My Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 review has to start with the truth: I’ve been holding onto this phone like it’s my last lifeline in this chaotic Brooklyn apartment, especially on this gray December 15th afternoon when the holiday lights are already up outside but I’m too lazy to decorate inside. Like, I got the Galaxy Z Fold5 back in 2023 when everyone was losing their minds over it – no gap, better hinge, all the promises. And honestly? It blew me away at first. Unfolding that massive screen felt so next-level, especially binge-watching shows while ignoring my overflowing laundry basket. But here in 2025, with the Z Fold7 out since July (thinner, 200MP camera, all that – check specs here on GSMArena) and even the wild Galaxy Z TriFold just dropping in Korea last week, is my trusty (kinda creased) Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 still worth the original hype? Or am I just too cheap to upgrade?
The Design of My Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5: Still Solid, But Showing Its Age in 2025
Okay, let’s talk design – the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 nailed that flat-closing hinge back then, no more weird gap trapping crumbs from my late-night snacks. It’s slimmer and lighter than the older Folds, which made me feel fancy carrying it around NYC streets. I remember strutting through the subway, unfolding it dramatically while everyone else fiddled with their boring slabs. But, uh, the crease? That infamous line down the middle? It’s more noticeable to me now, catching the dim light from my window as I type this. Not horrible, but compared to the minimized creases on newer models, it feels… dated. I dropped it a couple months ago rushing for the F train – clumsy moment, screen cracked a tiny bit on the cover display – but it survived, props for durability.
The screens tho? Still love ’em. Cover screen for quick scrolls on X while walking the dog in this slushy weather, and the big inner one for everything else. Colors are vibrant, bright enough for outdoor use. Battery gets me through a full day usually, but if I’m multitasking heavy – which I do a lot – it dips fast. Learned that the hard way on a weekend trip upstate, hit 10% and panicked till I found a charger. Tip from my mistakes: grab a good portable battery if you’re like me and forget to plug in.
Multitasking Magic on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5: My Go-To Feature (Most Days)
This is the part where the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 still crushes it for me, even in late 2025. Splitting the screen into three apps? Lifesaver for freelancing – emails, browser, notes all at once, no flipping tabs like a maniac. Or cooking in my tiny kitchen: recipe on one side, timer and music on others. Spilled marinara on it once (embarrassing kitchen fail), but the water resistance saved it. Though, contradictions here – sometimes apps glitch when resizing, or it lags under load. Had a Zoom call freeze mid-pitch to a client last month, face turned red as I fumbled. Mortifying, but overall, software updates have kept it running decent.
Final Thoughts on If the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Is Worth the Hype Now
Unfiltered verdict: the hype was justified in 2023, but in December 2025? It’s cooled off. With the Galaxy Z Fold7’s upgrades and the TriFold making waves (that 10-inch screen sounds insane, launching wider soon per Samsung news), my Z Fold5 feels like a reliable old friend – comfy, but not exciting anymore. If you find a deal on a used or discounted one? Jump in, great entry to foldables. Full price new? Nah, go for the latest.
Wrapping up this rambling Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 review – if you’re debating, check trade-in deals on Samsung’s site, especially around holidays. I’m eyeing the TriFold news myself, but wallet’s saying wait. You still on an older Fold, or upgraded? Hit the comments, let’s chat. Stay cozy out there in this cold!
