The Galaxy Z Flip 7 seems to encompass everything we desired in a Samsung flip smartphone. However, appearances can be misleading…
Following numerous leaks and speculations, Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Flip 7 has arrived, delivering a host of design and software enhancements. Like the Galaxy Z Fold 7, it feels as though Samsung has something to demonstrate with the Galaxy Z Flip 7, and its striking yet recognizable design indicates that it does listen to users… at least to some extent.
There’s certainly much to appreciate about the Galaxy Z Flip 7, but there are notable uncertainties. This includes transitioning to a different chipset, even though Samsung’s other devices this year utilize Qualcomm’s latest, along with Samsung’s determination to diverge from Motorola’s approach regarding the management of the newly enlarged cover screen.
So, is it advisable to purchase the Galaxy Z Flip 7? Should you consider the more affordable Galaxy Z Flip FE or perhaps last year’s Galaxy Z Flip 6? Or should you forego Samsung’s flip phone entirely and opt for the Motorola Razr instead? Let’s analyze it.
Let’s cover the essentials
As of this writing, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is open for preorder and will be available in stores starting July 25. The phone is priced from $1,099 for the 256GB version, which matches the starting price of last year’s Galaxy Z Flip 6, while the 512GB version is available for $1,219. Nonetheless, there are numerous preorder promotions for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, including one from Amazon offering a free storage upgrade and a $200 gift card.
Here’s a summary of the specifications:
| Category | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 |
|———-|————————-|
| Display | 6.9-inch, 2520 x 1080, FHD+, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, LTPO (1-120Hz) |
| Cover display | 4.1-inch Super AMOLED, 60/120Hz, 948 x 1048 |
| Operating System | Android 16 (One UI 8) |
| Chipset | Samsung Exynos 2500 |
| RAM | 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB |
| Rear Camera 1 | 50MP, f/1.8 wide |
| Rear Camera 2 | 12MP, f/2.2 ultrawide |
| Front-facing Camera | 10MP, f/2.2 wide |
| Battery | 4,300mAh |
| Charging | 25W wired charging, 10W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging |
| Weight | 188g |
| Dimensions (folded) | 85.5 x 75.2 x 13.7 mm |
| Dimensions (unfolded) | 166.7 x 752.2 x 6.2 mm |
| Protection | IP48 |
| Colors | Blue Shadow, Jetblack, Coralred |
Significant design modifications
While much of the focus has been on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 for achieving an ultra-thin design, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is also slimmer than its predecessor, despite housing a bigger battery. This is partially due to a revamped hinge, which is more slender and durable. In fact, Samsung claims the Z Flip 7 is 1.1mm thinner than the Galaxy S23 when opened. It’s an impressive accomplishment and one that arguably is more relevant for flip phones than foldables.
Due to the limited internal space in flip phones, fitting a large battery is quite challenging. Moreover, folding them creates increased vertical compactness, which is beneficial, but it also doubles the thickness relative to a standard smartphone. This is why a slimmer design is always preferable, as it ensures that Galaxy Z Flip 7 cases won’t feel excessively bulky when the device is closed.
For this reason alone, I have a strong appreciation for what Samsung has achieved with this phone.
From an aesthetic perspective, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is visually appealing, and while not every color choice is a standout, there is a selection for everyone. Personally, I find the Mint and JetBlack variants somewhat lackluster, but the CoralRed and Navy color options clearly excel, posing a challenge to Motorola’s more vibrant devices.
The cover screen we desired… nearly
Along with a sleeker profile and improved colors, Samsung has drawn inspiration from Motorola and introduced a significantly larger cover screen. Spanning the entire upper half of the phone, the external display measures 4.1 inches, which is slightly bigger than the cover screen on the Motorola Razr Ultra 2025.
This is advantageous as it provides more space for content on the cover screen, from selfie previews to app panels, and beyond. It will also enhance the visual flow and overall experience.
