Foldable screen is the new buzzword in consumer tech, but OEMs are still figuring out what form factor is most suited for it.

It’s finally here, a folding phone that’s convinced us foldables are past the proof of concept phase. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip’s durability is still up for debate, but on first impression, it’s a cracking looking smartphone with a competent spec sheet.

Premium styling; Solid flip mechanism

Expensive; Not class-leading camera spec

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is the first folding phone to really work, but it's still a costly and potentially fragile fashion object rather than a mainstream hit.

Solid all-around performance; L-shaped mode is good for taking photos.

The utility of the folding screen doesn't justify the high price.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is a tantalising, desirable look at one possible future of the smartphone. A big phone that folds into a compact square is surprisingly pleasing to use, much easier to pocket and has the side benefit of adding a bit of distance between you and your phone.

Pros: a screen that folds in half, big screen made pocketable, stands on its own, good camera, day+ battery life, exciting and different, One UI 2, good gestures, wireless charging and powersharing, nano sim and esim

Cons: durability unknowns, no dust or water resistance, high cost, no headphone socket, no telephoto camera, no expandable storage

Samsung’s brand-new Galaxy Z Flip is the third folding screen phone that I’ve reviewed. It happens to also be the best folding screen phone I’ve reviewed — but don’t let that fool you.

Great performance; Decent battery life; Solid-feeling; smooth hinge

Glass screen’s plastic covering picks up scratches easily; Cameras aren’t as good as S10 or iPhone 11; Expensive

Slick, compact design, solid battery life, more durable screen and hinge, side-mounted fingerprint sensor

Mono speakers, very limited water resistance, exterior cover screen could be bigger, somewhat difficult to open with one hand, expensive

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is the first really successful folding smartphone. And it is especially perfect for you who love to film or take pictures of yourself!

For the first time, the foldable form factor works and gives the user new, creative possibilities. The build quality is good, and the performance is top notch.

Is not dust and water repellent. The front screen could have been bigger, and the camera lacks optical zoom.

The real question with the Z Flip is how much are you willing to compromise in exchange for novelty? For many people, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip will meet their requirements in battery, camera and power, providing something unique that looks great; but for the gamers, enthusiasts and power users, the...

It's cool; Great retro flip action; Plenty of power; Solid build; Good camera performance

Display longevity concerns; No waterproofing; Price

The Galaxy Z Flip is your best bet at a good foldable experience should you be in the market for one. However, if you’re on the fence about these devices, you’ll be more than fine waiting to see how Samsung improves them. For those who think folding phones are a gimmick, I think you’re mistaken.

Samsung wowed everyone last year when it introduced the Galaxy Fold. Sure, it took a few months to figure out the kinks after the first batch of units saw some fatal manufacturing defects.

Well-executed folding display with articulating hinge and improved protection from dust; Wireless charging and powershare; Gorgeous finish and design has us feeling the nostalgia; Galaxy Concierge Premier customer care; Flagship level camera experience