The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, once a groundbreaking device, has seen newer models enter the market since its release. However, it still holds a significant place in the foldable phone segment. This article explores whether the Galaxy Z Fold 4 remains a worthy purchase in 2024, considering its features, performance, and current market position.
Pricing and Availability
Initial Launch and Current Deals
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 was launched at a premium price of $1,799 in the US and £1,699 in the UK. Despite the introduction of newer models, the Fold 4 is still available at various retailers. Many of these retailers offer attractive deals, including trade-ins and installment plans, making the device more accessible to a broader audience. With substantial discounts available, these deals can reduce the overall cost significantly, putting this technological marvel within the reach of more users.
Given the initial price and the continued offers from both online and physical retailers, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 remains a competitive and appealing option. The introduction of new models often leads to promotional discounts on older devices. However, potential buyers should be aware of the evolving landscape and verify the ongoing deals, as they can vary substantially from retailer to retailer.
Market Position and Value Proposition
While the Fold 4 is no longer the latest model, it continues to appeal to tech enthusiasts and early adopters. Its high price point positions it as a premium device, but the deals available can make it a more viable option for those looking to experience cutting-edge technology without paying the full price of the latest models. Furthermore, as a foldable phone, it offers a unique combination of portability and large screen usability, providing a distinct value proposition.
In the current foldable phone market, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 occupies a solid position. It serves as an attractive choice for those who want to delve into the foldable technology territory without committing to the even higher costs of the latest iterations. Its enduring popularity and continued support illustrate its relevance and potential value for users even as newer models emerge.
Display and Design
Advanced Display Technology
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 features a slightly larger cover display compared to its predecessors, utilizing advanced Super AMOLED technology. The adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz enhances the viewing experience, whether the device is folded or unfolded. This makes it more user-friendly and visually appealing for various tasks, from browsing to gaming. The clarity, vivid colors, and smooth performance of the display ensure an immersive experience.
Moreover, the larger cover display means improved usability for tasks that can be handled without fully opening the device. Whether checking notifications, responding to messages, or making quick calls, the convenience of a more functional outer screen cannot be overstated. These incremental yet significant display enhancements contribute to the overall versatility and efficiency of the Fold 4.
Design Improvements
Samsung has made several design tweaks to the Fold 4, including a slimmer hinge, which contributes to a sleeker and more practical user experience. These improvements make the device more comfortable to hold and use, addressing some of the ergonomic concerns of earlier models. The overall reduction in bulk enhances portability, while the reinforced hinge mechanism offers greater durability and longevity.
Additionally, the balance between innovative design and practical functionality makes the Fold 4 a standout in its category. The brand’s commitment to refining the foldable format, combined with user-centric design updates, translates into a more polished device. This evolution underscores Samsung’s strategy to transition foldable phones from a niche novelty to a mainstream product for everyday use.
Internal Specifications
Powerful Hardware
The Fold 4 is equipped with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset and 12GB of RAM, making it highly competitive with other flagship devices from late 2022. The internal storage options range from 256GB to 1TB, providing ample space for apps, media, and files. This robust hardware ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking. Users can expect seamless navigation across multiple applications and demanding tasks without performance hiccups.
Additionally, the hardware enhancements ensure that the Fold 4 remains future-proof to an extent. Even with newer models in the market, its cutting-edge internal specifications position it favorably. Whether for gaming, professional work, or multimedia consumption, the device’s chipset combined with its generous RAM and storage configurations offers unrivaled functionality.
Battery Life and Performance
With a 4,400mAh battery capacity, the Fold 4 supports fast and efficient performance. The battery life is sufficient for a full day of heavy use, and the device supports fast charging, ensuring minimal downtime. These features make the Fold 4 a reliable companion for both work and play. Users can enjoy prolonged usage without frequent recharges, enhancing the mobile experience’s convenience and satisfaction.
Moreover, the device’s battery efficiency is complemented by intelligent power management technologies. These adaptive systems optimize power usage based on user habits, further extending battery life. Whether engaged in resource-intensive applications or routine daily activities, the Fold 4’s battery design and performance deliver a robust, hassle-free experience.
Camera System
Versatile Camera Setup
The Fold 4 adopts the camera system from the Galaxy S22, including a 12MP ultrawide, 50MP wide, and 10MP telephoto lenses, along with a 10MP front camera. While it may not match the high-end capabilities of the S22 Ultra, it still offers powerful photography features suitable for most users. This versatile camera setup caters to a wide range of photography needs, from scenic landscapes to detailed portraits.
Additionally, the integration of Samsung’s software enhancements further leverages the camera hardware. Features such as improved Night Mode, Super Steady video, and AI-driven scene optimization work seamlessly to ensure high-quality output. The capability to produce vivid, sharp, and well-balanced images and videos makes the Fold 4 a commendable device for photography enthusiasts.
Photography and Videography Capabilities
The camera system on the Fold 4 provides excellent versatility for various shooting scenarios. Whether capturing wide landscapes or detailed close-ups, the Fold 4 delivers high-quality images and videos. The device’s software enhancements further improve the overall photography experience. Users can take advantage of features like advanced HDR, pro-mode settings, and super slow-motion capture to elevate their creative endeavors.
Moreover, the device’s videography capabilities are noteworthy, offering 4K recording and sophisticated stabilization features. This ensures smooth, professional-quality video content, suitable for both personal use and content creation. The combination of robust hardware and intelligent software enhancements makes the Fold 4 a competitive option in mobile photography and videography.
Software and Usability
Intelligent Software Enhancements
The Fold 4 features intelligent software improvements that enhance its multi-tasking capabilities. The continued support for the S-Pen adds to its functionality, making it a versatile tool for productivity and creativity. These software enhancements ensure that the Fold 4 remains relevant and useful in 2024. For users who depend on their devices for work, the Fold 4’s multitasking interface offers significant advantages.
Multitasking on the Fold 4 is further enriched by features like Multi-Active Window and Drag and Split, allowing users to manage multiple apps simultaneously with ease. Samsung’s commitment to software innovation has kept the Fold 4 competitive, ensuring that it can handle complex tasks efficiently. These enhancements bridge the gap between a traditional smartphone and a portable workstation.
User Experience and Practicality
Design tweaks, such as the wider cover display and slimmer hinge, contribute to a more user-friendly experience. The Fold 4 is designed to be practical for everyday use, whether for work, entertainment, or communication. These improvements make it a compelling option for those seeking a high-performing foldable smartphone. Users will appreciate the refined ergonomics, ease of use, and overall practicality of the device in daily life.
In terms of user interface, One UI on the Fold 4 is optimized for the foldable form factor, providing a consistent and intuitive experience. This user-centric design approach ensures that both novice users and seasoned tech enthusiasts can leverage the full potential of the device seamlessly. Its practicality extends to enhancements in real-world usability, such as improved split-screen operation and easier navigation through its large display.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, previously considered a cutting-edge device, has since been joined by more recent models in the market. Nevertheless, it still maintains an important role in the foldable phone category. This piece examines whether the Galaxy Z Fold 4 continues to be a valuable purchase in 2024 by evaluating its features, performance, and current market standing.
Despite the influx of newer foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 offers a compelling blend of innovative technology and robust performance. With its impressive screen quality, versatile multitasking capabilities, and powerful hardware, it remains a solid contender. Although it may not boast the latest advancements, its design and functionality make it a viable choice for users seeking a reliable foldable phone.
For those considering a foldable device, it’s worth assessing how the Galaxy Z Fold 4 compares to the latest models. It offers a balance of performance and durability, ensuring it still stands strong in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Thus, despite being an older model, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 can still be considered a worthy investment in 2024.