In 2026, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, a significant upgrade over the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Measuring 8.9mm thick in the folded state and just 4.1mm when opened, the Fold 8 Ultra is notably slimmer than the Fold 6, which had a folded thickness of 12.1mm. The improved thickness makes the phone feel more like a single, cohesive device rather than the awkward union of two parts.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra introduces a redesigned chassis with smoother edges that make it easier to open with one hand. Its outer screen has grown to 6.5 inches, compared to the 6.3-inch screen on the Galaxy Z Fold 6. The internal display is 8 inches, with a 120Hz refresh rate that improves the user experience when browsing or watching media. Samsung also worked to reduce the visibility of the crease, responding to a common complaint from previous models.
Display and Durability Upgrades
Both the Fold 8 Ultra and Fold 6 have an IP48 rating for dust and water resistance. However, the newer model adds an anti-reflective coating to the foldable display. This feature improves visibility in bright outdoor environments, making the phone more usable in sunlight.
Powering the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is a silicon-carbon battery with a capacity of 5,000mAh, paired with the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. This combination offers faster performance and better energy efficiency. The phone also shares the same high-end camera hardware as the Galaxy S26 Ultra, including a 200MP main camera, 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens. These upgrades make the Fold 8 Ultra a strong option for productivity and high-quality photography.
The Galaxy Z Fold 6, on the other hand, still relies on the older Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and lacks the new camera hardware, including the 200MP main and ultra-wide lenses. While the Fold 6 is not obsolete, it falls short in both technical and visual performance compared to its newer counterpart.
Pricing and S Pen Support
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is available for $2,099.99 in the 256GB model, with optional storage upgrades to 512GB or 1TB. The Fold 6, launched in 2024 at $1,899, is now mostly unavailable in new condition. However, used and refurbished versions of the Fold 6 can be purchased for around $500, making it a more budget-friendly alternative.
Battery and Performance Enhancements
One major difference is S Pen support. The Fold 6 remains the last Samsung foldable to include compatibility with the S Pen. For users who use a stylus for drawing, note-taking, or navigation, this feature is a significant advantage. The Fold 8 Ultra lacks S Pen support entirely, and there’s no indication that it will ever be added. This makes the Fold 6 the better choice for those who rely on a stylus.
While the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers improvements in almost every area, including a lighter build, longer battery life, and a more powerful processor, the absence of S Pen support may deter some users from upgrading. For those who need a stylus, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is still a viable option, despite its drawbacks in size, weight, and camera capabilities.
Key Considerations for Users
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is a major step forward for Samsung's foldable lineup, delivering a thinner, lighter, and more powerful device. However, it's not the right choice for everyone. For S Pen users or those who prefer a lower price point, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 might still be the better option. Samsung has successfully positioned the Fold 8 Ultra as the top-tier foldable in the North American market.
With its sleeker build and improved performance, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra sets a new standard for foldable devices. It’s clear that Samsung has refined the design and functionality of its foldable series. However, if S Pen support is important, users may need to reconsider before making the switch.
