• Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Vivo X Fold 3 Pro

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs. Vivo X Fold 3 Pro

    Daven Klarsen Posted on

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 has been garnering a lot of attention lately, but is it truly one of the best foldables of 2024? Or does the crown belong to the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, which launched earlier this year?

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro boasts a slimmer design, Zeiss-branded camera technology, a massive battery setup, and top-tier specs that seem poised to outshine the Z Fold 6. I’ve been testing the Vivo’s bendy powerhouse for about a month now, and I have to say, I really like it. Let’s take a detailed tour of both devices and see how they stack up.

    Design

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is undeniably a large device, weighing 236 grams. While it’s not feather-light, it’s comparable to the Z Fold 6. Despite being roughly a millimeter thinner, it feels significantly skinnier due to its rounded edges, in contrast to the flat iPhone-like edges on the Z Fold 6. Both devices feature prominent camera bumps that add to their girth, noticeable when stuffed into your pockets. However, the Vivo’s circular camera bump offers more stability when placed flat on a surface compared to the off-centered bump on the Samsung, which tends to wobble.

    The front of the Vivo is protected by armor glass, while the Z Fold 6 features Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Although the Victus 2 might be tougher, the Vivo comes with a pre-installed screen protector, whereas the Samsung does not. The back of the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is made from ultra-fine glass fibers, giving it a premium feel, whereas the Z Fold 6 sticks with Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Both phones are rugged and feature matte finishes that hide fingerprints and scuffs well. The Vivo is available in Celestial Black, inspired by the vastness of the universe, while the Z Fold 6 offers more color options, including a stylish Navy Moody Blue.

    The Vivo’s carbon fiber hinge feels durable, though not as stiff as Samsung’s, and can be propped up at various angles. Opening both devices one-handed is challenging, but slightly easier on the Vivo due to its curved edges. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro has an IPX8 rating for water resistance, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 has an IPX8 rating and an IP48 rating for dust resistance, making it slightly better suited for dusty environments.

    One feature I appreciate on the Vivo is the alert slider, which allows you to quickly switch to silent mode, a handy addition not found on the Z Fold 6. The fingerprint sensor setup also differs: the Samsung uses an edge-mounted sensor, while the Vivo features an in-display ultrasonic scanner, which is also present on the internal screen.

    Aesthetics and Handling

    Beyond the fundamental build and materials, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro exudes a sleek and elegant look with its fine details. The glass back has a slight shimmer, creating an almost starry effect when light hits it. The rounded edges not only make it more comfortable to hold but also give it a less industrial look compared to the flat edges of the Z Fold 6.

    Samsung’s design, while still premium, leans more towards functionality. The flat edges provide a solid grip, and the overall design feels robust. However, some users might find it less visually appealing compared to the Vivo. Samsung’s choice of colors is also more varied, catering to a broader audience who might prefer something beyond the standard black or blue.

    In terms of handling, the Vivo’s slightly thinner profile and rounded edges make it marginally more comfortable for prolonged use. The Samsung, while equally hefty, feels more substantial due to its flat edges. This difference in ergonomics can be a deciding factor for users who prioritize comfort.

    Durability

    Durability is a crucial aspect for foldable devices, and both the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 perform admirably. The Vivo’s carbon fiber hinge, while not as stiff as Samsung’s, still feels robust and capable of withstanding daily use. Samsung’s hinge mechanism, which has seen continuous improvement over the years, feels more refined and sturdy.

    Both devices are rated IPX8 for water resistance, ensuring they can survive accidental splashes or brief submersion in water. However, Samsung goes a step further with an IP48 rating for dust resistance, which could be crucial for users in dusty environments. This added protection makes the Z Fold 6 slightly more durable overall, especially in harsher conditions.

    Software and Multitasking

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro runs on FunTouch OS, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 uses One UI. Both are heavy launchers with their own apps and services. However, the Vivo lacks some of the AI features present on Samsung’s device, such as Circle Search and live translation tools. The internal displays of both phones support split-screen multitasking, but the Vivo has a more intuitive gesture for activating split-screen mode.

    Samsung promises seven years of OS and security updates for the Z Fold 6, whereas Vivo offers three OS updates and four years of security updates for the X Fold 3 Pro. If you want a device that will stay updated well into the 2030s, Samsung is the better choice.

    User Interface and Experience

    FunTouch OS on the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro offers a clean and smooth user experience, but it does have its quirks. The interface is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the experience to their preferences. However, it can feel slightly cluttered due to the abundance of features and settings.

    One UI on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, on the other hand, feels more streamlined and polished. Samsung has fine-tuned its software over the years, making it one of the best Android skins available. The interface is intuitive, and features like DeX mode add a layer of versatility, allowing the device to function almost like a desktop when connected to a monitor.

    Both devices support extensive multitasking capabilities, but Samsung’s implementation is more refined. The Multi-Active Window feature on the Z Fold 6 allows for seamless multitasking, with the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously on the large internal display. The Vivo also supports split-screen multitasking, but Samsung’s approach feels more intuitive and user-friendly.

    • Recent Posts

    Software Features and Updates

    Samsung’s One UI is packed with features, including a comprehensive suite of productivity tools, advanced AI features, and seamless integration with other Samsung devices. The addition of the S Pen, although sold separately, enhances productivity, making the Z Fold 6 a powerhouse for both work and play.

    Vivo’s FunTouch OS, while feature-rich, lacks some of the advanced AI capabilities found in Samsung’s software. However, it does offer unique features like Ultra Game Mode, which optimizes performance for gaming, and Jovi Home, a personalized assistant that provides relevant information and shortcuts.

    When it comes to software updates, Samsung has a clear advantage. The promise of seven years of OS and security updates ensures that the Z Fold 6 will remain up-to-date for a longer period. Vivo’s commitment of three OS updates and four years of security updates is decent but falls short of Samsung’s offering. This makes the Z Fold 6 a better choice for users who want a device that will receive long-term support.

    Display

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro features a 6.53-inch LTPO OLED cover screen with a resolution of 2748 x 1172 pixels. It’s more spacious than the Z Fold 6’s 6.3-inch LTPO Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 2376 x 968 pixels. The Vivo’s cover screen, with its 21:9 aspect ratio, is better suited for most apps, and its higher resolution makes for a slightly better viewing experience.

    Both internal displays are impressive. The Vivo sports an 8.03-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2480 x 2200 pixels, while the Samsung has a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2160 x 1856 pixels. The Vivo’s display is less reflective and has a subtler crease than the Samsung. Both are bright enough for outdoor use, though my testing was done in the UK, where “sunny” might mean something different than in Southern California.

    Cover Screen Functionality

    The cover screen on both devices is crucial for quick interactions without needing to unfold the phone. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s larger cover screen is a significant advantage. Its 21:9 aspect ratio makes it feel more like a regular smartphone when closed, allowing for comfortable typing, browsing, and app usage. The higher resolution also provides a sharper and more vibrant display, enhancing the overall user experience.

    Samsung’s cover screen, while slightly smaller, is still functional and offers a good user experience. The LTPO Dynamic AMOLED technology ensures vibrant colors and deep blacks. However, the narrower aspect ratio can make typing and certain app interactions feel cramped.

    Internal Display Experience

    When unfolded, both devices offer an immersive experience with their large internal displays. The Vivo’s 8.03-inch OLED screen is slightly larger and boasts a higher resolution, making it ideal for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking. The reduced reflectiveness and subtler crease contribute to a more enjoyable viewing experience, especially when watching videos or reading.

    Samsung’s 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel is no slouch either. It offers excellent color accuracy, brightness, and contrast. The slightly smaller size is still ample for most tasks, and the crease, while more noticeable than on the Vivo, does not significantly detract from the overall experience.

    Both devices support high refresh rates, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsiveness. However, the Vivo’s display, with its less reflective nature and higher resolution, edges out the Samsung in terms of overall visual quality.

    Brightness and Outdoor Visibility

    Both the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 perform well in terms of brightness and outdoor visibility. The Vivo’s OLED panel offers excellent brightness levels, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight. The Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED display is equally bright and performs admirably in outdoor conditions.

    The reduced reflectiveness of the Vivo’s display gives it a slight edge in bright environments, making it easier to view content without distracting reflections. This can be particularly beneficial for users who spend a lot of time outdoors or in well-lit environments.

    Audio

    The Vivo’s stereo speakers aren’t as loud or as rich as the Samsung’s. However, the Vivo supports Bluetooth 5.4 with a wide range of codecs, making it a solid choice for wireless audio.

    Speaker Quality

    Samsung has a reputation for excellent audio quality, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is no exception. The stereo speakers deliver rich, full-bodied sound with impressive clarity and depth. Whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or listening to music, the audio experience on the Z Fold 6 is top-notch.

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s speakers, while good, do not quite match the audio prowess of the Samsung. The sound is clear and well-balanced, but it lacks the richness and volume of the Z Fold 6. For users who prioritize audio quality, the Samsung has a clear advantage.

    Wireless Audio

    When it comes to wireless audio, both devices support the latest Bluetooth standards and a wide range of codecs. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s support for Bluetooth 5.4 ensures excellent connectivity and audio quality with compatible headphones and speakers. The range of supported codecs, including aptX HD and LDAC, ensures high-quality audio streaming.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 also supports Bluetooth 5.4 and a variety of codecs, including Samsung’s proprietary Scalable Codec, which dynamically adjusts the bitrate to ensure optimal audio quality. Both devices offer excellent wireless audio performance, but Samsung’s ecosystem, with seamless integration with Galaxy Buds and other accessories, provides a more cohesive experience.

    • Related content:

    Performance and Gaming

    Both phones are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, with the Vivo offering 16GB of RAM compared to Samsung’s 12GB. Both devices perform smoothly in everyday use and handle demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero without issues. The Vivo has some additional gaming features, such as extra tools and modes, that give it a slight edge for gamers.

    Benchmark Performance

    In terms of raw performance, both the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 are at the top of their game. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset ensures blazing-fast performance, capable of handling the most demanding tasks with ease. Benchmark tests show that both devices score exceptionally high in CPU and GPU performance, making them suitable for power users and gamers alike.

    The Vivo’s 16GB of RAM provides a slight edge in multitasking and performance-intensive applications. It allows for smoother transitions between apps and better handling of multiple tasks running simultaneously. The Samsung’s 12GB of RAM is still more than adequate for most users, but the extra RAM on the Vivo gives it a slight performance boost. Check out the latest prices here: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6>>  or  Vivo X Fold 3 Pro>>

    Gaming Experience

    For gamers, both devices offer an exceptional experience. The powerful chipset, coupled with high-refresh-rate displays, ensures smooth and responsive gameplay. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s larger internal display and additional gaming features, such as Ultra Game Mode, enhance the gaming experience. Ultra Game Mode optimizes performance, reduces distractions, and provides tools like screen recording and voice changers, making it a great choice for gaming enthusiasts.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 also excels in gaming, with its high-refresh-rate display and powerful hardware. The slightly smaller internal screen is still large enough for an immersive gaming experience. Samsung’s Game Booster mode optimizes performance and provides tools for managing notifications and enhancing gameplay.

    Thermals and Heat Management

    Both devices manage heat effectively, ensuring sustained performance during extended gaming sessions. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s carbon fiber cooling system helps dissipate heat efficiently, preventing thermal throttling. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 also features advanced cooling technology, ensuring the device remains cool even during intense usage.

    In terms of overall gaming experience, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s additional gaming features and larger display give it a slight edge. However, both devices are more than capable of handling the latest games with ease, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for gamers.

    Recent Posts

    Battery

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro shines in the battery department with its 5700mAh dual-cell battery, which far exceeds the Z Fold 6’s 4400mAh battery. In my tests, the Vivo consistently lasted a full day of heavy use, often stretching into the next day, whereas the Samsung needed recharging by the end of a busy day. The Vivo also supports 100W fast charging and 50W wireless charging, compared to the Samsung’s 25W and 15W, respectively.

    Battery Life

    Battery life is a critical factor for foldable devices, and the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s 5700mAh dual-cell battery excels in this regard. In real-world usage, the Vivo consistently lasted a full day of heavy use, including browsing, gaming, video streaming, and productivity tasks. On lighter usage days, the battery easily stretched into the next day, providing peace of mind for users who need reliable battery life.

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6’s 4400mAh battery, while smaller, still offers decent battery life. However, it typically needed recharging by the end of a busy day. For users who require extended battery life, the Vivo’s larger battery capacity is a significant advantage.

    Charging Speeds

    Charging speed is another area where the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro outshines the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. The Vivo’s support for 100W fast charging ensures that the battery can be quickly replenished, minimizing downtime. In my tests, the Vivo charged from 0 to 100% in just under 30 minutes, a remarkable feat for a battery of its size.

    Wireless charging on the Vivo is also impressive, with support for 50W wireless charging. This allows for fast and convenient charging without the need for cables. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, while supporting 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging, lags behind the Vivo in this department. The slower charging speeds mean that users will need to wait longer to fully recharge the device.

    Battery Optimization

    Both devices feature advanced battery optimization settings to help extend battery life. Vivo’s FunTouch OS includes features like Ultra Power Saving Mode and App Standby, which intelligently manage power consumption and restrict background activity for less frequently used apps. Samsung’s One UI offers similar features, including Power Saving Mode and Adaptive Battery, which optimize battery usage based on user habits.

    Overall, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s superior battery capacity and faster charging speeds make it the better choice for users who prioritize battery life and charging convenience. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, while still offering decent battery performance, cannot match the Vivo’s impressive battery capabilities.

    Recent Posts

    Camera

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro features Zeiss-branded optics with a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens, also with 3x optical zoom. The Vivo’s camera setup offers more versatility and better quality in most scenarios, though both phones produce impressive results.

    Camera Quality

    In terms of camera quality, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro excels with its Zeiss-branded optics and versatile camera setup. The 50MP primary sensor captures stunning images with excellent detail, color accuracy, and dynamic range. The Zeiss T* coating reduces lens flare and ghosting, ensuring clear and sharp photos even in challenging lighting conditions.

    The 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens on the Vivo offers a broader field of view, allowing for creative compositions and impressive landscape shots. The 64MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom provides excellent zoom capabilities, capturing distant subjects with clarity and detail.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 also delivers impressive camera performance, with a reliable 50MP primary sensor that produces sharp and vibrant images. The 12MP ultra-wide lens and 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom are capable of capturing a wide range of scenes, from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups.

    Low-Light Performance

    Low-light performance is a crucial aspect of smartphone photography, and both the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 perform admirably in this regard. The Vivo’s primary sensor, with its large aperture and advanced image processing, captures bright and detailed photos in low-light conditions. The dedicated Night Mode enhances details and reduces noise, ensuring impressive low-light shots.

    Samsung’s Z Fold 6 also features a robust Night Mode that delivers excellent low-light performance. The primary sensor captures well-lit and detailed photos, while the software algorithms enhance brightness and reduce noise. However, the Vivo’s Zeiss optics and advanced image processing give it a slight edge in low-light photography.

    Video Recording

    For video recording, both devices offer impressive capabilities. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro supports 8K video recording at 30fps and 4K at 60fps. The V3 IM chip enhances video quality, providing better stabilization, dynamic range, and color accuracy. The Vivo’s cinematic portrait mode and advanced video features make it a great choice for content creators.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 also supports 8K video recording at 30fps and 4K at 60fps. The video quality is excellent, with smooth stabilization and vibrant colors. Samsung’s advanced video features, including Pro Video Mode and Director’s View, provide additional tools for capturing high-quality videos.

    Selfie Cameras

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro features a 32MP front-facing camera on the cover screen, providing high-resolution selfies with excellent detail and color accuracy. The internal display also houses a 32MP under-display camera, which, while not as sharp as the cover screen camera, still delivers decent selfies.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 features a 10MP cover screen camera and a 4MP under-display camera on the internal display. The cover screen camera captures good-quality selfies, but the under-display camera’s performance is less impressive due to its lower resolution.

    In terms of overall camera performance, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s versatile camera setup, Zeiss optics, and advanced image processing give it an edge over the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. However, both devices are capable of capturing stunning photos and videos, making them excellent choices for photography enthusiasts.

     

    Conclusion

    Both the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro are top-tier foldable devices that offer exceptional performance, innovative features, and impressive design. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro stands out with its larger battery, faster charging, versatile camera setup, and slightly more comfortable design. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, on the other hand, offers a more refined software experience, better speaker quality, and longer software support.

    Ultimately, the choice between these two devices will come down to personal preferences and priorities. If you value battery life, fast charging, and a superior camera system, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is an excellent choice. If you prioritize software experience, audio quality, and long-term software updates, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the better option.

    Both devices represent the pinnacle of foldable technology, pushing the boundaries of what smartphones can achieve. Whichever device you choose, you’ll be getting a cutting-edge foldable that offers a unique and versatile user experience.

    LEAVE A RESPONSE

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Daven Klarsen
    Daven Klarsen is a technology writer and researcher. He's also an avid sports fan, especially when it comes to the LAL. When not working, you can usually find him tweaking his Android devices or watching soccer news.
    View all posts

    You Might Also Like

    Latest News