Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 vs. Z Flip 5: What’s New?

At first glance, the Z Flip 6 and Z Flip 5 are almost identical in dimension, weight, and design language. The latest pocket-size foldable phone remains slim and compact, only slightly thinner when folded. You may wonder, is it really worth getting?

Samsung did acknowledge user feedback, which focused more on bigger batteries, better cameras, and more optimized performance. Let's see if Samsung delivered.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

To start off, we’ll look closely into the physical differences of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 vs. Z Flip 5.

The Z Flip 6 features color-coordinated borders around the cameras, giving it a fresh new look. It also has a matte finish, replacing the Z Flip 5's glossy back and aluminum frame. This could mean the Z Flip 6 can be more grippy and less slippery.

(Digital Trends)

Both phones boast an IP48 dust/water resistance rating and FTG Glass for toughness, but the Z Flip 6 brings the following fresh color options:

• Blue

• Yellow

• Mint

• Silver Shadow

• Crafted Black

• White

• Peach

Many asked about the hinge mechanism difference between the Z Flip foldable phones. Actual reviews haven't noted a significant difference in the hinge crease, which remains visible but not quite.

The Z Flip 6 steps up its game with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. This translates to smoother performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and demanding games compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Z Flip 5.

Both phones maintain a 256GB flash storage , which isn’t bad for base storage capacity. The Z Flip 6’s RAM gets a significant bump to 12 GB , up from 8 GB in the Z Flip 5. This means you can seamlessly switch between apps and enjoy smoother performance, especially when running multiple apps at once.

This is a major area of improvement for the Z Flip 6. Its camera boasts:

• New 50 MP wide rear camera

• 12 MP ultra-wide camera

• Stunning portraits

• Nightography

• ProVisual Engine

• FlexCam (Auto Zoom)

• Hands-free selfie

You can expect sharper photos with more detail, especially in low-light conditions.

Powered by AI, the Z Flip 6 also offers effortless editing through its Generative Edit for Photo Assist.

(Samsung)

Here’s a detailed comparison of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 vs. Z Flip 5 camera specs.

Finally, a bigger battery! The Z Flip 6 has a 10% increase in battery capacity, jumping from 3700 mAh to 4000 mAh. This means longer usage time on a single charge.

While a bigger battery is great, the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip in the Z Flip 6 is also known for improved efficiency. Your phone should not only hold a charge longer but also consume less power during use.

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 also utilizes the first-ever Vapor Chamber cooling system . This tech helps dissipate heat more efficiently, allowing the phone to sustain peak performance for longer, especially during demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

(Samsung)

The Z Flip 6 runs the latest software, Android 14-based One UI 6.1, promising optimal performance and access to the newest features. This can mean smoother operation, improved battery life, and access to the latest features not available on the Z Flip 5.

The Z Flip 6 offers a brighter display at up to 2,600 nits compared to the Z Flip 5’s fair 1,600 nits. We can safely say the Z Flip 6 will have a more vivid viewing experience, especially outdoors or in bright environments.

Other significant enhancements for the Z Flip 6 include better audio quality with louder and higher-fidelity speakers and microphones. This is a welcome upgrade for enjoying music, movies, and calls.

The Z Flip 6 also seems to go well with Galaxy Z flip cases. Since the Galaxy Z Flip doesn't have native Magsafe support, you can use a compatible Z Flip 6 MagSafe case to expand your accessory options for wireless charging and magnetic attachments. As much as possible, preserve the compact design of the Z Flip 6 with a thin phone case.

Some things never changed for the Z Flip 6, but it doesn’t exactly have to be a negative thing. Here’s why.

Both the Z Flip 6 and Z Flip 5 offer the same charging speeds - 25W wired and 15W wireless. If you already have a compatible charger, you can seamlessly continue using it with the Z Flip 6.

The overall size, weight, and form factor of the Z Flip 6 are very similar to the Z Flip 5. This means you can still enjoy the signature compact design that made the Z Flip series so popular in the first place. It easily slips into your pocket without feeling bulky.

Samsung is keeping things accessible by offering the Z Flip 6 at the same starting price point of $1,100 as the Z Flip 5. This makes the latest upgrades even more enticing without breaking the bank. Samsung also offers crazy deals of up to a 50% discount with their trade-in program.

Upgrading from the Z Flip 5 will mostly depend on your priorities, style, and needs.

• Power Users: For smoother multitasking, faster gaming, and overall better responsiveness. Plus, the increased storage capacity lets you store more apps, games, and media.

• Camera Enthusiasts: Capture sharper, more detailed photos, especially in low-light conditions. Additional camera features include improved night mode, unique shooting modes, and insta-selfies.

• Travelers or Outdoor Enthusiasts: Longer usage time for heavy users who drain their batteries quickly.

• Gamers: Combines the powerful processor, improved cooling system (Vapor Chamber), and potentially higher refresh rate display.

Truth is, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 can be for anyone. If you simply want the newest and most advanced foldable phone experience, the Z Flip 6 delivers.