Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 from the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3: Should I Upgrade?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 was released in August 2021 and quickly became one of Samsung’s most popular foldable phones. Now in 2024, Samsung has released the successor to the Z Flip 3 – the Galaxy Z Flip 5.
As a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 owner, you may be wondering if it’s worth upgrading to the latest model. In this 2000 word article, I’ll compare the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 in depth, looking at the key specs, features, and pricing to help you decide if upgrading is the right choice.
Key Specs and Features Comparison
Displays
The main internal displays on both phones are quite similar – 6.7 inches with FHD+ resolution. However, Samsung has significantly upgraded the external cover display on the Galaxy Z Flip 5.
- Galaxy Z Flip 3: 1.9 inch external display, 512 x 260 pixels
- Galaxy Z Flip 5: 3.4 inch external display, 728 x 720 pixels
The larger 3.4 inch external display on the Galaxy Z Flip 5 allows more apps and information to be displayed. This gives you quick glances of notifications, messages, and media controls without having to open the phone.
Cameras
While both phones have dual 12MP rear cameras, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 has a larger main sensor and wider aperture for improved low light photography.
- Galaxy Z Flip 3: 12MP main (f/1.8) + 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2)
- Galaxy Z Flip 5: 12MP main (f/1.8) + 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2)
The front selfie camera remains 10MP on both models. Overall, you can expect somewhat better photo and video quality from the Galaxy Z Flip 5.
Performance and Battery Life
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 has received a major upgrade in processing power by using the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. This brings significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance over the Snapdragon 888 in the Z Flip 3.
Battery capacity has also been bumped up in the Galaxy Z Flip 5 to 3700 mAh compared to 3300 mAh in the Galaxy Z Flip 3. Combined with the more efficient processor, you can expect noticeably better battery life from the Galaxy Z Flip 5.
- Galaxy Z Flip 3: Snapdragon 888, 3300 mAh battery
- Galaxy Z Flip 5: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 3700 mAh battery
Design
The overall design and form factor remains largely the same between the two phones. Both feature a horizontal foldable display and clamshell design.
Some subtle changes on the Galaxy Z Flip 5 include flatter edges, a thinner hinge, lighter weight, and the ability to fully close flat with no gap. This gives the Galaxy Z Flip 5 a more seamless and refined look.
Other Features
- Faster wired charging on Galaxy Z Flip 5 (25W vs 15W)
- IPX8 water resistance on both models
- Side fingerprint scanner on both
- New UI software (One UI 5.1) on Galaxy Z Flip 5 with more cover display features
- Available 256GB and 512GB storage options on Galaxy Z Flip 5 (Z Flip 3 max 256GB)
Real-World Usage and Experience
Beyond just the specs, let’s compare some real-world usage factors:
Cover Display Usage
The larger 3.4 inch external display unlocks much more functionality from the cover screen on the Galaxy Z Flip 5. You’ll be able to quickly view notifications, reply to messages, control music, and run select apps without opening the phone.
The Z Flip 3’s small 1.9 inch display feels quite limited in comparison. Glancing at notifications or controlling music requires flipping open the phone.
Battery Life
In daily use, the Galaxy Z Flip 5’s bigger 3700 mAh battery does make a noticeable difference compared to the Z Flip 3. You’re less likely to run out of juice before the end of the day with the newer model.
However, battery life is still a limiting factor on the Galaxy Z Flip 5 compared to traditional smartphones. The unique foldable design limits how much battery can be packed in.
Camera Performance
The improved rear camera hardware on the Galaxy Z Flip 5 captures visibly better low light photos with more detail and less noise. The larger sensor pulls in more light.
That said, the cameras still can’t compete with top camera phones like the iPhone 14 Pro or Galaxy S23 Ultra. But it’s a step up from the Z Flip 3.
Inner Display Crease
The crease in the middle of the foldable inner display remains on the Galaxy Z Flip 5. It’s slightly less noticeable thanks to reinforced panels, but still visible when the light hits it.
This crease doesn’t negatively impact normal use. But it’s something to be aware of if you’re sensitive to any imperfection on the display.
One-Handed Use
Unfolded, both phones are quite long and narrow displays. This makes them easy to use one-handed compared to wider traditional phone screens.
Typing and swiping gestures work great on the tall Z Flip displays. The folding design here is a big advantage for one-handed use.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Pre-Order Deals
If you do decide to upgrade from your Galaxy Z Flip 3 to the new Galaxy Z Flip 5, Samsung is running some excellent deals:
- Galaxy Z Flip 3 Trade-in Value: Get $700 credit for trading in your Galaxy Z Flip 3, much higher than the normal $190 value
- Free Storage Upgrade: Get a free bump from 256GB to 512GB storage (worth $120)
With these promotions applied, you can pre-order the 512GB Galaxy Z Flip 5 for just $299 after trade-in! That’s an incredible deal for a brand new foldable flagship phone.
This limited time offer makes upgrading very compelling. You get Samsung’s latest technology at a hugely discounted price.
Is Galaxy Z Flip5 Upgrading Worth It?
To summarize this in-depth comparison:
Reasons to upgrade to the Galaxy Z Flip 5:
- Significantly better external cover display
- Faster processor with better battery life
- Improved rear camera performance
- More refined design with flatter edges
- Excellent trade-in value and pre-order deals
Reasons you may keep the Galaxy Z Flip 3:
- Still decent performance and cameras
- Similar inner foldable display
- External display still limited compared to full screens
- Battery life only slightly better on Galaxy Z Flip 5
For most Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 owners, upgrading to the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a worthwhile improvement at a very reasonable price with the current promotions.
The much more useful external display unlocks great new functionality. And you get faster performance with longer battery life. Unless you purchased your Galaxy Z Flip 3 very recently, upgrading to the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is an easy recommendation.
Overall, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers compelling enhancements and excellent deal pricing for Z Flip 3 owners looking to upgrade. With refined design, upgraded performance, and a far more useful cover screen, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 delivers an improved foldable experience.