The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 represents the latest iteration in Samsung’s line of compact foldable smartphones. This sleek and innovative device combines the convenience of a pocketable form factor with the power and functionality of a full-sized smartphone. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the key features, improvements, and overall performance of the Galaxy Z Flip 6, helping you determine if this cutting-edge foldable is the right choice for your mobile needs.
Key Takeaways:
- The Galaxy Z Flip 6 features a more durable design with improved water resistance (IP48 rating)
- Significant upgrades in processor and RAM boost overall performance
- Enhanced main camera and brighter inner display improve user experience
- Galaxy AI features add unique functionality to the device
- Samsung offers industry-leading 7 years of software support
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Review
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 maintains the familiar clamshell design of its predecessor, with subtle refinements that enhance both aesthetics and durability. Measuring 6.50 x 2.83 x 0.27 inches when unfolded and weighing 6.60 ounces, the Flip 6 is virtually identical in size to the Flip 5. However, it’s slightly thinner when folded (by about 0.2mm), making it even more pocketable.
Samsung has made several key improvements to the build quality:
- Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back for enhanced scratch and crack resistance
- Enhanced Armor Aluminum frame, claimed to be 10% stronger than the previous generation
- IP48 rating for improved dust and water resistance
- Upgraded hinge mechanism designed to withstand 200,000 folds
The device comes in a range of attractive colors, including Blue, Mint, Silver Shadow, and Yellow, with exclusive options available through Samsung’s website.
Display
Cover Screen
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 retains the 3.4-inch cover screen from its predecessor, featuring:
- 720 x 748 pixel resolution
- 60Hz refresh rate
- 1,600 nits peak brightness
While functional, this external display lags behind some competitors in terms of size and capabilities. For comparison, the Motorola Razr+ offers a larger 4-inch cover screen with higher resolution and refresh rate.
Main Inner Display
The inner display is where the Flip 6 truly shines:
- 7-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel
- 2,640 x 1,080 pixel resolution
- Adaptive refresh rate (1-120Hz)
- Impressive 2,600 nits peak brightness (up from 1,200 nits on the Flip 5)
The increased brightness makes the main screen easily visible even in direct sunlight, addressing a common complaint with previous foldable devices.
One of the most notable improvements is the reduced visibility of the display crease. While still present, it’s significantly less noticeable than on older models, particularly when the screen is in use.
Performance
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 receives a substantial performance boost thanks to its upgraded internals:
| Component | Specification |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| RAM | 12GB LPDDR5x (up from 8GB in Flip 5) |
| Storage | 256GB or 512GB UFS 4.0 |
These improvements translate to snappy real-world performance, with quick app launches and smooth multitasking. The inclusion of a vapor chamber cooling system helps maintain performance during extended use.
Benchmark results highlight the Flip 6’s capabilities:
- Geekbench 6: 2,133 (single-core), 6,134 (multi-core)
- PCMark Work 3.0: 17,847
Gaming performance is also impressive, with the device handling demanding titles like Genshin Impact smoothly on medium to high settings.
Battery Life and Charging
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 features a larger 4,000mAh battery (up from 3,700mAh in the Flip 5), resulting in significantly improved battery life. In our video streaming test, the device lasted an impressive 16 hours and 20 minutes, a substantial increase from the Flip 5’s 10 hours and 5 minutes.
Charging capabilities include:
- 25W wired fast charging
- 15W wireless charging
- 5W reverse wireless charging
While functional, the 25W wired charging feels somewhat dated compared to competitors offering faster charging speeds. In our tests, the Flip 6 took 1 hour and 35 minutes to charge from 0% to 100%, reaching 26% after 15 minutes and 49% after 30 minutes.
Connectivity and Audio
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options:
- 5G support (sub-6GHz and mmWave)
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Bluetooth 5.3
- NFC
In our tests on T-Mobile’s 5G network in New York City, the Flip 6 achieved impressive download speeds of up to 618Mbps and upload speeds of 32.3Mbps.
Audio performance is solid, with the device reaching 93.6dB when playing music, enough to fill a small room. However, bass response is limited, as expected from smartphone speakers. For the best audio experience, connecting Bluetooth headphones is recommended.
Cameras
The camera system on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 sees a significant upgrade in the main sensor:
- Main Camera: 50MP f/1.8 with dual-pixel autofocus and OIS
- Ultra-wide Camera: 12MP f/2.2 with 123-degree field of view
- Selfie Camera: 10MP f/2.2 with 85-degree field of view
The new 50MP main sensor produces detailed images with slightly oversaturated but appealing colors. Full 50MP shots offer even more detail and more true-to-life colors. The ultra-wide camera captures crisp images with vivid colors, though some edge distortion is noticeable.
Video capabilities are impressive, with both rear and selfie cameras capable of recording 4K video at 60fps. The main camera’s OIS system provides smooth, gimbal-like stabilization for videos.
Software and AI Features
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 runs Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6.1.1 overlay, offering a range of features tailored for the foldable form factor:
- Edge Panels for quick app access
- Flex Mode for using the device at various angles
- Multi-window support for running up to three apps simultaneously
Samsung’s Galaxy AI suite adds several unique capabilities:
- Notes Assist: AI-powered note organization and summarization
- Browser Assist: Web page summaries and translations
- Sketch to Image: Generate or enhance images based on user sketches
- Portrait Studio: Create AI-generated illustrations from portrait photos
While these features add an element of fun and productivity, their practical utility may vary depending on individual use cases.
Long-term Support
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is Samsung’s commitment to long-term software support. The device is backed by an industry-leading seven years of OS updates and security patches, a significant improvement over the four years of OS updates offered for the Flip 5. This extended support period ensures that the Flip 6 will remain up-to-date and secure for years to come, potentially increasing its longevity and value.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Improved durability and water resistance
- Powerful performance with upgraded processor and RAM
- Excellent main display with high brightness
- Enhanced main camera
- Long-term software support
- Unique AI features
Cons:
- Limited cover screen functionality compared to some competitors
- 25W wired charging feels outdated
- No expandable storage option
Verdict and Recommendation
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 represents a refined and powerful entry in the compact foldable smartphone market. With its improved performance, enhanced camera system, and durable design, it addresses many of the shortcomings of its predecessors. The device strikes a balance between portability and functionality, offering a full smartphone experience in a pocketable form factor.
While the limited cover screen functionality and relatively slow charging speeds may disappoint some users, the overall package is compelling. The addition of Galaxy AI features and the promise of seven years of software support further enhance the value proposition.
For those intrigued by foldable technology and seeking a compact yet capable smartphone, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a strong contender. It offers a unique blend of style, performance, and innovation that sets it apart in the increasingly crowded smartphone market. However, potential buyers should weigh the premium price against their needs and consider whether the foldable form factor aligns with their usage patterns.
Ultimately, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 showcases the continued evolution and maturation of foldable smartphone technology, cementing Samsung’s position as a leader in this innovative segment of the mobile market.
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