The Vivo X Fold5 is shaking up the foldable smartphone market with impressive features that push the envelope in battery life, protection, and design.
This device not only comes with the largest battery yet for any foldable phone but also packs the highest water resistance ratings ever seen on a foldable.
Let’s start with the standout feature: the massive 6,000mAh battery. While this isn’t the thinnest foldable phone out there, Vivo’s engineers have managed to balance size and power in a way that previous foldables couldn’t. The phone uses a dual-cell setup, splitting the capacity into two 3,275mAh and 2,725mAh cells. This battery is complemented by 40W fast wireless charging and 80W wired charging – impressive, considering the slim design.
In terms of durability, the Vivo X Fold5 is a marvel. It’s not just thinner than its predecessor but also boasts an IP69+ rating for dust and water resistance. This means it can handle water jets and even be submerged, while still performing in extreme cold temperatures, as low as -20°C.
The displays are another highlight. Both screens – a 6.53-inch cover display and an 8.03-inch inner display – stay the same size as the previous version but now include improved technology. The inner display is an LTPO OLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate and 10-bit color depth, providing vibrant visuals with peak brightness reaching up to 4,500 nits. Additionally, the inner screen is protected by second-generation Armor Glass, while the external screen gets a Zeiss Master Color Screen, adding more refinement to the experience.
Performance-wise, the Vivo X Fold5 relies on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, a powerful processor that can still compete with newer chips. Paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, it delivers smooth performance. However, it’s true that this chip is technically one generation behind, but the difference is not noticeable in everyday use, gaming, or general tasks.
On the camera front, the X Fold5 doesn’t disappoint. It features a triple 50MP camera setup, including a Zeiss T* coated lens for both the wide and telephoto lenses. The 50MP main sensor is a Sony IMX921, and the telephoto lens is a 3x periscope, also from Sony. For those looking to capture wide shots, the ultra-wide lens also offers 50MP resolution. These cameras are expected to offer great performance, but optimization will be key to ensure they deliver top-tier results.
For connectivity, the Vivo X Fold5 supports 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and more. The USB-C port supports USB 3.2 Gen 1, allowing fast data transfer. The phone is priced attractively too, with the base 12GB/256GB model starting at ¥7,000 (around $975), making it a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-end foldable without breaking the bank. It’s expected to go on sale on July 2 in China, with a wider release likely to follow soon.
The Vivo X Fold5 sets the bar high for foldable smartphones in terms of battery life, water resistance, and design. While its performance may not break new ground, its focus on practical features such as the large battery and superior protection makes it a worthy contender in the foldable space. If you’re after a foldable that delivers great value without compromising on essentials, the Vivo X Fold5 is definitely worth considering.