Introduction: A Foldable Legacy Revisited
Let’s revisit this folding legend, analyze how it has aged, and determine whether it’s still a worthy companion in 2025.
Z Fold 3: A Glimpse Back at Innovation
When Samsung unveiled the Z Fold 3, it brought several “firsts” to the foldable game:
- IPX8 water resistance: First foldable phone to survive submersion.
- S Pen support: A nod to productivity-focused users.
- Under-display camera: A hidden selfie cam beneath the foldable screen.
- Gorilla Glass Victus on the cover and back for durability.
- 120Hz refresh rate on both displays.
- Snapdragon 888 processor with 12GB RAM and up to 512GB storage.
It was a bold leap in design and engineering—but how does it stand up today?
The World of Foldables in 2025
As of 2025, Samsung has released:
- Galaxy Z Fold 4 (2022): Lighter design, better hinge, better camera software.
- Galaxy Z Fold 5 (2023): A gapless design, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, more efficient battery.
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 (expected mid-2025): Rumors point to major refinements in weight, camera, and durability.
Other players like Google (Pixel Fold), OnePlus Open, and Honor Magic V2 have added serious competition. Foldables are no longer futuristic—they’re mainstream.
Z Fold 3 vs Fold 4 vs Fold 5: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Z Fold 3 (2021) | Z Fold 4 (20w322) | Z Fold 5 (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 7.6" AMOLED, 120Hz | 7.6" AMOLED, 120Hz | 7.6" AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Weight | 271g | 263g | 253g |
| S Pen Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Gapless Hinge | No | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IPX8 | IPX8 | IPX8 |
| Battery Life | Moderate | Better | Even better |
| Software Support (2025) | Android 14 | Android 15 | Android 15 |
What Still Works in 2025
Surprisingly, the Z Fold 3 still holds up well for many users:
- Multitasking: You still get split-screen capabilities and windowed apps.
- Display Quality: The screen remains stunning in brightness and color.
- Build Quality: The hinge has held up well for most long-term users.
- Stylus Support: Ideal for note-taking, sketching, and productivity tasks.
- Price Advantage: Now available for a fraction of the price compared to newer models.
Where It Falls Behind
Despite aging gracefully, the Z Fold 3 isn’t without its drawbacks in 2025:
- Camera System: Decent in 2021, but outdated compared to current flagships.
- Under-Display Camera: Still very noticeable and offers subpar quality.
- No Built-in S Pen Slot: You still have to carry the stylus separately.
- Software Updates: May stop receiving major Android updates after 2025.
- Battery Life: Doesn't hold up as long after years of use.
Is It Worth Buying in 2025?
Yes—If You’re the Right User:
- Looking to experience foldables without paying $1800+.
- Need a productivity-focused device with multitasking capabilities.
- Want a unique second phone for work or media.
No—If You’re After the Best:
- You're a camera enthusiast.
- You want long-term software updates.
- You're concerned about weight, thickness, and cutting-edge features.
Real-World User Experience in 2025
We revisited the Z Fold 3 with One UI 6 and Android 14 installed:
- Performance: Apps run smoothly, even heavy multitasking.
- Gaming: No overheating, but battery drains faster.
- Video Calls: The under-display camera is still a weak point.
- Stylus Use: Still satisfying, especially in Samsung Notes and Adobe apps.
Tips for Z Fold 3 Owners in 2025
- Install a lightweight launcher to boost performance.
- Use dark mode and battery saving features for longevity.
- Pair with a Bluetooth keyboard for a true tablet-like experience.
- Protect the hinge with a quality case if still in use daily.
Conclusion: A Vintage Foldable Worth Remembering
In 2025, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 stands as a reminder of how far foldable phones have come. It may not be the king anymore, but it’s still a royal choice for savvy buyers, students, and tech enthusiasts who want to own a piece of foldable history without breaking the bank.
It’s not for everyone, but in the right hands, the Z Fold 3 remains a versatile and powerful device.
FAQ (2025 Edition)
Samsung galaxy z fold 6 AI On Amazon Store
Post a Comment