The Google Pixel Fold and the Tecno Phantom V Fold may not be available in the same places, but they’re interesting to compare. The Pixel Fold has faced criticism for its quality, and even though it’s a first-gen device, it’s expensive at $1,800. How does it stack up against the more affordable Tecno Phantom V Fold, which is about $700 cheaper? Surprisingly, the Pixel Fold holds its own.
These phones aren’t sold in the same markets – the Pixel Fold is in the US, UK, Japan, and Germany, while the Phantom V Fold is in India and South Asia. Still, comparing them is intriguing. Both have issues, but one might expect more compromises from the cheaper $1,100 Phantom V Fold.
Both phones fold like a book – small screens on the outside, big ones inside. They differ in design: Phantom V has a narrower 21:9 outer screen, unfolding to a 7.85-inch inner screen, while the Pixel Fold’s 17.4:9 outer screen unfolds to a 7.6-inch inner screen. Both outer screens work well, and they’re better than Samsung’s cramped outer screen on the Z Fold 5.
Looking at them side by side, they’re about the same size in different orientations. The Pixel Fold has larger bezels due to its thin, advanced hinge. The Phantom V Fold’s design, with a smartphone-like outer screen and tall inner screen, feels like a sweet spot. Pixel Fold is often used unfolded in a vertical orientation, as it’s more natural for scrolling apps and websites.
In terms of power, Pixel Fold has Google’s Tensor G2 chip, while Phantom V Fold uses a MediaTek flagship 9000+ chip. Both tend to get hot during use, with the Phantom V Fold heating up more. Battery-wise, the Phantom V Fold wins with impressive battery life, lasting multiple days with heavy usage. Pixel Fold’s battery drains faster.
Pixel Fold’s software is more polished, offering familiar Pixel features. Tecno’s software has issues, and the phone lacks security updates. Pixel Fold is known for its camera, with a 5x zoom telephoto lens, offering great photo quality.
In essence, the Pixel Fold and the Tecno Phantom V Fold have their pros and cons, and while the Pixel Fold is more polished and reliable, the Phantom V Fold offers good value for its price.