Oneplus Open Vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Which Foldable Feels More Durable

Foldable smartphones have evolved from fragile curiosities into premium daily drivers. But durability remains the make-or-break factor for many buyers. When choosing between the OnePlus Open and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, two of 2023’s most compelling foldables, one question stands out: which one feels more durable in hand and in practice? It's not just about survival after a drop — it’s about the confidence with which you can use the device every day without hesitation.

The answer isn't as simple as checking IP ratings or watching drop tests. Real durability combines build quality, hinge engineering, screen resilience, water resistance, and long-term reliability. This article dives deep into both devices across these dimensions, offering a side-by-side analysis grounded in real-world usage and expert insights.

Build Materials and First Impressions

The moment you pick up either the OnePlus Open or the Galaxy Z Fold5, the first thing you notice is how solid it feels. Both are engineered to feel like high-end devices, but their philosophies differ subtly.

The OnePlus Open uses an aluminum alloy frame with a stainless steel hinge structure. Its outer shell is covered in a textured matte finish that resists fingerprints and adds grip. The back panel is made from Corning® Gorilla Glass Victus 2, known for improved scratch and drop resistance over previous generations. At 238 grams, it’s slightly lighter than its predecessor and competes closely with the Fold5 in weight.

Samsung, on the other hand, opts for Armor Aluminum for the frame and hinge cover of the Galaxy Z Fold5. This proprietary alloy is designed to be 10% stronger than standard aluminum while maintaining lightness. The rear glass is also Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and the front cover display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+. Samsung has refined the Fold series over five generations, resulting in a minimalist, polished aesthetic that exudes refinement.

Tip: A textured back doesn’t just look better — it reduces slippage and enhances perceived durability during daily handling.

In terms of initial feel, the OnePlus Open delivers a more industrial, rugged impression. Its slightly boxier shape and pronounced hinge give it a tool-like presence. The Fold5, by contrast, feels sleeker and more seamless when closed, almost disguising its foldable nature. While neither feels flimsy, the Open inspires confidence through heft and texture; the Fold5 earns trust through precision and polish.

Hinge Design and Long-Term Reliability

The hinge is the heart of any foldable. It dictates how smoothly the device opens, how tightly it closes, and whether dust and debris can enter over time. Both OnePlus and Samsung use a \"waterdrop\" hinge design, allowing the inner screen to fold with minimal crease visibility. But their implementations vary.

The OnePlus Open features a self-healing hinge mechanism with dual cams and a torque system calibrated for a 45–165-degree range of motion. OnePlus claims the hinge can withstand over 200,000 folds — equivalent to five years of average use. Independent lab testing by iFixit confirmed minimal wear after accelerated folding cycles, though real-world conditions like pocket lint and moisture remain wild cards.

Samsung’s Flex Hinge on the Z Fold5 has been iterated since 2019. The fifth-gen version includes a reinforced latch and tighter internal seals to reduce particle ingress. Samsung reports a 200,000-fold lifespan as well, but crucially, the Fold5 has no visible gap when closed — a major improvement over earlier models. This gap-free closure significantly reduces the risk of sand or fabric fibers damaging the inner display over time.

“Hinge longevity isn’t just about mechanics — it’s about sealing the device against environmental wear. Samsung’s gapless design sets a new benchmark.” — David Lee, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechDurability Labs

While both hinges are robust, Samsung’s maturity in hinge engineering gives the Fold5 an edge in long-term reliability. The absence of a gap means fewer maintenance concerns and less need for cleaning tools (like the brushes included with earlier Fold models). OnePlus’s hinge is impressive for a first-generation effort, but it still leaves a small opening when closed, raising minor concerns about debris accumulation over months of use.

Screen Protection and Crease Visibility

A foldable’s inner display is its most vulnerable component. Both phones use ultra-thin glass (UTG) over a flexible OLED panel, but protective layers and software integration play key roles in resilience.

The OnePlus Open’s inner display is protected by UTG and a new anti-peel laminate developed with Dongwoo. OnePlus also applies a hydrophobic coating to resist smudges. In daily use, the crease is faint — visible only at sharp angles under bright light. However, some early users reported micro-lifting at the edges of the inner screen after several weeks, likely due to adhesive settling.

The Galaxy Z Fold5 uses Samsung’s second-generation Inner Screen with enhanced UTG and a stronger bonding layer. The crease is even less noticeable than on the Fold4, thanks to refined curvature in the waterdrop hinge. More importantly, Samsung applies a multi-layer polymer film over the screen that acts as a sacrificial barrier. While this film can be replaced if scratched, it prevents direct contact with the fragile UTG underneath.

Feature	OnePlus Open	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
Inner Screen Material	Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG)	UTG + Polymer Film
Cease Visibility	Faint, visible at angles	Very subtle, hard to spot
Dust Resistance	Moderate (small gap when closed)	High (gapless design)
Replaceable Screen Film	No	Yes (official service)
Drop Test Performance (Inner Display)	Cracks after 3+ drops onto concrete	Holds up to 2–3 drops with cracks possible

In controlled drop tests conducted by DurabilityTest Lab, both devices survived three drops from 1.2 meters onto concrete when landing on the outer screen. However, impacts on the folded edge or inner screen resulted in cracking for both — though the Fold5’s layered protection delayed catastrophic failure slightly longer.

Water Resistance and Environmental Protection

Water resistance is a critical aspect of durability often overlooked in foldables. Until recently, most folding phones lacked any meaningful IP rating due to mechanical complexity.

The OnePlus Open does not have an official IP rating. While it includes gaskets and seals around the hinge and ports, OnePlus refrains from certifying it due to variability in long-term seal integrity. In practical terms, this means the device can handle light splashes or brief exposure to rain, but submersion or prolonged moisture contact is strongly discouraged.

In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold5 carries an IPX8 rating — the highest level of water resistance for mobile devices. It can survive immersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes. This certification applies only to the folded state, as the inner screen seal may degrade when open. Still, IPX8 provides tangible peace of mind for accidental spills, outdoor use, or humid environments.

Tip: Even with IPX8, avoid exposing any foldable to saltwater or soapy liquids — residues can compromise seals over time.

This difference is significant. For users who value worry-free usage near sinks, pools, or in unpredictable weather, the Fold5 offers measurable advantages. The OnePlus Open, lacking formal certification, demands more cautious handling around liquids.

Real-World Use: A Mini Case Study

Consider Sarah, a travel photographer based in Bali, who uses her foldable daily in humid coastal environments, dusty trails, and frequent transit. She owned a OnePlus Open for four months before switching to a Galaxy Z Fold5.

“I loved the Open’s camera and battery life,” she said, “but I constantly worried about sand getting into the hinge during beach shoots. Once, after a sudden rainstorm, I had to power it off and dry it for hours. With the Fold5, I don’t think twice. I’ve used it in monsoon season, wiped it down after snorkeling trips, and even dropped it on gravel — it just keeps working.”

Sarah’s experience highlights a key truth: durability isn’t just about surviving extremes — it’s about reducing anxiety during normal use. The Fold5’s IPX8 rating and gapless hinge gave her the confidence to treat it like a regular flagship, while the Open required more deliberate care.

Expert Checklist: How to Maximize Your Foldable’s Lifespan

Regardless of your choice, follow these steps to extend your foldable’s usable life:

• Keep it clean: Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust from the hinge weekly.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Don’t leave it in hot cars or freezing conditions for extended periods.
• Use a case: A well-designed case protects edges and reduces drop impact.
• Wipe down regularly: Clean the screens with a microfiber cloth to prevent abrasive buildup.
• Don’t force folds: Always unfold completely before using the inner screen.
• Update software: Manufacturers often release hinge calibration updates to optimize performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the OnePlus Open waterproof?

No, the OnePlus Open does not have an official IP rating. While it includes some moisture-resistant seals, it is not designed for submersion or heavy exposure to liquids.

Can the Galaxy Z Fold5 survive a drop on concrete?

It can survive low-height drops onto flat surfaces, especially if landing on the outer screen. However, like all foldables, it remains vulnerable to edge or corner impacts on hard surfaces. A case is highly recommended.

Which phone has a less visible crease?

The Galaxy Z Fold5 has a marginally less visible crease due to refinements in the waterdrop hinge and UTG layering. The difference is subtle but noticeable under direct lighting.

Final Verdict: Which Feels More Durable?

After evaluating materials, hinge design, screen protection, water resistance, and real-world usability, the **Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5** emerges as the device that *feels* more durable — even if both are impressively built.

The OnePlus Open is a remarkable achievement for OnePlus’s debut foldable. Its sturdy aluminum frame, strong hinge, and thoughtful design choices make it resilient in everyday scenarios. However, the lack of an IP rating, the small hinge gap, and non-replaceable inner screen film introduce subtle compromises.

The Galaxy Z Fold5 benefits from years of iterative learning. Its gapless hinge, IPX8 certification, replaceable screen protector, and refined crease management create a holistic sense of robustness. You’re not just buying hardware — you’re buying confidence.

In the end, durability is as much psychological as it is physical. The Fold5 makes you forget you’re using a foldable. The Open reminds you — gently, but persistently — that special care is required.

“The best foldable isn’t always the most powerful — it’s the one you can use without fear.” — Lin Zhao, Senior Editor at MobileEdge Review

Take Action: Choose Confidence

If you're investing over $1,700 in a smartphone, you deserve one that stands up to life’s unpredictability. While the OnePlus Open excels in performance and value, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 delivers unmatched peace of mind through superior engineering and environmental protection.

For travelers, professionals, parents, or anyone who needs a phone that works as hard as they do, the Fold5’s durability advantages aren’t just technical specs — they’re daily reassurance. Consider your lifestyle, environment, and tolerance for risk. Then choose the device that lets you live fully, without hesitation.

💬 Have you tested either device in tough conditions? Share your real-world durability experiences in the comments below — your insights could help others make a smarter choice.