If you’ve been waiting for a foldable that actually feels like a phone when shut and a tablet when open, the Galaxy Z Fold7 is Samsung’s most convincing take yet. It’s lighter and slimmer than before, adds a 200MP main camera, and brings Galaxy AI features across the board. The headline bits 8.0-inch inner and 6.5-inch cover LTPO 120Hz displays now push up to 2,600 nits in bright light, which makes a real difference outdoors.
Pricing remains premium: the Fold7 starts at $1,999.99 in the US and ₹1,74,999 in India, with higher tiers for 512GB and 1TB. You’re also getting 7 years of OS and security updates, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, IP48 rating, and no charger in the box worth knowing before you buy. We’ll cover exact specs, real-world upsides and trade-offs, and how it stacks up against the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and vivo X Fold3 Pro.
Key Specifications & Features Z Fold7
On paper, the Fold7 gets several meaningful upgrades. Samsung has widened the cover screen to 6.5 inches (21:9), so typing and one-hand use feel more like a standard slab. Open it up, and the 8.0-inch inner panel remains the productivity canvas both are Dynamic AMOLED 2X with 1-120Hz LTPO refresh. Peak brightness hits up to 2,600 nits with Vision Booster, which helps with harsh sunlight and HDR highlights.
Under the hood sits Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, paired with 12GB RAM (256/512GB) or 16GB RAM (1TB) of UFS 4.0 storage. Samsung promises 7 years of Android and security updates, which is a big deal for longevity in a $2k phone. Connectivity is modern across the board: 5G (sub-6 and mmWave depending on region), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, and USB-C.
Cameras are led by a 200MP wide (OIS), backed by 12MP ultrawide and a 10MP 3× telephoto (OIS). Video goes up to 8K30 on the rear, and 4K60 on the front cameras. Samsung keeps the under-display inner selfie for video calls, and the outer 10MP selfie for quick shots.
Build quality gets tougher: the Fold7 uses Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the cover, Victus 2 on the back, a stiffer Advanced Armor Aluminum frame, and an IP48 rating, which brings dust protection to foldables while keeping water resistance. Weight is trimmed, and the device is thinner when folded and unfolded than previous generations.
Two footnotes: no S Pen support this year (confirmed), and Samsung DeX is supported (also confirmed). You’ll want to budget for a 25W charger if you don’t already own one the box includes only a USB-C cable.
Displays and Brightness
Both panels are LTPO 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X; the 8.0-inch main (20:18, 2184×1968) and 6.5-inch cover (21:9, 2520×1080). Samsung’s Vision Booster elevates brightness and contrast in harsh light, reaching up to 2,600 nits. Greens, reds, and HDR pop noticeably more than last generation.
Performance & Connectivity
The Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy variant delivers higher CPU frequencies and sustained performance compared with the standard 8 Elite reference numbers, while keeping efficiency in check. You also get Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, sub-6 and mmWave 5G (varies by market). US carrier listings confirm bands n1/n3/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n41/n77/n78 and mmWave n257 on Verizon.
Cameras
The 200MP main sensor with OIS is the biggest camera upgrade on a Fold so far. Expect sharper daylight detail and more flexibility for 2×/4× in-sensor crops. The 12MP ultrawide and 10MP 3× telephoto (OIS) round out the rear trio. Video captures 8K at 30fps and 4K60 on both front and rear useful for vlogs and travel clips.
Performance Testing Results Z Fold7
While we’re not running lab benches here, device and carrier spec sheets line up with what we expect from the 8 Elite for Galaxy bin: high burst performance for gaming and quick edits, with better thermals than older folds. The Fold7’s thermal spreader and lighter build help keep heat manageable in long sessions. Wi-Fi 7 speeds are a plus if you have a compatible router.
CPU/GPU and Sustained Load
Qualcomm’s latest Oryon-based CPU and updated Adreno GPU aim for desktop-leaning responsiveness in multitasking. For real use, that means smooth three-app split screen and fewer stutters when rendering timelines or batch editing photos. (Synthetic benchmark deltas matter less day-to-day than UI fluidity and app reload behavior, where the Fold7 feels strong.)
Network & 5G Behavior
Expect excellent sub-6 coverage and solid mmWave bursts in supported US areas. Verizon lists n1/n3/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n41/n77/n78 plus n257 mmWave, and Wi-Fi 7 tri-band. As always, bands vary by region, and Indian models emphasize sub-6 (n1/n3/n5/n8/n28/n41/n77/n78). Check your carrier’s sheet before importing.
Camera & Video Notes
The 200MP sensor’s oversampling helps detail and texture in good light; portraits benefit from the extra data. In low-light, Samsung’s multi-frame processing remains punchy, and 8K30 is there for creators though 4K60 is still the sweet spot for quality vs. storage. The outer 10MP selfie is the one you’ll prefer for clarity; the under-display inner camera is fine for calls.
User Experience Analysis Z Fold7
Daily usage scenarios
The wider 6.5-inch cover finally feels “normal.” Messaging, maps, quick photos no awkward thumb gymnastics. Open it up and the 8-inch canvas makes split-screen email + docs genuinely useful. Galaxy AI features (Note assist, Transcribe assist, photo tools) remove some friction, especially for power users who live in Samsung Notes and Google Workspace.
Interface and design
One UI 8 on Android 16 continues Samsung’s multitasking polish: taskbar, pop-over apps, and window resizing are intuitive. The hinge feels sturdy, and the Advanced Armor Aluminum frame plus Ceramic 2 / Victus 2 glass combo makes this the toughest feeling Fold yet. The IP48 rating adds dust protection that earlier folds lacked.
Battery life and charging
Capacity is 4,400mAh with 25W wired, Fast Wireless Charging 2.0, and Wireless PowerShare. Verizon cites up to 27 hours of usage (carrier methodology), and Samsung doesn’t include a charger. Realistically, plan for a nightly top-up if you mix video, maps, and camera. Heavy creators may want a 45–65W USB-C PD brick for faster pit stops (the phone will draw up to its 25W limit).
Pros and Cons Breakdown
Major advantages
- Comfortable cover screen (21:9) and bright 8.0-inch inner display with 2,600-nit peaks.
- 200MP main camera with 8K30/4K60 support and solid stabilization.
- 7 years OS + security updates; Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB; DeX support.
- Tougher build: Ceramic 2/Victus 2 glass, Advanced Armor Aluminum, IP48.
Notable limitations
- No S Pen support this year.
- Charger not included; max 25W wired is modest for a $2k phone.
- mmWave support varies by region; exact 5G bands differ across SKUs.
Value for money
In the US, at $1,999.99–$2,419.99, the Fold7 is priced like a laptop. In India, ₹1,74,999–₹2,16,999 targets premium buyers who want a phone-tablet hybrid, long support window, and high-end cameras. Trade-in and launch promos can soften the blow watch carrier and Samsung offers.
Competitor Comparison
Galaxy Z Fold7 vs Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs vivo X Fold3 Pro
| Feature | Galaxy Z Fold7 | Pixel 9 Pro Fold | vivo X Fold3 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner display | 8.0″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1–120Hz; up to 2,600 nits | 8.0″ Super Actua Flex, 120Hz; up to 2,700 nits | 8.03″ LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz; up to ~4,500 nits (claimed) |
| Cover display | 6.5″ 21:9, 120Hz | 6.3″ 20:9, 120Hz | 6.53″ 21:9, 120Hz |
| Main camera | 200MP wide (OIS) + 12MP UW + 10MP 3× (OIS) | 48MP wide + UW + 5× tele | 50MP wide + 50MP UW + 64MP 3× periscope |
| Video | 8K30 / 4K60 (front & rear) | 4K60 | 8K (rear), 4K60 |
| Chip | Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Google Tensor G4 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| Battery | 4,400mAh; 25W wired; Fast Wireless | 4,650mAh; 45W wired; wireless | 5,700mAh; 100W wired; 50W wireless |
| Durability | Advanced Armor Aluminum, Ceramic 2/Victus 2; IP48 | Aluminum + glass; IPX8 | Slim build; India variant |
| Software & updates | Android 16; One UI 8; 7 years | Android 14→16; 7 years (Google) | Android 14 (Funtouch 14 in India) |
| US price (base) | $1,999.99 (12/256) | $1,799 (16/256) | (not official US) |
| India price (base) | ₹1,74,999 (12/256) | (not official India) | ₹1,59,999 (16/512) |
Takeaway: Pixel undercuts on price (US) and stays thin; vivo’s battery and charging are beasts (India). The Fold7 offers the most balanced package with global support, brighter displays, and the longest update promise.
US Price & Variants Galaxy Z Fold7
US Price Table
| Storage | RAM | Price (MSRP) | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 256GB | 12GB | $1,999.99 | Jetblack, Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow (+ online-exclusive Mint) |
| 512GB | 12GB | $2,119.99 | Same as above |
| 1TB | 16GB | $2,419.99 | Same as above |
India Price Table (MRP)
| Storage | RAM | MRP (Samsung India) | Typical Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 256GB | 12GB | ₹1,74,999 | On sale from July 25, 2025 |
| 512GB | 12GB | ₹1,86,999 | On sale from July 25, 2025 |
| 1TB | 16GB | ₹2,16,999 | Limited stocks; online/retail |
Full Specifications Galaxy Z Fold7
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Design & Build | Advanced Armor Aluminum frame; Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 (front), Victus 2 (back); IP48 ingress protection |
| Dimensions & Weight | Thinner/lighter than prior generation; US Verizon lists 7.58 oz; folded 0.35 in thick (approx.) |
| Displays | Main: 8.0″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1–120Hz, 2184×1968 (20:18); Cover: 6.5″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1–120Hz, 2520×1080 (21:9); Up to 2,600 nits peak |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (Oryon CPU, Adreno GPU) |
| Memory/Storage | 12GB + 256/512GB; 16GB + 1TB (UFS 4.0) |
| Rear Cameras | 200MP wide (OIS) + 12MP ultrawide + 10MP 3× telephoto (OIS) |
| Front Cameras | 10MP cover selfie; under-display inner selfie for calls |
| Video | Rear: up to 8K@30; Front: 4K@60 |
| Battery & Charging | 4,400mAh; 25W wired; Fast Wireless Charging 2.0; Wireless PowerShare; charger not included |
| Connectivity | 5G (sub-6/mmWave depending on region); Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be tri-band); Bluetooth 5.4; UWB; USB-C |
| 5G Bands (example, Verizon US) | n1/n3/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n41/n77/n78 + mmWave n257 (varies by SKU/market) |
| OS & Updates | Android 16 / One UI 8; 7 years OS & security updates |
| Features | Samsung DeX support; Galaxy AI features (Note/Transcript Assist, editing tools) |
| Colors | Jetblack, Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow; online-exclusive Mint |
| SAR (Verizon listing) | Head: 1.24 W/kg; Body: 1.36 W/kg |
| In-box | Phone, USB-C to C cable, quick start docs (no charger) |
Expert Recommendations for Z Fold7
Who should buy this
- You want one device for phone + tablet tasks: reading, split-screen notes, and editing on the go.
- You care about long-term support (7 years) and global accessory/ecosystem.
- You shoot a lot of photos/videos and like the flexibility of a 200MP sensor and 4K60 across cameras.
Who should avoid this
- You rely on S Pen daily. The Fold7 does not support S Pen this year.
- You need multi-day battery with heavy 5G/GPS/video. The 4,400mAh pack is fine, not class-leading.
- You want budget flagship pricing—the Fold7 stays in ultra-premium territory.
Best alternatives
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold (US): slightly cheaper, ultra-thin, strong Google AI perks; battery is a bit larger.
- vivo X Fold3 Pro (India): massive battery and fast charging, impressive cameras, but narrower global availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Fold7 support the S Pen?
No. Samsung explicitly lists no S Pen support for the Fold7.
What’s the peak display brightness?
Up to 2,600 nits with Vision Booster, according to Samsung.
What video modes does it support?
Up to 8K at 30fps on the rear, and 4K60 on front and rear cameras.
How many Android updates will it get?
Seven years of Android OS and security updates.
Is there a charger in the box?
No. You get a USB-C cable and paperwork.
Does it support mmWave 5G?
Yes on select SKUs/markets (e.g., Verizon lists n257). Bands vary by region.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Z Fold7 is Samsung’s most well-rounded big fold yet: brighter displays, a serious 200MP camera, long software support, and hardware that finally feels sturdy and practical. You give up S Pen, the charger, and some battery headroom, but you gain a foldable that works as a daily phone and a portable tablet. If you want the most reliable global ecosystem and the longest update runway in a foldable, the Fold7 should be at the top of your list—especially if you can snag a good trade-in.
Featured Snippet Boxes
What is the price of Galaxy Z Fold7 in the US and India?
US: $1,999.99 (256GB), $2,119.99 (512GB), $2,419.99 (1TB). India: ₹1,74,999 (256GB), ₹1,86,999 (512GB), ₹2,16,999 (1TB). Sale started July 25, 2025. Watch for trade-ins and launch offers.
Does Galaxy Z Fold7 have OIS and 4K video?
Yes. The 200MP main and 3× telephoto both include OIS, and the phone shoots 4K60 on front and rear cameras (plus 8K30 on the rear).
How many 5G bands does Galaxy Z Fold7 support?
It varies by region/carrier. For example, Verizon lists n1/n3/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n41/n77/n78 and mmWave n257. Check your specific model’s SKU and carrier sheet before buying or importing.
How many Android updates will the Fold7 get?
It varies by region/carrier. For example, Verizon lists n1/n3/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n41/n77/n78 and mmWave n257. Check your specific model’s SKU and carrier sheet before buying or importing.
Is a charger included in the box?
No. Samsung includes a USB-C to C cable and documentation. You’ll need to use an existing charger or buy a 25W USB-C PD charger separately.
Source: Samsung
