Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Review Specs, Price & Features 2025

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 officially launched on July 25, 2025, marking a significant turning point in foldable smartphone technology. After years of incremental updates, Samsung has delivered a device that addresses nearly every criticism leveled at previous models.

This isn’t just another foldable phone. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents the culmination of years of engineering refinement, bringing together a dramatically thinner profile, larger displays, a professional-grade camera system, and cutting-edge AI capabilities. Whether you’re a productivity powerhouse, a mobile photographer, or simply someone who wants the absolute latest in smartphone innovation, this device demands your attention.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7—from its impressive specifications and design improvements to real-world performance, pricing, and how it compares to competitors.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Design: Thinner, Lighter, Better

A Revolutionary Form Factor

The most striking improvement in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is its remarkably slim profile. At just 8.9mm when folded and an astonishing 4.2mm when unfolded, this is one of the thinnest foldable phones ever created. For comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 measured 12.1mm folded and 5.6mm unfolded.

Samsung achieved this engineering marvel without sacrificing durability. The device weighs only 215 grams—lighter than the Galaxy S25 Ultra and significantly more portable than previous Fold models.

Premium Materials and Durability

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 showcases premium materials throughout:

Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the cover screen (a first for any Z Fold model)
Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protecting the rear panel
Advanced Armor Aluminum frame (Samsung’s toughest aluminum to date)
Armor FlexHinge with improved water droplet design
Titanium lattice underneath the foldable display
50% thicker ultra-thin glass for enhanced screen protection

The device maintains IP48 water resistance, providing protection against water immersion and dust particles larger than 1mm.

Reduced Crease, Enhanced Experience

One of the most frequent complaints about foldable phones has been the visible crease. Samsung addressed this directly in the Galaxy Z Fold 7 with structural improvements that make the crease significantly less noticeable during daily use. The combination of the titanium lattice, thicker glass, and refined hinge mechanism delivers the smoothest folding experience Samsung has ever produced.

Color Options

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is available in four attractive finishes:

Jet Black
Blue Shadow
Silver Shadow
Mint (exclusive to Samsung’s online store)

Display Technology: Bigger and Brighter Screens

Cover Display Improvements

The outer display on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 measures 6.5 inches diagonally—up from 6.3 inches on the Fold 6. More importantly, Samsung adopted a more practical 21:9 aspect ratio, making the cover screen feel much more like a traditional smartphone.

This change is transformative. The wider aspect ratio means you can comfortably type messages, browse websites, and use apps without constantly feeling the need to unfold the device. The cover display features Full HD+ resolution (2520×1080 pixels) and supports an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate.

Main Foldable Display

When you unfold the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, you’re greeted by an expansive 8.0-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. This represents an 11% size increase over the previous generation’s 7.6-inch screen. The main display offers:

Resolution: 2184×1968 pixels
Refresh rate: Adaptive 1-120Hz LTPO technology
Peak brightness: Up to 2,600 nits with Vision Booster in direct sunlight
Display technology: Dynamic AMOLED 2X with HDR10+

Both displays deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional brightness for outdoor visibility. The larger screen real estate makes multitasking more practical than ever.

Flex Mode Functionality

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 supports Flex Mode, which activates when the device is partially folded between 75 and 115 degrees. This enables split-screen functionality within apps, perfect for video calls where you can prop up the phone and keep your hands free.

Performance: Powerhouse Processing with Snapdragon 8 Elite

Cutting-Edge Chipset

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, a special version of Qualcomm’s flagship processor with a slight overclock exclusively for Samsung devices. Built on a 3nm process, this chipset delivers exceptional performance:

CPU: Octa-core with two Oryon V2 performance cores at 4.47GHz and six efficiency cores at 3.53GHz
Performance gains: 38% improvement in CPU tasks, 26% boost in GPU workloads, and 41% enhancement for AI-related tasks

Memory and Storage

Samsung offers multiple configurations:

RAM: 12GB LPDDR5X (standard), 16GB LPDDR5X (1TB model only)
Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB UFS 4.0 storage
No expandable storage via microSD card

The combination of high-speed RAM and UFS 4.0 storage ensures that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 can handle intensive multitasking, gaming, and productivity workflows without slowdown.

Thermal Management

Given the ultra-thin chassis, thermal management was a priority. Samsung implemented advanced cooling solutions to prevent throttling during extended gaming sessions or demanding computational tasks. Real-world testing shows the device maintains consistent performance even under sustained loads.

Camera System: Professional-Grade Photography

Revolutionary 200MP Main Camera

Perhaps the most significant upgrade in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is its camera system, headlined by a massive 200-megapixel main sensor borrowed directly from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. This 1/1.3″ sensor features:

200MP resolution with pixel binning
f/1.7 aperture for excellent low-light performance
Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF)
Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)

The 200MP camera captures extraordinary detail, allowing for significant cropping without quality loss. It’s a game-changer for mobile photography enthusiasts.

Complete Camera Array

Rear Camera System:

200MP wide-angle main camera
12MP ultra-wide lens with autofocus (excellent for macro photography)
10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom

Front Cameras:

10MP cover screen selfie camera
10MP inner display camera (punch-hole design)

Samsung replaced the under-display camera with a traditional punch-hole sensor on the main screen, dramatically improving selfie quality during video calls and selfies taken on the large display.

ProVisual Engine

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 features Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, an advanced image signal processor (ISP) that delivers:

Always-on 10-bit HDR+ color processing
Intelligent noise reduction
Enhanced low-light video recording
Motion detection and scene analysis
Automatic settings optimization based on subject and lighting

Video Capabilities

Video recording reaches new heights with support for 8K recording at 30fps with AI-powered Super Steady stabilization. The improved image processing ensures exceptional video quality even in challenging lighting conditions.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery Capacity

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 houses a dual-cell 4,400mAh battery (4,272mAh typical capacity per regulatory filings). While the capacity remains unchanged from the previous generation, improved power efficiency from the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset extends real-world battery life.

Users can expect:

All-day battery life with moderate to heavy use
Up to 24 hours of video playback under optimal conditions
Efficient power management through One UI 8 optimizations

Charging Speeds

One area where the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 lags behind some competitors is charging speed:

25W wired fast charging
15W wireless charging
4.5W reverse wireless charging

While these speeds are adequate, some Chinese competitors offer 65W or faster wired charging. Samsung prioritizes battery longevity over ultra-fast charging speeds.

Software and AI Features: One UI 8 with Android 16

Latest Software Out of the Box

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 ships with Android 16 and One UI 8, making it one of the first devices to feature Samsung’s latest software iteration. The interface has been specifically optimized for the foldable form factor.

Seven Years of Updates

Samsung promises an unprecedented seven years of operating system and security updates, matching the commitment made for the Galaxy S24 series. This means the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will receive software support through 2032, ensuring long-term value.

Galaxy AI Features

Artificial intelligence is deeply integrated throughout the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 experience:

Productivity Features:

Now Brief: Delivers personalized daily summaries on your cover screen
Now Bar: Quick access to contextual information and suggestions
AI Results View: Displays search results in split-view or floating windows without obstructing your content

Creative Tools:

Generative Edit: Tap and hold to remove or move objects in photos
Photo Assist: Side-by-side editing previews with AI-powered enhancements
Audio Eraser: Removes unwanted background noise from videos with a single tap

Communication:

Live Translation: Real-time language translation during calls
Call Assist: AI-enhanced call quality and transcription
Circle to Search: Integrated Google Gemini search functionality

Note: Galaxy AI features are provided free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung devices, after which different terms may apply.

Google Gemini Integration

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 offers deep integration with Google Gemini, Google’s advanced AI assistant. Features include:

6 months of Gemini Advanced (with 2TB Google One storage) included with purchase
Camera and screen sharing capabilities
Enhanced contextual awareness
Video generation powered by Veo 3

Multitasking Capabilities

The large 8-inch display shines when multitasking. One UI 8 enables:

Up to three apps running simultaneously in split-screen view
Fourth floating window for quick reference
App Pair for launching frequently used app combinations
Enhanced drag-and-drop between apps
Multi-window gestures for efficient workflow management

Note: No S Pen Support

In pursuit of the thinner profile, Samsung removed S Pen support from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. The ultra-slim chassis simply doesn’t accommodate the display layer required for stylus input. If S Pen functionality is essential for your workflow, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 remains available and still offers excellent stylus support.

Pricing and Availability

United States Pricing

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents a $100 price increase over the previous generation:

256GB: $1,999
512GB: $2,119
1TB: $2,359

Availability

Announcement date: July 9, 2025 (Galaxy Unpacked in New York City)
Pre-order start: July 9, 2025
Official release date: July 25, 2025

Pre-Order Bonuses and Deals

Samsung and carriers offered various launch incentives:

Free storage upgrades
Enhanced trade-in values (up to $1,000 off with qualifying devices)
Samsung Instant Savings
6 months of Gemini Advanced with Google One
Carrier-specific promotional offers

Current pricing may vary with ongoing promotions and trade-in offers from Samsung, carriers, and retailers.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 vs Competitors

vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 offers substantial improvements over its predecessor:

Advantages of Fold 7:

Significantly thinner and lighter (8.9mm vs 12.1mm folded; 215g vs 239g)
Larger displays (8.0″ vs 7.6″ main; 6.5″ vs 6.3″ cover)
Wider, more practical cover screen aspect ratio (21:9)
200MP main camera vs 50MP
Enhanced AI features
Less visible crease
Stronger materials

Advantages of Fold 6:

Lower current price (often $200-300 less)
S Pen support
Still receives seven years of updates

vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 emerged as the stronger foldable in 2025 comparisons:

Samsung Advantages:

Thinner, lighter design
Brighter displays
More powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor
Better overall build quality
Superior software optimization for foldables
Wider availability with better trade-in programs

Google Advantages:

Slightly larger 8.0″ main display
Lower starting price ($1,800 vs $1,999)
Pure Android experience with Gemini integration
Faster charging capabilities

vs. Honor Magic V5 and OnePlus Open

Chinese competitors offer compelling alternatives, though availability outside Asia and Europe remains limited:

Competitor Advantages:

Often thinner profiles
Faster charging (65W+)
Competitive pricing
Larger batteries in some models

Samsung Advantages:

Superior software support (7 years)
Wider global availability
Better camera quality
Stronger ecosystem integration
Established repair network
More refined software experience

vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7

For those who prefer the clamshell form factor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 offers:

More compact footprint when closed
Edge-to-edge 4.1″ cover display
Much lower price ($1,100 starting)
Better for social content creation
Similar software and AI features

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 remains the better choice for productivity, multitasking, media consumption, and professional photography.

Pros and Cons

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Strengths

✅ Remarkably thin and light design that feels premium ✅ Exceptional 200MP camera matching Galaxy S25 Ultra quality ✅ Larger, more practical displays with reduced crease ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite performance ✅ Seven years of software updates ensuring long-term value ✅ Advanced Galaxy AI features for productivity and creativity ✅ Premium build materials with improved durability ✅ Best-in-class foldable software optimization

Areas for Improvement

❌ Slow charging speeds compared to competitors (25W) ❌ No S Pen support due to thin design ❌ High price point starting at $1,999 ❌ Telephoto camera only 3x optical zoom (some want more reach) ❌ Battery life could be stronger for heavy users ❌ No Dolby Vision support for video content

Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7?

Ideal For:

Business Professionals: The multitasking capabilities, large screen real estate, and productivity features make this an excellent mobile office.

Content Creators: The 200MP camera system and advanced video recording capabilities deliver professional-grade results.

Early Adopters: If you want the absolute cutting edge of smartphone technology with Samsung’s reliability backing, this is it.

Upgraders from Fold 4 or Earlier: The improvements over older models are substantial enough to justify the upgrade.

Anyone Seeking Premium Experience: The refined design finally makes foldables feel mainstream-ready.

Consider Alternatives If:

You Need S Pen Support: Stick with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 or wait for future models.

Budget is Primary Concern: The Galaxy Z Flip 7 or discounted Galaxy Z Fold 6 offer better value.

You Demand Fastest Charging: Chinese competitors offer significantly faster charging speeds.

Compact Size is Priority: The Galaxy Z Flip 7 or traditional flagship phones may suit you better.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents a watershed moment for foldable smartphones. After years of evolutionary improvements, Samsung has delivered a revolutionary device that addresses nearly every criticism while maintaining the strengths that made previous Fold models appealing.

The combination of an ultra-thin profile, larger and more practical displays, professional-grade 200MP camera system, powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite performance, and comprehensive Galaxy AI integration creates a compelling package. The seven-year software commitment ensures this premium investment will remain relevant and secure for years to come.

Yes, the $1,999 starting price is substantial. The lack of S Pen support will disappoint some users, and the 25W charging speed feels dated compared to competitors. However, for those seeking the absolute best book-style foldable smartphone with widespread availability, excellent software support, and Samsung’s ecosystem integration, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 stands as the clear choice in late 2025.

This isn’t just a phone—it’s a statement that foldable technology has matured. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 proves that foldables can be thin, light, powerful, and practical all at once. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to embrace foldable technology, that moment has arrived.

FAQs

Q: When was the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 released?

A: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 was officially announced on July 9, 2025, with pre-orders starting the same day. The device became available for purchase on July 25, 2025.

Q: How much does the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 cost?

A: Pricing starts at $1,999 for the 256GB model, $2,119 for 512GB, and $2,359 for the 1TB version in the United States.

Q: Does the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 support S Pen?

A: No, Samsung removed S Pen support from the Galaxy Z Fold 7 to achieve the ultra-thin 4.2mm profile when unfolded. If stylus support is essential, consider the Galaxy Z Fold 6.