Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Z Flip 4: Should you upgrade?

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 wasn't very different from the Z Flip 3 in terms of appearance, but Samsung made a lot of other changes, such as software improvements, more color variants, cooler features, and better structural integrity.

This time around, the differences aren't so menial. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 changed the flip form factor in a big way, adopting a much larger cover display just like the Motorola Razr Plus did. Samsung clearly wants users to make the most of the Flex Window, which is why there are so many useful widgets. You can also personalize the cover display to a great extent, including automatically matched wallpapers with select Z Flip 5 cases.

Many internal specs of both Samsung foldables still overlap, so let's go over the similarities and differences together.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Galaxy Z Flip 4: Design and screen

Comparing the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 to the Flip 5

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

The Flip 4 wasn't innovative or bold, but it did focus heavily on splashy color variants, the ability to create your own bespoke color combo, and fun accessories to go with the phone. Samsung didn't revolutionize the space; it focused on aesthetics a little more than the other aspects of the device.

So while the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 bore many similarities to the Z Flip 3, the world loved its many faces and cool add-ons. The 1.9-inch Super AMOLED cover display wasn't much use, but people still fell for the compact foldable because of its consistent Galaxy S22-like performance.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 changes that narrative, adopting a much larger 3.4-inch Super AMOLED panel on the front that's been rebranded as the Flex Window. You can add and use countless widgets, answer calls, use select apps, take pictures, shoot videos, make payments, and do so much more with the Flex Window. It's incredible and monumentally better.

Comparing the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 to the Flip 5

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

The situation on the inside and concerning the phone's structure is another story. Samsung retained the same 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X from the Galaxy Z Flip 4 on the Galaxy Z Flip 5, with a new shock absorptive layer underneath. The internal foldable screen refreshes at 120Hz, has HDR10+, and touts a peak brightness level of 1200 nits across both generations of the Z Flip.

You also get the same old IPX8 water resistance and aluminum frame reinforcing the bodies of both models. It's a shame that Samsung didn't take things a little further by adding official dust resistance.

Noticeably, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 now shuts properly when folded, and the hinge is much sturdier. The last-gen Flip 4 had a major issue in this department as it couldn't be completely flat when folded in half. This left a gap in the crease, allowing dust and particles to collect and destroy the fragile foldable AMOLED panel.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Galaxy Z Flip 4: Hardware and cameras

Comparing the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 to the Flip 5

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

There are no surprises when it comes to hardware and cameras. Apart from the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, there's absolutely no other new piece of gear under the Galaxy Z Flip 5's hood. The ingress protection is identical too, with IPX8 water resistance.

You have the exact same lenses, batteries, charging speeds, wireless charging properties, RAM variants, and memory options. There's no 128GB storage option for the Flip 5, though.

Heck, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 even weighs the same as the Galaxy Z Flip 4.

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CategorySamsung Galaxy Z Flip 5Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4
Display6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x, LTPO (1-120Hz), 2640 x 1080 resolution, 22:9 aspect ratio, 1,750 nits peak brightness6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x, LTPO (1-120Hz), 2640x1080
Cover display3.4-inch AMOLED, 60Hz, 720 x 748, 306 ppi1.9-inch Super AMOLED, 260x512
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 2 for GalaxySnapdragon 8+ Gen 1
Memory8GB8GB
Storage256GB or 512GB128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Rear Camera 112MP, ƒ/1.8, 1.8μm, 83-degree FoV, OIS, Dual Pixel AF12MP, ƒ/1.8, 1.8μm, 83-degree FOV (main camera)
Rear Camera 212MP, ƒ/2.2, 1.12μm, 123-degree FoV (ultra-wide)12MP, ƒ/2.2, 1.12μm, 123-degree FOV (ultra-wide)
Inside Camera10MP, ƒ/2.2, 1.22μm, 85-degree FOV10MP, ƒ/2.4, 1.22μm, 80-degree FOV
Battery3,700mAh (dual 1,850mAh batteries)3,700mAh (dual 1,850mAh batteries), 25W fast charging, 10W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging
Weight187g187g
Dimensions (folded)85.1 x 71.9 x 15.1 mm84.9 x 71.9 x 17.1 mm
Dimensions (unfolded)165.1 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm165.2 x 71.9 x 6. \9 mm

One of the most attractive features of the Galaxy Z Flip 4 was the Flex Cam mode. It really set the device apart from the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and sparked creativity among users. Now, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 takes things even further and builds on this feature.

Thanks to the custom processor from Qualcomm, the Z Flip 5 can squeeze out even more from its internals. This is why the images captured are better, even though the Z Flip 4 had the same lenses. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Samsung is tweaked to deliver the best for Samsung's devices. Image processing is much better than the last-gen foldable.

Users also get some cool new AI features that allow them to go completely hands-free with their Z Flip 5. You can change camera modes, zoom in or out, and shoot pictures from a distance. This is all thanks to the magic of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Samsung's AI processing capabilities.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Galaxy Z Flip 4: Software

Comparing the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 to the Flip 5

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

While the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 ran One UI 4.1 based on Android 12 out of the box, you can immediately upgrade it to One UI 5.1 based on Android 13. This leaves you with three more major platform updates and four years of security updates down the line.

Naturally, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is more advanced and runs One UI 5.1 based on Android 13 from day one. You're guaranteed support for five more years after that, including Android 14, 15, 16, and 17, as well as security updates until 2028.

The UI is the same on both devices, but the Galaxy Z Flip 5 packs more features and tools for two very obvious reasons. The first is the Flex Window, with all of its new-fangled widgets and stylish wallpapers. You can actually use the Flip 5's cover screen for many basic functions of a modern smartphone for a whole day; it's that functional.

Another reason why you have so many more software features in the Flip 5 is the new Snapdragon processor. The Flip 4 missed out on the custom Samsung SoC, which is why it doesn't have the AI-based tools and features of the Flip 5.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Galaxy Z Flip 4: Which should you buy?

It's undeniable that both the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Flip 4 are extremely capable Android phones. Even without the folding aspect, you get state-of-the-art specifications like wireless charging, high-end cameras, and premium build qualities.

But when it comes to choosing a single folding phone for yourself, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is much better than its predecessor. Although the Flip 5 shares much of the Flip 4's hardware, it utilizes that hardware batter thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Samsung chipset.

Of course, you can't forget that stunning multifunctional cover display. The Flex Window is a million times better than the Flip 4's teensy little cover screen. Samsung's slew of new widgets, apps, and personalized wallpapers for the Flex Window is the cherry on top.

If you want the best folding phone in the flip form factor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the way to go. It might not be as affordable as the Flip 4, but it's a lot more enjoyable to use and has a superior hinge that's flatter. You can always score a fabulous deal on the Z Flip 5 to take the sting out of the price.

Namerah Saud Fatmi
Senior Editor — Accessories

Namerah enjoys geeking out over accessories, gadgets, and all sorts of smart tech. She spends her time guzzling coffee, writing, casual gaming, and cuddling with her furry best friends. Find her on Twitter @NamerahS.

  • AndroidFanboy8
    I upgraded from ZFLIP4 to Moto RAZR+......better device as outer screen is just a bit more functional. But I think the build quality is better with Samsung flips and folds. I do use the zfold4 and love that device.
    Reply
  • AndroidFanboy8
    AC News said:
    The Flip 5 has a much larger cover display, but is that worth upgrading for? Take a look at the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Galaxy Z Flip 4 to find out.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 vs. Z Flip 4: Should you upgrade? : Read more
    I decided to go back to the ZFLIP4 as it was driving me bananas touching the large outer screen and constantly waking up the device. I can use the ZFLIP4 mor comfortably without that constantly happening.
    Reply