Samsung has unveiled the new foldable flagship duo – the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G and Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G. This article will compare the Galaxy Z Fold 3 vs. Galaxy S21 Ultra and see which may be a better pick for you to upgrade. To help you make the best decision, we have also collected some of the best Z Fold 3 cases and some of the best Galaxy Z Fold 3 deals we could find today.
At the Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung also released the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series and the new generation of wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds2. All of the devices are now available for pre-order, and some extra perks are available, not to mention the fantastic trade-in values and other benefits.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 vs. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra specifications
Specification | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 |
Build |
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Dimensions & Weight |
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Display |
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SoC |
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RAM & Storage |
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Battery & Charging |
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Security |
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Rear Camera(s) |
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Front Camera(s) |
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Port(s) | USB 3.2 Type-C | USB 3.2 Type-C |
Audio |
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Connectivity |
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Software | One UI based on Android 11 | Samsung One UI 3.1 based on Android 11 |
Other Features |
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Colors |
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 vs. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra: design
The design of the two devices is vastly different. One can fold, while the other sits flat and cannot be unfolded. The question is, which of these is the better device for you? If you always wanted a portable tablet, you could technically pick up the Galaxy S21 Ultra and use it as such. After all, it even supports the S Pen and has a massive screen of 6.8 inches. On the other hand, if you always wanted a slightly more portable tablet and an even bigger screen, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 offers just that in a compact form factor.
The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is taller and weighs more than the Galaxy S21 Ultra, although it only measures more by about 50 grams. The external display of the Fold 3 is still very narrow, which can make videos and other content look a little odd at first, and it certainly takes some time to get used to. The S21 Ultra offers the standard smartphone aspect ratio, which we’ve used over the years. When the Z Fold 3 is folded, it can be very thick, measuring 16mm, while the S21 Ultra constantly measures 8.9mm unless you put a case on it. Even then, holding and carrying around all day in your pocket will be much less and far more comfortable. It’s not a significant issue, but you should keep it in mind as you will likely have to change a few habits.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is the first device to be IP certified, and its IPX8 certification, meaning that it can withstand splashes of water, so using it in rainy conditions should be fine. If you want more peace of mind and occasionally take your phone to the beach or places with a lot of sand, the Galaxy S21 Ultra offers more protection in every scenario. We must warn you that technology doesn’t match well with water and dust, and you should always avoid it to prevent damaging your expensive gadgets. Accidents do happen, and it’s great to know that both devices offer some form of protection.
Samsung has also announced that a Thom Browne Edition Galaxy Z Fold 3 and S Pen Pro are coming in late September. If that’s something you’re interested in, it’s worth looking out for, as the Galaxy S21 Ultra does not offer that particular edition.