Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 review: After weeks of testing it, I find it difficult to stop using this remarkable device.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
MSRP $1,899.00
“A total charmer.”
Pros
- Outstanding form factor
- Vivid 120Hz displays
- Rich software features
- Dependably performs well
- Extensive software support
Cons
- A costly investment
- Inadequate zoom lens
- Thermal throttling issues
- Improved dust/water resistance needed
- Lacks Flex mode
I have never experienced the same level of excitement and daily enjoyment with a foldable phone like I have with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. When I first folded it and placed it in my jeans pocket, I was surprised by how easily it fit, like an ordinary phone. This might seem insignificant until you remember that previous Samsung foldable phones felt more like carrying a TV remote. Samsung has discarded the tall, narrow design that characterized its lineup for years, opting instead for a wider, passport-like form, greatly enhancing the overall device. At 201 grams and 9.7 mm when folded, it stands among the lightest and slimmest book-style foldables available. You really need to hold it to appreciate its quality.
The newly designed 5.5-inch cover screen and 7.6-inch inner display, with 10:16 and 4:3 aspect ratios respectively, address two major inconveniences of foldable phones: one-handed typing and full-screen viewing. Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip effectively manages everything I demand of it, from multitasking to gaming. However, if you push it too hard for an extended period, the slim design starts to lose performance in order to maintain a lower temperature. The software remains the best in its class.
Android 17 and One UI 9 deliver up to seven years of updates, desktop-level DeX functionality, and a unique split-screen multitasking experience. The compromise lies in the cameras. Samsung has chosen a dual-camera setup with a 50MP wide and a 50MP ultrawide lens, completely omitting a dedicated optical telephoto option. Nonetheless, the 4,800mAh battery and upgraded 45W wired charging ensure that I can easily get through full days without worry. With a price tag of $1,899, it is a significant investment targeted at those who prioritize pocketability and a dual-screen workflow.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 specifications: Quick overview
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 9.7 mm
Dimensions (unfolded): 161.4 x 123.9 x 4.5 mm
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
Colors: IP48 - 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 downsides
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
All previous Samsung foldable models, from the quite fragile original to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, shared a design that I never found appealing. They were elongated and slim, akin to a chocolate bar. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 completely diverts from that concept. When folded, it measures 123.9 x 81.9 x 9.7 mm, resembling a passport's proportions.
When unfolded, the device tapers down to a striking 4.5 mm at 123.9 x 161.4 mm. This width adjustment resolves a major complaint I had about earlier models: the outer display was too narrow for practical use, but this one is wide enough, yet still nicely compact.
The structure and ergonomics set this apart.
The weight distribution also deserves recognition, as the battery is divided into two cells across the hinge. Because of this, the phone feels well balanced in hand rather than nose-heavy, which can be the case with some folding designs.
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
That balance is
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 review: After weeks of testing it, I find it difficult to stop using this remarkable device.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the most thrilling phone Samsung has released in years. Although it comes with a high price tag and involves significant trade-offs, it delivers a wealth of practical appeal, dependability, and durability within a flexible design.
