery life and quick top-ups are a significant advantage.
- High Resolution Main Camera: The 64MP camera captures a lot of detail.
- Modern Software: Ships with Android 13 offering a more modern out-of-the-box software experience.
- Lighter Design: Significantly lighter and more comfortable to hold.
- Superior Audio: Enhanced spatial audio with Hi-Res support
- More GPS Satellite Systems: For improved location accuracy.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Z Fold3: Heavier and bulkier; older chipset compared to current flagships; less impressive camera compared to other premium devices of the time
- M6 Pro: Less powerful chipset, less comprehensive camera system (no telephoto or ultrawide); not as robust in terms of build quality
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is best for:
- Power Users: Those who need a device for heavy multitasking, productivity, and gaming on the go.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Ideal for watching movies, reading, and editing media on a larger screen.
- Early Adopters: Users who want the latest in unique design and technology.
- Travelers: Users who want the flexibility of eSIM
- Professional Photographers: Users who want better manual camera controls and professional picture features
Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro is best for:
- Everyday Users: Those who need a reliable and affordable smartphone for daily tasks.
- Media Consumers: Great for watching videos, browsing the web, and social media.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Those who want a lot of features for their money.
- Battery-Life-focused Users: Who need the device to last the entire day and more with a fast charging top-up.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Do you need a larger screen and productivity-focused features? If yes, consider the Z Fold3. If no, the M6 Pro might suffice.
- How important is battery life and fast charging to you? The M6 Pro excels in this area.
- What is your primary use case: high-performance tasks or everyday use? If the former, Z Fold3. If the latter, M6 Pro.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Commuter – If you prioritize a long battery life and ease of portability, the Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro is your best bet.
- Scenario 2: The Content Creator – The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 offers more versatility in the camera with telephoto and ultrawide lens and also better video recording quality which might benefit you.
- Scenario 3: The Mobile Gamer – The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 has a much more powerful chip, better for demanding games.
- Scenario 4: The Budget-Conscious Buyer – The Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro provides great value for its price with a good display and battery life.
- Scenario 5: The Tech Innovator - The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 unique foldable design and cutting edge display makes it a must try.
My Choice
If I had to pick between these two devices, I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G. Even though it's older, its unique form factor, powerful chipset, and comprehensive camera system with telephoto and ultrawide lens are a big draw. The multi-tasking and productivity aspect, coupled with the unique tablet like experience, gives it a cutting edge. I value the power and flexibility it offers, especially for a tech journalist like myself. While the Xiaomi Poco M6 Pro has a more modern display and better battery life, it doesn't quite match the versatility and the unique experience of using a foldable phone. It also does not have the added manual controls and additional professional camera features which I value.
