[REVIEW] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 outshines Ultra

Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold 8 is outperforming its pricier Ultra sibling in South African reviews, despite facing criticism surrounding its camera capabilities and software refinement. Samsung has highlighted the new device, which may soon be overshadowed by Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, recently unveiled.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 breaks from Samsung's traditional tall and narrow design to adopt a shorter, wider shape, featuring a 5.5-inch cover screen with a 10:16 aspect ratio. This design change results in a lighter, easier-to-unfold phone with a larger battery and a noticeable reduction in the inner screen's crease. The hinge now uses Flex Titanium construction, touted for enhancing durability and minimizing the crease. However, the improved hinge creates a more forceful snap, eliminating the multi-angle "Flex Mode."

The device's compact form factor makes it easier to carry in a pocket and easier to handle one-handed compared to previous models. In terms of performance, the Z Fold 8, powered by the Snapdragon Gen 5 chip, outperforms both the Z Fold 7 and Z Fold 6 by around 17%, and it matches the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Camera performance, however, is the device's weakest point, as it lacks a dedicated telephoto/zoom camera—a notable drawback at this price point, despite the dual 50MP rear cameras still delivering solid images and supporting advanced video features.

Priced around R5,000 lower than the Ultra, the base Z Fold 8 falls within the premium flagship category, starting at approximately R50,999 for the 512GB model. The verdict is mixed; while the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is an enjoyable device and represents a significant advancement in foldable technology, it still lacks a telephoto camera and faces software challenges, particularly during intensive gaming sessions.

Additionally, while the device's performance is impressive, it still requires some adjustment of app aspect ratios, indicating that foldable software is not yet fully optimized. Should you purchase the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8? It is a step forward in foldable design and usability, but buyers seeking a telephoto camera or flawless software integration may need to compromise.

Pros include improved design, a reduced crease, performance enhancements, and a larger battery. Cons include the absence of a telephoto camera, removal of the multi-angle Flex Mode, heat generation during extended gaming, software quirks, and a premium price point.