Both the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra show marked improvement in their display creases, which appear significantly less obvious and feel smoother than previous models when swiping across the screen. However, the jutting camera module on the back of both phones remains problematic, causing the devices to rock when placed on a surface—a design issue that cases do not adequately address.
The Fold8 performs better in everyday use, particularly with split-screen mode, which feels less cramped on the standard model and offers more breathing room. The Fold8 Ultra can display three apps side by side, but the additional $200 price difference between the two does not fully justify the cost for users prioritizing usability alone.
Performance is identical on both models, with each powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip that delivers smooth operation across applications and games. Battery life is stronger on the Ultra, equipped with a 5,000-mAh cell compared to the Fold8's 4,800-mAh capacity, which marks Samsung's first use of silicon-carbon battery technology. Testing showed the Ultra achieving more than six hours of screen-on time and the Fold8 reaching five to six hours, though usage patterns affect these results.
The camera system represents the most significant difference between the models. The Fold8 features a 50-megapixel primary sensor and 50-megapixel ultrawide lens, while the Fold8 Ultra offers a 200-megapixel main sensor and 10-megapixel 3X optical zoom capability. Both have two 10-megapixel selfie cameras on the outer and inner screens respectively. The lack of greater zoom options on the Fold8—such as the 5X optical zoom found on competing devices—limits its photography capabilities relative to its price point.