Samsung, a major player in the foldable phone arena, recently impressed us with the sleek and powerful Galaxy Z Fold 7. Can this new model compete with Google’s offering?
Having spent quality time with both devices, I have gathered my thoughts on how these two foldable phones stack up against each other. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Design:
The design approach of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the Galaxy Z Fold 7 differs significantly. Samsung has given the Z Fold 7 a complete design overhaul for 2025, while the Pixel maintains a similar look to its predecessor. Each device offers unique benefits, and the design plays a crucial role in determining your preference.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts a slim and lightweight design that resembles a regular flagship phone when folded. It is lighter and thinner than the non-folding Galaxy S25 Ultra, offering a seamless transition between folded and unfolded states. The device features super slim bezels and a sharp angular design that maximizes screen space on both the interior and exterior displays.
In contrast, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a thicker and slightly heavier build with soft, rounded corners on both displays and chunkier bezels. Despite its bulkier appearance, the Pixel exudes durability and confidence, reinforced by its IP68 rating, making it dust and water-resistant. Additionally, the Pixel is the first foldable device to incorporate Pixelsnap magnets, similar to Apple’s MagSafe, allowing compatibility with a wide range of accessories without the need for a case.
Displays:
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold sports a 6.4-inch cover display, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 features a slightly larger 6.5-inch screen, with both devices offering 8-inch foldable panels internally. The difference in display size and curvature impacts the user experience, with Samsung’s sharper edges creating a more expansive feel, especially on the outer screen. In comparison, the Pixel’s curved corners make the cover screen feel slightly cramped, but offer a more comfortable grip when unfolded. Both devices deliver vibrant displays with high brightness levels, although the Samsung device may dim its screen in direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
Performance:
Powering the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, known for its exceptional performance. On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is equipped with Google’s Tensor G5 chip, offering improved benchmark scores and overall speed compared to its predecessor. While the Tensor chip delivers a smooth user experience for everyday tasks, the Snapdragon processor outshines it in demanding applications such as gaming and video editing.
The Pixel boasts 16GB of RAM across all models, providing ample multitasking capabilities, whereas the Z Fold 7 offers 12GB on its lower storage variants. While both devices excel in multitasking, the Samsung device may have an edge in handling resource-intensive tasks.
Cameras:
Both phones feature triple rear cameras and selfie cameras on each screen, offering a versatile photography experience. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold boasts a 48MP main sensor, while the Z Fold 7 features a higher resolution 200MP sensor for enhanced image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The Pixel’s camera app prioritizes ease of use, with features like Camera Coach mode, ideal for beginners, while Samsung’s camera app offers extensive manual controls suited for professional photographers.
Other Differences:
Apart from hardware specifications, the devices differ in software experience, with Samsung’s One UI skin offering a distinct visual and functional interface compared to Google’s stock Android. Each OS has its strengths, catering to different user preferences. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a larger battery capacity but may require more frequent recharging compared to the Z Fold 7. Additionally, the Pixel supports faster wired charging speeds and offers the convenience of built-in magnets for wireless charging.
Pricing:
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is priced starting at £1,749/$1799 for the base model, slightly lower than the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s starting price of £1,799/$1,999. Both devices offer higher storage options at incremental price points, with the Samsung model generally costing slightly more than the Pixel. Availability and deals may vary for both devices in different regions.
Verdict:
Choosing between the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 depends on individual priorities. The Z Fold 7 excels in design, camera performance, and gaming capabilities, making it ideal for power users. On the other hand, the Pixel offers durability, ease of use, and convenient features like Pixelsnap magnets, catering to users seeking a user-friendly experience with photography enhancements.
In conclusion, both devices have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize performance, design, or camera capabilities, both the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the Galaxy Z Fold 7 offer compelling features that cater to different user segments.
