Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Vs iPhone 11 Pro

Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:154.00

Versus €999.00 new

See options
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:176.00

Versus €809.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, released in 2021, and the Apple iPhone 11 Pro, launched in 2019, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and user experience. The primary differentiator lies in their form factor: the Z Flip3 offers a unique foldable design running on Android, while the iPhone 11 Pro features a traditional slab design powered by iOS. This comparison will explore their practical differences, from their core capabilities to their suitability for various user needs.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline and Software Support: The iPhone 11 Pro, released in September 2019, has received several major iOS updates since its launch. Apple typically provides software support for its devices for approximately 5-6 years. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, launched in August 2021, benefits from a more recent release, meaning it will likely receive Android updates for a longer period, potentially extending its software longevity compared to the iPhone 11 Pro.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices offer water resistance, though with different ratings. The iPhone 11 Pro is rated IP68, allowing submersion in up to 4 meters of water for 30 minutes. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G features an IPX8 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes, but it does not have official dust resistance. The Z Flip3's main display utilizes Ultra Thin Glass, while its cover screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus. The iPhone 11 Pro features a glass front and back with a stainless steel frame.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain functional for several years. However, the Z Flip3's newer release date and the inherent nature of a foldable screen introduce different considerations for long-term mechanical durability compared to the rigid design of the iPhone 11 Pro.

Year of Release

2021

2019

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

Yes

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to demanding multimedia use. These two devices offer different levels of processing power and memory configurations.

  • Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is equipped with a processor that was current-generation at its release, enabling smooth handling of demanding applications and efficient multitasking. The iPhone 11 Pro features a powerful processor that, while older, still provides a responsive experience for most everyday tasks and applications. Users will find both capable for general use, but the Z Flip3 may offer more headroom for future software and intensive gaming.
  • Memory and Storage: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G typically comes with 8GB of RAM, contributing to fluid multitasking and app management. Storage options include 128GB and 256GB. The iPhone 11 Pro generally features 4GB of RAM, which is optimized by its operating system for efficient performance. It offers storage capacities of 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB. Users who frequently switch between many applications or require more local storage for large files might find the Z Flip3's RAM and the iPhone's higher storage tiers beneficial.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G has a 3300 mAh battery. User experiences suggest that its battery life can be moderate, especially with heavy use of the main display. The iPhone 11 Pro is equipped with a 3046 mAh battery. Despite the smaller capacity, its optimized software often allows for a full day of typical use, with some users reporting extended endurance compared to previous models.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and these two devices offer distinct visual experiences, largely due to their form factors and display technologies.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G features a 6.7-inch Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display when unfolded, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. Its unique aspect is the 1.9-inch Super AMOLED cover screen, useful for quick notifications and controls without unfolding. The iPhone 11 Pro has a 5.8-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its color accuracy and contrast.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The Z Flip3's main screen has a FHD+ resolution of 2640 x 1080 pixels and can reach a peak brightness of 1200 nits. The iPhone 11 Pro offers a resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 458 pixels per inch, and also achieves a peak brightness of 1200 nits. Both provide clear and sharp visuals, suitable for various content consumption.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A key difference is the refresh rate. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G's main display boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. The iPhone 11 Pro has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Users prioritizing a visibly smoother on-screen experience, particularly in gaming or fast-paced content, may notice the difference offered by the Z Flip3.

Resolution

1080 x 2640

1125 x 2436

Screen type

Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both devices offer capable camera systems, but they differ in their configurations and photographic strengths, catering to varied user preferences.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G features a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The iPhone 11 Pro sports a triple-camera system, including a 12MP wide-angle lens with OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom and OIS. The inclusion of a dedicated telephoto lens on the iPhone 11 Pro provides greater versatility for zoomed-in shots without digital degradation.
  • Photography Performance: The iPhone 11 Pro is noted for its Night mode, which significantly enhances low-light photography, and features like Deep Fusion for improved detail and texture in various lighting conditions. The Z Flip3's foldable design allows for unique shooting angles, such as using the main cameras for selfies while the phone is partially folded. Both are capable of capturing high-quality photos in good lighting.
  • Video Recording and Audio: Both devices support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second. The iPhone 11 Pro also offers extended dynamic range for video and cinematic video stabilization. The Z Flip3 supports HDR10+ recording. For audio, both provide clear microphone quality for calls and recordings, and their speaker outputs are suitable for media consumption, though specific audio enhancements may vary.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience, including connectivity, physical design, and security.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G supports 5G networks, offering faster mobile data speeds where available, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1. It uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 11 Pro supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. It utilizes Apple's proprietary Lightning port.
  • Security and Sensors: The Z Flip3 incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, alongside face recognition. The iPhone 11 Pro relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, for secure unlocking and payments.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G's defining characteristic is its foldable design. When folded, it is compact (72.2 x 86.4 x 15.9-17.1mm) and easily fits into smaller pockets. Unfolded, it offers a larger screen experience (72.2 x 166.0 x 6.9mm). It weighs 183g. The iPhone 11 Pro has a traditional bar form factor, measuring 144 x 71.4 x 8.1 mm and weighing 188g, making it a comfortable size for one-handed use. Both devices feature premium build materials, with the Z Flip3 using an Armor Aluminum frame and the iPhone 11 Pro a stainless steel frame.

Weight

183 g

188 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

5.8

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G often praises its innovative foldable design, which offers a compact form factor when closed and a large display when open, along with its vibrant main screen and smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Some common criticisms include its battery life, which some users find to be moderate, and the durability considerations inherent to a folding screen. The iPhone 11 Pro is frequently lauded for its robust performance, consistent camera quality, especially its Night mode and telephoto lens, and its reliable software experience. Occasional criticisms may point to its 60Hz display refresh rate, which is lower than some contemporary Android devices, and its older design compared to newer models.

Users prioritizing a unique, compact form factor and a high refresh rate display for a modern Android experience may find the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G well-suited to their needs. Its ability to stand partially folded can also be beneficial for hands-free viewing or video calls. Conversely, users who value a consistently strong camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens, a highly optimized operating system, and a traditional, durable design might lean towards the iPhone 11 Pro. Both devices offer distinct ecosystems and user interfaces, so personal preference for Android or iOS will also be a significant factor.

For those considering either of these devices, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can be an eco-friendly alternative to extend their lifecycle and make a sustainable choice.

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