Oneplus Open Vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 Which Foldable Feels More Premium

When it comes to premium foldable smartphones, two devices stand out in 2024: the OnePlus Open and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. Both represent the pinnacle of engineering and luxury in mobile design, but they approach the concept of \"premium\" from different angles. While Samsung has spent years refining its foldable formula, OnePlus entered the space with a disruptive, bold vision. But when held in hand, opened on a desk, or used daily—what truly feels more luxurious?

The answer isn’t just about price or brand reputation. It’s about craftsmanship, materials, ergonomics, and subtle details that signal quality. This article dissects every aspect of both devices to determine which foldable delivers a genuinely more premium experience.

Design Philosophy: Refinement vs Rebellion

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 5 embodies evolutionary design. It builds upon four previous generations with incremental improvements: tighter hinge gaps, thinner profile, and better symmetry. The device exudes quiet confidence—a minimalist slab that opens into a tablet-like display. Its aluminum frame and matte glass back give it a corporate elegance, appealing to professionals who value discretion and reliability.

In contrast, the OnePlus Open takes a bolder stance. From the moment you unbox it, there’s a sense of theatricality. The horizontal fold mechanism is unique in the market, and the cover screen is significantly wider than the Fold 5’s narrow slit. OnePlus opted for a ceramic-metal hybrid frame and curved glass that hugs the hand differently. Where Samsung whispers sophistication, OnePlus announces arrival.

This difference in philosophy shapes the entire user experience. Samsung prioritizes familiarity and polish; OnePlus bets on differentiation and tactile delight. Neither is inherently superior, but one may resonate more depending on your definition of “premium.”

Tip: Premium feel isn't just visual—it's how the device balances in your palm, the sound it makes when folding, and the resistance of the hinge.

Materials and Build Quality

Premium perception starts with materials. Both phones use high-end components, but their execution diverges.

The Galaxy Z Fold 5 features Armor Aluminum for its frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both front and back. Samsung also uses its proprietary Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) on the inner display, which feels smoother and more durable than plastic alternatives. The hinge mechanism is now sealed against dust with an improved IPX8 water resistance rating—something the OnePlus Open lacks.

Meanwhile, the OnePlus Open employs a stainless steel and ceramic alloy for its frame, giving it a cooler, denser touch. Ceramic is rarer in smartphones due to cost and manufacturing complexity, making its inclusion a statement. The outer glass is curved Gorilla Glass 5, while the inner display uses UTG as well. However, the Open doesn’t carry any official IP rating, which may concern users expecting durability alongside luxury.

Weight distribution also plays a role. The Fold 5 weighs 253g and can feel top-heavy when unfolded. The Open, at 238g, is lighter and better balanced thanks to its horizontal hinge placement and symmetrical design. When held one-handed, the Open feels more natural despite its larger cover screen.

“Premium materials matter, but so does how they’re assembled. A phone can have ceramic and still feel cheap if the tolerances are off.” — David Kim, Senior Industrial Designer at Mobile Futures Lab

Hinge and Folding Mechanism

The hinge is the soul of any foldable. It defines how smoothly the device opens, whether it stays in place, and how much debris enters over time.

Samsung’s Flex Hinge on the Z Fold 5 allows for hands-free multi-angle operation. You can set it at nearly any angle, useful for video calls or typing. The hinge gap has been reduced compared to earlier models, minimizing the visible crease and preventing pocket lint from sneaking in. The dual-rail system is now more refined, though some users report a slight wobble when the device is fully open.

OnePlus introduced its own “Fluid Flex Hinge,” designed for minimal gap and seamless closure. The Open shuts flush without a visible gap—visually striking and satisfying to close. It supports free-stop positioning like Samsung’s, but only within a narrower range (70–110 degrees). Still, the action feels buttery and precise, with a magnetic snap that signals completion.

Critically, Samsung includes dust-resistant technology within the hinge rails, meeting IPX8 standards. OnePlus offers no such protection, relying instead on internal brushes (similar to older Galaxy models) to push debris away. In long-term use, this could affect longevity—especially for users in dusty environments.

Comparison Table: Key Design and Build Metrics

Feature	OnePlus Open	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Frame Material	Stainless Steel + Ceramic Alloy	Armor Aluminum
Back Material	Gorilla Glass 5 (Curved)	Glass (Matte Finish)
Inner Display Cover	Ultra-Thin Glass	Ultra-Thin Glass
Hinge Type	Fluid Flex Hinge (Flush Closing)	Dual Rail Flex Hinge
Free Stop Hinge	Yes (70°–110°)	Yes (Multi-angle)
Dust/Water Resistance	No IP Rating	IPX8 (Water Resistant)
Weight	238g	253g
Fold Direction	Horizontal	Vertical

User Experience and Daily Feel

A device can look premium but fail in daily use. Real-world interaction determines lasting impressions.

The OnePlus Open’s wider cover screen transforms the experience. At 3.8 inches wide, it’s usable for full messaging, navigation, and even social media scrolling—eliminating the need to unfold constantly. Typing on the outer screen feels productive, almost like using a mini smartphone. When unfolded, the 7.8-inch main display offers a near-square aspect ratio, ideal for multitasking with two apps side-by-side.

Samsung’s narrow 3.4-inch cover screen remains functional but limiting. You can reply to messages and check notifications, but prolonged use demands unfolding. Some users adapt; others find it frustrating. Inside, the 7.6-inch display leans toward portrait orientation, making it excellent for reading and document editing but less optimal for split-screen productivity.

One area where Samsung excels is software integration. Features like Flex Mode automatically adjust apps when the phone is partially open. Video calls center the camera, YouTube splits playback and comments, and the keyboard drops to the lower half. OnePlus offers similar functionality, but with fewer optimized apps and occasional lag in transitions.

Haptic feedback also contributes to perceived quality. The Open uses a custom X-axis motor tuned by OnePlus engineers, delivering sharp, precise taps. The Fold 5’s haptics are softer and more subdued—consistent with Samsung’s restrained aesthetic. Neither is objectively better, but those who appreciate tactile precision may lean toward OnePlus.

Tip: Try both devices in person. The way a hinge opens, the weight shift during unfolding, and the responsiveness of the cover screen are best judged through direct handling.

Mini Case Study: The Executive’s Dilemma

Consider Mark, a marketing director who travels frequently and values both efficiency and image. He tested both devices over a three-week period.

During client meetings, he found the OnePlus Open drew attention—not just because of its unique form factor, but because he could respond to urgent emails on the cover screen without disrupting conversation. The flush-closing hinge gave him confidence in pocket safety, and the lighter weight made extended note-taking easier.

However, when presenting data in dimly lit boardrooms, he preferred the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Its brighter inner display (up to 1200 nits peak) handled glare better, and Samsung DeX allowed him to mirror a desktop-like interface to conference room screens. The IPX8 rating also reassured him during rainy commutes.

In the end, Mark chose the Fold 5—not because it felt more luxurious, but because its ecosystem integration and proven reliability aligned with his professional needs. Yet he admitted the Open “felt more special” each time he opened it.

Expert Insight: What Defines Premium in 2024?

According to Dr. Lena Patel, a human-computer interaction researcher at MIT Media Lab, “The psychology of premium has shifted. It’s no longer just about materials or price. It’s about intentionality—how every interaction is choreographed to make the user feel considered.”

“Samsung offers polished predictability. OnePlus delivers emotional resonance. Both are valid paths to premium status.” — Dr. Lena Patel, HCI Researcher

She notes that small details—like the sound of the hinge locking, the texture of the back panel, or the animation when switching between screens—contribute to subconscious judgments of quality. OnePlus invests heavily in these micro-interactions, while Samsung focuses on macro-reliability.

Checklist: How to Judge Foldable Premiumness Yourself

• Evaluate the hinge action: Does it open smoothly? Does it stay open at various angles?
• Test the cover screen: Can you perform common tasks without unfolding?
• Assess balance: Does the phone feel front-heavy or awkward when unfolded?
• Listen to the closure: A soft click or magnetic snap adds to perceived quality.
• Check material finish: Is the back fingerprint-resistant? Does metal feel cold and dense?
• Inspect build gaps: Are seams tight? Is there any creaking when gently twisted?
• Review software fluidity: Do animations match the hardware’s premium claim?

FAQ

Is the OnePlus Open more durable than the Galaxy Z Fold 5?

The Galaxy Z Fold 5 currently holds an edge in durability due to its IPX8 water resistance and Samsung’s proven track record with foldables. While the OnePlus Open uses strong materials, it lacks official dust/water protection, which may impact long-term resilience.

Which phone feels more luxurious in hand?

Subjectively, many users report the OnePlus Open feels more luxurious due to its ceramic-influenced frame, flush hinge, and balanced weight. However, fans of minimalist design often prefer the Fold 5’s sleek, understated presence.

Does the lack of IP rating hurt the OnePlus Open’s premium claim?

It depends on priorities. For users who value engineering completeness, yes—the absence of an IP rating is a notable omission. But for those focused on aesthetics and tactile pleasure, the Open compensates with superior ergonomics and materials.

Final Verdict: Which Feels More Premium?

If premium is defined by meticulous refinement, ecosystem maturity, and proven durability, the **Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5** wins. It’s the safe, sophisticated choice—a business-class upgrade with conservative elegance.

But if premium means standing out, feeling innovation in your hands, and experiencing thoughtful design down to the smallest detail, the **OnePlus Open** takes the crown. It doesn’t just function well—it delights. From the satisfying hinge snap to the expansive cover screen and balanced heft, it’s engineered to impress every time you use it.

In essence: Samsung makes you feel confident. OnePlus makes you feel excited. Both are valid expressions of luxury.

💬 Have you held both devices? Which foldable gave you that 'wow' moment? Share your experience and help others decide what premium really means to them.