Samsung Galaxy Z Series Explained

The Galaxy Z series is Samsung's most innovative range of foldable smartphones that are changing the shape of the future. Designed for modern living, there's no need for multiple devices when you have everything you need in one small, but almighty package.

With the first foldable phone released in 2019, Samsung has continued to lead the way with its development of highly engineered, flexible screen technology. Now, the Samsung Z Series has expanded to include two new devices; the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 – the latest and greatest fold phones designed to flex and fit you. In this guide we explore more about the differences between Samsung's latest fold phones and which is the best foldable phone for you.

What is the Samsung Galaxy Z Series?

The Galaxy Z Series is Samsung’s flagship range of folding smartphones that are designed for the future, with you in mind. At the core of the Galaxy Z family is a bespoke hinge and ultra-flexible Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® that lets you open and close your phone hundreds of thousands of times without any risk of breaking.

There are two different styles within the Galaxy Z series; the Flip and Fold. The Samsung Flip range is compact, customisable and folds vertically to form a pocket friendly device. Whilst the Samsung Fold series is larger and folds horizontally to unveil an immense tablet like screen.

How many Samsung Z series phones are there?

Samsung first launched the Galaxy Z Fold in 2019, shortly followed by the Galaxy Z Flip in 2020. That same year, the Galaxy Z Fold2 5G launched with improvements in battery life, camera specs, mobile connectivity and overall performance capabilities.

In 2021, Samsung Z Fold3 and Samsung Z Flip3 unfolded more possibilities, designed to be thinner and lighter than previous models with added water resistance durability, plus S Pen compatibility .

The Samsung Z Fold4 and Z Flip4 joined the Galaxy Z series family in August 2022, bringing with them advancements in processing power, battery life and world-class displays.

The latest Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5 models were released in July 2023 and brought them a new zero gap hinge, advanced processor and a more compact lightweight design.

When thinking about which phone to buy, it’s always recommended to go for the latest model as they benefit from the latest specs and cutting-edge mobile technology.

2024 Lineup

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6

2023 Lineup

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

2022 Lineup

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 5G
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G

2021 Lineup

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

2020 Lineup

• Samsung Galaxy Flip 4G
• Samsung Galaxy Flip 5G
•Samsung Galaxy Fold2 5G

2019 Lineup

• Samsung Galaxy Fold

What is the latest Samsung Z series phone?

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 are the latest models available in the Samsung Z series. Both smartphones come with exciting enhancements when compared with their predecessors. Combining striking design features with intelligent technology, we shed light on each of the new 2023 Samsung Z series releases below.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 offers more than just smartphone functionality. With a sensational Snapdragon® 8 Gen2, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is like having a powerful laptop in your pocket. With intuitive PC interactions and enhanced durability, the Galaxy Fold5 really is a phone-tablet hybrid ready for the next generation.

When unfolded, the expansive 7.6-inch display screen works just like a small tablet, perfect when you're working or creating on the go. You can open and view multiple apps at a time, drag and drop content across the screen, and easily sign documents with the Fold Edition S Pen.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5's large screen is also superb for cinematic streaming and immersive gaming. With an adaptable 120Hz refresh rate, you can enjoy entertainment without stuttering or lag. Plus, the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and Dolby Atmos surround sound brings the action to life through brilliant colour and crisp sound. You can even split the screen, so the action appears on the top with the controls on the bottom. The large foldable screen is also perfect for reading e-books, articles and documents. No more squinting to read on the morning commute - with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5's large phone screen you can see all your content without a problem.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has five amazing cameras in total. This includes a 50MP Main camera, 12MP Ultra -wide lens and a 10MP telephoto lens. There's also a 10MP cover display camera for stunning selfies and an innovative 4MP under display lens. Plus, you can take hands-free photos without the need for any equipment like a tripod thanks to Flex Mode. This allows you to manoeuvre the Z Fold5 into the perfect position for taking creative insta worthy images.

What's more the state-of-the-art design on the Galaxy Z Fold5 has been upgraded. It's now brighter, lighter and thinner than its predecessor the Galaxy Z Fold4, making it more comfortable to hold and use. The new zero-gap hinge means it can slip into your pocket with ease. It's also extremely tough with improved protection from Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 and a strong Armour Aluminium frame. If you're looking for an epic phone and tablet in one, look no further.

Unsure what phone camera features you need? Find out the best phone camera specs for your needs in our article What phone camera features are best for you?

What are the main features of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?

• 7.6-inch main display
• Five cameras including 50MP Main camera, 12MP Ultra-wide and 10MP telephoto lens on the rear
• Dual Preview
• Flex Mode
• Split screen with up to 3 apps
• S Pen compatible
• Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
• Dolby Atmos sound
• 120Hz refresh rate
• IPX8 Water Resistant

Should I buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?

If you are looking for an epic Samsung phone you can’t go wrong with Galaxy Z Fold5. This smartphone continues to raise the bar with its impressive features and striking multifunctional design. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has been optimised for getting things done and is an exceptional phone if you need a device that can work and play as hard as you. As the biggest Samsung fold phone, its large screen is perfect for multitasking, mobile gaming, and bingeing Netflix while still being able to fold away to the size of a standard smartphone. This ambitious phone brings together pioneering technology and visionary design into one sensational device.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

Prepare to turn heads with the sensational Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5. The latest Galaxy flip phone is a stylish, compact phone that fits right into your pocket or purse. With a boosted Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 processor and the latest One UI software you have laptop like performance right in the palm of your hand.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 also takes viewing to the next level with a bright Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display. You'll find an exceptionally responsive 120Hz refresh rate for super smooth scrolling and next level gaming. It even adapts to what you are working on so you are always experiencing content at its best.

The cover display on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 takes things to another level and boasts the biggest cover screen yet. The Flex Window lets you express yourself with a bespoke look. With over a dozen widgets, you can use Google Maps, check the weather, purchase using Samsung Pay, and even make calls all without opening the phone. You can even use the cover screen to shoot and instantly review your pics - perfect for amazing selfies or group shots.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 also has two noteworthy 12MP cameras on the back of the phone as well as a punch hole 10MP selfie camera on the front. Using innovative Flex Mode, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 can stand up by itself, making it great for video calls with the family, virtual meetings or shooting videos for TikTok and Instagram. You can even take a solo or group selfie with the wave of your palm to activate a timed photo. You can find out more about capturing unforgettable moments with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 in our ‘What are the different camera modes and how do I use them’ guide.

What are the main features of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5?

• 6.7-inch front screen
• 3.4-inch cover screen
• Dual Preview
• Flex Mode
• Split screen with up to 5 apps in pop up view
• Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
• Dolby Atmos sound
• 120Hz refresh rate
• IPX8 Water Resistant

Should I buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5?

The Galaxy Z Flip5 showcases the iconic design that you know and love from previous Samsung Flip models but brings with it a bigger cover screen, an upgraded processor, enhanced protection and improved camera specs. There are clever flexible camera modes that offer exceptional versatility with Flex Mode and hands-free image capturing. If you're looking for a smartphone that stands out in the most exciting way look no further than the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4

The enhanced Galaxy Z Fold4 was unveiled in August 2022 at Samsung's Unpacked Event. Packed with future-ready features it brought with it upgrades in software and design specs. With two cutting-edge displays it offered exceptional versatility, adjustability and multi-tasking capabilities. It featured a sensational 3-lens rear camera set-up including a 50 MP main camera, 12 MP ultrawide lens and a 10 MP telephoto lens. As well as a 10 MP cover display camera for stunning selfies and an innovative 4 MP under display lens. It also benefitted from an enhanced Armour Aluminium frame that was 10% more durable than the Fold3 and improved Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus+®. The Galaxy Z Fold4 pushed the boundaries and innovation and versatility for folding smartphones.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4

The trend-setting Galaxy Z Flip4 was released in 2022 and offered a more refined and polished folding smartphone experience. It featured an upgraded Snapdragon 8 Gen 1+ 4nm processor and the latest One UI 4.1.1 software for faster app interactions. The main Dynamic AMOLED 2X 6.7-inch display was even brighter than the Flip3 at 1200 nits, so content looks crisper and brighter. The Galaxy Z Flip4 also boasted a more durable build, thanks to its Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla® Glass Victus+® protection, providing greater resistance to everyday wear and tear. With its enhanced multitasking capabilities and powerful performance, the Galaxy Z Flip4 delivered an impressive combination of style, functionality, and durability.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3

The Galaxy Z Fold3 debuted in 2021 and was engineered with all the hallmarks of Samsung’s original Galaxy Fold, but packed in so much more, including S Pen compatibility for next level productivity. With two displays and a free-stop hinge, its pioneering features continued to revolutionise how you work and play. It was lighter, thinner and more durable than the previous Fold2 with an Armour Aluminium frame and ultra-durable Gorilla® Glass Victus®. It was also the first Galaxy Fold phone to hide the camera under the Main Display for a truly uninterrupted view.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3

The award-winning Galaxy Z Flip3 was unveiled in 2021 and it made a bold statement. With the newly added Bespoke Studio and four exciting new colourways it was created with trendsetters and social expressors in mind. It featured an upgraded 1.9-inch cover screen which enabled easier interaction with notifications and previewing photos. The innovative Multi Window function continued to put productivity hacking features at the forefront of the Z Flip series. The Samsung Z Flip3 was also the first Galaxy Flip phone to be awarded an IPX8 accreditation, making it water-resistant up to 1.5m for 30 minutes. Crafted from strong Armor Aluminium and scratch-resistant Gorilla® Glass Victus® it was stronger and more durable than previous models.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G

Released in 2020, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 continued to build on the success of its predecessor the Galaxy Z Fold. The 7.6-inch display was optimised for viewing multiple apps, mobile gaming and streaming. This version was slightly thicker and heavier than the subsequent Galaxy Fold models but brought with it improvements in durability and performance. Unlike the latest Samsung Z Fold4 and Z Fold3, the Z Fold2 isn’t compatible with the Samsung S Pen. However, you are still able to enjoy the benefits of being able open and flex the phone into the perfect position to take hands-free photos.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G

The award-winning Samsung Galaxy Z Flip was the first of its kind, a vertical flip phone with one seamless foldable display. Samsung improved its mobile connectivity by updating it with 5G for faster connections and less interruptions *. As with the newer Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G it was also designed with Flex Mode as well as two 12MP rear cameras and a 10MP selfie camera on the front screen.

*5G network and tariff required.