Galaxy Z Fold 7 Toughness Test Shows Mixed Results
Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold 7 has major design changes, like a thinner and lighter Armor Flex hinge and harder outside glass. But, tests by JerryRigEverything show that while the body is now more tough, the inside screen is still as easy to break as before.
Inside Screen Toughness No Change and Easy to Damage
The big worry with the Z Fold 7 is its 8-inch flexible inside screen. Key points are:
- High Scratch Risk: The screen gets scratches at a level 2 on the Mohs scale. This means normal things and even fingernails can make lasting marks.
- Burn-In Problems: Both inside and outside AMOLED screens can get burn-in if they get too hot for too long.
- Screen Protector Rule: Samsung gives one free inside screen protector change in the first year. More changes cost $19.99.
- High Cost to Fix: Fixing the full inside screen without the protector deal costs $589. Samsung also says not to use screen protectors from other brands to avoid damage at the fold.
Hinge and Dust Block Big Gains
The new Armor Flex hinge is 27% thinner and 43% lighter, and works better. Even though the device has an IP48 rating, which only stops particles bigger than 1mm, the hinge did well in dust tests. It didn't get stuck or break, a usual issue in older foldables. Still, the soft inside screen can get marks from sand and other tiny bits.
Body and Outside Parts
The phone's body is now stronger. It passed tests of bending it back and forth and other stress tests without the glass or hinge breaking. This better outside tough build is due to better materials:
- Cover Screen: Kept safe by Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2.
- Back Panel: Kept safe by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
- Camera Set: The 200MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto cameras are covered by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and new dust rings.
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is stronger in build than its past models. Its hinge is better at keeping out dust and its outside glass is harder. The main downside is the inside screen, which still gets scratches and burn-in from normal use. From these tests, the $2,000 phone is best for careful owners who can handle the big risks to the frail inside screen in daily use.
