Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 review: After spending weeks testing it, I find it hard to put this stunning device down.
**Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8**
**MSRP**: $1,899.00
**“A total charmer.”**
**Pros**
- Excellent form factor
- Bright 120Hz displays
- Rich software features
- Consistently strong performance
- Extended software support
**Cons**
- Expense is considerable
- Zoom lens is disappointing
- Thermal throttling issues
- Improved dust/water resistance is needed
- Absence of Flex mode
I’ve never experienced a foldable phone that brings me as much daily satisfaction as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. When I first closed it and tucked it into my jeans, I did a brief double-take because it fit like a regular phone. This may seem minor until you remember that previous Samsung foldable phones felt like carrying a remote control. Samsung has discarded the long, narrow shape that characterized its earlier models in favor of a width akin to a passport, making the device feel much better. Weighing 201 grams and measuring 9.7 mm when folded, it's among the lightest book-style foldables available. You truly have to hold it to appreciate how well-crafted this device is.
The new 5.5-inch cover screen and 7.6-inch inner display, featuring 10:16 and 4:3 aspect ratios respectively, resolve two major pain points of foldable phones: one-handed typing and full-screen viewing. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip manages everything I threw at it, from multitasking to gaming, though when pushed vigorously for extended periods, the slim profile begins to throttle performance to manage heat. The software stands out as a benchmark in the category.
With Android 17 and One UI 9 offering seven years of updates, desktop-like DeX capability, and exceptional split-screen multitasking, it’s a top-tier experience. The trade-off comes with the cameras. Samsung chose a dual setup with a 50MP wide and a 50MP ultrawide but excluded a dedicated optical telephoto lens entirely. Nevertheless, the 4,800mAh battery and enhanced 45W wired charging keep me going throughout the day stress-free. Priced at $1,899, it’s a costly piece of technology aimed squarely at individuals who prioritize portability and a dual-screen workflow above other features.
**Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 specs: Quick look at the internals**
- **Cover display**: 5.5-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1,248 x 1,972, 428ppi, 120Hz adaptive (1-120Hz), Vision Booster
- **Inner display**: 7.6-inch QXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1,848 x 2,448, 403ppi, 120Hz adaptive (1-120Hz), up to 3,000 nits
- **Dimensions (folded)**: 123.9 x 81.9 x 9.7mm
- **Dimensions (unfolded)**: 161.4 x 123.9 x 4.5mm
- **Weight**: 201g
- **Chipset**: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 For Galaxy
- **RAM & Storage**: 12GB (256GB/512GB), 16GB (1TB)
- **Rear cameras**: 50MP primary + 50MP ultrawide
- **Selfie cameras**: 10MP (cover) + 10MP (main)
- **Battery**: 4,800 mAh
- **Wired charging**: 45W
- **Wireless charging**: 20W
- **IP rating**: IP48
- **Colors**: Graphite, Cream, Lavender, Pistachio
- **Starting price**: $1,899.99
- **Announcement date**: July 22, 2026
**Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 design and build quality: Unique with predictable issues**
Every Samsung foldable, from the relatively fragile original to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, shared an unappealing silhouette that I never liked. They were long and narrow, resembling a chocolate bar in phone form. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 completely departs from that design. When closed, it measures 123.9 x 81.9 x 9.7 mm, roughly the size of a passport.
Upon opening, it narrows to a surprising 4.5 mm while measuring 123.9 x 161.4 mm. This alteration to the width addresses a complaint I had regarding previous versions: the outer display felt too cramped for practical use, but now it is sufficiently spacious while still remaining delightfully compact.
**Structure and ergonomics stand out**
The weight distribution is noteworthy, with the battery split into two cells across the
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 review: After spending weeks testing it, I find it hard to put this stunning device down.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the most thrilling smartphone Samsung has produced in years. While it comes with a high price tag and involves significant trade-offs, it provides a wealth of practical appeal, dependability, and durability in a versatile design.
