- Slimmest Foldable Yet: The newly launched HONOR Magic V5 measures just 8.8mm thick when folded and 4.1mm when open, making it one of the thinnest foldable smartphones to date [1]. It edges out Samsung’s latest Fold in slimness, highlighting HONOR’s engineering prowess in the foldable arena.
- Big, Brilliant Displays: The Magic V5 features a 7.95-inch internal OLED display and a 6.43-inch external screen, both running at 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth visuals [2]. HONOR advertises up to 5,000 nits peak brightness on the main screen, ensuring exceptional visibility even under direct sunlight [3]. Stylus support is enabled on both displays for note-taking and sketching on the go [4].
- Powerful Performance & Battery: Equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and up to 16GB RAM, the Magic V5 delivers flagship-grade performance [5]. It packs a massive 5,820 mAh battery – significantly larger than most rivals – with 66W wired fast charging and 50W wireless charging, offering all-day use and quick top-ups [6]. This makes it a battery longevity champ among foldables, ideal for power users.
- Rugged Yet Refined: The Magic V5 is one of the few foldables with official dust and water resistance ratings (IP58 and IP59), signaling improved durability against the elements [7]. Despite its ultra-slim profile, HONOR didn’t skimp on build quality. Reviewers note it feels solid in hand, and its slightly lighter weight (~220g) gives it an edge in portability over some competitors [8].
- HONOR’s Flip Alternative: Alongside the V5, HONOR has also released the Magic V Flip 2, a clamshell-style foldable that redefines flip phones. It boasts a large 6.82-inch 120Hz foldable main screen plus a 4-inch cover display, and astonishing specs like a 200MP main camera and a 5,500 mAh battery – unheard of in a flip phone [9]. This battery is larger than many standard phones, and in real-world tests the Flip 2 lasted nearly 40 hours on a single charge, setting new benchmarks for flip-style devices [10].
- Fastest Charging Flip Phone: The Magic V Flip 2 supports 80W wired charging (full charge in ~45 minutes) and 50W wireless charging, far outpacing the Galaxy Z Flip 7’s charging speeds [11]. “If you want a flip phone with battery life equal to the best phones, look no further than the Honor Magic V Flip 2,” praises tech reviewer Nirave Gondhia [12]. HONOR is clearly pushing the envelope on battery and charging technology in foldables.
- Camera and Multitasking Excellence: The Magic V5 carries a versatile triple-camera setup (50MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 64MP 3× telephoto) plus dual front cameras (on both the cover and inner screens) for selfies [13]. Meanwhile, the Magic V Flip 2’s 200MP camera and new AI-powered 30× super zoom prove that even flip phones can deliver serious photography [14]. Both devices leverage HONOR’s Multi-Flex mode to run multiple apps simultaneously – up to three apps side-by-side on the tablet-like V5 display – turning these phones into true productivity machines [15].
- Competitive Pricing: HONOR is aggressively pricing these foldables below rival flagships. The Magic V5 starts at £1,699 (≈€1,999) in Europe [16], undercutting Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 (which commands a premium for its brand and camera prowess). In one market, the Magic V5 was roughly 10–15% cheaper than the Z Fold 7 for similar storage tiers [17]. Buyers get much of the same cutting-edge hardware – and even some extras like faster charging – for a lower price, making HONOR’s devices compelling value.
Foldables Go Mainstream in 2025 – HONOR Leads the Charge
Foldable phones have surged in popularity in 2025, evolving from futuristic curiosities into a hot mainstream segment [18]. Consumers are increasingly drawn to the tablet-sized screens that can fold down to pocket size, and manufacturers are in a race to outdo each other in design and features. HONOR, a brand that cut its teeth under Huawei and has since become an independent innovator, is what you’d call an “OG” in the foldable space [19]. It launched some of the earliest foldables in China and has steadily refined its craft. Now, with its latest releases – the book-style Magic V5 and the flip-style Magic V Flip 2 – HONOR is making its boldest statement yet in this arena.
Other industry giants are scrambling to keep up. Samsung, the market leader in foldables, unveiled its Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 this year, focusing on polish and camera upgrades. OnePlus entered the fray with its own foldable, and even Apple is rumored to be working on a foldable iPhone, according to industry chatter [20]. Amid this stiff competition, HONOR’s strategy is clear: push the boundaries of design and technology to stand out. The Magic V5’s record-thin profile and the Magic V Flip 2’s best-in-class battery are headline-grabbing features that aim to draw consumers away from the familiar Samsung foldables.
HONOR’s CEO, James Li, hailed the Magic V5 launch as a “significant milestone” for the company and the industry [21]. “Through collaboration with key partners like Google and Qualcomm, we’ve seamlessly combined next-generation AI capabilities, ultra-slim designs, and long-lasting performance,” Li said, “opening up new possibilities for productivity and creativity in the everyday lives of users worldwide” [22]. This highlights how HONOR is not only focusing on hardware, but also on software and AI integration to enhance the foldable experience. Notably, the Magic V5 comes fully integrated with Google’s powerful Gemini AI system, offering features like advanced voice assistance and AI-powered apps, despite HONOR’s China-market roots [23]. In short, these devices are meant to showcase HONOR’s innovation muscle – from engineering marvels in hardware to cutting-edge software smarts.
HONOR Magic V5: Ultra-Slim Design Meets Maxed-Out Specs
Design & Build: The HONOR Magic V5 immediately turns heads with its remarkably slim chassis. At 8.8 mm thick when folded (and an almost razor-thin 4.1 mm when open), it outclasses virtually every other foldable on the market in thinness [24]. For context, Samsung’s Z Fold 7 is around 8.9 mm folded – a hair thicker – so HONOR clinches the title for now [25]. This slim profile isn’t just for bragging rights; it makes the phone easier to slip into a pocket or purse without the usual bulk of a foldable. “Honor V5 gets more points on thinness… If you want a phone you can pocket more easily, Honor edges it,” one tech reviewer noted when comparing designs [26]. The Magic V5 is also lightweight for its class (~217 grams), slightly lighter than its Samsung counterpart, which contributes to its comfort in hand [27].
Despite being ultra-thin, the build quality feels premium and robust. HONOR used high-grade materials and a refined hinge mechanism to ensure durability. Impressively, the Magic V5 comes with IP58 and IP59 ratings [28], meaning it’s protected against dust, splashes, and even high-pressure water jets – a rarity in foldables, which traditionally forego strong water resistance due to their moving parts. This level of protection inspires confidence that the V5 can handle daily use and the occasional accident better than most folding phones. (By comparison, Samsung’s Fold 7 is rated IP48, offering dust and splash protection but not the same level of water tightness [29].) In short, HONOR managed to craft a device that is sleek yet sturdy, without the typical trade-offs.
Displays & Multitasking: Open up the Magic V5, and you’re greeted by a stunning 7.95-inch OLED inner display that turns the device into a mini-tablet [30]. It’s accompanied by a 6.43-inch outer (cover) display on the front for one-handed use when the phone is folded. Both screens boast a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate and are exceptionally bright – HONOR touts up to 5,000 nits peak brightness on the main panel [31], which is nearly double the peak brightness of Samsung’s Fold 7 (rated around 2,600 nits) [32]. In practical terms, users have reported no trouble seeing content on the Magic V5 even under harsh sunlight. Colors pop with vibrancy, and the high refresh rate makes interactions – from scrolling through social feeds to gaming – feel extremely fluid.
Multitasking is a core strength of the Magic V5. HONOR’s MagicOS 9.0 software (based on Android) has a Multi-Flex mode that lets you run up to three apps simultaneously in split-screen or floating windows [33]. The large inner display provides ample real estate to, say, watch a video, chat, and browse the web at the same time. This effectively blurs the line between phone and tablet productivity. Stylus support on both the inner and outer screens further enhances the device’s versatility [34] – you can jot notes or sketch whether the phone is folded or unfolded, treating the cover screen like a quick notepad and the unfolded screen like a digital canvas. Commentators have noted that using the Magic V5 in unfolded mode “firmly [puts it] into tablet territory”, transforming what a phone can do [35]. Notably, HONOR’s software has been lauded for its clean, iOS-like feel [36], which could ease the learning curve for new users and improve day-to-day usability.
Performance & Software: Under the hood, the Magic V5 packs top-tier specs befitting a flagship. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset (a high-end 2025 processor from Qualcomm) powers the phone with plenty of horsepower [37]. Paired with up to 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, this foldable breezes through tasks from intense 3D games to heavy multitasking without breaking a sweat [38]. Early reviews report a snappy, lag-free experience, reinforcing that HONOR didn’t compromise on performance for the sake of design. In fact, the Magic V5 runs on MagicOS 9.0.1 (based on Android 15), with deep integration of AI features. Google’s next-gen Gemini AI is embedded at the core of the user experience, enabling smarter voice commands, on-device translation, and personalized assistance [39]. HONOR also includes its own AI-powered apps like HONOR Notes for organized note-taking and creative tools for tasks like photo editing. The AI integration can be as big or small a part of the experience as you want, but it’s there to enhance things like camera output and voice assistance in subtle ways.
One thing that often differentiates foldable makers is the software finesse. Samsung’s One UI has long been praised for its foldable optimizations (like app continuity and robust multi-window support). HONOR is catching up fast – MagicOS 9 on the V5 is polished and intuitive, though some tech critics still feel Samsung’s interface has an edge in long-term refinement [40] [41]. The Magic V5 will likely receive regular updates (HONOR has worked closely with Google, so expect timely Android updates), but Samsung’s Fold 7 might hold an advantage in the promise of longer software support and a more mature ecosystem of foldable-optimized third-party apps [42]. Nonetheless, for everyday use, Magic V5’s software has been described as “one of the cleaner, easier to use” Android skins [43] – a welcome improvement as HONOR steps onto the global stage.
Cameras: HONOR equipped the Magic V5 with a triple rear camera system that covers all the bases [44]. It has a 50MP main sensor with OIS (optical stabilization for steady shots), a 50MP ultra-wide lens for expansive shots, and a 64MP periscope telephoto lens offering 3× optical zoom for getting closer to subjects without losing detail [45]. This is a well-balanced setup: while its megapixel counts aren’t as headline-grabbing as some competitors (Samsung’s Fold 7 sports a 200MP main camera), the Magic V5’s combo is tuned for versatile real-world performance [46]. Reviewers note that the telephoto lens “especially shines,” producing crisp zoom shots, and the ultra-wide holds its own with minimal distortion [47]. In low-light scenarios, Samsung’s larger 200MP sensor may have an edge due to advanced image processing, but the Magic V5 is no slouch – it benefits from AI-driven night mode improvements and the large image sensors to capture plenty of light [48].
For selfies and video calls, HONOR thoughtfully included dual front-facing cameras – one on the cover display and one embedded in the inner screen – so you have a camera handy in any mode [49]. Both are 20MP shooters, which means selfie quality is quite high. You can use the cover screen camera for quick one-handed selfies, or the inner camera when the phone is open like a tablet. This dual-camera approach is similar to Samsung’s Fold series and ensures maximum flexibility. Video recording is supported up to 4K, and with the large screen as a viewfinder, the Magic V5 doubles as a camcorder for creative shooting angles. One perk of foldables is using the half-folded device as its own stand (like a laptop), enabling stable hands-free video calls or time-lapse videos. The Magic V5’s hinge is sturdy enough to hold various angles reliably, and HONOR’s camera software is tuned to take advantage of these modes.
Battery & Charging: Battery life has historically been a pain point for foldables due to their power-hungry large screens, but HONOR tackles this head-on. The Magic V5’s 5,820 mAh battery is one of the largest ever put in a foldable of its size [50]. This capacity, combined with HONOR’s power optimizations, means the V5 can comfortably last a full day of heavy use – and likely two days of moderate use – per early reports. In fact, in mixed usage (web browsing, video streaming, calls, and app use), the Magic V5 tends to outlast the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which has a much smaller 4,400 mAh cell [51]. The difference is especially noticeable in heavy scenarios like gaming or prolonged multitasking: the HONOR simply has more “gas in the tank” for the big screen. That extra endurance addresses one common complaint of foldables (needing midday charging), giving the Magic V5 an advantage for power users or travelers.
When you do need to recharge, HONOR’s 66W SuperCharge wired charging support is ready to top you up swiftly [52]. A full 0-to-100% charge takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour in testing – impressively quick for such a large battery. Even a short 15-minute charge can provide a substantial boost thanks to that high wattage. The Magic V5 also supports 50W wireless charging, a feature only a couple of other foldables offer at all [53]. This wireless speed is on par with many wired chargers, meaning you can conveniently use a compatible wireless pad and still get a fast recharge. By comparison, Samsung’s Fold 7 maxes out around 25W wired and 15W wireless charging [54] [55] – much slower. HONOR clearly prioritized charging tech, which is a smart move as it alleviates battery anxiety for users. Reverse wireless charging is included too, so you can use the V5 to wirelessly juice up your earbuds or smartwatch in a pinch.
Pricing & Availability: The HONOR Magic V5 is available now in select markets. Its launch price in Europe is £1,699 / €1,999 for the base configuration [56], which typically translates to roughly $1,800–$2,000 USD (though U.S. availability is unconfirmed as of this report). That pricing undercuts equivalent foldables from Samsung and others; for instance, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 started around €2,100 in Europe for a similar spec, and can be even pricier for higher storage variants [57]. HONOR is clearly positioning the V5 as a more value-packed alternative to the mainstream options. Color choices include Ivory White, Black, Dawn Gold, and Reddish Brown, giving buyers a mix of classic and bold finishes to choose from [58]. Each device comes with a custom-fit case in the box and a 66W charger, so unlike some competitors, you won’t have to buy accessories separately – a small but appreciated bonus.
It’s worth noting that HONOR has teased special editions in the past (such as Porsche Design collaborations on earlier models), and rumors hint that a new luxury edition might be in the works for the V5 as well [59]. For now, HONOR is focusing on getting the Magic V5 into consumers’ hands and solidifying its reputation globally as a foldable frontrunner. Early sales seem promising, and tech enthusiasts worldwide are eager to see if HONOR will expand availability beyond its initial regions. Given the buzz, a broader rollout – possibly including a global or “Pro” variant – could be on the horizon.
HONOR Magic V Flip 2: A Fashionable Flip That’s Big on Features
While the Magic V5 grabs headlines for its size and tech, HONOR’s Magic V Flip 2 deserves equal attention. This second-generation clamshell foldable is HONOR’s answer to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series and Motorola’s Razr, and it’s turning heads for several reasons. Most notably, the Magic V Flip 2 proves that a compact foldable doesn’t have to compromise on specs or battery – HONOR has thrown the kitchen sink at this device, setting new standards for what a flip-style phone can be.
Design & Special Edition Flair: The Magic V Flip 2 continues HONOR’s trend of merging technology with style. In fact, HONOR released a limited “Jimmy Choo” edition of the Flip 2, marking its second collaboration with the famed luxury designer [60]. This edition comes with a dazzling aesthetic: a blue-to-white shimmering exterior, accented by Jimmy Choo’s signature elements, including a glittery case and even the designer’s signature on the hinge [61] [62]. The result is a phone that doubles as a fashion statement – practically a piece of tech jewelry. Even in its standard editions, the Magic V Flip 2 is offered in eye-catching finishes: a purple-and-white swirl pattern or a sleek solid gray, among others [63]. HONOR clearly wants the Flip 2 to appeal not just to tech geeks but also to the style-conscious crowd. The build feels solid, with flat edges and a sturdy hinge that can hold firm at various angles [64]. When unfolded, the Flip 2 measures only 6.9 mm thick – slim and svelte – and when closed it’s a palm-friendly square that’s easy to slip into pockets [65]. It weighs about 204 grams, a bit heavier than Samsung’s latest Z Flip, but there’s a good reason for that extra weight (spoiler: it’s the battery) [66].
One of the engineering highlights on the Magic V Flip 2 is its virtually invisible crease. The crease (the slight fold line on the inner screen) is “nearly invisible, both visually and to the touch,” according to one hands-on review [67]. This is a significant achievement, as even the best foldables usually have a noticeable crease down the middle. HONOR’s advanced hinge mechanism and flexible display tech minimize this distraction, making the unfolded screen feel much more like a regular smartphone display. The hinge itself operates smoothly with a reassuring resistance – it’s robust enough to inspire confidence, without feeling hard to open. The phone snaps shut with a satisfying magnetic click, and there’s no visible gap when closed, keeping dust out and delivering a refined look.
Displays & Cover Screen: The Magic V Flip 2 features a 6.82-inch OLED main display on the inside, which is actually slightly larger than the main screen on Samsung’s Z Flip 7 [68]. It’s a gorgeous panel: 120Hz refresh rate, LTPO variable refresh for power saving, and up to 5,000 nits brightness peak (as claimed by HONOR) for vivid visuals [69]. When you unfold this device, it doesn’t feel far off from a regular phone screen in size – meaning you’re not sacrificing viewing area compared to a standard smartphone, despite the folding form factor. The external cover display is a sizeable 4.0-inch screen on the Flip 2’s outer shell [70]. This is one of the largest cover displays in any flip-style foldable, second only to some recent Motorola Razr models. The cover screen also runs at 120Hz and can hit up to 3,600 nits brightness [71], making it very usable outdoors.
HONOR took a unique approach with the cover display’s interface: it’s split into two sections. About two-thirds of the cover screen is used for running apps, while the remaining one-third shows a persistent clock and widget area [72] [73]. This means when you launch apps on the outer display (yes, it can run full Android apps), they appear in a vertical window beside the clock. The rationale is to keep key info (time, notifications) always visible while you interact with apps. Popular apps like YouTube, Instagram, X (Twitter), and Google Maps are optimized to run on this 4-inch screen [74]. You can reply to messages, scroll feeds, or even navigate turn-by-turn directions without needing to flip open the phone, which is incredibly convenient. According to HONOR, “nearly 99% of apps” are compatible with the cover display in the Chinese market (where the phone launched) [75]. In practice, some apps still have formatting quirks – text can be a bit small in that half-sized window, and certain third-party apps might not make perfect use of the space [76]. But overall, reviewers find HONOR’s cover screen more useful out-of-the-box than Samsung’s (which historically had more limitations) [77]. Motorola’s latest Razr still wins for the most expansive cover screen usage (no permanent clock taking up space), but HONOR isn’t far behind, and it outshines the Galaxy Flip in this regard [78].
Using the Magic V Flip 2 day-to-day, you might find you don’t need to open it as often, thanks to that capable outer display. And when you do unfold it, the big 6.82-inch screen with an almost nonexistent crease delivers a wow factor – you get a full phone experience in a device that folds down to nearly half its size. It’s the best of both worlds in many respects.
Performance & Battery Life: Don’t let the glitzy exterior fool you – the Magic V Flip 2 is a powerhouse internally. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset (the same generation chip powering many 2024 flagship phones) paired with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage [79]. In fact, the special Jimmy Choo edition only comes in the maxed-out 16GB/1TB configuration. This means the Flip 2 can keep up with heavy multitasking and demanding apps just as well as larger phones. Early users report no lag or stutter; HONOR didn’t throttle the chip despite the compact form factor, thanks in part to efficient thermals and the latest Android 15 optimizations [80]. The phone runs MagicOS 9 (Android 15), similar to the V5, and aside from the cover-screen specific tweaks, it offers a familiar Android experience. One catch: since the Magic V Flip 2 launched first in China, the units sold there don’t ship with Google services by default (common for Chinese-market phones). However, HONOR built in a one-tap toggle to enable Google Mobile Services in the settings [81] – a clear sign that they anticipate global users and want to make the phone as import-friendly as possible. It’s expected that if/when the Flip 2 launches globally, it will come with Google apps out of the box like any other Android phone.
Now, the standout victory for the Magic V Flip 2 is battery life and charging, traditionally the Achilles’ heel of flip phones. HONOR managed to cram a 5,500 mAh battery into this foldable – by far the largest battery ever in a flip-style device [82]. For comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 has around a 3,800 mAh battery, and even many non-folding phones top out around 5,000 mAh. This engineering feat pays off immensely in daily use. In a real-world test by Digital Trends, the Flip 2 comfortably lasted almost 40 hours on a single charge, including heavy usage during a wedding event [83]. In other words, it can go overnight and well into the next day before needing a recharge – something virtually unheard of for a flip foldable until now. This monster battery effectively quells the battery anxiety flip phone users usually face. As one reviewer put it, “the Honor Magic V Flip 2 sets new benchmarks in battery life… it lasted longer than my experiences with the Galaxy Z Flip 7” [84].
Charging speeds on the Flip 2 are equally groundbreaking. HONOR endowed it with 80W wired fast charging, claiming a full 0–100% charge in just 42 minutes [85]. Tests show it might take just a few minutes longer than that in practice – still easily the fastest charging flip phone on the market [86]. To put this in perspective, Samsung’s Flip 7 charges at a pokey 25W and Motorola’s Razr Plus (2023) at around 30W; those take well over an hour to fill up. With the HONOR, a quick 15-minute charge could give you many hours of use – a game-changer for busy users. Additionally, the Magic V Flip 2 supports 50W wireless charging, also a record among its peers (Motorola offers 30W wireless, Samsung only 15W) [87]. This means you don’t sacrifice convenience for speed – you can plop the phone on a wireless charger and still get a very fast charge. “Honor has set a new benchmark here,” the same reviewer noted, emphasizing that no other flip comes close in the power department [88]. And yes, HONOR includes the 80W charger in the box, along with a protective case, which competing brands often omit [89].
Cameras: The camera setup on the Magic V Flip 2 is another area where HONOR went all-in. It sports a 200MP main camera – an extremely high-resolution sensor for a phone, period, let alone a foldable [90]. While pixel count isn’t everything, this sensor (likely similar to what’s in some flagship camera phones) allows for detailed shots and the ability to crop in without losing much clarity. HONOR leverages this with an AI-powered 30× digital zoom feature that gives the Flip 2 the best long-zoom capability of any flip phone right now [91]. Remarkably, HONOR achieved this without a dedicated telephoto lens, using computational photography tricks. The Flip 2 also has a 12MP ultra-wide camera (useful for group shots or wide landscapes) and a screen-border embedded front camera for video calls when open. However, like other flip phones, you can actually use the superior main cameras for selfies by using the cover display as a viewfinder. The combination of a top-tier camera and a usable cover screen makes the Flip 2 arguably “the best flip phone for taking selfies”, as one expert noted [92]. Daylight photos are sharp and vibrant, and even low-light shots benefit from HONOR’s AI Night Mode and the large sensor’s light-gathering ability. Video recording performance is solid (up to 4K), though one review mentioned some focus lag when using the cover screen as a monitor for video – a software point HONOR can refine [93]. Overall, the Magic V Flip 2 closes much of the camera gap between flip-style foldables and regular flagships, even if it can’t fully match the multi-lens prowess of something like a Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Unique Benefits: Using the Magic V Flip 2 can be a uniquely fun experience. Like other clamshell foldables, it can sit half-open on a table (in “flex mode”), effectively acting as its own tripod for taking group photos or video calls. The robust hinge and flat edges make it stable in this position. The phone’s software is tuned to split the interface in half-open mode – for example, you can have a camera preview on the top half and controls on the bottom half. Also, having that large cover screen means quick interactions (checking notifications, responding to texts, changing a song) often don’t require opening the phone at all, which becomes surprisingly convenient in daily life. HONOR’s claim that nearly all apps run on the outer screen (with some UI adjustments) shows their commitment to maximizing the flip form factor’s utility [94]. Little touches, like including metal rings on the special edition case for attaching charms or straps, indicate HONOR’s understanding of the lifestyle aspect of flip phones – these devices are as much fashion accessories as they are tech gadgets for many users [95].
One caveat to mention: at the moment, the Magic V Flip 2 is primarily available in China. Global tech reviewers who got their hands on it (often via import) have been urging HONOR to launch it internationally. Digital Trends went so far as to title their review “a flipping fantastic foldable that must go global,” underscoring the demand [96]. If and when HONOR brings the Flip 2 to wider markets (possibly under a different name or as part of a global Magic lineup), it could seriously challenge Samsung’s dominance in the flip segment by offering more battery life and features for the buck. For now, enthusiasts outside China can import the device, but they should be aware of the software nuances (enabling Google services manually, etc.) until an official global version drops.
HONOR vs. Samsung (and Others): The Foldable Showdown
With both the Magic V5 and Magic V Flip 2, HONOR has clearly drawn battle lines against Samsung’s foldable duo – the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 – as well as other contenders like Motorola’s Razr and Google’s rumored Pixel Fold 2. How do HONOR’s new offerings stack up in the broader context of 2025’s foldable wars?
Magic V5 vs Galaxy Z Fold 7: These two are direct competitors in the large foldable category (book-style foldables that open into mini-tablets). In terms of design, the Magic V5 and Fold 7 are strikingly close – both around 8.8–8.9mm thick folded, and roughly 4.1–4.2mm when open flat [97]. HONOR wins the thinness crown by a hair, and its device is a few grams lighter, which is noticeable in-hand [98]. Samsung, on the other hand, has leaned into premium materials: the Z Fold 7 uses an Armor Aluminum frame with tough Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the exterior, plus a new ceramic-infused cover glass for added scratch resistance [99]. It’s built like a tank, and Samsung’s hinge – now in its seventh iteration – is extremely refined and durable. While HONOR’s build quality is excellent and even more water-resistant, Samsung’s foldable may have a slight edge in long-term durability (especially drop resistance), thanks to those materials and years of iteration [100] [101].
Looking at displays, both phones offer expansive inner screens around 8 inches. Samsung’s Fold 7 inner display is about 8.0 inches vs HONOR’s 7.95 – essentially a tie [102]. Samsung’s outer screen is marginally larger (6.5” vs 6.43”), and it has a slightly different aspect ratio, being a tad wider. Some users prefer Samsung’s cover screen shape for typing and quick tasks, as it’s less narrow [103]. HONOR’s extremely bright screens outshine Samsung’s; 5,000 nits vs ~2,600 nits peak is a big difference, giving the Magic V5 better visibility in harsh light [104]. Both brands support stylus input on their foldables, but Samsung’s S Pen Fold is an optional purchase whereas HONOR’s stylus (if available) might be included in some bundle deals. In terms of multitasking, Samsung’s software experience is very polished – things like dragging and dropping between three apps, flex mode tricks, and continuity when opening/closing are finely tuned after several generations [105]. HONOR’s MagicOS is surprisingly capable too (with its 3-app Multi-Flex and familiar UI), but it’s building on fewer years of foldable-specific feedback. Still, for most users, both phones deliver superb productivity.
On performance, it’s a close match: both run variants of the Snapdragon 8 series (Samsung reportedly uses a custom-tuned “Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy”) with up to 16GB RAM [106]. You won’t feel a speed difference day-to-day. However, Samsung’s Fold 7 ships with Android 16 and is expected to get longer software update support (likely 4–5 years of updates), whereas HONOR’s on Android 15 and its update track record internationally is still unproven [107]. For power users who keep phones for many years, this might be a consideration favoring Samsung. Conversely, battery and charging heavily favor HONOR: the Magic V5’s 5,820 mAh battery dwarfs the Fold 7’s 4,400 mAh [108], and in endurance tests, the HONOR lasts longer especially under heavy use [109]. Add in the 66W vs 25W charging advantage [110] [111], and it’s clear HONOR offers more uptime and less downtime. If all-day battery or quick recharges are priorities, Magic V5 is the better pick.
Cameras present an interesting trade-off. Samsung equipped the Z Fold 7 with a 200MP main camera (inheriting tech from its flagship S-series) plus a decent ultrawide and a 10MP 3x telephoto [112]. It’s arguably the best camera system ever on a foldable, excelling in detail and low-light thanks to that huge sensor [113]. HONOR’s Magic V5, while lacking a crazy megapixel count, has a very competent set of 50MP+50MP+64MP lenses that cover wide, ultra-wide, and tele needs [114]. In practice, the Magic V5 takes excellent shots – the colors are natural, and the telephoto in particular produces sharp 3x zoom images [115]. It may not capture 200MP worth of detail, but 50MP is plenty for most uses and keeps file sizes manageable. For most users, both phones will yield fantastic photos and videos; however, if absolute camera supremacy is the goal, Samsung’s Fold 7 holds a slight edge, especially in tricky lighting where its larger sensor and mature image processing pull ahead [116]. As one expert summary put it: “Pick Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 if you want the best camera system and top image/video quality… Pick Honor Magic V5 if you care more about raw value, strong specs per dollar, than top cinematic camera performance.” [117] Each has its strengths – HONOR in value and battery, Samsung in camera and polish – and neither is perfect for everyone.
Magic V Flip 2 vs Galaxy Z Flip 7 (and others): In the battle of the flips, HONOR’s newcomer is making a strong case against the incumbent champion Samsung and the revived Motorola Razr line. Battery life is the biggest differentiator. The Magic V Flip 2’s 5,500 mAh battery is leaps ahead of the Galaxy Z Flip 7’s ~3,800 mAh and even beats the Motorola Razr Ultra 2025’s ~4,200 mAh. This translates to hours of extra usage. Reviewers who have tried all three report that HONOR easily has the longest-lasting flip phone now [118] [119]. On a busy day, the Flip 2 can leave you with a comfortable safety margin of charge at night, whereas the Samsung or Motorola might be searching for a charger by evening. Charging speed further widens this gap: 80W vs Samsung’s 25W means the HONOR can fully recharge in roughly half the time it takes the Z Flip 7. Motorola’s latest offers faster charging than Samsung but still not on HONOR’s level. In essence, HONOR solved the two main pain points of flip phones (small battery, slow charging) in one stroke – a major selling point.
When it comes to performance, all recent flip phones are quite powerful. The Flip 2’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is top-tier, but Samsung’s Flip 7 also uses a high-end chip (likely a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 or similar). You won’t notice much difference in speed or multitasking – all can handle social apps, photography, and moderate gaming fine. The display on HONOR’s Flip 2 is slightly bigger inside (6.82” vs 6.7” on Samsung) and definitely bigger outside (4.0” vs 3.4”). Motorola’s Razr Plus/Ultra has a 3.6” external that is entirely usable area (no fixed widgets), which some prefer. HONOR’s choice to split the cover screen UI means Samsung’s approach is actually the most restrictive (the Flip 7’s cover screen still doesn’t run all apps freely without workarounds, focusing on selected widgets). So HONOR offers more cover-screen functionality than Samsung, but a tad less than Motorola’s truly full-cover-screen approach [120]. Still, many consider HONOR’s design a good balance – you get a readable clock and notifications at a glance and can use key apps on the small screen with ease [121].
Camera-wise, HONOR likely has the edge on paper with its 200MP main shooter versus Samsung’s 12MP main camera on the Flip 7. In practice, Samsung’s photos are excellent (they’ve tuned that 12MP sensor for years), but it lacks a telephoto lens entirely, whereas HONOR mimics one via high-res sensor cropping to achieve up to 30x zoom. For everyday shots, both will do well; for zoom or large prints, HONOR’s higher resolution pays off. Motorola’s latest Razr also uses a 12MP main sensor, roughly on par with Samsung’s output. Thus, Flip 2 could claim the title of best camera in a flip phone right now, especially for versatility. One tech reviewer even said the Magic V Flip 2 was their “favorite flip phone for taking selfies,” thanks to the combo of a great camera and that front display viewfinder [122].
In terms of software and extras, Samsung’s Flip has the benefit of years of refinement and will get longer updates (Samsung promises 4 OS upgrades). HONOR’s Flip 2 ships with Android 15 (versus Samsung on Android 14/One UI at launch, upgradable to 15), and HONOR’s update policy abroad is improving. A notable difference: Samsung’s flip (and Motorola’s) come with Google services globally and deep integration thereof, whereas HONOR’s current Flip 2 units require a toggle for Google since they are Chinese ROM – a temporary hurdle likely resolved if a global launch happens [123]. One advantage for HONOR: the phone comes bundled with premium accessories (case, 80W charger) that Samsung and others omit [124]. And HONOR’s attention to style (with the luxury edition and multiple colorways) offers personalization that Samsung’s relatively limited color selection can’t match, unless you go through their bespoke program.
Other Players: It’s not just HONOR and Samsung. Motorola has reinvented its Razr line, targeting the style-conscious flip buyer – but HONOR seems to beat it on specs (battery, camera). Google entered the foldable space with the Pixel Fold in 2023 and is rumored to be exploring a flip device. Google’s approach leans on software (brilliant camera algorithms, clean Android UI), but Pixel’s first fold had durability concerns and a less polished hinge compared to Samsung/HONOR. OnePlus recently launched the OnePlus Open (their book-style foldable) to strong reviews, focusing on lightweight build and Hasselblad-tuned cameras – it’s another contender in the foldable fight. HONOR’s advantage against these newcomers is that it has several generations of foldable experience behind it (despite the numbering, the Magic V5 is at least HONOR’s third big foldable after 2022’s Magic V and 2023’s Magic Vs/V2). This maturity shows in the V5’s balanced design.
Meanwhile, Apple’s foldable remains the big elephant in the room. Rumors suggest Apple might introduce a foldable device in 2026 or later, perhaps an iPad-fold hybrid first [125]. If and when that happens, the competition will ratchet up even more. For now, 2025’s landscape has Samsung as the established leader in foldables by sales, but HONOR is aggressively positioning itself as a technology leader in this space – slimming down form factors, boosting battery life, and experimenting with stylish partnerships. This is good news for consumers: competition breeds innovation and more choices at better prices.
The Road Ahead: Foldables in Everyday Life
The launch of the HONOR Magic V5 and Magic V Flip 2 underscores a broader trend: foldables are becoming practical, everyday devices rather than niche experiments. We now have foldable phones excelling in areas like battery endurance, camera capability, and durability that were weaknesses just a generation ago. As one tech journalist observed, “Foldable phones have matured – they’re no longer curiosities. Today, they demand respect.” [126] Indeed, the conversation has shifted from “Are foldables just a gimmick?” to “Which foldable should I get?”.
HONOR’s latest entries contribute to this normalization by addressing user pain points. The Magic V5 proves that a foldable can be as thin and polished as a regular smartphone without sacrificing battery or features, and the Magic V Flip 2 shows a flip phone can finally have battery life on par with slab phones. These improvements mean users don’t have to compromise much (if at all) to enjoy the benefits of a folding screen. The inclusion of practical features like stylus support, multitasking software, and strong water resistance further integrate foldables into professional and daily life use cases.
Expert reactions to HONOR’s devices have been largely positive. There’s excitement that HONOR is pushing boundaries: the word “innovation” gets thrown around a lot, but here we have tangible examples – the world’s slimmest foldable, the fastest-charging flip phone, etc. These set new benchmarks. Of course, there are still areas to watch. HONOR will need to demonstrate robust support for global users (timely updates, customer service, etc.) as it challenges bigger brands outside of China. And the foldable market as a whole will need to continue improving affordability to attract more consumers; prices, while improved relative to features, are still high-end.
In the end, the arrival of Magic V5 and Magic V Flip 2 is a sign of healthy competition in the mobile industry. Samsung, Motorola, Google, and others will undoubtedly respond with innovations of their own (rumor has it Samsung is working on new materials to reduce crease visibility, and perhaps Galaxy Z Fold 8 will try to reclaim the thinnest title). Apple’s eventual entry could redefine things again. But at this moment, HONOR has seized the spotlight. Both the Magic V5 and Flip 2 show that HONOR is not content with just participating in the foldable trend – it aims to lead it.
As one reviewer wisely concluded about choosing between today’s foldables: “Both are excellent. Neither is perfect. But depending on what you care about – battery vs camera vs durability vs price – one will definitely suit you more.” [127] In other words, consumers are now spoiled for choice in the foldable market. HONOR’s new foldables tilt the value equation in favor of bigger batteries, slimmer builds, and speedy charging. For many, that will be a winning formula. Going forward, as these devices reach more hands, we’ll see if HONOR’s bet on pushing specs to the max translates into long-term success. For now, one thing is clear: the foldable revolution is here to stay, and HONOR’s Magic V5 and V Flip 2 are among the devices leading the charge into this exciting new era of smartphones.
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