TecnoOrange 
I’ve been testing foldable phones for several years now and I have a pretty solid opinion on them. Foldable phones are no longer a tech curiosity: they’re a real category with millions of users worldwide. But is it worth spending over 1,000 euros on one? It really depends on how you use your phone.
Table of contents
Table of contents
What exactly is a foldable phone
A foldable phone is a smartphone with a flexible display that can fold in on itself. Unlike conventional phones with rigid screens, foldables use flexible OLED displays that allow for innovative designs.
There are two main form factors:
- Book fold: Opens like a book, going from a small outer screen to a large tablet-like inner screen. Example: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.
- Clamshell fold: Folds horizontally, going from compact to full-screen. Example: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6.
Key features of current foldables
| Feature | Book format | Clamshell format |
|---|---|---|
| Open screen | 7.6” - 8” | 6.7” - 6.9” |
| Cover screen | 6.2” - 6.3” | 3.4” - 4” |
| Average price | €1,500 - €1,900 | €1,000 - €1,200 |
| Weight | 240g - 260g | 185g - 200g |
| Best for | Productivity, media | Portability, style |
Advantages of using a foldable phone
Real multitasking
You can have two apps open side by side on the inner screen. Writing an email while checking the browser, or watching YouTube while chatting on WhatsApp. On a regular phone this is awkward; on a foldable, it actually works.
Superior media experience
Watching videos, gaming, or reading on a 7.6” screen is something else entirely. It’s not quite a tablet, but the difference from a 6.5” phone is enormous.
The clamshell form is pure portability
The Z Flip and similar models fit in any pocket or bag. When folded, they take up half the space.
Pro-tip: If you’re coming from a regular phone, give yourself at least two weeks to adjust. The foldable user experience is different and can feel strange at first.
Disadvantages nobody tells you about
The crease is real
In 2026 you can still see the fold line in the center of the screen. At first it bothers you, but over time your brain ignores it. That said, under certain light angles you’ll always see it.
Long-term durability
Although hinges have improved enormously, they’re still a weak point. Dust and sand can cause problems, and a hit to the hinge can be expensive to repair.
Smaller battery
The space taken up by the hinge mechanism means the battery is usually smaller than on similarly priced conventional phones.
| Disadvantage | Impact | Improvable? |
|---|---|---|
| Center crease | Cosmetic | Partially (improves each generation) |
| Hinge durability | Functional | Yes, with care |
| Reduced battery | Daily use | No, it’s a design trade-off |
| High price | Economic | Yes, will come down |
Who is a foldable ideal for in 2026
- Professionals who travel a lot: The book format is perfect for working on planes and trains.
- Content creators: Using the phone semi-folded as a stand for recording is great.
- Heavy video consumers: The big screen makes a real difference.
- People who want to stand out: If you like having something different, a foldable delivers.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Does the foldable screen break easily?
Not like before. Current screens are quite resistant, but they’re still more delicate than a regular phone. A protective film on the cover screen is highly recommended.
How long does a foldable phone last?
Brands guarantee around 200,000 folds, which equals about 5-7 years of normal use. In practice, most users won’t have hinge issues.
Can you use a case on a foldable phone?
Yes, there are specific cases. Samsung and other brands sell official cases that protect without adding too much bulk.
Conclusion
Foldable phones in 2026 have matured a lot. They’re no longer expensive, imperfect prototypes but devices that offer real advantages over conventional phones. If you value multitasking, media consumption, or simply want something different, a foldable can be a great buy. But if you’re looking for the best value per euro, a conventional flagship is still more rational. My advice: try one in a store before deciding. The feeling of opening that big screen is addictive.