Which book-like foldable shape do you prefer?
Size matters when you’re choosing a multi-function device like a folding smartphone. You want something easy to grip so that it doesn’t go flying out of your hand, but that will also fit in with the rest of your lifestyle. The differences between the Z Fold 5 and Pixel Fold are stark: the Z Fold 5’s 6.2-inch front display is narrow and tall, while the Pixel Fold’s 5.8-inch screen is wide and short. One is more book-like—a Gideon’s Bible, if you will, as that’s what the Pixel Fold reminds me of when it’s closed. The Z Fold 5’s equivalent gives me hints of religious pamphlet.
Both smartphones will be uncomfortable to carry in your pants pocket—only those with cargo-like construction and deep-set pockets will feel comfortable carting the Z Fold 5 and Pixel Fold. They both try to be their lightest, with the Z Fold 5 weighing 8.9 ounces and the Pixel Fold ten ounces. But remember that once you smush together two 0.2-inch slabs of aluminum and display, that immediately increases the density. If you have thinly lined pockets, carrying either of these phones will look like you have swinging udders. Folding phones are better suited for bags.
