Foldable phones have been around for several years, but they are only now beginning to excel. With more companies offering foldable models and several iterations of the technology now available, there are some excellent options on the market. These phones strike a solid balance between features and price. While foldable phones do have their drawbacks—such as higher price tags—the innovative bendable displays offer a unique experience that regular smartphones can’t match.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z line has seen the most iterations with its two designs: the tablet-like Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the flip-phone-style Z Flip 5. However, Samsung is no longer the only player in the game.

Google’s first foldable phone, the Pixel Fold, is a commendable effort despite a few quirks. Motorola’s 2023 Razr Plus flip phone also scored well in our review, and its more affordable Razr model is the most budget-friendly attempt we’ve seen yet. OnePlus has also made a strong first attempt at a foldable phone. Meanwhile, Honor and Oppo offer solid foldable options for European consumers, though these models are not available in the US.

For those hoping for a folding iPhone, there’s still no sign of one yet. Sorry, Apple fans.

Foldable phones come in two main varieties: candybar phones that unfold into larger, tablet-sized devices (like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5) and candybar phones that fold in half to become smaller and more pocketable (like the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Moto Razr series). Given the relatively recent technology, all foldables are more expensive than their regular smartphone counterparts, making them a luxury option for buyers with deeper pockets. But if you want to make a statement when you unfold your phone and bend the display, they’re definitely worth considering.

Here are our picks for the best foldable phones available now.

Best Foldable Phones in 2024

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 ranks highest on our list of foldable phones, primarily due to its competitive price point. Priced at $1,000, it is still on the expensive side, but it offers significant value. The design is sturdy, the software is well-refined, and the device comes with four years of Android updates. Its clamshell design and large cover screen make it one of the most compact and enjoyable phones available.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is an incremental yet refined update to Samsung’s foldable lineup. If you need a device that can double as a tablet for work documents, multitasking, or watching movies, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the best option. While the Google Pixel Fold offers better cameras, the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s bright screen is ideal for its main purpose: providing a large display that fits in your pocket.

The $1,800 price tag is steep, putting it out of reach for many. However, if budget is not a concern, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 represents the best version of Samsung’s hybrid device to date.

Google Pixel Fold

Google’s first foldable, the Pixel Fold, gets many things right. Its large outer screen is perfect for use when closed, and its slim design fits comfortably in pockets. The book-style foldable closes flat, making it as practical as a regular phone while still offering a 7.6-inch internal display when opened.

The Pixel Fold delivers solid performance and a good camera system, making it an excellent all-rounder for those interested in foldable phones.

Most Innovative Foldable: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 represents a significant advancement in Samsung’s flip phone series. The cover screen is now larger, allowing you to check directions, take photos, and send messages without opening the phone. Combined with robust battery life and a durable design, it is a standout choice.

There are some drawbacks, though. At $1,000, it lacks a telephoto camera, and not all apps function natively on the front screen, unlike the Motorola Razr Plus.

Best Compact Samsung Alternative: Motorola Razr Plus

The Motorola Razr Plus redefines what a flip phone should be in 2024. Its 3.6-inch cover screen allows for extensive app usage without needing to open the phone, and its battery life is sufficient for a busy day. Being thinner than the Galaxy Z Flip 5, it could be the ideal choice for those who prioritize portability.

While the Galaxy Z Flip 5 remains the top flip phone overall, the Razr Plus is a compelling option for those who prefer a slimmer design and greater app functionality on the external display. Though it feels more fragile than the Galaxy Z Flip 5, its thin profile makes it perfect for those valuing compactness.

Best Foldable for Budget Buyers: Motorola Razr 2023

Priced at $700, the Motorola Razr 2023 is the most affordable and widely available foldable phone, significantly cheaper than the $1,000 price tag of devices like the Razr Plus and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5. Motorola made some compromises to keep the cost down, such as a smaller 1.5-inch external display instead of a full-front screen.

Additionally, it offers only three years of Android OS updates and 128GB of non-expandable storage, making cloud storage necessary for extra space. Despite these limitations, the Razr 2023 is a solid choice with its sleek design, 6.9-inch main display, and sharp 64-megapixel main camera. It’s ideal for those curious about foldable phones but unwilling to invest heavily.

Best Flip Phone with a Telephoto Camera: Oppo Find N3 Flip

The Oppo Find N3 Flip stands out for its unique features, including a telephoto camera and a vertical cover screen. This makes it perfect for those who want better zoom capabilities. Additionally, it offers fast performance, a stylish design, and quick charging, with a minimal crease on the interior screen.

However, the Find N3 Flip lacks wireless charging and is only available in select markets, excluding the US. Resellers are an option if you’re determined to get your hands on one.

Best Foldable to Stand Out from the Crowd: OnePlus Open

OnePlus’s first foldable, the Open, is a noteworthy debut with its premium hardware and distinctive design. It boasts good battery life and fast wired charging. Its 6.3-inch outer display unfolds to reveal a 7.82-inch inner display, ideal for video watching.

However, the Open falls short compared to Samsung’s Z Fold 5 in terms of camera performance and software optimization. At $1,700, it’s hard to recommend over Samsung’s foldable, but it’s a unique device for those wanting something different.