Flip smartphones are gaining popularity in 2024, with Samsung launching its sixth generation alongside competitors like Xiaomi and Nubia. While Xiaomi’s MIX Flip offers advanced features at a competitive price, Nubia’s Flip 5G is more affordable but lacks certain functionalities. A comparison of top models highlights differences in design, camera capabilities, and performance. Samsung excels in durability and features like water resistance, while Xiaomi impresses with its folding mechanism. However, Nubia’s offering may not meet user expectations for mechanics and updates.
The Rise of Flip Smartphones in 2024
Flip smartphones, characterized by their innovative vertical folding design, have become a standout trend in the tech world over the past few years. As we step into 2024, Samsung introduces its sixth generation of flip devices, while competitors like Xiaomi and Nubia, a subsidiary of ZTE, are making their presence felt in the market.
The Xiaomi MIX Flip directly rivals Samsung in both price and technology, but the Nubia Flip 5G offers a similar folding experience at a significantly lower cost. However, this comes with trade-offs: the mechanics are less sophisticated, the crease is more noticeable, and the external display limits functionality to select widgets. If you’re in the market for a flip smartphone, be sure to check out our comprehensive buying guide that highlights key factors to consider.
Comparing the Best Flip Phones of 2024
Our selection includes 224 tested flip smartphones, showcasing the best options available. Here’s a quick comparison of the top models:
- Test Winner: 6.7 inches OLED display, IP48 rated, dual camera, and a sleek design at €999.
- Top Alternative: 6.9 inches OLED, very good performance, and an impressive battery life for €1,008.
- Price Tip: 6.9 inches OLED display and solid features at an affordable price of €549.
Our dedicated testing team has rigorously evaluated these devices in controlled environments, ensuring all results are independent and transparent.
When it comes to differentiating the three prominent flip smartphones of 2024, the competition between Samsung and Xiaomi is particularly intense. Our analysis indicates that Xiaomi’s MIX Flip features a superior folding mechanism, opening smoothly with a nearly invisible crease. Although the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 also boasts high-quality construction, it falls slightly behind in this regard.
However, both the Xiaomi MIX Flip and Nubia Flip lack essential features such as certified dust and water resistance, wireless charging capabilities, and eSIM support—areas where Samsung excels. Additionally, the ‘for Galaxy’ variant of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 outperforms Nubia’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 significantly. The Nubia Flip’s battery life of 11.5 hours on a 60Hz display trails behind both Xiaomi and Samsung’s offerings.
All three models come equipped with dual cameras, with Samsung featuring an ultra-wide-angle lens, Nubia opting for a depth camera, and Xiaomi including a telephoto zoom lens. This makes the MIX Flip particularly adept at capturing high-quality magnifications, while Samsung’s wider angle is advantageous for group selfies. Notably, Xiaomi’s Flip is unique in its ability to shoot 8K videos, albeit at a limited 24 frames per second.
Ultimately, investing in either Samsung or Xiaomi proves rewarding as they showcase the potential and enjoyment of flip smartphones. Their folding mechanisms and technological advancements are impressive, though Xiaomi’s lack of water protection, eSIM support, and wireless charging may be a drawback for some users. If these features are not critical for you, the Xiaomi MIX Flip is an excellent choice; otherwise, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is highly recommended.
With the Nubia Flip 5G not particularly standing out in terms of mechanics or technology, it’s wise to consider spending a bit more on a more reliable device. The durability of the hinge and limited software updates may deter potential buyers, especially when Xiaomi promises four years of Android updates and Samsung offers an impressive seven-year commitment.