Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: A Deep Dive
The foldable phone revolution continues with Samsung leading the charge. But is the innovative Galaxy Z Fold4 still the king, or does the powerhouse Galaxy S24 Ultra steal the crown? Let's dissect these two titans of mobile technology to find out.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Slab | Fold4 offers unique flexibility and a larger inner screen; S24 Ultra provides a more traditional, pocketable design. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 | Fold4 is wider and thicker when folded, S24 Ultra is taller and thinner overall. Impacts portability and one-handed use. |
| Weight (g) | 263 | 232 | Fold4 feels noticeably heavier; S24 Ultra offers a lighter in-hand experience. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 7.6 (inner), 6.2 (cover) | 6.8 | Fold4 provides a tablet-like experience when unfolded; S24 Ultra has a large, immersive display but lacks the Fold's two-screen versatility. |
| Resolution (px) | 1812 x 2176 (inner), 832 x 2268 (cover) | 1440 x 3120 | Both offer sharp visuals, but S24 Ultra boasts a higher pixel density (505 PPI vs. Fold4's 373 PPI) for crisper details. |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 120 | Both deliver smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | S24 Ultra features a newer, more powerful processor, translating to faster performance, improved efficiency, and better gaming. |
| RAM (GB) | 12 | 12 | Both offer ample RAM for multitasking and demanding applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera (MP) | 50 | 200 | S24 Ultra boasts a significantly higher resolution main sensor, promising superior detail and low-light performance. |
| DXOMARK Score | 124 | 144 | S24 Ultra achieves a notably higher DXOMARK score, indicating overall better camera quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 4400 | 5000 | S24 Ultra has a larger battery, likely resulting in longer usage time on a single charge. |
2. Key Insights
- Fold4's Form Factor: The star of the show is undoubtedly the folding screen. It allows for a truly unique mobile experience, transitioning seamlessly from phone to mini-tablet. However, this innovation comes with added bulk and weight.
- S24 Ultra's Raw Power: The newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip in the S24 Ultra delivers a noticeable performance advantage. Combined with the higher resolution camera, it caters to power users and photography enthusiasts.
- Display Differences: While both have 120Hz refresh rates, the S24 Ultra's higher pixel density results in sharper images. The Fold4's inner display size wins out for content consumption, but the crease might be a distraction for some.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Fold4: Ideal for users who prioritize screen real estate and multitasking on the go. Content creators, business professionals, and heavy media consumers will appreciate the foldable form factor.
- S24 Ultra: Best suited for users who demand top-tier performance, a cutting-edge camera system, and excellent battery life. Gamers, photographers, and anyone who values speed and efficiency will gravitate towards the S24 Ultra.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- Is a foldable screen a must-have? If yes, the Fold4 is your only option here.
- What matters most: portability or productivity? The Fold4 prioritizes productivity with its larger screen, while the S24 Ultra is more pocketable.
- Are you a power user or a casual user? The S24 Ultra's superior performance and camera cater to power users, while the Fold4's unique functionality can benefit both casual and power users.
My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
While the Fold4's foldable screen is undeniably cool, the S24 Ultra's overall package is more compelling for my needs. As a tech journalist who values performance, camera quality, and battery life, the S24 Ultra's upgraded specifications are significant. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the 200MP camera, and the larger battery address key areas for my daily workflow. The improved DXOMARK score further solidifies its position as a camera powerhouse. Although I admire the Fold4's innovation, the S24 Ultra's advancements in core areas, combined with its sleeker form factor, make it the more practical and powerful choice for me. The leap in camera technology alone would significantly enhance my ability to capture high-quality images and videos for my articles. The added performance ensures a smooth and efficient experience for all my tasks, from content creation to gaming.
