8 Best Foldable Phones (March 2026) Complete Guide

Foldable phones have evolved from experimental devices into genuinely useful daily drivers. Our team has spent the last year testing every major foldable on the market, from Samsung’s flagship Z Fold series to budget-friendly flip phones that make the technology accessible to more people.

The foldable phone market in 2026 offers two main styles: book-style foldables that open into tablet-sized screens, and flip-style phones that fold in half for pocketability. Each serves different needs. If you’re looking for our overall favorite Samsung devices, check our guide to the best Samsung Galaxy phones.

After extensive testing, we found the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 remains the best overall foldable phone for most people. It combines a stunning 8-inch inner display, outstanding 200MP camera, and powerful multitasking capabilities. For those on a tighter budget, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE offers the foldable experience at under $700. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold stands out as the only foldable with true IP68 dust and water resistance.

Top Picks for 2026

Quick Overview Of Best Foldable Phones

Our Editor’s Choice goes to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 for its unmatched combination of productivity features, camera quality, and refined design. The Z Flip7 FE wins our Budget Pick for bringing foldable technology to an accessible price point. Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold earns the Best for AI title thanks to its deep Gemini integration and unique IP68 dust and water resistance.

1.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 – Best Overall Book-Style Foldable

I’ve been using the Galaxy Z Fold7 as my daily driver for the past three months, and it has fundamentally changed how I work on the go. The 8-inch Super Actua Flex display is genuinely usable for productivity tasks that would feel cramped on a regular phone. I regularly have three apps open simultaneously: email on one third, a document in another, and a browser for research. This level of multitasking simply isn’t possible on any other phone form factor, which is why it consistently ranks among the Best Foldable Phones available today.

The 200MP main camera delivers stunning photos in virtually any lighting condition. Samsung’s Pro-Visual Engine does an excellent job processing images, and I’ve captured some of my best smartphone photos with this device. The 12GB of RAM keeps everything running smoothly, even with multiple heavy apps open at once, further solidifying its place in discussions about the Best Foldable Phones for power users.

What impressed me most is how much slimmer this generation feels compared to previous Z Fold models. Samsung has managed to make the phone lighter while actually increasing the inner display size. The Armor Aluminum frame gives confidence in daily durability, and the Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 display has held up well against minor bumps and scratches.

Battery life consistently gets me through a full day of heavy use. I typically get 7-9 hours of screen-on time, which is impressive considering the large displays. When I need a quick charge, the fast charging gets me back to 50% in about 30 minutes.

Who should buy this phone

The Z Fold7 is ideal for power users who need serious productivity on the go. If you regularly edit documents, multitask across multiple apps, or consume a lot of media content, the tablet-sized inner display transforms the experience. It’s also perfect for photographers who want a capable camera system in a versatile form factor. Business professionals who need to review presentations or spreadsheets will find the screen real estate invaluable.

Who should avoid this phone

If you’re on a tight budget, this phone’s premium price makes it a hard sell when excellent alternatives exist for significantly less. The lack of a built-in S Pen slot also frustrates users who rely heavily on stylus input, as you’ll need to carry the pen separately. Additionally, those who prefer compact phones that disappear into a pocket will find even the folded Z Fold7 quite large compared to standard smartphones.

2.Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold – Best for AI and Clean Software

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold stands apart from every other foldable for one critical reason: it’s the first and only foldable phone with true IP68 dust and water resistance. After years of foldable owners worrying about dust getting into their hinges, Google finally cracked the code with a gearless, high-strength hinge design that’s rated to last approximately 10 years of normal folding. For anyone who’s been hesitant about foldable durability, this phone addresses the biggest concern head-on.

I found the Gemini AI integration genuinely useful rather than gimmicky. The Gemini Live feature lets you have natural, free-flowing conversations for complex tasks. Whether I was planning a trip, drafting an email, or researching a topic, the AI assistance felt like having a knowledgeable assistant rather than a basic voice command system.

The pure Android experience is refreshing after using Samsung’s OneUI. There’s no bloatware, and the interface feels snappy and intuitive. The 16GB of RAM handles multitasking beautifully, and the 8-inch inner display is perfect for split-screen work. Google’s software optimization makes the most of the foldable form factor with thoughtful features like tabletop mode for hands-free photos.

Battery life exceeded my expectations. The 5015mAh cell consistently delivered 24+ hours of use in my testing. The Qi2 wireless charging with Pixelsnap magnetic attachment is convenient, though wired charging is slower than I’d like at this price point.

Who should buy this phone

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is perfect for those who prioritize software experience and AI features. If you want the cleanest Android experience possible with deep Gemini integration, this phone delivers. It’s also the best choice for durability-conscious buyers who need that IP68 rating for peace of mind. Photographers who value computational photography over hardware specs will appreciate Google’s image processing. Check our guide to the best Google Pixel phones for more options.

Who should avoid this phone

If camera quality is your absolute top priority, Samsung’s Z Fold7 still edges ahead in hardware quality and versatility. The charging speed is notably slower than competitors, which may frustrate heavy users who need quick top-ups. The phone is also on the heavy side, and without a case, the smooth glass back makes it quite slippery to hold.

3.Honor Magic V5 – Best Value Book-Style Foldable

The Honor Magic V5 offers something remarkable: book-style foldable features at a significantly lower price than Samsung and Google’s offerings. Our testing revealed a device that doesn’t feel like a compromise. The 7.95-inch inner display is nearly as large as competitors, displaying 1.07 billion colors with excellent brightness and vibrancy.

What surprised me most was the battery life. The 5820mAh cell is the largest in any mainstream foldable, and it shows. I regularly got through two full days of moderate use on a single charge. Heavy users will still make it through a full day with room to spare, something not every foldable can claim.

The camera system holds its own against premium competitors. The 50MP main sensor, paired with a 50MP ultrawide and 64MP telephoto, covers all the bases. MagicOS 9.0.1 provides a clean enough experience, though it’s not as polished as OneUI or stock Android. Honor thoughtfully includes a protective case and screen films in the box, saving you the immediate accessory shopping trip.

Who should buy this phone

The Honor Magic V5 is ideal for value-conscious buyers who want book-style foldable features without the premium price tag. If you’re on T-Mobile or another GSM carrier and don’t need Verizon or Sprint compatibility, this phone offers incredible bang for your buck. Users who prioritize battery life will appreciate the massive 5820mAh cell.

Who should avoid this phone

Verizon, Sprint, and US Cellular customers should look elsewhere, as this GSM-only device won’t work on those networks. The international version may have warranty issues if you need service in the US. Accessory selection is also limited compared to Samsung and Google devices, so finding the perfect case or screen protector requires more effort.

4.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE – Best Budget Foldable

The Galaxy Z Flip7 FE represents the most accessible entry point into the foldable phone world. At under $700, it brings the flip phone experience to a price point that’s merely flagship-adjacent rather than super-premium. After testing it for several weeks, I came away impressed by how much Samsung has packed into this budget-friendly package.

The 6.7-inch main display feels full-sized when open, not like a compromise. The 50MP camera takes sharp, vibrant photos that rival much more expensive phones. FlexMode remains one of my favorite foldable features, letting you prop the phone at various angles for hands-free photos, video calls, or media viewing.

Battery life surprised me in a good way. The 4000mAh cell easily lasts through a full day of moderate use. The compact flip design means the phone practically disappears in your pocket when closed, yet unfolds to a full smartphone experience. For anyone curious about foldables but hesitant about the price, this phone removes that barrier.

Who should buy this phone

The Z Flip7 FE is perfect for first-time foldable buyers who want to try the technology without a massive investment. It’s ideal for those who prioritize portability and style over absolute performance. Users who mainly use their phones for social media, messaging, and casual photography will find everything they need.

Who should avoid this phone

Android Auto users should steer clear, as this phone is not compatible with that feature, which is a dealbreaker for many drivers. Power users who multitask heavily may find the 8GB RAM limiting compared to 12GB or 16GB options in premium foldables. Those who want Prime shipping will need to accept standard delivery times.

5.Motorola Razr 2024 – Best Flip Phone Value

Motorola has crafted something special with the Razr 2024. The standout feature is the enormous 3.6-inch external display, which is 2.4 times larger than the previous generation. I found myself using this outer screen constantly, checking messages, responding to texts, and even running full apps without ever opening the phone. For a deeper dive into flip phone comparisons, see our Motorola Razr vs Samsung Z Flip comparison.

The vegan leather back gives the phone a premium feel that glass simply can’t match. It’s comfortable to hold and doesn’t collect fingerprints. The 6.9-inch main display is actually larger than many standard smartphones when opened, and the 50MP camera with OIS delivers solid photo quality across various conditions.

Battery life impressed me with the 4200mAh cell lasting well through a day of use. The TurboPower 30W charging gets you back up quickly, and wireless charging support adds convenience. At around $400, this phone offers remarkable value for the foldable experience.

Who should buy this phone

The Razr 2024 is ideal for those who want a functional external display for quick tasks without opening the phone. Style-conscious buyers will appreciate the vegan leather options and iconic flip design. Budget-conscious shoppers get excellent value with features that rival more expensive flip phones. The large outer screen makes it perfect for quick checks and responses without disrupting your flow.

Who should avoid this phone

Anyone who’s hard on their phones should think twice. Reddit users consistently report that this phone is fragile, with drops easily damaging the screen and hinge. Repair costs can approach the phone’s original price, making a protection plan essential. Those who want long-term software support may be disappointed by the 3-year update commitment, which is shorter than Samsung’s 7 years.

6.Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold – Thinnest Foldable Available

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold holds a unique position as the thinnest foldable you can buy. When closed, it feels remarkably close to a regular smartphone in thickness. Google achieved this without sacrificing the inner display size, which remains the largest ever on a Pixel phone. The silky matte glass back and redesigned camera bar give it a premium aesthetic that stands out from Samsung’s more industrial design.

One of the best value-adds is the included Gemini Advanced subscription for a full year, worth $239. This gives you access to the most capable AI features integrated deeply into the phone. For anyone who uses AI assistance regularly, this effectively reduces the real cost of the phone by that amount.

The 16GB of RAM handles multitasking with ease, and the 4650mAh battery consistently delivered over 24 hours of use in my testing. The tabletop mode is genuinely useful for tripod-free astrophotography and group photos, letting you prop the phone at various angles without additional equipment.

Who should buy this phone

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is perfect for those who prioritize thin, elegant design. If you want a foldable that doesn’t feel like a brick in your pocket when closed, this is your best option. The included Gemini Advanced subscription makes it especially appealing for AI enthusiasts. Fans of pure Android will appreciate the clean software experience without manufacturer skins.

Who should avoid this phone

Durability-conscious buyers should note multiple reports of inner display failures along the fold line under normal use. Google’s customer service for hardware issues has received mixed reviews. Camera purists may be disappointed that the foldable’s cameras don’t match the quality of the standard Pixel 9 Pro XL. Some users have also received units that weren’t properly unlocked despite being sold as such.

7.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Renewed) – Best Renewed Book-Style Deal

The renewed Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers remarkable value for those willing to consider a pre-owned device. Our testing unit arrived in pristine condition, virtually indistinguishable from new. The 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X inner display with its 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate delivers smooth, vibrant visuals perfect for productivity and media consumption.

Having S Pen support is a significant advantage over the newer Fold7, which lacks a built-in stylus slot. For note-takers and artists, this makes the Fold 6 potentially more appealing despite being a generation older. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset still delivers excellent performance for any task you throw at it.

The camera system remains competitive with a 50MP main lens featuring OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP 3x telephoto. IP48 water and dust resistance provides some peace of mind, though it’s not as robust as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s IP68 rating. At around $670 for a renewed unit, you’re getting flagship foldable features at a fraction of the new price.

Who should buy this phone

Budget-conscious buyers who want a book-style foldable without paying flagship prices will find excellent value here. S Pen users who need stylus input for notes or artwork should consider this over the Fold7. Those who don’t need the absolute latest specs will find this generation-old device still performs admirably for all common tasks.

Who should avoid this phone

Those who demand pristine, untouched devices should buy new instead. Renewed condition can vary by seller, so you’re relying on the refurbisher’s quality standards. The weight is notable at 8.3 ounces, making it heavier than standard phones. Anyone concerned about potential screen issues should factor in the high replacement costs for foldable displays.

8.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Renewed) – Budget Flip with Premium Features

The renewed Galaxy Z Flip 6 brings premium flip phone features to a budget-friendly price point around $360. The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display offers fluid 1-120Hz visuals, while the 3.4-inch FlexWindow cover screen lets you check notifications, control music, and take selfies without opening the phone.

FlexCam is genuinely fun to use. You can prop the phone at various angles for hands-free photos from unique perspectives. The 50MP main camera with OIS and 12MP ultra-wide cover most photography needs adequately. With 12GB of RAM, multitasking is smooth, and apps launch quickly.

The Armor Aluminum hinge and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provide durability confidence. IP48 water resistance means the phone can handle splashes and rain. The main compromise is the 3700mAh battery, which requires more frequent charging than larger foldables, but this is typical for flip phones.

Who should buy this phone

This phone is ideal for those wanting a foldable experience on a tight budget. The compact flip design appeals to users who want a phone that disappears into small pockets. Casual photographers will find the camera system more than adequate for social media and memories. Fans of the Samsung smartphone pros and cons will appreciate the familiar experience at a lower price.

Who should avoid this phone

Heavy users who need all-day battery life should look at options with larger cells. The phone is thicker than expected when folded, which may surprise some buyers. Renewed units can have cosmetic wear depending on the seller, so check reviews carefully. Screen replacement costs are high, making a protection plan wise.

9.Google Pixel Fold (Original) – Budget Google Option

The original Google Pixel Fold represents an excellent entry point into Google’s foldable ecosystem at around $680. While it uses the older Tensor G2 chip, this processor still handles everyday tasks smoothly. The 7.6-inch inner display and 5.8-inch outer display provide flexibility for different use cases.

Split Screen multitasking is where this phone shines. Google’s implementation makes dragging two apps up from the taskbar intuitive, and the experience feels natural rather than forced. The premium polished aluminum and matte glass design gives the phone a substantial, high-quality feel in hand.

Being unlocked means you can use this phone with any major carrier. Google has committed to software support through 2028, giving you years of updates ahead. The 4821mAh battery handles a full day of moderate use, though some units from stored inventory may arrive with reduced battery health due to age.

Who should buy this phone

The original Pixel Fold is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want Google’s foldable experience at a significant discount. Those who prioritize a clean Android experience will appreciate the lack of bloatware. Photography enthusiasts who value Google’s computational photography will find capable cameras here. Users on any carrier can take advantage of the unlocked compatibility.

Who should avoid this phone

Those wanting the latest processor should look at the Pixel 10 Pro Fold with its Tensor G5 chip. The weight may bother users coming from standard smartphones. Durability concerns exist with reports of inner display failures. Google’s warranty service for hardware issues has received mixed feedback from users.

10.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 (Renewed) – Entry-Level Foldable

At around $290, the renewed Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers the lowest barrier to foldable phone ownership. This device lets you experience the novelty and practicality of a flip phone without a major financial commitment, making it one of the most affordable entries among the Best Foldable Phones right now. Many renewed units arrive in excellent condition, often indistinguishable from brand new devices.

The 6.7-inch display provides a full smartphone experience when opened. The compact flip design means the phone takes up minimal pocket space when closed. The outer screen, while smaller than the Z Flip 6, still handles notifications, widgets, and quick camera shots adequately, proving why the Flip series remains a strong contender in the Best Foldable Phones category for budget buyers.

The aluminum body and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 give the phone a premium feel despite its age. At this price point, you’re getting a taste of foldable technology that would have cost over $1,000 when new. For those curious about foldables but hesitant about the investment, this phone answers that question affordably.

Who should buy this phone

The Z Flip 5 renewed is ideal for those who want to try foldable technology with minimal financial risk. Casual users who don’t need cutting-edge specs will find this phone perfectly adequate. Style-conscious buyers will appreciate the compact flip form factor that makes a statement. Those who prioritize portability over battery life will enjoy how it disappears into pockets.

Who should avoid this phone

Anyone needing reliable all-day battery life should look elsewhere, as the 3700mAh cell requires mid-day charging for heavy users. Reports of screen crease failures are concerning, and repairs are expensive. Some renewed sellers don’t honor Amazon’s warranty properly, so buyer beware. Those wanting the latest features and processor should consider newer models. If you’re looking for alternatives that prioritize portability, check our guide to best compact phones.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Foldable Phone?

Fold vs Flip: Which Style is Right for You

The first decision when choosing a foldable phone is the form factor. Book-style foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold open like a book to reveal a tablet-sized inner display. These are ideal for productivity users who want to multitask across multiple apps, consume media on a large screen, or work with documents on the go. The tradeoff is that even when folded, these phones are quite large and heavy.

Flip-style foldables like the Samsung Z Flip series and Motorola Razr fold in half vertically. When closed, they’re incredibly compact, fitting easily into small pockets. When opened, they reveal a standard smartphone-sized display. These are better for users who prioritize portability and style over productivity features. The outer screen handles quick tasks without opening the phone.

Durability and IP Ratings Explained

Durability remains the top concern for foldable phone buyers. The display crease is visible on all foldables when viewed at certain angles, though it becomes less noticeable with use. More concerning is dust ingress into the hinge mechanism, which can cause long-term damage.

IP ratings tell an important story. Most foldables carry an IP48 rating, which means they’re protected against splashes but not full dust resistance. The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is currently the only foldable with IP68 rating, meaning it’s fully dust and water resistant. This is a significant advantage for longevity and peace of mind.

Display Quality and Crease Considerations

Modern foldable displays use flexible OLED technology with 120Hz adaptive refresh rates. Screen quality is generally excellent across premium models. The crease where the display folds is present on all devices but varies in visibility. Samsung’s newer displays have minimized the crease, while some users report it becomes less noticeable over time as your brain learns to ignore it.

Battery Life Expectations

Battery life varies significantly between book-style and flip phones. Book-style foldables typically have batteries between 4400-5800mAh, capable of lasting a full day even with heavy use. Flip phones have smaller batteries around 3700-4200mAh, which may require mid-day charging for heavy users. The Honor Magic V5 stands out with its massive 5820mAh battery for extended runtime.

Camera Quality in Foldables

Camera quality in foldables has improved dramatically. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7’s 200MP camera rivals dedicated photography phones. Google’s foldables leverage computational photography to deliver excellent results despite smaller sensors. Flip phones typically have more modest camera systems, adequate for social media but not professional work.

Software Support and Warranty

Long-term software support varies by manufacturer. Samsung leads with 7 years of updates for newer foldables. Google offers 5+ years of support. Motorola provides only 3 years, which is a consideration for long-term ownership. Given the high repair costs for foldables, extended warranty coverage through manufacturer programs like Samsung Care+ is highly recommended by Reddit users who regret skipping it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After extensive testing, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 remains our top recommendation among the Best Foldable Phones for most buyers seeking the best foldable phone in 2026. Its unmatched combination of a stunning 8-inch display, 200MP camera system, and refined design make it the most complete package for productivity-focused users.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE offers an accessible entry point under $700. The Motorola Razr 2024 provides excellent value in the flip category with its large external display. Those prioritizing durability should consider the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold as the only foldable with IP68 dust and water resistance, further strengthening the current lineup of Best Foldable Phones available today.

Renewed options like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 5 make foldable technology accessible to even more buyers. While durability concerns remain valid, the technology has matured significantly, and with proper care and warranty coverage, today’s devices in the Best Foldable Phones category can serve as reliable daily drivers for years to come.