I’ve kept two phones for some time — an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a Galaxy Z Fold 5. When I pick up the iPhone, I use it like any regular phone. However, with the Galaxy Z Fold 5, I tend to treat it more like a tablet.
As a first-time user of a foldable phone, the 7.6-inch inner screen on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 initially felt impressive and refreshing. Its large, immersive display was exciting for reading articles and watching videos, bringing a new level of enjoyment to these activities.
However, it was slightly limiting in my daily routine. I don’t carry the Z Fold 5 with me often, and it hasn’t quite fit into my regular tasks beyond media consumption.
To change that, I decided to use the Galaxy Z Fold 5 as my primary phone by switching my SIM card from the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Doing this taught me a few things about how different phone designs affect usage.
Galaxy Z Fold 5: Bigger Than Expected
The main difference between a regular phone and a foldable phone is easy to spot — foldable phones have a much larger main screen.
However, you might notice how thick foldable phones feel once you hold one. For example, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is around 7.85mm thick, but the Galaxy Z Fold 5 measures 13.4mm when folded.
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 affects portability. I felt very aware of Samsung’s phone when I carried it in my pocket, which was more noticeable than other devices. Anyone who feels uneasy carrying high-value tech might prefer a less obvious choice.
Using the Galaxy Z Fold 5 for calls further highlighted its thickness. Although many now rely on wireless headphones, holding the phone to an ear clarifies its bulk. However, it does feel secure in hand, even if it’s heavier than a standard smartphone.
Galaxy Z Fold 5: The front screen
If you don’t usually spend much time on the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s 6.2-inch cover display, you’ll quickly notice that this screen is slimmer than most phone screens. If you prefer not to open the device often to access the larger inner display, you’ll need to get used to it.
The Galaxy Z Fold 5’s narrow outside screen makes typing difficult, even without a case. My case sometimes caused half of my key presses not to register, but even without it, I often hit incorrect keys or had issues with responsiveness. The phone did offer many suggestions, which helped a bit, but typing still felt awkward.
That doesn’t mean the Galaxy Z Fold 5 cover screen is unusable. Though not ideal, I adapted to using it for quick tasks like watching a YouTube video or checking Discord. Eventually, I became accustomed to the narrower screen, and when I needed to do more, I unfolded the phone to work on the more significant inner display.
The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6, expected this month, might resolve this issue. Rumors suggest the new model may feature a more comprehensive cover display, similar to foldable phones like the OnePlus Open and Google Pixel Fold.
Galaxy Z Fold 5: Using the Main Screen
Opening the large screen in public can feel awkward, especially when just checking messages or emails. The expansive display doesn’t offer much privacy, and on a crowded train, it’s easy to feel exposed with others potentially glancing over your shoulder.
However, having two apps open at once is useful. I could reply to messages without losing my place in an article or e-book. (As I’ve mentioned, foldables are ideal for reading e-books.) However, I avoided apps like Google Maps because their screen sizes are unconventional.
Even with a more prominent display, opening the phone adds an extra step for most tasks. For example, although my iPhone’s screen is smaller, typing on it feels quicker and more natural than on the Z Fold 5’s front screen.
When sending a quick message, the iPhone feels smoother, with less hassle. Samsung’s continuity mode lets you start on the outer screen and continue on the more significant inner display, but it also highlights the limitations of the outer screen again.
Galaxy Z Fold 5: Would I use it as my primary phone?
If the Galaxy Z Fold 5 were my only option, I’d have no trouble using it as my primary phone. However, a standard telephone works better for basic phone tasks. The Z Fold does offer a great blend of tablet and phone features, but it falls short compared to a single-purpose device.
I don’t want to discourage anyone from considering a Galaxy Z Fold 5 — or even a Galaxy Z Fold 6 if it addresses my concerns about the outer display. I’ll watch Galaxy Unpacked next week to see what improvements Samsung brings to its foldable lineup.
