The foldable phone war is heating up in 2025. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, Google’s Pixel Fold 2 (officially the Pixel 9 Pro Fold), and the anticipated OnePlus Open 2 represent the cutting edge of smartphone innovation. These book-style foldables promise to merge tablet-like productivity with smartphone portability, each with its own twists. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into design, display, performance, cameras, battery, software, durability, price & availability, and expert impressions for all three. Which foldable comes out on top, and what do the experts say? Read on to find out.

Design and Build Quality

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung’s latest foldable flaunts a dramatically slim and lightweight design. Folded, it’s just 8.9 mm thick (down from 12.1 mm on the Fold 6) and 4.2 mm when unfolded, making it “astonishingly thin” in hand phonearena.com phonearena.com. At 215 g, it’s lighter than even Samsung’s own Galaxy S25 Ultra and is currently “the lightest book-style foldable ever released” phonearena.com. Samsung achieved this with a refined build: the frame uses an improved Armor Aluminum alloy, the back is Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and the cover screen is protected by brand-new Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 for added crack resistance phonearena.com. Despite the diet, the Fold 7 still feels solid. Samsung’s design language remains sleek and premium, with a clean look when closed – no gap between the halves thanks to a redesigned hinge. The cover display’s new 21:9 aspect ratio means the folded phone is wider than previous Folds, so it “actually feels like a regular phone when closed” phonearena.com – a welcome change from the narrow, hard-to-use covers of older models. In short, the Z Fold 7’s design sets a new standard for foldables, closing the ergonomics gap with its Chinese rivals phonearena.com.

Google Pixel Fold 2 (Pixel 9 Pro Fold): Google’s second-gen foldable also received a major design overhaul. The Pixel Fold 2 was engineered to be “a phone first in the hand” that just happens to unfold into a tablet droid-life.com. Closed, it now has a 6.3-inch front display with a conventional 20:9 ratio – virtually the same size and shape as a normal Pixel 9 Pro phone droid-life.com. This means the Pixel Fold 2 feels natural to hold and use one-handed, fixing the original Pixel Fold’s short, wide form. Google kept the build quality high: an aluminum chassis with matte glass back (available in Porcelain white or Obsidian black) and a robust hinge. Reviewers note there’s “good weight to it” and a premium feel droid-life.com – at 257 g it’s heftier than Samsung’s but that weight adds to a sense of sturdiness. In fact, one early reviewer said “the phone is more substantial and sturdy than I was expecting,” suggesting Google beefed up the construction for durability arstechnica.com. Notably, the hinge closes completely flush with no gaps between the screens droid-life.com, and the internal display now has uniform bezels (a big aesthetic improvement over the off-center look of the first Pixel Fold droid-life.com). Overall the Pixel Fold 2 looks and feels like a “grown-up foldable” with the polish of a flagship device droid-life.com. Its design language aligns with the Pixel 9 family (e.g. refined camera bar), making it clear this foldable is a first-class member of Google’s lineup.

OnePlus Open 2: OnePlus blew critics away with the design of its first-gen Open in late 2023 – it even won “Best Big Foldable Phone” of the year phonearena.com – so anticipation was high for the Open 2. While OnePlus has “made the decision not to release a foldable this year” (2025) phonearena.com, we can look at the OnePlus Open (2023) to set expectations for its canceled successor. The original Open’s design was widely praised: “among all the foldables… the OnePlus Open’s hardware is my favorite,” said one reviewer androidauthority.com. It has a lifted design pedigree from OPPO, its sister company, resulting in a foldable that hardly felt like a first attempt androidauthority.com. The Open is relatively slim and lightweight at 239 g, with a folded thickness of ~11.7 mm – not as record-thin as the new Samsung, but still one of the slimmest in its class in 2023 androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. OnePlus used premium materials: an aluminum frame, and even offered a black or red vegan leather back option that many loved for its grip and character androidauthority.com. Signature OnePlus touches like the physical alert slider are present, and the hefty circular camera module gives it a unique look (while doubling as a nice finger rest) androidauthority.com. Importantly, the Open’s cover screen adopts OPPO’s wider aspect ratio rather than Samsung’s older tall-and-narrow style androidauthority.com. With a 6.31-inch outer display, the closed Open feels “incredibly comfortable to use when closed”, more like a normal phone than a stretched remote androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. The OnePlus Open’s build quality was top-tier – “polished from top to bottom” – and arguably OnePlus’s best hardware in years androidauthority.com. We expect the unreleased Open 2 would have followed this blueprint closely, perhaps with an even thinner body. Indeed, the OPPO Find N5 (the Chinese twin that Open 2 would have been based on) is “officially the thinnest book-style foldable phone ever”, so thin it “makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold look like a chonker” in side-by-side comparisons androidauthority.com. All signs suggest the Open 2 would have refined an already excellent design – a missed opportunity now that OnePlus skipped the 2025 generation.

Display Technology and Form Factor

All three devices use an in-folding book-style form factor, opening up into a small tablet. But each approaches the displays a bit differently:

• Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung increased the screen sizes this year while improving quality. The cover display is now 6.5 inches (Dynamic AMOLED 2X) with a 21:9 aspect, matching a typical smartphone’s width phonearena.com. This wider cover panel is a huge usability win – as Samsung notes, you can handle everyday tasks (typing messages, browsing, emails) “all without unfolding the device” comfortably phonearena.com phonearena.com. The inner main display unfolds to 8.0 inches, up from ~7.6″ on the Fold6 techradar.com news.samsung.com. It’s an LTPO AMOLED with 120Hz adaptive refresh, ultra-rich contrast and vivid colors. Samsung says the Fold 7’s main screen is 11% larger than before, giving even more room for multitasking news.samsung.com. It also gets exceptionally bright: up to 2,600 nits peak brightness for HDR content, aided by Samsung’s Vision Booster tech for better outdoor visibility news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. Both displays support 120Hz, HDR, and have high resolution (~QXGA+ on the big screen). Another subtle improvement is the reduced crease in the folding OLED panel. Thanks to a new Armor FlexHinge with a water-drop fold and a 50% thicker ultra-thin glass layer, the crease is “definitely less prominent… easily among the best I’ve seen on a foldable to date” phonearena.com. In hands-on use, the inner screen looks almost flat, approaching OPPO’s class-leading crease minimization phonearena.com. Samsung continues to hide the inner selfie camera under the display for a more immersive tablet experience (now upgraded to a 10MP sensor, matching the cover camera phonearena.com phonearena.com). Overall, the Fold 7 delivers a big, beautiful canvas when opened, and a much more practical outer screen when closed – a combination that finally feels like the best of both worlds for Samsung fans.
• Google Pixel Fold 2: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold similarly offers dual high-end OLEDs. The external screen measures 6.3 inches at 1080×2424 resolution, with a smooth 120Hz refresh (up to 120Hz, down to 60Hz). Crucially, Google adopted a taller 20:9 aspect ratio for this cover display, abandoning the stubbier 17.4:9 of the first-gen Pixel Fold androidauthority.com. The result is a front display that feels “just right” – essentially the same viewing area as a standard phone, so you don’t feel cramped or forced to open the device for basic tasks droid-life.com. Inside, the Pixel Fold 2 unfolds to a 8.0-inch flexible OLED (120Hz LTPO, 1–120Hz) at 2076×2152 resolution droid-life.com. This panel is nearly square (around 6:5 aspect), giving a balanced tablet layout. Google dramatically improved brightness: both Pixel Fold 2 screens can reach a peak 2,700 nits outdoors (1600–1800 nits in HDR mode) androidauthority.com, far higher than the ~1200 nits of last year’s model. In practice, reviewers say the displays are vibrant and visible even in sunlight droid-life.com. The inner screen does have noticeable bezels, but they are symmetrical and slimmer than the original Pixel Fold’s, yielding a cleaner look droid-life.com. There’s no under-display camera here – instead, Google places a 10MP selfie camera in the bezel of the big screen (and one in the cover display), avoiding any compromise in image quality. While the Pixel’s crease isn’t as invisible as the Galaxy’s or OnePlus’s, it’s on par with other modern foldables and didn’t draw major complaints. Google’s focus was on aspect ratios: when closed it feels like a phone, and when open you get a broad, almost square mini-tablet that’s ideal for split-screen apps. As one source put it, “the new Pixel is taller and a little narrower… if you want something more in line with a conventional phone, this device might be for you” androidauthority.com. Google clearly learned from its first foldable and delivered screens that maximize usability without sacrificing that “big screen” wow factor.
• OnePlus Open 2: The canceled Open 2 was expected to closely mirror the OPPO Find N5’s cutting-edge displays, based on leaks. We can reference the OnePlus Open (2023) for its display prowess. The Open sports a 7.82-inch inner AMOLED with a 1,920×2,440 resolution (almost square 1:1 aspect) and a buttery 120Hz refresh phonescoop.com phonescoop.com. Its peak brightness hit an impressive 2,800 nits – actually slightly higher than Samsung and Google’s latest – making it one of the brightest foldable screens in 2023 phonescoop.com androidauthority.com. Reviewers praised the Open’s inner display quality; it has only a “slim border on all four sides” and a tiny punch-hole camera, avoiding the chunky bezels of the Pixel Fold 1 androidauthority.com. Perhaps the best part is that when fully open, the OnePlus feels wide – “like two traditional smartphones stuck together,” as one reviewer noted androidauthority.com. This width means split-screen multitasking is especially comfortable, and even single apps spread across the whole 7.8″ don’t feel too cramped or letterboxed. The cover display of the OnePlus Open is about 6.31 inches with a 120Hz AMOLED panel and also up to 2,800 nits brightness androidauthority.com. Its aspect ratio is closer to 20:9 (wider than Galaxy’s 21:9), so the closed device looks and behaves like any normal Android phone androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. In fact, the Open’s front screen is slightly larger than a Galaxy S23’s display and was considered “perfect” in aspect by many users androidauthority.com. OnePlus’s first foldable also excelled at minimizing the crease: thanks to an advanced hinge (more on that later), the fold in the Open’s inner screen was among the shallowest ever – “the resulting crease easily tops Samsung’s comparative canyon,” an Android Authority reviewer wrote, noting it’s less visible than on the Galaxy Folds androidauthority.com. We have every reason to believe the OnePlus Open 2 (had it launched) would feature similar or upgraded displays – likely the same sizes but possibly even thinner bezels and further improved crease technology given the Find N5 lineage. In summary, OnePlus’s current foldable already goes toe-to-toe with Samsung and Google on display tech, boasting vibrant 120Hz panels, extreme brightness, and an outstandingly subtle crease. The Open 2 would likely have continued that trend, perhaps becoming the foldable display to beat – but for now, Samsung and Google’s latest can claim the mantle by default.

Performance Specs (Processor, RAM, Storage)

Under the hood, these foldables pack serious horsepower, though their approaches differ based on each company’s silicon strategy:

• Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 “Elite” for Galaxy chipset – effectively a custom-tuned version of Qualcomm’s latest flagship SoC techradar.com news.samsung.com. This octa-core processor delivers class-leading speeds and significant generational boosts in AI and graphics. Samsung touts 41% faster NPU, 38% faster CPU, and 26% faster GPU performance compared to the Fold6’s chip news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. In everyday terms, the Fold 7 feels snappier and can handle more on-device AI tasks (like live image recognition, translations, etc.) without breaking a sweat. It comes with either 12 GB or 16 GB of RAM depending on configuration techradar.com. The base model (12 GB RAM, 256 GB storage) is now paired with higher tiers going up to 16 GB + 1 TB in the top-end variant techradar.com techradar.com. That 1 TB option is great for power users who need tons of space. All models use UFS 4.0 fast storage (though still no microSD expansion, which is typical for foldables). In use, the Fold 7 is blazing fast – multitasking across three apps, editing photos, or playing graphically intense games poses no challenge. Qualcomm’s chip also ensures 5G connectivity (both sub-6 and mmWave in supported markets) and Wi-Fi 7 capability, keeping the Fold future-proof on the connectivity front androidauthority.com. Samsung’s performance ethos is “Ultra” everything this year, and indeed some have dubbed the Fold 7 an “Ultra in disguise” because its specs match top-tier slab phones techradar.com. One caveat: by sticking with Qualcomm, Samsung’s foldable yields a slight efficiency edge to its rivals using in-house chips for AI – though any difference in real-world use is minor. All told, the Galaxy Fold 7’s specs ensure it feels like a true flagship phone, ready for heavy multitasking and AI-powered features.
• Google Pixel Fold 2: Google took a different path, using its own Tensor G4 chipset in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This SoC emphasizes AI and machine learning integration. It’s a modern 4nm octa-core design (1×Cortex-X4 prime core, 3×A720 performance cores, 4×A520 efficiency cores) androidauthority.com, so day-to-day performance is smooth and comparable to other high-end phones. However, its GPU is believed to be inherited from the previous Tensor G3, which means pure graphics horsepower is a bit behind the latest Snapdragon androidauthority.com. In practical terms, you might see lower benchmark numbers or slightly less fps in the most demanding 3D games compared to the Galaxy, but for most users the difference is negligible – the Pixel Fold 2 still handles gaming and media effortlessly. The big advantage of Tensor G4 is Google’s AI features: the chip is optimized for on-device processing of things like advanced voice recognition, image processing, and assistant queries. Google even dedicates a portion of the Pixel’s ample 16 GB RAM specifically for AI tasks androidauthority.com, ensuring features like live transcription, spam call screening, and the new Assistant with Bard (Gemini) run seamlessly. 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM is standard on the Pixel Fold 2 (no 12 GB option), and storage comes in 256 GB or 512 GB UFS 4.0 flavors androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. No expandable storage here either. Connectivity is cutting-edge: 5G (including mmWave in US models), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, plus Ultra-Wideband support for precise location and Nearby Share androidauthority.com. In summary, the Pixel Fold 2 might not win a raw speed contest against the Qualcomm-powered Fold 7, but it’s not far off – and it leverages its silicon for a “smarter” experience. Google has clearly prioritized AI-driven convenience and long-term software fluidity over brute force. In everyday use, reviewers are very positive: the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is “an extremely impressive smartphone” and a “huge improvement on the original Pixel Fold in nearly every way” when it comes to performance and polish moorinsightsstrategy.com engadget.com. Unless you’re a hardcore gamer counting frames, the Pixel’s specs will more than satisfy, while enabling all of Google’s neat features.
• OnePlus Open 2: The original OnePlus Open already packed top-notch specs, and the Open 2 was expected to push that further. The 2023 Open runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 – a chip that was second only to the Gen 3 at the time, offering excellent CPU/GPU performance and efficiency phonescoop.com. It’s paired with a massive 16 GB RAM and 512 GB UFS 4.0 storage as standard phonescoop.com phonescoop.com. This gave the OnePlus Open buttery multitasking and the ability to keep many apps in memory (a plus for split-screen use). In fact, one review highlighted that the Open “pairs top-end internals” with OPPO’s optimizations such that it “hardly feels like a first attempt” at a foldable androidauthority.com. For the canceled Open 2, leaks indicated OnePlus would use Qualcomm’s latest chip (likely the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3). One insider pointed out that the OPPO Find N5 – on which Open 2 would be based – packs a “Snapdragon 8 Elite” chipset, meaning OnePlus would have enjoyed the same Gen 3 power as Samsung’s Fold 7 androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. So, had it launched, the Open 2 would have matched the Galaxy for raw performance, while potentially keeping OnePlus’s software light and fast. The original Open’s performance already received praise for its snappy, near-stock Android feel, and its generous RAM ensured smooth multitasking. All models of the Open are dual-SIM (nano + eSIM) with full 5G support (though lacking mmWave in the US) and offered Wi-Fi 6E – a slight step behind the Wi-Fi 7 of newer rivals androidauthority.com. It’s worth noting OnePlus famously includes an Alert Slider for quick sound profile toggling – a small hardware perk for power users. Overall, with either the Gen 2 (current Open) or an anticipated Gen 3, OnePlus’s foldable doesn’t skimp on performance. It provides “flagship killer” internals, living up to the brand’s ethos, and in many benchmarks it would run neck-and-neck with Samsung’s best. The biggest drawback in OnePlus’s spec sheet is actually elsewhere (see Battery & Charging next), because in sheer computing power the Open was ready to give the big players a run for their money androidauthority.com androidauthority.com.

Camera Systems and Image Quality

Foldable phones often compromise on cameras, but these contenders all boast high-end multi-camera setups – with Samsung making a particularly big leap this generation. Let’s break down each device’s camera hardware and real-world image quality:

• Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung finally treated its foldable like a true flagship in the camera department. The Fold 7 is the first in the Z Fold series to pack a 200 MP main camera sensor, essentially the same sensor used in the Galaxy S25 Ultra phonearena.com. This high-resolution shooter (with OIS and f/1.7 lens) can capture tremendous detail – Samsung says it yields images that are 4× more detailed than the Fold6’s 50 MP camera, and up to “44% brighter” thanks to improved pixel-binning for low light news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. In practice, you can expect tack-sharp photos and the flexibility to crop in (“lossless” 2× zoom by cropping the 200MP). Backing the main cam is a 12 MP ultra-wide (around 123° field of view) for panoramic shots, and a 10 MP telephoto with 3× optical zoom phonearena.com. While those secondary cameras are similar on paper to the last gen, Samsung has refined the processing and added 10-bit HDR video recording for richer color and contrast news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. The Fold 7 also features dual front cameras: a 10 MP on the cover screen and a 10 MP under-display on the big screen, now with a wider 100° field of view so you can fit more in group selfies phonearena.com phonearena.com. Image quality from the main camera is expected to be excellent – essentially matching a Galaxy S-series flagship. Early impressions confirm significantly sharper, more detailed photos in all conditions, especially noticeable in daylight shots where that 200MP sensor shines. Samsung’s processing, combined with the new “ProVisual” AI engine, helps optimize each shot by reducing noise and enhancing color and detail news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. There’s also an improved Nightography mode and a new Night Video feature that uses intelligent motion detection to cut noise when filming in low light news.samsung.com. Overall, the Fold 7’s camera system is now flagship-caliber. As PhoneArena put it: “For the first time, Samsung is giving the Fold series the same flagship camera sensor as the S Ultra series… This is a major leap” in camera prowess phonearena.com. The result should be photos and videos that no longer feel like a compromise compared to a top traditional phone.
• Google Pixel Fold 2: Google’s approach to cameras is a mix of capable hardware and class-leading computational photography. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold carries a 48 MP main camera (f/1.7, 1/2-inch sensor, OIS) – the same proven sensor from the original Pixel Fold androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. It’s accompanied by a 10.8 MP 5× telephoto periscope (f/3.1, 1/3.2″ sensor) for long-range zoom and a 10.5 MP ultra-wide (117° FoV) androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. Notably, Google did swap in slightly smaller sensors for the ultrawide and telephoto compared to last year (to achieve the thinner design), a move one reviewer called “a couple of camera hardware downgrades on paper” androidauthority.com. In theory, this could mean a bit less light-gathering and dynamic range on those lenses. However, Google is likely compensating with software magic. The Pixel Fold 2 still benefits from Google’s celebrated imaging pipeline: HDR+ bracketing, excellent Night Sight, and perhaps new tricks introduced with the Tensor G4. Indeed, Google added fun features like “Made You Look” (to capture a child’s attention for a photo) and “Add Me” (to digitally insert the photographer into a group photo) androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. These join favorites like Magic Eraser, Long Exposure, Astrophotography, and Best Take, ensuring the Pixel Fold 2 is loaded with creative tools. For selfies, Google includes two 10 MP front cameras – one on the cover and one on the inner display – both now with autofocus (a nice upgrade from the fixed-focus cams on the first Fold) androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. In terms of image quality, early reviews indicate the Pixel 9 Pro Fold lives up to the Pixel camera reputation. The main 48MP shooter produces clean, vibrant shots with that trademark Pixel contrast and terrific detail. The 5× telephoto, while using a smaller sensor, still offers sharp zoom images and Google’s Super Res Zoom can take it further digitally. The ultrawide is adequate for broad scenes, though possibly a notch below Samsung’s in low light. Overall, the camera experience “still lives up to the Pixel name,” delivering photos you can “feel confident in at all times,” according to one reviewer droid-life.com droid-life.com. In challenging scenarios like low light or high dynamic range, Google’s computational photography tends to pull out a win. Videos also get a boost from Tensor’s AI (for example, the Pixel can do great voice isolation in recordings). While Samsung may have the edge in pure hardware, the Pixel Fold 2 holds its own by pairing good sensors with arguably the smartest image processing in the industry. As one review summarized: you won’t take much of a quality hit choosing the Pixel Fold’s cameras over a Pixel 9 Pro flagship phone – they are that close droid-life.com droid-life.com.
• OnePlus Open 2: If the first Open is any indication, OnePlus’s foldable camera system is remarkably competitive. The OnePlus Open (2023) boasts a triple camera co-developed with Hasselblad: a 48 MP main (with a large pixel-stacked Sony sensor, OIS), a 48 MP ultra-wide (114° with autofocus for macro shots), and a 64 MP telephoto (3× optical zoom, OIS) phonescoop.com phonescoop.com. On paper, that was arguably the best camera array on any foldable in 2023 – and indeed it earned praise for being “versatile… even by today’s foldable standards” phonearena.com phonearena.com. The main camera produces 12MP binned images with excellent dynamic range and color (Hasselblad’s tuning aims for realistic colors). The telephoto’s 64MP sensor is unusually high-res for a 3× lens, which helps it deliver crisp portraits and zoom shots, albeit it doesn’t reach as far as Google’s 5× lens. The ultra-wide being 48MP with autofocus also means the Open takes detailed wide-angle shots and can double as a macro camera for close-ups. For selfies, OnePlus provided a high-res 32 MP camera on the cover screen and a 20 MP on the inside, both capable of sharp selfies (far higher resolution than Samsung/Google’s 10MP front cameras) phonescoop.com. Real-world performance of the OnePlus Open’s cameras turned out to be great: daylight photos are on par with other flagships, and low-light shots benefit from OnePlus’s Nightscape mode and that large main sensor. Some reviews noted the processing isn’t as consistent or refined as Google’s, but it’s very close – a big accomplishment for OnePlus. Given this strong foundation, the rumored OnePlus Open 2 (which would have been based on OPPO’s Find N5) was expected to carry an even more advanced setup. The Find N5 reportedly uses a new 50MP main sensor and improved periscope zoom. It’s speculative now, but we can infer OnePlus would have aimed to surpass its own record. Unfortunately, with no Open 2 coming, OnePlus users in 2025 still have the Open’s cameras as the latest offering. The good news is that the Open’s camera system remains one of the best among foldables. It balanced multiple lenses well and didn’t force you to sacrifice much compared to a slab phone. In fact, PhoneArena concluded the Open had “the best hardware on a foldable phone” camera-wise at launch androidauthority.com. So while Samsung’s 200MP might grab headlines and Google’s image processing wins hearts, OnePlus’s cameras deserve credit for being well-rounded and reliable. For instance, a year after release, an Android Authority editor wrote “the cameras? Great. Battery life? Reliable. The price? Competitive. The OnePlus Open had flaws, but it set such an incredible precedent… anticipation for the Open 2 started almost immediately.” androidauthority.com That pretty much sums up OnePlus’s camera effort – a strong debut that left us wanting more.

Battery Life and Charging

Big screens and powerful chips make battery life a crucial factor for foldables. Here’s how each device approaches endurance and charging:

• Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung opted not to increase battery capacity this year – the Fold 7 carries the same 4,400 mAh (typical) dual-cell battery as its predecessor techradar.com techradar.com. Some experts have flagged this as a potential weak point: “the Fold 7 still uses the same 4,400 mAh cell as before, and that might end up being a limiting factor for heavier users,” one hands-on report warned phonearena.com. The concern is understandable, since the Fold 7’s displays are larger and brighter now, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen3-based chip, while more efficient in some areas, is very powerful. In moderate daily use, however, the Fold 7 should still get you through a full day – previous Fold models managed around 5–6 hours of screen-on time, and Samsung’s One UI does offer lots of battery-saving controls. We’ll have to see if Samsung’s software and the newer 4nm chipset eke out any efficiency gains. As for charging, it’s unchanged: 25W wired fast charging (via USB-C PD) which can refill about 50% in 30 minutes, and support for 15W wireless charging plus 4.5W reverse wireless charging for accessories techradar.com techradar.com. These speeds are serviceable but not cutting-edge – notably slower than OnePlus’s – and Samsung still does not include a charger in the box. There was hope Samsung might adopt newer battery tech (like silicon-carbon cells) for higher capacity or faster charging, but that didn’t happen phonearena.com phonearena.com. In sum, the Galaxy Fold 7’s battery life will likely be adequate for most (expect around a day of use), but heavy users might find it merely average. It’s one area where Samsung played it safe to keep the device slim, and competing foldables with bigger batteries or more efficient chips could have an edge in longevity.
• Google Pixel Fold 2: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold comes with a 4,650 mAh battery, slightly smaller than the 4,821 mAh pack in the original Pixel Fold androidauthority.com. That might sound like a downgrade on paper, but any loss in capacity seems to be offset by the Tensor G4’s efficiency improvements and software tuning. In fact, early reviews have been pleasantly surprised by the Pixel Fold 2’s stamina. One reviewer reported “really great battery life”, getting “up to 4.5–5 hours of screen-on use and still 45% battery remaining” by bedtime droid-life.com. Another typical day saw ~4 hours SOT with ~30% left – excellent endurance for a foldable droid-life.com. These are encouraging figures, suggesting the Pixel Fold 2 can comfortably last a full day or even into a second day of light use. Google’s aggressive background battery management and the more power-efficient modem (the Pixel 9 series adopted a new Exynos 5400 modem that is less of a battery hog androidauthority.com) likely contribute to this solid battery performance. Where Google does lag is in charging speed: the Pixel Fold 2 supports only 21W wired charging (USB-C PD) androidauthority.com. In practice, testers found it tops out around 20W, which means a full charge can take on the order of 1.5 hours or more droid-life.com. It does have wireless charging (Qi-compatible), but the large camera bar makes positioning on some chargers tricky, and Google hasn’t disclosed the exact wattage (it’s typically around 7.5–10W on Pixel devices). There’s no charger included with the Pixel either androidauthority.com. So while day-to-day battery life is a pleasant surprise – arguably among the best for foldables – the trade-off is very slow charging by 2025 standards. Pixel fans might not mind as much (overnight charging is fine), but if you’re used to the quick top-ups of other brands, the Pixel Fold 2 requires a bit more patience tethered to the plug.
• OnePlus Open 2: If there’s one category where OnePlus traditionally dominates, it’s charging. The OnePlus Open (2023) came with a total 4,805 mAh battery capacity phonescoop.com, which is on par with or slightly above its peers. What really sets it apart is the 67W SuperVOOC wired charging, capable of charging 1–100% in just about 42 minutes amazon.com. In daily use, the Open has shown great battery life – reviewers noted it was reliable through a full day, thanks in part to efficient software and that large battery androidauthority.com. Screen-on times in the 6-hour range were reported, which is excellent for a dual-screen device. OnePlus also smartly split the battery into two cells (one in each half of the phone) to enable faster, cooler charging. The one drawback: the OnePlus Open (and likely any Open 2) does not support wireless charging androidauthority.com. This was a conscious omission to save space and reduce weight. Some users may miss the convenience of Qi charging, but OnePlus bets that its super-fast wired solution makes up for it. For the hypothetical Open 2, rumors suggested even faster charging could appear – possibly 50W wireless and 100W wired, since OPPO’s Find N5 is said to support 50W wireless charging androidauthority.com. But with the Open 2 canceled, those upgrades won’t materialize under the OnePlus brand this year. As it stands, the original Open already beats Samsung and Google in charging speed by a wide margin, and it equals or exceeds them in battery longevity. OnePlus’s aggressive charging tech is a key advantage if quick top-ups are important to you. It’s worth noting that using the included SUPERVOOC charger is needed to achieve peak speeds; standard USB-PD chargers will still work but at lower wattage. In summary, OnePlus provides a strong battery showing: big battery + blazing charging, with the only compromise being the lack of wireless charging. Samsung and Google take a more conservative approach, with Google leaning on software efficiency and Samsung trusting its users to manage with a holdover battery size. Depending on your usage patterns (all-day screen time vs. quick charges), this could influence which foldable fits you best.

Software Experience and Features (AI Tools & Multitasking)

The software can make or break a foldable’s user experience, especially when it comes to multitasking on that big screen and leveraging AI-driven features. Here’s how each device approaches software:

• Galaxy Z Fold 7 (One UI 8 / Android 16): Samsung has iterated and optimized its foldable software over several generations, and it shows. The Fold 7 launches with One UI 8 on top of Android 16 news.samsung.com. Samsung’s interface is packed with features tailored for the foldable form factor. Multitasking is a highlight – you can easily run up to three apps in split-screen (Multi-Window) and even more in floating windows. The large 8″ display truly shines with Samsung’s enhanced multi-window taskbar, which lets you drag and drop apps into split view and swap windows on the fly. There’s also a host of Flex Mode optimizations: when you half-fold the device, compatible apps (camera, video players, etc.) can automatically rearrange with controls on one half and content on the other. New in One UI 8 is deeper integration of AI tools. Samsung introduced a “multimodal AI” assistant powered by Google’s Gemini AI (the same model behind Bard). This goes far beyond a simple voice assistant – the Fold 7’s AI can take context from what’s on your screen, your voice, and even images you show it. For example, you can have a live video call with the AI to get help: “users can share their screen in real time while speaking with the AI assistant – enabling contextual requests based on what’s visible” news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. See a foreign menu on-screen and ask for a translation, or show Gemini your messy calendar and have it suggest an optimal schedule – it’s all meant to feel like a seamless, integrated helper. Samsung demonstrated one scenario where a user splits the screen with a photo of a chair and their living room, then asks the AI if the chair matches the decor; the assistant can analyze both images and even digitally recolor the chair, all live news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. This kind of on-device AI augmentation is new and Samsung is making it exclusive to their devices (leveraging that Snapdragon NPU). In addition, One UI 8 introduces conveniences like “Circle to Search,” where you can draw a circle around any item on screen (e.g. an unknown animal in a video game) and instantly get search results or tips in a floating window news.samsung.com. Samsung has also beefed up privacy and security for these AI features – e.g., a new Knox “KEEP” system that gives each AI feature its own secure data sandbox news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. All of this runs alongside Samsung’s usual rich feature set: Samsung DeX support (so you can use the Fold as a PC with an external monitor), S Pen support for older Folds (though notably, rumor has it the Fold 7 removed the digitizer to slim down, meaning it may no longer support the S Pen stylus androidauthority.com), and the whole Galaxy ecosystem tie-in (Quick Share, Link to Windows, etc.). There is no shortage of features on the Fold 7 – if anything, it can be a lot to explore. But importantly, Samsung has refined the UI to be more intuitive on the big screen. One UI’s continuity between screens (cover to inner) is smooth, app resizing is fluid, and many apps are optimized for the square-ish display (Samsung provides modes to force apps into better aspect usage or allow flexible scaling). With promised updates (Samsung typically offers 4 years of Android OS updates and 5 years security patches on foldables), the Fold 7’s software experience is not only feature-packed now but also set to stay updated into the late 2020s androidauthority.com. Overall, Samsung delivers the most feature-rich and polished multitasking experience among these, befitting its foldable maturity.
• Google Pixel Fold 2 (Pixel UI / Android 14, upgradable to 15+): The Pixel Fold 2 runs a more stock Android experience but with Google’s special touches for the Pixel line. Out of the box it comes with Android 14 (and will be one of the first to get Android 15), with Google’s simple Pixel Launcher interface androidauthority.com. Don’t let the simplicity fool you – the Pixel Fold has quite a few foldable optimizations. Google introduced a persistent taskbar similar to Samsung’s, making it easy to drag apps into split-screen. You can also save app pairs for quick multi-window launching. Android’s native support for foldables means many Google apps (Gmail, YouTube, Photos, etc.) adapt their layout when you unfold – e.g., showing a navigation pane on one side and content on the other, which works wonderfully on the Pixel’s square-ish screen. Multitasking is smooth, though perhaps not as over-the-top as Samsung’s (for instance, Pixel doesn’t natively support free-form floating windows in the same way). Where Google differentiates is in AI and software features imbued throughout the device. The Pixel Fold 2 benefits from all the Pixel-exclusive features that Google’s Tensor chip enables. This includes the renowned Call Screen and Hold For Me features (great for handling pesky calls), Recorder app with live transcription (now more powerful with speaker labeling), and the new Assistant with Bard generative AI. Google is reportedly including a “Gemini Advanced” AI subscription with the Pixel 9 series droid-life.com, which suggests Pixel Fold users get early access to Google’s next-gen AI assistant capabilities at no extra charge. This could allow things like more natural conversational queries, AI-written summaries, or complex task automation via Assistant on the device. Pixel’s camera software suite is another big selling point on the software side: you get Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and the new Magic Editor (which uses generative AI to let you extensively tweak and reposition subjects in photos) – turning the Fold into a creative studio. And let’s not forget Android updates: Google has made a headline-grabbing promise of 7 years of OS and security updates for the Pixel Fold 2 androidauthority.com. That means this device will get software updates all the way through 2031, outlasting any other Android phone on the market in terms of support. It’s a huge commitment that gives Pixel Fold owners peace of mind that their $1799 investment will stay fresh with new features and patches for a very long time. In daily use, the Pixel Fold 2’s UI is praised for its clean and fast feel – “stock” Android means no bloat or duplicate apps, just Google’s core apps and Pixel extras. Some reviews even find it refreshing: “It delivers the full Pixel experience on a folding form – it’s just a normal phone until it’s not,” highlighting how familiar it feels until you need that expansive screen forbes.com. That said, Google’s relative newness in foldables means it might lack a few of Samsung’s fancy tricks (for instance, no desktop PC mode like DeX, and fewer customization knobs in the UI). But Google likely focused on refinement and AI integration, playing to its strengths. Bottom line: the Pixel Fold 2 offers a simple but very smart software experience, doing 90% of what Samsung’s does, and then some unique things Samsung’s can’t (thanks to Google’s AI and Pixel features). It’s also the longest-supported phone of the bunch, which is a significant consideration for a device this expensive.
• OnePlus Open 2 (OxygenOS 13/14): OnePlus (in conjunction with OPPO) has its own take on foldable software. The original Open launched with OxygenOS 13.2 (based on Android 13, later updated to 14) and is essentially a lightly skinned version of OPPO’s ColorOS for foldables. OnePlus kept the interface fairly clean and fast, in line with its brand identity, but there were some hiccups. On the positive side, the Open introduced a few clever multitasking tricks. It supports the usual split-screen and floating window modes, with an edge toolbar for quick app launching. It also has a neat “laptop mode” – you can prop the phone half-open like a mini laptop for video calls or watching content (similar to Samsung’s Flex mode). Some apps get optimized layouts in this posture. OnePlus also enabled a multi-angle hovering feature where the hinge friction lets you use the device as its own stand (great for video or timed photos). The Open came with OPPO’s bespoke foldable features, such as custom gesture controls: e.g., swipe down with two fingers on the inner screen to split an app into two, or use three-finger gestures to quickly switch an app from full screen to a smaller window. There’s also a taskbar-like dock that holds recent apps. However, reviews noted that OxygenOS on the Open felt “unfinished at times” androidauthority.com. Some apps didn’t scale properly to the square screen without manual intervention, and features like app continuity (switching from inner to outer screen) were not as seamless as on Samsung/Pixel. One reviewer mentioned that for certain advanced customizations, OnePlus relied on OPPO’s Good Lock plugins – indicating it’s still catching up in software polish androidauthority.com. The core OnePlus experience – fast performance, a near-stock look, and some OPPO-added features – is certainly there, and many users appreciated the lack of bloatware. The original Open also lacked a bit in the AI features department. Unlike Samsung or Google, OnePlus doesn’t have its own AI assistant or special on-device AI tricks. It mostly leverages standard Android features and Google Assistant. For the hypothetical Open 2, we might have seen improvements as OPPO refined its foldable software (the Find N5 would likely run ColorOS with better multi-column app support and maybe some new AI camera tricks). But as things stand, the OnePlus Open’s software is good but not great. It delivers on speed and basic multitasking, yet you might encounter occasional rough edges with app optimization. On the bright side, OnePlus has promised 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security patches for the Open androidauthority.com, which is on par with Samsung’s policy (though shy of Google’s 7 years). And OnePlus’s lightweight skin often means it can push updates faster than some rivals. Summing up, the OnePlus foldable software experience is nearly stock Android, enhanced by OPPO’s folding tricks, but with a few unpolished aspects. It’s perfectly serviceable and even enjoyable – many love the clean approach – but power users might miss the depth of Samsung’s One UI or the AI smarts of Google’s Pixel software. Given more time (and had the Open 2 come out), OnePlus could have closed these gaps. For now, software is an area where Samsung and Google’s greater experience gives them an advantage, though OnePlus isn’t far behind.

Durability and Hinge Mechanism

Durability is a key concern for foldables – with moving parts and flexible screens, how well-built are these devices for the long haul? Let’s examine each:

• Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung has significantly improved the Fold’s durability with each generation, and the Fold 7 continues that trend. The new Armor FlexHinge is a centerpiece: it’s a re-engineered hinge with a multi-rail design that evenly disperses stress and supports the folding display with less strain news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. This hinge uses an enhanced water-drop fold mechanism (allowing the screens to fold flatter) and is built with 69 components – fewer, lighter parts than before, yet stronger androidauthority.com. Samsung claims this hinge not only enabled the drastic thinness but also reduces the visible crease (as mentioned earlier) and improves durability. According to Samsung, the hinge and frame are made of Advanced Armor Aluminum that’s 10% harder than before news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. They even incorporated a titanium alloy plate beneath the folding screen for added rigidity without much weight news.samsung.com phonearena.com. The folding Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) is 50% thicker this year, making the inner screen less fragile and more resistant to pressure news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. In practical terms, the Fold 7 should withstand everyday use (folding, unfolding, tossing in a bag) better than any previous Samsung foldable. Samsung continues to be the only manufacturer offering formal water resistance on foldables: the Fold 7 carries an IPX8 rating androidauthority.com, meaning it can survive submersion in water (up to 1.5m for 30 min) – a huge peace of mind feature if you get caught in rain or accidentally drop it in a sink. However, note the “X” in IPX8: there’s still no dust resistance. Fine dust or sand particles can potentially harm the hinge or get under the screen protector, so care is needed in dirty environments. Samsung improved the hinge caps and brushes since the Fold 3, but hasn’t achieved a true dust-tight design. Overall build quality of the Fold 7 is extremely high; the device feels solid yet refined. Reviewers who handled it early exclaimed, “My goodness is it thin and light… It’s incredible… very nearly half as thick as my Fold 2 and about a third lighter”, highlighting the engineering feat arstechnica.com. That said, the inner flexible screen is still made of plastic on top of the UTG, so it can be scratched or dented by sharp objects or a fingernail if pressed too hard. A factory-installed screen protector helps, and Samsung’s Care+ program covers accidental screen damage (for a fee) news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. The hinge is tested for hundreds of thousands of folds – you shouldn’t worry about it loosening or breaking under normal use. In fact, Samsung’s confidence is such that it’s marketing the Fold 7 as “built to last longer”, with claims of increased fold-cycle life (though they didn’t publish a specific number, Fold5 was rated 200k+ folds). In summary, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is durable for a foldable – water-resistant, tougher materials, and a hinge that’s both smoother and stronger. Just keep it away from beach sand and be gentle on that inner screen, and it should easily survive daily life.
• Google Pixel Fold 2: The first Pixel Fold had some well-documented durability issues (some users experienced cracked screens due to debris or pressure). Google seems to have taken those lessons to heart in the Pixel Fold 2. The new model is built more robustly: the chassis is a bit thicker in parts and heavier, as noted, likely to reinforce the structure. One Ars Technica editor observed that Google “used some of the weight allowance to beef it up” and that the Fold 2 feels more sturdy than expected arstechnica.com. The hinge mechanism in the Pixel Fold 2 is improved, possibly leveraging a refined teardrop design similar to Oppo’s, because now the Pixel folds completely flat with no gap, unlike the slight gap in the first Pixel Fold’s hinge droid-life.com. This suggests a water-drop hinge that puts less stress on the panel when closed and also hides the crease better. Google also addressed the screen vulnerability: the Pixel Fold 2’s inner screen still uses ultra-thin glass with a protective plastic layer, but assembly and adhesion might be improved (the original’s adhesive was suspected in some failures). Google continues to offer an IPX8 water resistance rating on the Pixel Fold 2 androidauthority.com, matching Samsung in being water-proof for everyday accidents. That’s a big durability plus over any foldable not named Galaxy or Pixel. However, like Samsung, there’s no dust rating – the Fold 2’s hinge is a complex mechanism that isn’t sealed against particles. OnePlus’s first-gen had no official IP rating at all, so Google having IPX8 is significant. The Pixel’s hinge feel was described as on the stiffer side in the first gen; in Pixel Fold 2, it’s reportedly a bit smoother while still able to hold itself open at various angles (useful for tripod-like shooting or video calls). The external screens are protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front) and the back is also glass, so similar drop resilience as other premium phones droid-life.com. As with all foldables, you wouldn’t want to drop it open – that flexible inner screen could be damaged by impact. But closed, the Pixel Fold 2 is like a tank: two slabs of Victus 2 and a metal frame protecting the delicate bits. On the support side, Google offers a warranty and has set up trained repair services (in the US, through uBreakiFix) to handle screen replacements or other fixes, albeit at a steep cost if out of warranty. One notable durability aspect is software longevity – not physical, but the Pixel will be supported with updates for 7 years, meaning even as the hardware ages, it will stay secure and functional androidauthority.com. In summary, the Pixel Fold 2 appears more durable than its predecessor, with a reinforced build and that valuable water resistance. Yet, it still demands care: the inner display can scratch (no using pens or fingernails on it), and you should avoid environments with lots of dust or grit. Google doesn’t have the multi-generation track record Samsung does in foldables, but the early impression is that Pixel Fold 2 is a well-built device that can endure daily use – and certainly a device that Google is confident enough in to guarantee many years of support.
• OnePlus Open 2: The OnePlus Open (2023) surprised many with its excellent build quality, and we’d expect nothing less from the Open 2 if it had launched. The original features a robust Flexion hinge design (co-developed with OPPO) that uses a 69-component mechanism – this intricate hinge was key to making the Open so thin and reducing the crease androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. It spreads force out and eliminates the gap when closed. Reviewers raved that the Open’s hinge “is excellent” – it opens and closes smoothly, holds at angles, and feels spring-assisted near the fully open position androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. One caution: that slight spring action did catch a few by surprise – “it’s certainly possible to pinch your finger when opening too quickly,” noted Android Authority androidauthority.com. But in normal use, it’s not an issue, just a quirk of the hinge design. The benefit of this hinge is a very shallow crease and a tight fold. In fact, the Open’s crease was one of the least visible among all foldables – significantly less than Samsung’s older folds androidauthority.com. OPPO/OnePlus achieved this without sacrificing durability; they claim their hinge is tested beyond 400,000 folds. The Open’s construction uses a lot of magnesium and carbon fiber components internally to cut weight, while the external frame is sturdy aluminum. It does lack the formal water resistance rating – OnePlus gave it an “underwhelming IP rating” (essentially just IPX4 splash resistance, unofficially) androidauthority.com. That means it can handle minor splashes or light rain, but you definitely shouldn’t dunk it or expose it to heavy water flow. The absence of higher ingress protection is a disadvantage versus Samsung/Google, but typical for most Chinese foldables until now. If the Open 2 had arrived, OnePlus might have improved this (perhaps aiming for IPX8, since it’s becoming a key feature), but we can’t be sure. As for dust, the Open’s hinge design inherently keeps dust out better than older designs due to the lack of a gap; however, no foldable is dust-proof, and OnePlus didn’t advertise any particular dust resistance tech. The flexible display in the Open is similar to others – UTG with plastic top layer – so again caution with nails and sharp objects. OnePlus does at least include a factory screen protector and one free screen replacement within the first year in some markets, which is nice. When it comes to durability accolades: the OnePlus Open’s lightweight yet strong build was widely admired. An Android Authority editor said “The Open is polished from top to bottom and might be OnePlus’ best hardware in years” androidauthority.com, underscoring the solidity of the device. Without an Open 2 this year, the original remains OnePlus’s durable foldable statement. It shows that OnePlus (with OPPO’s expertise) can make a foldable that doesn’t feel flimsy at all – on the contrary, it feels refined and robust. For potential buyers in 2025, the Open is still relevant, and its hinge mechanism, design durability, and materials are top-tier – just handle it with the same care you would any advanced electronics. If you need full waterproofing, though, Samsung and Google have the edge.

Pricing and Global Availability

Foldables come at a premium price, and availability varies by region. Here’s what to expect for each:

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung’s Fold series has always been expensive, and the Fold 7 is no exception. It starts at $1,999 USD for the base model (12GB RAM, 256GB storage) techradar.com techradar.com. In the UK it’s £1,799 and in Europe €1,799, which is actually the same launch price as the Fold 5 in those regions techradar.com. Higher configurations are priced accordingly: the 512GB model (12GB RAM) is about $2,119, and the top 1TB (with 16GB RAM) is around $2,419 techradar.com techradar.com. These prices cement the Fold 7 firmly in ultra-premium territory. Samsung did raise the U.S. base price by $100 compared to last year techradar.com, likely due to the costly new materials and hinge. However, Samsung is known for offering aggressive trade-in deals and bundles. For example, at launch they promoted up to $1,000 off with trade-ins for the Fold 7 phonearena.com, and bundled discounts if you add accessories like the Galaxy Watch or Buds phonearena.com. Availability: The Galaxy Z Fold 7 was announced July 9, 2025 and released on July 25, 2025 worldwide techradar.com. It’s widely available in North America, Europe, and many Asian markets (South Korea, India, etc.), essentially anywhere Samsung has a presence. In the U.S., it’s sold unlocked and through all major carriers. Samsung typically also makes the Fold available in Australia (Fold 7 is AU$2,899 starting techradar.com) and in markets like the Middle East and Latin America, albeit in smaller quantities. Color options at launch include Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, Jet Black, and an online-exclusive Mint news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. Given Samsung’s strong distribution, if you want a Fold 7, you can likely get it in your country or import it easily. Just be prepared to pay top dollar, unless you have a trade-in to soften the blow.
• Google Pixel Fold 2 (Pixel 9 Pro Fold): Google priced its foldable slightly below Samsung’s. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold starts at $1,799 USD for 256GB storage (with 16GB RAM) androidauthority.com. The 512GB variant costs $1,919 in the US androidauthority.com. European pricing is €1,899 for 256GB and ~€2,029 for 512GB, and in the UK £1,799 (256GB) and £1,869 (512GB) androidauthority.com. Interestingly, Google managed to hold the line on pricing – these were the same prices the original Pixel Fold launched at in 2023 androidauthority.com, despite the upgrades in the new model. Google clearly decided to eat some cost to stay competitive with Samsung. Google doesn’t typically do as generous trade-ins as Samsung, but they did run pre-order promotions (like including a Pixel Watch or offering credit). Also worth noting, Google’s foldable comes with 16GB RAM standard, whereas Samsung’s $1,999 model has only 12GB – so spec-for-spec, Pixel gives a bit more for the money. Availability: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold was officially announced August 13, 2024 and went on sale shortly after androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. Google greatly expanded availability compared to the very limited release of the first-gen Pixel Fold. The Pixel Fold 2 is sold in North America (US and Canada), much of Europe (UK, Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, Scandinavia, etc.), and select Asia-Pacific markets including Japan, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Australia androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. That’s around 20 countries. Notably, India is on the list this time, which is a big new market for Pixel foldables. The phone comes in two colors: Porcelain (off-white) and Obsidian (black) androidauthority.com. Google sells it unlocked through the Google Store and partners, and in some countries carriers might offer it (in the US, Google’s carrier partnerships are limited; it’s mostly sold unlocked or through Google Fi). Pixel foldables are still niche, so stock might be limited – but if you’re in one of the official countries, you can purchase it normally. If you’re outside those regions (for example, large parts of Latin America or Africa, where Google hardware isn’t sold), you’d have to import it, keeping in mind warranty might not apply internationally. Google’s aim with the Pixel Fold 2’s availability was clearly to “make it available across more markets than its predecessor”, and indeed they did androidauthority.com.
• OnePlus Open 2: This is where things get a bit tricky, as the Open 2 was canceled/delayed and thus has no official pricing. However, we can discuss the OnePlus Open (2023) and what was expected. The first OnePlus Open launched at $1,699 USD for its single configuration of 16GB RAM + 512GB storage theverge.com droid-life.com. That made it about $100 cheaper than Samsung’s Fold at the time – a deliberate undercut. In Europe it was €1,799, and in the UK £1,599 theverge.com techradar.com, also slightly lower than equivalents of Samsung/Google. OnePlus also ran a generous trade-in program: they guaranteed at least $200 trade-in for any device, effectively bringing the cost down to ~$1,499 for many buyers androidauthority.com. For a first-gen foldable, it was a very aggressive price. We expected the OnePlus Open 2 to be priced similarly or maybe a tad higher if it packed major upgrades – possibly around $1,799 to $1,899 if it included higher-end features like wireless charging and IP rating. But OnePlus surprised (and disappointed) fans by announcing they would not release a new foldable in 2025 phonearena.com. The official word from OnePlus was they “carefully considered the timing” and chose to “not release a foldable this year.” phonearena.com. So, as of now, the only OnePlus foldable you can buy is the 2023 OnePlus Open. Availability of OnePlus Open (2023): OnePlus made it available in North America (US and Canada) and in Europe (UK, France, Germany, etc.) as an unlocked device. It launched on October 26, 2023, sold through OnePlus’s website, Amazon, and Best Buy in the US androidauthority.com. It isn’t sold by carriers in the US (no contract/subsidy deals, since OnePlus went direct-to-consumer). There was no Australian release (OnePlus doesn’t have a strong presence there), and in OnePlus’s major market of India, the Open was available (priced ₹139,999) and indeed quite popular among premium buyers. If you’re in the US or Europe, the Open is relatively easy to get online. In 2025, since there’s no new model, OnePlus might continue selling the Open at a slight discount or in new colors to maintain interest – though competition will be tougher against the newer Fold 7 and Pixel Fold 2. As for the Open 2’s global prospects, OnePlus hinted that this decision is a pause, not a full stop – the company spoke of “next steps in foldable devices” implying they may return in 2026 androidauthority.com. So OnePlus fans either have to grab the current Open or wait possibly a year or more. In markets like the US, the Open’s absence in 2025 leaves a bit of a void – as some analysts noted, it’s “a bombshell… the US foldable market’s 2025 forecast looks grim” without OnePlus pushing competition androidauthority.com androidauthority.com. For now, pricing-wise OnePlus holds the value card (cheaper for similar specs), but consumers will have to decide if getting last year’s model at a discount is preferable to the very latest from Samsung/Google.

In summary, Samsung’s Fold 7 is the priciest option (especially at higher storage tiers), Google’s Pixel Fold 2 is slightly cheaper for similar specs (and wins on long-term support value), and OnePlus’s Open was the value champ among foldables (cheapest and with hefty storage/RAM), though its sequel is MIA. Availability is widest for Samsung (truly global), decent for Google (expanded but still missing some regions), and somewhat limited for OnePlus (key markets only). Buyers should also factor in after-sales support: Samsung and Google have established service centers and plans (Samsung Care+, etc.) in many countries, whereas OnePlus’s support network is smaller (though improving). Depending on where you live and your budget, these factors could sway your decision.

Expert Reviews and Impressions

Tech experts have had their say on these foldables, and the consensus is generally positive, with each device earning praise in different areas. Here are some standout impressions and quotes from reviewers:

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: The Fold 7 has been lauded as the foldable that finally realizes Samsung’s lofty ambitions. PhoneArena went hands-on and declared, “this is the Galaxy Fold that foldable fans have been waiting to see from Samsung”, noting that it “finally closes the gap between Samsung and its fast-evolving foldable rivals from China.” phonearena.com The dramatically slim design made a strong impression; one reviewer marveled, “My initial impressions are that it really feels that good. With its reduced thickness and wider stature, the Fold 7 is now absolutely in line with those forward-looking foldables we’ve seen out of Oppo, Vivo, Huawei and Honor.” phonearena.com In other words, Samsung has caught up to (or even surpassed) the competition that used to beat it in hardware design. Reviewers universally loved the wider cover screen – no more complaining about a “skinny” front display. Tom’s Guide and others highlighted how thin and light it is, making earlier Folds feel clunky. TechRadar’s early verdict praised the comprehensive upgrades: “Bigger, thinner, and more powerful” sums up their headline techradar.com. They even suggested the Fold 7 could almost be seen as a new “Ultra” variant because of how much tech Samsung packed in techradar.com. The camera upgrade also drew applause. As PhoneArena noted, bringing the 200MP camera from the S-series Ultra is a “major leap” that should yield significantly better photos. On the software side, Droid-Life commented on the myriad AI features in One UI 8, finding the new generative editing tools and multitasking enhancements promising phonearena.com. Some skepticism remained around battery life – a common refrain was wishing Samsung had bumped the battery or adopted new tech, as we mentioned earlier phonearena.com. But overall, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is receiving glowing reviews as perhaps the best all-around foldable of 2025. A YouTuber MrMobile titled his review “It’s Never Too Late To Start Trying,” implying that Samsung finally delivered the ambitious improvements he’d been waiting for youtube.com. For anyone who found previous Galaxy Folds a bit compromised, the Fold 7 seems to have answered the bell.
• Google Pixel Fold 2 (Pixel 9 Pro Fold): The second-gen Pixel foldable turned many skeptics into believers. Forbes and Moor Insights reviews both stated, “the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a huge improvement on the original Pixel Fold in nearly every way and addresses the many problems that it had.” moorinsightsstrategy.com The design changes, especially the more phone-like cover screen, were widely praised. Engadget’s review called it “a grown-up, glowed-up foldable,” highlighting that Google fixed the awkward form of the first version and delivered a truly premium device engadget.com. Reviewers loved the feel of the hardware – Droid-Life noted “The Pixel 9 Pro Fold looks like a grown-up foldable… which is saying a lot for a device line that is only in its 2nd generation.” droid-life.com The sturdiness and refined build gave confidence that Google is now a real player in this space. When it comes to cameras, most agree Google didn’t take the crown (Samsung’s hardware is superior), but the camera quality is still excellent. Android Authority tempered expectations by saying those hoping it would be the “best camera phone” might be slightly disappointed due to smaller sensors for ultrawide/tele androidauthority.com. However, real-world tests show the Pixel Fold 2’s photos are typical Pixel – which is to say, among the best. A Reddit user’s comment (summarizing Engadget’s podcast) noted, “Good to hear the cameras are best in class, [it] will probably tip the scales for me to buy one.” reddit.com. Battery life got special mention as a pleasant surprise (likely thanks to Tensor G4). “It’s just an efficient little beast,” wrote Droid-Life, after reporting outstanding battery results droid-life.com droid-life.com. That was unexpected given the first Pixel Fold’s middling battery. On software, critics applauded Google’s commitment to 7-year updates, which is unprecedented – a big plus for longevity androidauthority.com. The main critique leveled at the Pixel Fold 2 was the price (still high, though a bit less than Samsung) and a feeling that foldable-specific software isn’t as feature-rich as Samsung’s. Engadget wished it “were cheaper” and pointed out that while Google’s multitasking is improved, Samsung still offers more ways to use the large screen engadget.com twitter.com. Still, the Pixel Fold 2 has won over many doubters. A reviewer on Medium concluded, “It’s an extremely impressive smartphone”, and that he likes the distinctive look and the fact Google retained some bezel to avoid camera cutouts on the big screen medium.com. In forums, early adopters did share a few isolated reports of inner screen cracks (just like any foldable), but generally feedback is that the Pixel Fold 2 feels more durable than the first. Summing up expert sentiment: the Pixel Fold 2 is seen as a major leap forward for Google, delivering on the promise of a Pixel foldable with minimal compromise. It may not outsell Samsung, but it’s now a viable alternative that many tech reviewers genuinely enjoy using.
• OnePlus Open 2: Since the Open 2 isn’t actually on the market, expert discussion has been a mix of praise for the first Open and disappointment about the sequel’s cancellation. Android Authority’s Joe Maring voiced what many felt: “The first OnePlus Open is still one of my favorite foldable phones of all time.” androidauthority.com He and others loved its hardware – “the hinge is excellent, the inner display looks fantastic, and I adore the leather backside… The cameras? Great. Battery life? Reliable. The price? It’s still one of the most competitive for a foldable in the US.” androidauthority.com androidauthority.com That encapsulates why the Open built a loyal following. When OnePlus confirmed no Open 2 in 2025, the tech community reaction was largely disappointment. Android Police headlined “The dream of a OnePlus Open 2 might not be dead. But it’s at least delayed.” and noted the Pixel Fold 2 and upcoming Pixel 10 Pro Fold will now have one less competitor in the US androidpolice.com. PhoneArena published an editorial bluntly titled “Hey OnePlus, canceling the OnePlus Open 2 was a big mistake!” phonearena.com. In it, the author laments, “There’s a huge missed opportunity here, especially after the strong initial reception of the original OnePlus Open… Launching a successor feels logical when you have such a strong foundation. The internet was brimming with rumors about the OnePlus Open 2. It boggles the mind why OnePlus would choose not to capitalize on that.” phonearena.com phonearena.com. He also points out that the Open won their “Best Big Foldable” award over Samsung and Google in 2023 phonearena.com, reinforcing that OnePlus had a winner on their hands. Many experts suspect the decision was due to corporate strategy or resource focus (perhaps OnePlus/Oppo are regrouping to combine foldable lines or waiting for better tech). Tom’s Guide echoed that sentiment, saying OnePlus framed it as a “recalibration” and commenting “OnePlus Open 2 could have been the best foldable of the year” if it had launched tomsguide.com. On a positive note, those who did get the OnePlus Open are still singing its praises into 2025. It’s often mentioned in comparisons that the Open’s hardware (especially the hinge and crease) is a benchmark. One YouTuber reviewing new foldables held the Open next to the Pixel Fold 2 and Honor Magic V3 and said the Open (Find N5 in his case) “is stunning… almost unbelievable how thin it is” androidauthority.com. In short, experts feel OnePlus nailed their first foldable so well that not releasing the second is a loss for consumers. As 9to5Google wrote, it’s just “a shame that we won’t get a OnePlus Open 2 this year.” 9to5google.com Many are hopeful OnePlus will return to the foldable race, because competition drives innovation (and lower prices). Until then, tech reviewers often include a nod to the OnePlus Open (2023) as a device that shouldn’t be overlooked – it still delivers a fantastic experience and might come down in price since it’s the only model for a while.

Conclusion: All things considered, 2025 is an exciting year for foldables. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 sets a new bar with its ultra-slim build, powerful internals, and AI-infused software – it’s the foldable to beat for productivity and all-around excellence. Google’s Pixel Fold 2 shows that Google can compete, offering a refined, user-friendly foldable with amazing cameras and unmatched software support, ideal for those deep into the Pixel/Android ecosystem. OnePlus, with its Open, proved that a relatively new player can innovate on hardware and value, and while the Open 2 is absent, the original Open remains a compelling option especially for value-conscious buyers who still want “the best hardware on a foldable” phone androidauthority.com. The expert consensus is that you really can’t go wrong with the Galaxy Fold 7 or Pixel Fold 2 – choose Samsung for bleeding-edge features and multitasking prowess, or Pixel for a simpler interface and Google’s AI smarts (and a slightly lower price). And if you find a good deal on the OnePlus Open, know that it was the dark horse foldable that reviewers loved, holding its own in design and cameras while undercutting on price. As foldable technology matures, it’s refreshing to see such competition – it means better products for us all. As one reviewer put it when examining these devices, “Overall, I think it’s an awesome phone [Galaxy Fold 7] with some flaws… but the overall feel is VERY positive” reddit.com – a sentiment that could apply to each of these innovative phones. With solid designs, impressive displays, strong performance, and improved durability, the Galaxy Fold 7, Pixel Fold 2, and OnePlus Open (1) show that foldables are moving from experimental to truly everyday-ready devices. It’s an exciting showdown, and ultimately the “winner” will depend on which device’s strengths align most with your needs and preferences.

Sources: Samsung Newsroom news.samsung.com news.samsung.com; TechRadar techradar.com techradar.com; PhoneArena phonearena.com phonearena.com; Android Authority androidauthority.com androidauthority.com; Droid-Life droid-life.com droid-life.com; Android Authority (Open 2 delay) androidauthority.com androidauthority.com; PhoneArena (Open 2 editorial) phonearena.com phonearena.com; Android Authority (Pixel specs) androidauthority.com androidauthority.com; PhoneArena (Fold 7 hands-on) phonearena.com; Android Authority (Open review) androidauthority.com androidauthority.com; PhoneArena (Fold 7 battery) phonearena.com.