Every so often, a device arrives that offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of technology. These gadgets often push boundaries but also come with trade-offs that can make them difficult to justify as everyday devices. Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold is one such product — impressive and innovative, yet still facing challenges that hold it back from being the perfect tool for most users.
Where Tablets Are Heading
The Galaxy Z TriFold feels more like a tablet than a phone. Its folded form resembles a smartphone, but weighing in at 309 grams — significantly heavier than the 218 grams of the Galaxy S25 Ultra — it challenges one-handed use. Despite being Samsung’s thinnest phone, the TriFold is designed primarily for tablet-style use. Offering a larger screen than the Fold 7, it promises enhanced multitasking experiences. However, incorporating two hinges means two creases, which inevitably affect its aesthetic and usability.
Untapped Potential
While the Galaxy Z Fold lines have paved the way for foldables, the TriFold represents a fresh take on the idea of a tablet replacement. Its appeal might resonate with professionals who need portability but want more screen real estate without carrying a laptop — provided their work doesn’t demand heavy processing power.
Is the Galaxy Z TriFold Overkill?
Current voting results:
- Yes, two displays are where I draw the line. — 13.95%
- One display is bad enough. — 1.16%
- No, it’s an important step towards a do-it-all device. — 52.33%
- I don’t care, it’s just so cool. — 32.56%
Votes: 86
Is It Worth the Price?
The Galaxy Z TriFold retails for around $2,436 in South Korea, with expectations that taxes and import duties will push the price even higher elsewhere. At this premium level, the device faces stiff competition not only from more affordable foldables but also from high-end smartphones and tablets that deliver powerful performance.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the TriFold trails behind the newer Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 found in flagship models. Its camera setup, while good, doesn’t quite match the excellence of the top camera phones on the market today. The exterior display also poses visibility challenges, a concern for many users on the go.
Should You Consider Buying the Galaxy Z TriFold?
The Galaxy Z TriFold embodies the excitement and complexity of early-stage futuristic devices. While it breaks new ground and opens possibilities, it remains a device that will not dramatically improve the day-to-day experience for most users at this stage. For tech enthusiasts and early adopters looking to own a piece of innovation, it could be worth the investment; for the average consumer, it might be better to wait for improvements in the next generation.
