Oneplus Open Vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Which Folding Phone Feels More Durable

When investing in a premium foldable smartphone, durability isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a necessity. With prices often exceeding $1,500, buyers expect these devices to withstand daily wear and tear without compromising performance or structural integrity. The OnePlus Open and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 represent two of the most compelling options in the current foldable market, each bringing distinct engineering philosophies to the table. But when it comes to long-term resilience, which device truly feels more durable?

This isn’t just about who has a slightly sturdier hinge or a scratch-resistant coating. It’s about how the entire design philosophy—from materials selection to internal reinforcement—impacts user confidence over months of real-world handling. Let’s dissect both phones across key durability dimensions to determine which one inspires greater trust in its longevity.

Build Quality and Materials: Engineering for Longevity

Durability begins with material choices. Both OnePlus and Samsung have moved beyond early foldable prototypes that felt fragile and instead prioritize industrial-grade components. However, their approaches differ significantly.

The OnePlus Open uses an aerospace-grade aluminum alloy for its frame, specifically designed to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity. Its outer shell is constructed from Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, known for improved drop resistance compared to previous generations. More notably, the inner foldable display is protected by a custom ultra-thin glass (UTG) solution developed in collaboration with Chinese manufacturer BOE. This layer is reinforced with a proprietary polymer film that OnePlus claims reduces micro-abrasions during repeated folding.

In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold5 employs Samsung’s Armor Aluminum for the frame—a lightweight yet resilient alloy previously used in military-grade applications. The external cover screen and back panel are covered in Gorilla Glass Victus+, offering enhanced scratch and impact resistance. Inside, Samsung continues to refine its UTG technology, now in its third generation, with additional silicone-based protective layers beneath the display to absorb mechanical stress.

While both brands utilize high-end materials, Samsung’s longer experience in foldable development shows in the subtleties. For example, the Z Fold5’s hinge mechanism integrates dust-resistant brushes meeting IPX8 water resistance standards—something the OnePlus Open lacks entirely. Although neither device has full IP68 certification, the Fold5’s partial sealing gives it an edge against environmental contaminants that can degrade internal components over time.

Tip: Always clean the hinge area gently with a dry brush weekly to prevent dust buildup, especially on non-sealed foldables like the OnePlus Open.

Hinge Design and Folding Mechanism: The Heart of Durability

The hinge is arguably the most critical component affecting a foldable phone’s lifespan. It must endure tens of thousands of folds without loosening, creaking, or allowing debris ingress. Here, Samsung’s years of iterative refinement give the Z Fold5 a noticeable advantage.

Samsung’s “ultra-slim” hinge design allows the Fold5 to close flush with no visible gap—an aesthetic win, but also a functional one. By minimizing openings, the risk of lint and dust entering the crease zone is reduced. Internally, the hinge uses dual rails and precision gears tested for over 200,000 folds, equivalent to five years of average use. Independent lab tests by DisplayMate confirm minimal wear even after accelerated lifecycle simulations.

OnePlus took a different route with its \"Flex Hinge\" system. While it supports multiple angles and opens smoothly, there remains a small gap when closed. This gap, though narrow, can allow fine particles to accumulate near the central crease. Over time, this may lead to increased friction on the display surface, potentially accelerating wear. OnePlus does include nylon brushes at the hinge ends, but they don’t fully enclose the mechanism like Samsung’s.

From a tactile standpoint, the Z Fold5 feels more refined. Closing the device produces a satisfying magnetic snap, signaling secure alignment. The OnePlus Open closes softly but lacks that same assurance. Users report occasionally feeling slight lateral play after extended use—a sign of early hinge wear—though OnePlus states all units undergo rigorous factory calibration.

“Hinge stability is directly linked to screen longevity. Even minor misalignment can cause uneven pressure distribution across the fold line.” — Dr. Lin Mei, Senior Engineer at TCL Display Lab

Display Protection and Crease Resistance

A foldable phone’s screen is its most vulnerable element. Despite advances in UTG, creases remain unavoidable. The question isn’t whether a crease exists, but how well it resists deepening over time.

The OnePlus Open features a shallower crease than most predecessors—measuring approximately 0.01mm in depth—thanks to its wider hinge radius. This broader arc distributes stress more evenly across the fold. Additionally, the BOE-made inner display uses a self-healing polymer coating that helps mask minor surface scratches. In side-by-side comparisons, the Open’s crease is less perceptible to the fingertip than the Fold5’s, making it more pleasant for reading and writing.

However, perception doesn’t always equal protection. Samsung applies a thicker layer of PET film over its inner display—now upgraded to a matte finish in the Fold5 to reduce glare and fingerprint visibility. While this adds slight texture, it enhances abrasion resistance. Third-party scratch tests show the Fold5’s inner screen resisting keys and coins better than the Open’s, suggesting superior day-to-day resilience despite a more noticeable crease.

For users who frequently take notes or use styluses, this difference matters. The Fold5’s tougher surface handles S Pen input with less risk of micro-scratches, whereas the Open recommends using only soft-tipped styluses to avoid damaging its smoother coating.

Real-World Durability: A User’s Experience After Six Months

To assess long-term durability beyond lab conditions, consider the experience of Alex Rivera, a tech journalist who used both devices interchangeably for six months in urban environments.

Rivera carried the OnePlus Open in his front pocket alongside keys and wallet, subjecting it to frequent compression and occasional drops onto concrete. After four months, he noticed faint white lines radiating from the crease under bright light—indicative of delamination starting beneath the display layers. No functional issues arose, but the cosmetic change was concerning.

In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold5, used primarily in a jacket pocket with a slim case, showed no signs of internal screen degradation. The outer display survived three accidental drops (all under 3 feet) with only minor scuffs thanks to Victus+ glass. Rivera noted that the Fold5’s tighter seal kept the hinge area free of debris, while the Open required monthly cleaning to remove trapped lint.

“I trusted the Fold5 more in unpredictable situations,” Rivera said. “It didn’t feel indestructible, but it gave me confidence it could handle my lifestyle. The Open felt premium, but more delicate—like a luxury watch you wouldn’t wear hiking.”

Durability Comparison Table

Feature	OnePlus Open	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
Frame Material	Aerospace Aluminum	Armor Aluminum
Outer Glass	Gorilla Glass Victus 2	Gorilla Glass Victus+
Inner Display Coating	Self-healing Polymer	Matte PET Film
Hinge Sealing	Limited (brushes only)	IPX8-rated Dust Resistance
Certified Fold Cycles	200,000	200,000
Gap When Closed	Visible Small Gap	Flush Closure
S Pen Support	No	Yes (with compatible tips)
User-reported Crease Visibility	Low	Moderate

Actionable Durability Checklist

To maximize the lifespan of any foldable phone, follow these best practices regardless of model:

• Use a protective case: Especially one that shields the edges and elevates the screen when placed face-down.
• Clean the hinge weekly: Use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove accumulated debris.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Don’t leave the device in hot cars or freezing conditions; thermal expansion stresses hinges and displays.
• Keep fingers off the crease: Oils and pressure can accelerate wear on the weakest part of the screen.
• Don’t force closure: Let the magnets guide the device shut; forcing it may misalign the rails.
• Update software regularly: Manufacturers often release hinge calibration updates to optimize folding dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace the inner screen if it gets damaged?

Yes, but it’s expensive—typically costing between $300 and $500 depending on region and service provider. Samsung offers official repair programs for the Z Fold5, while OnePlus provides limited depot services outside China. Third-party repairs exist but risk compromising water resistance and structural integrity.

Which phone is better for heavy daily use?

The Galaxy Z Fold5 edges ahead due to its sealed hinge, tougher inner coating, and proven track record in demanding environments. If your routine involves commuting, travel, or outdoor work, the Fold5’s resilience makes it the safer bet.

Does the crease get worse over time?

All foldables develop slightly deeper creases with prolonged use, but neither the OnePlus Open nor the Galaxy Z Fold5 shows significant deepening within the first two years under normal conditions. Aggressive usage—such as pressing objects into the fold line—can accelerate this process.

Final Verdict: Which Feels More Durable?

The OnePlus Open excels in elegance and ergonomics, offering a sleeker profile, lighter weight, and a less intrusive crease. It feels like a statement device—innovative, bold, and meticulously crafted. However, durability isn’t solely about aesthetics; it’s about consistency under stress.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, built upon five generations of foldable evolution, communicates robustness through every interaction. Its flush closure, sealed hinge, and battle-tested materials inspire confidence. You’re less likely to second-guess tossing it into a bag or using it in rainy weather. That psychological reassurance—knowing the device is engineered to endure—is what defines true durability.

In head-to-head evaluation, the Galaxy Z Fold5 feels more durable not because it’s invincible, but because Samsung has systematically addressed the weak points that plagued earlier foldables. It balances innovation with pragmatism, making it the preferred choice for users who demand reliability without sacrificing functionality.

💬 Have you used either the OnePlus Open or Galaxy Z Fold5 long-term? Share your durability experiences, tips, or concerns in the comments below—your insights could help others make a more informed decision.