Unfolding the Future: Your Guide to the Best Foldable Phones of 2025

Thinking about getting a new phone? If the usual slab designs feel a bit boring, you should really check out the world of foldable phones. It’s a space where things change fast, and not just with minor updates. Brands are really trying new things, smoothing out the experience, and doing it in different ways. Yeah, these phones are still pretty pricey and we don’t know how they’ll hold up in the long run, but if you miss when phones felt more diverse, this is where it’s at. 2025 has been a big year for foldables, with Samsung back on top, Motorola offering more choices than ever, and Chinese brands still pushing the limits. And it looks like 2026 will keep the momentum going, with more upgrades and maybe even Apple jumping in. So, as the year winds down, let’s look at what’s been great and what’s coming next in foldable phones.

Key Takeaways

• Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 are strong contenders in the foldable phones 2025 market, with the Flip 7 taking the top spot.
• Motorola has expanded its foldable offerings with multiple Razr models for 2025, catering to different preferences and budgets.
• Chinese brands like Honor and Vivo are pushing innovation with models like the Magic V5 and X Fold 5, introducing new features and form factors.
• Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold offers a unique experience with its camera and AI features, though its design could see improvements.
• While Apple hasn’t released a foldable phone yet, rumors suggest a potential entry in 2026, which could shake up the foldable phones 2025 landscape.

1. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. This is the phone that really solidified Samsung’s place at the top of the foldable game, at least for a while. It’s the device that many people think of when they hear ‘foldable phone,’ and for good reason. It manages to pack a full-sized tablet experience into something that actually fits in your pocket, which is pretty wild when you stop and think about it.

The Z Fold 7 is all about that expansive inner display, making multitasking feel less like a compromise and more like the norm. Whether you’re juggling a couple of apps for work, trying to watch a video while scrolling through social media, or just want a bigger canvas for reading, this phone delivers. It’s not just about the size, though; the screen itself is bright and vibrant, making everything look good.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Improved Hinge: Samsung has been tweaking this for years, and with the Z Fold 7, it feels more robust. It allows the phone to fold flat without a gap, which not only looks sleeker but also helps keep dust out.
• Larger Battery: Finally, a decent battery! While it might not last you three days, it’s a significant step up, meaning you’re less likely to be hunting for a charger by mid-afternoon.
• Better Display Crease: Remember those really noticeable creases on older models? They’ve managed to make it much less obvious on the Z Fold 7, so it’s less distracting when you’re using the main screen.

Of course, it’s not perfect. The S Pen, while a great addition for note-taking, still doesn’t work on the outer cover screen, which is a bit of a bummer. And while the cameras are decent, they’re not exactly blowing anyone away – they’re good, but not flagship-level good. Plus, that price tag is still pretty steep. It’s a premium device for a premium experience, no doubt about it.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 is shaping up to be another solid entry in the popular clamshell foldable market. While it might not reinvent the wheel, it seems to be focusing on refining what made its predecessors great. The biggest upgrade this year appears to be the cover screen, which is rumored to jump to a much more usable 4.1 inches. This means more functionality without needing to flip the phone open, making quick tasks like checking notifications or replying to messages even easier.

Internally, you’re looking at a 6.9-inch AMOLED display, also with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate. Powering it all is the new Samsung Exynos 2500 processor, paired with a 4,300 mAh battery. While the battery size is a bump up from previous models, real-world tests suggest it might still be a bit of a struggle to get through a full day of heavy use, despite Samsung’s claims. The camera setup remains largely the same, with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP selfie camera.

Here’s a quick look at what we expect:

• Larger Cover Screen: A 4.1-inch display for more interaction.
• Updated Processor: The Exynos 2500 should offer good performance.
• Improved Durability: Expect Samsung’s usual focus on build quality.
• Software Support: Samsung promises updates through 2032, which is pretty great.

One thing to keep an eye on is potential overheating when pushing the phone with multiple apps running simultaneously. Still, if you’re already invested in the Samsung ecosystem and want a stylish, compact foldable, the Z Flip 7 is definitely worth considering. You can check out the latest on Samsung’s foldable lineup here.

3. Motorola Razr 2025

Motorola’s Razr line has always been about that classic flip phone feel, updated for today. The 2025 model continues this trend, aiming to be a solid choice for those who want a foldable without breaking the bank. It’s positioned as a more accessible option compared to some of the ultra-premium foldables out there.

This year’s Razr comes with a 6.9-inch main display, which is pretty standard for foldables now, and a 3.6-inch external screen. That outer display is actually quite usable for quick tasks like checking notifications or replying to messages without needing to flip the phone open. It’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400X chip, which should handle everyday tasks just fine. You’re looking at Android 15 out of the box, which is good to see.

Here’s a quick look at some specs:

• Display: 6.9-inch main, 3.6-inch cover
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7400X
• OS: Android 15
• Battery: 4500 mAh
• RAM/Storage: 8GB/256GB

One thing to keep in mind with Motorola foldables is their software support. They typically offer fewer years of updates compared to Samsung or Google. For the Razr 2025, you’re looking at about three years of OS updates and four years of security patches. It’s not terrible, but it’s definitely something to consider if you plan to keep your phone for a long time. Still, for its price point, the Motorola Razr 2025 offers a stylish way to get into the foldable market.

4. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

Google really stepped up its game with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, making it a serious contender in the foldable market. This device feels like a true evolution, focusing on durability and user experience. It’s got this new gearless hinge that Google claims is twice as tough as the old one, and the whole thing has an IP68 rating, meaning it’s pretty well protected against dust and water. Honestly, it feels way less fragile than I expected for a foldable.

One of the coolest things is the Pixelsnap technology. It’s like MagSafe for your Pixel, letting you magnetically attach accessories. I found myself using it with a car mount and even a PopSocket, which made holding the unfolded phone way more comfortable. It’s nice that you can use Google’s own stuff or even third-party accessories that work with MagSafe.

Here’s a quick look at some specs:

Battery life is another area where this phone shines. I was consistently getting almost a full day of use, even with calls, streaming, and social media scrolling. It’s a big improvement over some other foldables I’ve tried. Plus, it charges up pretty quickly, getting to 50% in about 35 minutes with a decent charger.

It’s not perfect, though. It doesn’t have the fancy Pro Res Zoom feature found on the regular Pixel 10 Pro models, which is a bit of a bummer considering the price. Also, the matte back, while looking sleek, does tend to pick up scratches pretty easily, so you might want to consider a case or stick to a darker color if that bothers you. Still, for a foldable that feels this solid and offers such a good user experience, it’s definitely worth a look.

5. Honor Magic V5

Honor really stepped up its game with the Magic V5, and while it might not be the most talked-about foldable out there, it’s definitely worth a look. This phone strikes a good balance between a large inner display and a surprisingly manageable outer screen. It feels solid in the hand, and the hinge mechanism is smooth, which is always a big plus with these kinds of devices.

When you unfold it, you get a generous screen that’s great for multitasking or just kicking back with a video. Honor has been putting some thought into how people actually use these phones, and it shows.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Display Tech: Expect vibrant colors and sharp details on both the inner and outer screens. Honor usually packs some pretty advanced display tech into their flagships.
• Performance: It’s built to handle pretty much anything you throw at it, from demanding apps to heavy gaming sessions.
• Camera System: While not always the absolute top-tier compared to some rivals, Honor’s cameras are generally very capable, capturing good shots in various lighting conditions.
• Battery Life: They’ve been working on improving battery longevity, and the V5 is no exception, aiming to get you through a full day without constant charging.

It’s a strong contender if you’re looking for a book-style foldable that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

6. Vivo X Fold 5

Vivo’s X Fold series has consistently pushed the boundaries of foldable technology, and the X Fold 5 is no exception. While it might not be readily available in all markets, its innovations often trickle down to devices we can get our hands on. This year, Vivo is focusing on refining the user experience, making the foldable form factor feel even more natural and useful for everyday tasks.

One of the standout features we’re seeing is the continued development in screen technology. The X Fold 5 boasts a main display that’s not only vibrant and sharp but also incredibly durable, thanks to advancements in hinge design and screen materials. This iteration feels more robust than ever, with less of a crease and a satisfyingly solid feel when you open and close it.

Beyond the hardware, Vivo is also putting a lot of effort into software. They’re integrating features that make multitasking a breeze, allowing you to run multiple apps side-by-side with ease. Think of it like having a mini-desktop in your pocket.

Here’s a quick look at what makes the X Fold 5 interesting:

• Improved Hinge Mechanism: Expect a smoother folding action and a more durable hinge that should stand up to more use.
• Enhanced Display: Brighter, more color-accurate screens both inside and out, with a reduced crease.
• Software Optimizations: New multitasking gestures and window management tools designed specifically for the foldable screen.
• Camera System: While Vivo often packs impressive camera hardware, the X Fold 5 continues this trend with a versatile setup that performs well in various lighting conditions.

7. Honor Magic V Flip 2

Honor’s Magic V Flip line has always aimed to offer a more compact foldable experience, and the Magic V Flip 2 looks to continue that trend. While specific details for the 2025 model are still emerging, we expect it to build upon the strengths of its predecessors. Think a sleek design that folds down small enough to fit comfortably in most pockets, making it a great option for those who find traditional smartphones a bit too bulky.

One of the key areas where flip phones like this shine is the cover screen. We’re hoping the Magic V Flip 2 will feature a generously sized external display, allowing for quick checks of notifications, replying to messages, or even snapping a quick selfie without needing to flip the phone open. This convenience factor is a big draw for the flip form factor.

Performance-wise, Honor usually packs its devices with capable processors, so we anticipate the Magic V Flip 2 will handle everyday tasks and multitasking with ease. Battery life is always a consideration with foldables, and it will be interesting to see how Honor balances screen size and battery capacity in this iteration.

We’re also curious about the camera setup. While flip phones often make compromises in this area compared to their candy bar counterparts, Honor has shown it can deliver solid camera performance in its other devices.

Key expectations for the Honor Magic V Flip 2:

• A refined, pocket-friendly design.
• An improved and more functional cover screen.
• Solid performance for daily use.
• Decent battery life for a compact foldable.
• Capable camera system for its class.

8. Huawei Pura X

Huawei’s Pura X is an interesting entry into the foldable market, aiming for a unique wallet-like form factor that sits somewhere between a traditional flip phone and a larger book-style foldable. It’s got a pretty nice 6.3-inch AMOLED display on the outside, which is smooth thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate. The resolution is sharp too, at 2,120×1,320 pixels, and it gets really bright, up to 2,500 nits, so you should be able to see it even in direct sunlight.

While it might not be available everywhere, the Pura X represents some cool innovation. It’s part of a wave of foldables pushing boundaries with things like new battery tech and camera systems that are more compact but still pack a punch. Plus, Huawei is experimenting with software features that go beyond just basic AI, like controlling your PC remotely. It’s a glimpse into what could be coming to more mainstream devices.

Key features to look out for:

• A distinctive wallet-like design.
• A bright and fluid 6.3-inch external AMOLED display.
• Innovative software features beyond standard AI.
• Potential for advanced battery and camera technology.

It’s devices like the Pura X that really show the potential of foldable phone technology, even if they aren’t directly competing in every market. They push other manufacturers to step up their game, which is good news for all of us looking for the next big thing in smartphones.

9. Oppo Find N5

Oppo’s foldable journey continues with the Find N5, though it seems they’re still keeping it away from the US market, which is a bummer. We saw the Find N3 Flip back in late 2023, and while this Find N5 is a newer model, it’s following a similar pattern of limited availability. It’s a shame because Oppo has been doing some interesting things with their foldables.

What we’ve heard suggests the Find N5 is trying to stand out with a really subtle crease on the main screen. That’s a big deal for foldables, as a noticeable crease can really pull you out of the experience. They’re also apparently packing in a telephoto camera, which isn’t something you see on every foldable, especially the flip style ones. This means you might actually get some decent zoomed-in shots, unlike with phones that only have a standard and ultrawide lens.

Here’s a quick look at what makes Oppo’s foldables interesting:

• Subtle Crease: A less visible crease on the inner display makes for a smoother viewing experience.
• Telephoto Camera: Offers better zoom capabilities than many competitors.
• Fast Charging: Oppo usually includes speedy charging tech, getting you powered up quickly.
• Stylish Design: They tend to look pretty sleek and modern.

However, it’s not all perfect. Like some other high-end phones, it might skip out on wireless charging. And, of course, the biggest hurdle for many will be its absence in the US. You might have to look to unofficial resellers if you’re really set on getting one, which can be a hassle and might mean paying a premium.

10. Motorola Razr Plus 2025

The Motorola Razr Plus 2025 continues Motorola’s push into the foldable market, aiming to offer a stylish and functional flip phone experience. This year, Motorola seems to be focusing on refining the user experience, particularly with its external display.

The standout feature for the Razr Plus 2025 is its expansive 3.6-inch cover screen, which allows for a surprising amount of functionality without needing to flip the phone open. You can run most apps directly from this external display, making quick tasks like checking messages, replying to emails, or even browsing social media much more convenient. It’s a significant step up from smaller cover screens that often feel limited.

When it comes to design, the Razr Plus 2025 aims for a sleek profile. It’s notably thinner than some of its direct competitors, which is a big win for portability. However, this slimness might come with a slight trade-off in perceived durability compared to bulkier rivals, though Motorola has worked on strengthening the hinge and adding some dust and water resistance.

Under the hood, expect solid performance for everyday tasks. While it might not be the absolute top-tier processor for heavy gaming, it handles social media, streaming, and general multitasking with ease. Battery life is also a strong point, with the 4,500 mAh cell designed to last a full day of moderate use. Charging is supported at 30W wired and 15W wireless.

Camera-wise, the Razr Plus 2025 sticks with a capable 50-megapixel main sensor and a 13-megapixel ultrawide. In good lighting, photos are vibrant and detailed. Motorola has also introduced an AI-powered Photo Enhancement Engine to improve dynamic range and reduce noise, which should help images look more natural, especially when posting directly to social media.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Display: A large 3.6-inch external OLED and a 6.9-inch internal foldable OLED.
• Performance: Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7400X processor, suitable for daily use.
• Battery: A 4,500 mAh battery with 30W wired charging.
• Cameras: 50MP main and 13MP ultrawide rear cameras.

One area where Motorola lags behind some competitors is software support. You’ll get three years of OS updates and four years of security patches, which is less than what Samsung and Google offer. If long-term software support is a major factor for you, this is something to keep in mind.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Foldables?

So, that’s a wrap on the foldable phone scene for 2025. It’s been a pretty wild ride, with Samsung really stepping up its game and Motorola offering more choices than ever. We’ve seen some cool ideas pop up, especially from brands outside the US, pushing the boundaries of what these phones can do. While they’re still a bit pricey and we’re all waiting to see how they hold up long-term, it’s clear foldables aren’t just a fad. They’re evolving fast, and with rumors of Apple possibly jumping in soon, 2026 is shaping up to be even more interesting. Keep an eye on this space – the future of smartphones is definitely bending.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes foldable phones different from regular phones?

Foldable phones can bend and change shape! Some open up like a book to give you a bigger screen, while others fold in half like a tiny flip phone. This means you can have a big screen for watching videos or playing games, and then fold it up to fit easily in your pocket.

Are foldable phones tough enough to use every day?

They’ve gotten much stronger! Early foldable phones had problems, but newer ones are built better. They can handle being opened and closed many times, and many can even handle getting a little wet. Still, it’s a good idea to be careful with them, especially around dust.

Why are foldable phones so expensive?

Making these phones is complicated and uses special parts, like the flexible screen and the hinge that lets them fold. Because the technology is still new and requires a lot of special engineering, they cost more than regular phones right now.

Which foldable phone is the best for me?

That depends on what you like! If you want a big screen for multitasking and watching stuff, look at the ‘book-style’ foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. If you prefer a smaller phone that folds in half, a ‘flip-style’ phone like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 or Motorola Razr 2025 might be better.

Will Apple make a foldable iPhone soon?

There are lots of rumors, and it’s possible Apple might release a foldable iPhone in the next year or two. However, nothing is confirmed yet, so if you want a foldable phone now, you’ll need to look at Android phones from companies like Samsung, Google, and Motorola.

Are there any foldable phones that aren’t from Samsung or Motorola?

Yes! Companies like Google (with its Pixel Fold series), Honor, Vivo, and Oppo are also making really cool foldable phones. Some of these might not be sold everywhere, but they show off exciting new ideas for foldable technology.