In my previous first look at the Google Pixel Fold, I talked about the remarkable utility of foldable phones as an ideal travel companion. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 is another device that fits squarely in the same category. While there have been numerous reviews of the Galaxy Z Fold4, there is a lack of perspectives from the lens of a traveler. Having personally used the Galaxy Z Fold4 for the past 9 months, here are my insights on why this device truly excels as a travel companion.

Disclosure: I am not affiliated with Samsung. I did not receive any monetary or other incentives from them. My opinions are solely based on my personal experience.

General Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 boasts a 6.2-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED outer screen with a resolution of 904 x 2316 pixels. Its inner display measures 7.6 inches and also supports a 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display. The internal screen resolution is 1812 x 2176 pixels. Powering the Galaxy Z Fold4 is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, accompanied by 12GB of RAM and storage options of 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1TB.

In terms of camera capabilities, the Galaxy Z Fold4 shares similarities with the S22 and S22+. Its rear features a three-lens setup, including a 50 MP primary shooter, a 12 MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP 3x telephoto zoom. On the front, you’ll find a punch-hole style 10 MP selfie camera. Moreover, when the device is unfolded, there is a 4 MP under-display camera available.

The Galaxy Z Fold4 incorporates a 4400mAh battery, supporting both 25-watt wired charging and Qi wireless charging. It comes in color options such as graygreen, phantom black, beige, and burgundy. Upon release, the Galaxy Z Fold4’s 256 GB model started at $1800. Nowadays, it is common to find the Galaxy Z Fold4 priced closer to a thousand dollars.

Tall and Narrow

Samsung has consistently maintained a narrow and tall design for its Fold line. This particular form factor is especially beneficial due to the device’s weight, which is relatively heavy compared to other phones. The slim body enables convenient one-handed usage, a crucial feature for those on the move. Additionally, the tall aspect ratio of the inner screen, with a 6:5 ratio, makes it easy to use applications that are designed for portrait orientation.

One UI and Foldables Enhancements

Throughout four iterations of the Fold series, Samsung has meticulously fine-tuned its software to fully harness the potential of the expansive inner screen. One-UI has matured in its specialized features that allow for a better multitasking experience.

Google Maps + Trip Advisor

There have been numerous instances where I found myself needing to make sudden adjustments to my travel plans. When attempting this on a conventional candy bar phone, the limited screen size proved inadequate for any substantial work. This leads to a highly frustrating experience. Fortunately, the generous inner screen of the Galaxy Z Fold4 resolves this issue admirably. Its ability to accommodate multiple applications simultaneously, while still maintaining a reasonable size, effortlessly facilitates multitasking. For instance, I frequently found myself conveniently comparing Google Maps and Trip Advisor side by side, evaluating whether specific activities fit into my schedule.

For those who frequently engage in on-the-go work, the Galaxy Z Fold4 is an absolute game-changer. The expansive inner screen creates an environment where most websites function seamlessly, akin to viewing them on a laptop. This feature proves exceptionally valuable during international travel, where I often encountered numerous websites that lacked optimization for mobile devices.

Digital menu

In the wake of COVID-19, many restaurants have transitioned to digital menus. However, it is not uncommon for some establishments to overlook the importance of ensuring their menus display in a legible size on mobile phones. As a result, customers often find themselves resorting to zooming in to decipher the menu. Fortunately, the Galaxy Z Fold4 comes to the rescue with its spacious inner screen, effectively addressing this issue and providing a more user-friendly experience when browsing digital menus.

Form factor advantage

The ability to prop up your phone in diverse configurations offers numerous advantages, particularly while traveling:

Built-in tripod

With the Galaxy Z Fold4, you have the flexibility to prop it up at any desired angle, essentially transforming it into a convenient makeshift tripod. However, I strongly recommend ensuring the presence of a screen protector on the outer display (which will be facing the surface) before attempting this. Once properly protected, you can easily prop up the device on a ledge and utilize the timer function to capture stunning selfies effortlessly.

Selfie with better cameras

In situations where finding a suitable surface to place your phone for a selfie is challenging, the Galaxy Z Fold4 offers an alternative solution. You can leverage the device’s three-camera array to capture selfies effortlessly. By unfolding the phone, you can utilize the outer screen as a viewfinder and utilize the high-quality back cameras for exceptional results. This feature allows you to take advantage of the remarkable 50 MP back camera, ensuring stunningly crisp shots. Additionally, for group shots or wider perspectives, the ultra-wide lens comes in handy, accommodating more people within the frame.

Personal in-flight entertainment

The Galaxy Z Fold4 is an ideal solution for travelers on airlines without in-flight entertainment monitors. Thanks to its versatile hinge design, you can easily lay the phone on the tray table, instantly transforming it into a convenient built-in stand. Alternatively, if you prefer a handheld experience, the larger display ensures an enhanced viewing experience.

Moreover, if you have a companion during your journey, the One UI feature enables you to simultaneously output audio to two separate wireless devices. This allows both of you to enjoy watching a movie together, elevating the shared entertainment experience.

Additionally, if reading is your preferred pastime during flights, the Galaxy Z Fold4 excels as a remarkable reading device, immersing you in an enjoyable and immersive reading experience.

Is foldable right for you?

Throughout this review, we have explored numerous advantages of foldable phones for travelers. However, it is essential to acknowledge that there are also some trade-offs to consider. One significant drawback is the price. Coming in at $1800, this cost may be your entire trip budget.

Additionally, it’s crucial to consider that foldable phones tend to be more fragile compared to their traditional counterparts. If you have a propensity for dropping your phone, this may not be the ideal device for you.

However, if you are seeking a phone that can truly elevate your travel experiences and if any of the aforementioned points resonate with you, the Galaxy Z Fold4 remains a dream device for avid travelers. It is remarkable features and versatile functionality make it a compelling choice to enhance your travel adventures.