Overview of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Samsung has recently launched its latest foldable smartphone, the Galaxy Z Flip 7, alongside a more affordable variant called the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE. While this article will focus primarily on the Galaxy Z Flip 7, it’s worth noting that the FE model is a budget-friendly alternative with similar design and features.
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 was announced on July 9, along with the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE and the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Both models are available for pre-order from the same date, with shipping beginning on July 25. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 starts at $1,099 / £1,049 for the 256GB version, while the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE begins at $899 / £849 for the 128GB model. These prices remain consistent with the previous generation, indicating no significant price increase.
Key Specifications
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 comes with several notable upgrades over its predecessor. It features a larger 6.9-inch main display with a resolution of 1080 x 2520 and a 4.1-inch cover screen with a resolution of 948 x 1048. When unfolded, the phone measures just 6.5mm in thickness, making it slimmer than the Galaxy Z Flip 6. The device is powered by the Exynos 2500 chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM, and includes a 4,300mAh battery for improved power efficiency.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE offers similar specs but with some differences. It features an Exynos 2400 chipset, 8GB of RAM, and a 4,000mAh battery. The FE model also has a slightly smaller 6.7-inch main display and a 3.4-inch cover screen. Despite these differences, both models share the same One UI 8 software, based on Android 16, and support wireless and reverse charging.
Design and Display
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 boasts a redesigned cover screen that takes up most of the available space, unlike the previous model where the camera housing was separate. This new design allows for a more immersive experience when using the cover screen. Additionally, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is 0.4mm slimmer when unfolded and 1.2mm thinner when folded compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 6.
The phone also features a new Armor FlexHinge for enhanced durability, an Armor Aluminum frame, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for added protection. It maintains the IP48 rating, allowing it to withstand submersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is available in four colors: Blue Shadow, Jet Black, Coral Red, and Mint, with Mint being exclusive to Samsung’s online store.
In contrast, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE retains the same design as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, with a 6.7-inch main display and a 3.4-inch cover screen. It is available in black or white and shares the same IP48 rating as the other models.
Cameras and Performance
Both the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE feature a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP front-facing camera. These specifications remain unchanged from the previous generation, ensuring consistent performance across both models. The cameras offer various modes, including Enhanced Nightography and Dual Preview, which enhance low-light photography and allow both the photographer and subject to preview the shot before capturing it.
In terms of performance, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is equipped with the Exynos 2500 chipset and 12GB of RAM, while the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE uses the Exynos 2400 chipset and 8GB of RAM. Both models support 25W wired charging, fast wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 also benefits from a larger 4,300mAh battery, providing longer usage time compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE.
Early Verdict
While the Galaxy Z Flip 7 may not represent a massive leap forward from the Galaxy Z Flip 6, it offers several improvements, including larger screens, a slimmer design, and a more powerful chipset. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, on the other hand, remains largely similar to the Galaxy Z Flip 6, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a budget-friendly foldable phone.
Overall, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 presents a compelling choice for users looking for a stylish and functional foldable smartphone. Its combination of advanced features, improved battery life, and competitive pricing makes it a strong contender in the market.
