Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 vs. Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra: A Deep Dive
Let's dissect the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 and the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra, two powerhouses with distinct personalities. We'll go beyond the spec sheets to understand what these differences truly mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | Fold4 offers unique portability and dual-screen multitasking; Zenfone 11 Ultra provides a traditional feel. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 | 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9 | Fold4 is more compact when folded but thicker; Zenfone 11 Ultra is thinner but taller and wider overall. |
| Weight (g) | 263 | 224 | Fold4 feels denser; Zenfone 11 Ultra is lighter for one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 7.6 (Main) / 6.2(Cover) | 6.78 | Fold4's main display provides a tablet-like experience; Zenfone 11 Ultra has a large, standard display. |
| Resolution (px) | 1812 x 2176 (Main) / 832 x 2268 (Cover) | 1080 x 2400 | Fold4 boasts sharper visuals, especially on the main screen; Zenfone 11 Ultra is still crisp but less dense. |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 144 | Zenfone 11 Ultra offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Display Type | Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X | LTPO AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; Zenfone 11 Ultra's LTPO panel allows for variable refresh rate, potentially saving battery. |
| Peak Brightness | 1200 nits | 2500 nits | Zenfone 11 Ultra is significantly brighter outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Zenfone 11 Ultra features a newer, more powerful processor. |
| CPU | Octa-core (up to 3.19 GHz) | Octa-core (up to 3.3 GHz) | Zenfone 11 Ultra should offer faster processing speeds and improved multitasking. |
| RAM | 12GB | 16GB | Zenfone 11 Ultra has more RAM, beneficial for heavy multitasking. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera (MP) | 50 | 50 | Comparable main camera resolution; real-world performance depends on sensor and image processing. |
| Telephoto (MP) | 10 | 32 | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a significantly more powerful telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities. |
| Video | 8K@24fps | 8K@24fps | Both can record high-resolution video; specific features and stabilization may differ. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 4400 | 5500 | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a significantly larger battery, suggesting longer usage time. |
| Fast Charging | 25W | 65W | Zenfone 11 Ultra charges much faster. |
2. Key Insights
- Multitasking Powerhouse: The Fold4's foldable design unlocks unparalleled multitasking, allowing for split-screen apps and a tablet-like experience. The larger inner display is a game-changer for productivity.
- Raw Performance Beast: The Zenfone 11 Ultra edges out in raw performance with its newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, higher RAM, and superior telephoto capabilities. Its brighter display is a boon for outdoor use.
- Battery Life Champion: The Zenfone 11 Ultra's massive 5500mAh battery and 65W fast charging solidify its position as a battery life champ. The Fold4's battery, while adequate, won't last as long, especially with heavy use of the main display.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Fold4: Ideal for power users who prioritize multitasking, portability, and a unique form factor. Business professionals, content creators, and anyone who values a pocket-sized tablet will appreciate the Fold4.
- Zenfone 11 Ultra: Best suited for users who demand top-tier performance, long battery life, a brilliant display, and excellent camera capabilities. Gamers, media consumers, and those who value raw power will gravitate towards the Zenfone 11 Ultra.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- Is a foldable design a priority? If yes, the Fold4 is your only option. If not, consider your other needs.
- How important is battery life and charging speed? The Zenfone 11 Ultra significantly outperforms the Fold4 in this area.
- Do you require the absolute best performance and camera? If so, the Zenfone 11 Ultra's newer processor and superior telephoto lens make it the winner.
My Choice: The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra
While the Fold4's innovative design is tempting, I would choose the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra. As a tech journalist constantly on the go, battery life and performance are paramount. The Zenfone 11 Ultra's larger battery, faster charging, and more powerful processor address my needs more effectively. The superior telephoto lens also aligns with my frequent need for capturing detailed images at events. While I admire the Fold4's unique form factor, the Zenfone 11 Ultra's overall package of performance, battery life, and camera capabilities makes it a more compelling device for my specific requirements. The Fold4's higher price for less battery and older tech makes it a less practical choice for me.
