Galaxy Z Fold5 Vs iPhone 14 Plus

Galaxy Z Fold5
Galaxy Z Fold5
Starting at

Refurbished price:£413.00

Versus £1,770.61 new

See options
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:£242.00

Versus £699.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, a foldable smartphone, was released in August 2023, offering a unique dual-screen experience running on Android. In contrast, the iPhone 14 Plus, a traditional slab smartphone, launched in October 2022 and operates on iOS. The primary distinction between these two devices lies in their form factor: one unfolds to reveal a larger display, while the other provides a consistent, expansive screen.

Scores

Durability

The iPhone 14 Plus, released in October 2022, typically receives iOS updates for approximately 5-6 years from its launch, extending its software longevity. It features Ceramic Shield protection and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, indicating robust physical durability. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, launched in August 2023, generally receives four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates. Its foldable design incorporates a refined hinge mechanism and an IPX8 water resistance rating, though it lacks official dust resistance.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 14 Plus benefits from Apple's extended software support. The Galaxy Z Fold5 also offers a strong commitment to software updates, ensuring several years of current Android versions.
  • Physical Resilience: The iPhone 14 Plus features a Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 rating. The Galaxy Z Fold5, while water-resistant with an IPX8 rating, has a folding screen that requires careful handling and is not officially dust-resistant.
  • Expected Lifespan: Both devices are built to last, with significant software support and durable designs.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

Yes

No

Performance

Both the Galaxy Z Fold5 and the iPhone 14 Plus offer capable performance, though they cater to different user demands. The iPhone 14 Plus handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, with user reports indicating excellent battery life, often lasting through a full day of heavy use. The Galaxy Z Fold5 delivers cutting-edge performance, particularly beneficial for its multitasking capabilities and handling of graphically intensive tasks across its larger display. Its battery capacity is designed to power two displays, providing all-day usage for many.

  • Storage Options: The iPhone 14 Plus offers 128GB to 512GB, while the Galaxy Z Fold5 offers up to 1TB.
  • Real-world Responsiveness: The iPhone 14 Plus provides consistent and fluid performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The Galaxy Z Fold5 excels in handling multiple applications simultaneously and offers a powerful experience for productivity.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 14 Plus is noted for its extended battery life. The Galaxy Z Fold5's battery is optimized for its dual-screen functionality, providing reliable power for a full day of mixed usage.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The screen experience is a major differentiator. The iPhone 14 Plus features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 2778 by 1284 pixels at 458 ppi, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks, with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. It reaches up to 1200 nits peak brightness for HDR content. The Galaxy Z Fold5 offers a dual-screen setup: a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X cover display and a larger 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main foldable display. Both displays feature a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and the main screen boasts 2176 x 1812 pixels, with peak brightness up to 1750 nits.

  • Display Technology: iPhone 14 Plus uses OLED; Galaxy Z Fold5 uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X for both screens.
  • Size and Form Factor: iPhone 14 Plus has a traditional 6.7-inch display. Galaxy Z Fold5 offers a 6.2-inch cover screen unfolding to a 7.6-inch main display.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: iPhone 14 Plus has 60Hz; Galaxy Z Fold5's displays are 120Hz with higher peak brightness.

Resolution

1812 x 2176

1284 x 2778

Screen type

Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both devices offer distinct capabilities. The iPhone 14 Plus features a dual-camera system with a 12MP main (f/1.5) and a 12MP ultrawide (f/2.4). It excels in everyday photography, offers improved low-light performance, and includes Cinematic and Action modes for video. Its front TrueDepth camera is 12MP with autofocus. The Galaxy Z Fold5 boasts a triple-camera setup: a 50MP main (f/1.8), a 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2), and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom (f/2.4). It delivers vibrant photos and offers up to 8K video recording. It also has a 10MP cover screen selfie camera and a 4MP under-display camera.

  • Rear Camera Systems: iPhone 14 Plus offers a strong dual-camera experience. Galaxy Z Fold5 provides a comprehensive triple-camera array with optical zoom.
  • Video Capabilities: Both support 4K video, with iPhone 14 Plus featuring Cinematic and Action modes. Galaxy Z Fold5 can record up to 8K video.
  • Front-facing Cameras: iPhone 14 Plus has a 12MP TrueDepth camera. Galaxy Z Fold5 includes a 10MP cover screen camera and a 4MP under-display camera.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

4 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond their core features, both the Galaxy Z Fold5 and iPhone 14 Plus offer a range of practical elements that influence daily use. The iPhone 14 Plus supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connectivity. It uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. For security, it relies on Face ID for biometric authentication. The device weighs 203 grams and measures 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.8 mm, offering a substantial yet manageable feel. The Galaxy Z Fold5 also supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, providing advanced connectivity options. It features a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, offering broader compatibility. Biometric security is handled by a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. When folded, it measures 154.9 x 67.1 x 13.4 mm and weighs 253 grams, making it thicker and heavier than the iPhone 14 Plus, but it unfolds to a slim 6.1 mm thickness.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both devices offer modern connectivity, including 5G and Bluetooth 5.3. The Galaxy Z Fold5 supports Wi-Fi 6E, potentially offering faster wireless speeds.
  • Ports and Biometrics: The iPhone 14 Plus uses a Lightning port and Face ID. The Galaxy Z Fold5 features a USB-C port and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
  • Physical Characteristics: The iPhone 14 Plus is a relatively light and thin large-screen phone. The Galaxy Z Fold5 is heavier and thicker when folded, but offers unique utility when unfolded.

Weight

150 g

203 g

Screen size (in)

7.6

6.7

Mobile network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User sentiment for the iPhone 14 Plus often praises its exceptional battery life and the expansive, vibrant display, making it a strong choice for media consumption and users who prefer a larger screen without the Pro features. Some common criticisms include the standard 60Hz refresh rate and the absence of a telephoto lens, which are features found on more premium models. For the Galaxy Z Fold5, users frequently highlight its innovative foldable design and the versatility of having both a compact cover screen and a large inner display for multitasking and productivity. Its powerful performance and improved hinge are also often commended. However, some users note its increased weight and thickness when folded, and the visible crease on the main display as points of consideration.

Users prioritizing a straightforward, large-screen smartphone with excellent battery life and a robust software ecosystem may find the iPhone 14 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its consistent performance and durable build make it a reliable daily driver. Conversely, users who value innovation, desire a tablet-like experience in a pocketable form factor, and frequently engage in multitasking will likely lean towards the Galaxy Z Fold5. Its unique design and advanced display technology offer a distinct user experience. Both devices represent quality options in their respective categories, and exploring quality-assured refurbished options for either model can provide an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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