Samsung recently launched the Galaxy Z Flip7 (review), alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 (review) and the Z Flip7 FE. I picked up the Flip7, and at first, I wasn’t sure how I would use it. Personally, I prefer phones with large batteries, flagship cameras, and zoom lenses.
The Z Flip7 does not offer any of that. It does not have a large battery. It does not have a dedicated zoom lens. And while the cameras are good, they are not the absolute best you can get in the market right now.
The Beautiful Cover Screen
But there is one thing that sets it apart… and that is the folding design, especially the cover screen.
The Z Flip7 folds into a compact 4.1-inch square (almost), and when unfolded, it reveals a 6.9-inch main display. But what really makes a difference is the outer 4.1-inch cover screen, which now stretches edge-to-edge. In my opinion, it is the most beautiful implementation of a cover display on any foldable.
The bezels are extremely thin at just 1.25mm, and the flat design makes it look modern and premium. Samsung has absolutely nailed the design here. This is what I would call peak Samsung Z Flip design.
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The Cameras
Now let’s talk about the cameras, especially for vlogging. At first glance, the camera setup on the Z Flip7 might not seem extraordinary. It does not have a telephoto lens, and the sensor size is not the largest in the industry.
But when it comes to vlogging, especially if you want to see yourself while recording, it is unbeatable. The best selfie cameras on smartphones today use relatively small sensors, like the Samsung JN1 or JN5. Those are fine, but they are still limited in terms of quality and depth.
With the Z Flip7, you can use the main rear camera for vlogging, while still being able to see yourself through the cover screen. The main camera uses a 1/1.57-inch sensor with a 23mm focal length, which offers significantly better detail, clarity, and background blur compared to any typical selfie camera.
You also get an ultra-wide camera with a 16mm focal length, which gives you a wider perspective if you want to include more of the background in your shots. This performs well in daylight but the low light performance isn’t good. It also lacks autofocus, which is very disappointing.
Using the Z Flip7 for Vlogging is Easy and Convenient
Using the Z Flip7 for filming yourself is incredibly simple. You just fold the phone, open the camera on the cover screen, and start recording. The phone is also more compact when folded, which makes it easy to carry and hold during longer vlogging sessions.
It fits into your pocket easily, and you don’t have to worry about holding a large slab the entire time.
I have also tried vlogging with book-style foldables, phones that fold horizontally like a tablet. While those do allow you to see yourself on the outer screen, they are not convenient to use. When opened, the device becomes much wider and feels like you’re recording using a tablet.
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It’s bulky and hard to manage with one hand, especially if you are walking or recording for a longer period. It simply doesn’t feel natural to vlog with such a wide and heavy device.
In contrast, the Flip is the opposite. When folded, it is compact and feels like you’re holding half the size of a normal phone. Yet, you are still able to see yourself through the cover display. It is much more practical and convenient.
What you can do with the camera on the cover screen
As for the camera software, Samsung has added a lot of features on the cover screen. You have three modes: Photo, Portrait, and Video. Both the ultra-wide and the main cameras are supported in Photo and Video modes.
You can record in different aspect ratios, such as the default cover screen ratio, 16:9, 9:16, or even 1:1. The cover screen aspect ratio records in 1080p at 30fps, which is fine for most people since social media platforms compress videos anyway.
But if you want to record in 4K, you can switch to the 9:16 aspect ratio, where 4K 30fps and 4K 60fps are both supported. 1080p 30/60fps is also available if you don’t need 4K.
There are also useful features like Super Steady mode, HDR, filters, and the new zoom slider, which feels very smooth and responsive, right on the cover screen. You can even take photos or start recording by simply showing your palm to the camera or touching the screen.
Samsung has made the entire experience polished and user-friendly.
One thing I really appreciate is the natural background blur you get from using the main camera. No selfie camera on any phone can deliver this kind of depth and separation. It makes your vlogs look more great, even without using portrait video modes.
Oh, and you can also prop up like this for when you cannot hold it in your hand.
The Z Flip7 makes me want to take more videos of myself
Ever since I got the Z Flip7, I’ve found myself taking more videos and photos of myself. I never used to do that before, but the convenience and quality this phone offers make the whole process enjoyable.
If you are someone who wants a phone that folds into a small size, looks premium, and offers a vlogging experience where you can see yourself using the main camera, then the Galaxy Z Flip7 is probably the best choice available right now.
You can, of course, still use the inner selfie camera, but once you try the main sensor with the cover screen, you won’t want to go back. Oh, and did I mention, you can use it in the camcorder mode as well?
The Galaxy Z Flip7 isn’t perfect by any means. Battery life could definitely be better, and heat management still leaves room for improvement. However, if you’re willing to compromise on those areas, it becomes a solid choice.
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