More than four years after Samsung’s first Galaxy Z Flip was released, it finally feels like modern flip phones are worth buying.
The reduction in price has played a big role in that, but also a closing of the hardware gap to flagship phones and genuinely innovative cover displays. You have more choice in 2024 than ever before, too.
However, if you buy a new flip phone right now, you’ll almost certainly regret it. Why? The reason is simple: three major flip phone launches are happening very soon, meaning the device you buy today will soon be out of date.
First up is Motorola, which is almost certain to launch at least one new flip phone at its event on 25 June.
Judging by the timing of the launch and a wave of rumours – along with what’s shown in the event teaser – we’re likely to see both the Razr 50 and Razr 50 Ultra/Razr+ (2024) unveiled.
Neither phone is expected to be a huge upgrade on its predecessor, though the cover screens on both devices look set to get bigger.
Even if you’d rather buy the current Razr 40 or Razr 40 Ultra/Razr+ (2023) instead, the launch of new models usually leads to bigger discounts on older models so it pays to hold off.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Then, on 10 July, Samsung is widely expected to launch the Galaxy Z Flip 6. The company has yet to confirm the date or contents of its next Unpacked event, but both have been extensively rumoured so it’s pretty certain at this point.
Leaks suggest the Z Flip 6’s upgrades will be concentrated around the cameras and battery life, plus the usual performance improvements from the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
Galaxy AI features are already available on the Z Flip 5 via a software update, but there’s a small chance new ones will be introduced with the latest model. And again, look out for deals on the 2023 model after its successor has launched and it becomes previous gen.
Dominik_Tomaszewski
If neither of those devices appeal to you, you might want to wait for Honor. Its first flip phone, the Magic V Flip, launched on 13 June in China ahead of an expected global launch later in the year.
Its most eye-catching feature is the 4-inch cover display, which takes up almost the entire area. You also get a 6.8-inch, 120Hz internal screen, three cameras – 50Mp main, 12Mp ultrawide and 50Mp selfie – and a 4800mAh battery with 65W fast charging.
Honor
However, the Magic V Flip is powered by Qualcomm’s older Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, and unlike Samsung and Motorola, there’s no official water or dust resistance. It almost certainly won’t be available in the US, either.
Nonetheless, alongside the new, more affordable Galaxy Z Flip FE that’s also rumoured to arrive later this year, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to upcoming flip phones.
Unless you’re set on something super-affordable like the Nubia Flip 5G (from £499/$499), waiting just a few more weeks will ensure you get a product and price you’re happy with.
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Not convinced by flip phones? Our guide to the best foldable phones also includes book-style devices that can become a small tablet.
You may also be interested in the best smartphone deals more generally, including on refurbished handsets.
