👍 Pros
- Large, high-refresh-rate foldable display for enhanced productivity and media consumption.
- Still receives major Android updates, ensuring software relevance.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset provides competent performance for most applications.
- Versatile triple camera system with optical zoom and OIS on main and telephoto lenses.
- Robust build with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on exterior panels.
👎 Cons
- Under-display selfie camera (4 MP) has comparatively low resolution and pixel size.
- Battery capacity (4400 mAh) is modest for a large foldable device, potentially limiting screen-on time.
- Charging speeds (25W wired) are slower compared to many contemporary smartphones.
- Foldable design inherently introduces a crease and durability considerations over time.
- Lack of a microSD card slot limits storage expansion.
Expert Review & Rating
Market Position in 2026
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4, released in 2022, now operates in a highly competitive market, positioning itself as a niche, value-oriented foldable on the used and refurbished market. Its hardware, while still competent, faces stiff competition from modern mid-range devices that offer superior battery life and faster charging at a similar price point.
The Best Features
The most compelling feature remains its expansive 7.6-inch Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which offers a 120Hz refresh rate and 1200 nits peak brightness, providing an immersive experience for media consumption and multitasking that few non-foldable phones can match. The inclusion of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset ensures that the device still handles demanding applications and games with a reasonable degree of fluidity. The triple camera system, featuring a 50 MP main sensor with OIS and a 10 MP 3x optical zoom telephoto lens, offers versatile photography options and image stabilization that remain useful. Furthermore, the commitment to ‘up to 4 major Android upgrades’ means it is still running a relatively current version of Android, extending its software relevance.
The Compromises
The 4 MP under-display selfie camera is a significant compromise; its low resolution and pixel size can result in noticeably softer images compared to contemporary front cameras. The 4400 mAh battery capacity is modest for a device with two displays, particularly a large foldable, potentially leading to shorter screen-on times under heavy usage. Charging speeds of 25W wired and 15W wireless are considerably slower than many current smartphones, requiring longer charge cycles. The inherent durability concerns and the visible crease of a foldable display are also factors that users must consider over time.
Performance & Daily Usage
Based on the hardware, the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset provides sufficient processing power for most daily tasks and even moderately intensive gaming. The 12GB of RAM contributes to smooth multitasking and app switching. The 120Hz foldable display ensures a fluid user interface experience. However, the modest battery capacity, paired with a large, high-refresh-rate display, suggests that heavy users may need to manage power consumption or recharge more frequently. The slower charging speeds mean quick top-ups might not be as efficient as on newer devices. The main camera’s 50 MP sensor with OIS and the telephoto lens offer good photographic versatility, though the under-display selfie camera’s output may be underwhelming for video calls or self-portraits.
Buying Advice
For users seeking an affordable entry into the foldable form factor primarily for media consumption and multitasking, the Galaxy Z Fold4 on the used market is a viable option due to its large display and still-competent processor. However, those prioritizing cutting-edge camera performance, extended battery life, or rapid charging speeds should consider newer, albeit more expensive, alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 can be a worthwhile purchase in 2026 if found at a good price on the used or refurbished market, particularly for users who prioritize the unique foldable form factor and large screen for productivity or media. Its Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset still offers competent performance, and it continues to receive software updates. However, for users demanding top-tier camera quality, exceptional battery endurance, or the fastest charging speeds, newer devices may offer a more compelling experience.
Based on the specifications, the main 50 MP camera with its f/1.8 aperture, 1/1.56" sensor, and OIS should provide reasonable low-light performance, as OIS helps stabilize shots and prevent blur. The telephoto lens also includes OIS, which is beneficial. However, without larger pixel sizes or advanced computational photography features found in newer flagships, its low-light capabilities might not match the best contemporary smartphones. The 4 MP under-display selfie camera, with its smaller sensor and pixel size, is unlikely to perform well in low-light conditions.