The dawn of foldable devices has brought a revolutionary change in how we perceive and use technology for productivity. These devices offer the portability of a smartphone and, at the same time, the functionality of a tablet or laptop. Foldable gadgets are particularly appealing for professionals on the go, allowing them to work efficiently without being tethered to a traditional desktop setup. With the market expanding rapidly, it can be challenging to choose the best foldable device. This article will guide you through the top 10 foldable devices for productivity, covering laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Laptops
Foldable laptops are a new frontier, combining the power of a traditional laptop with the versatility of a tablet.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold (2020)
Brand: Lenovo
Release Year: 2020
Price: Starting at $2,499
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold is the world’s first foldable PC, offering a remarkable OLED display that can bend and fold into various modes. With a durable, lightweight design and all-day battery life, it’s perfect for on-the-go professionals. However, its first-generation status means a premium price and some compromises in performance compared to traditional laptops.
Pros:
– Innovative foldable design
– Brilliant OLED display
– Solid build quality
Cons:
– High price point
– Limited hardware performance
Verdict: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold is ideal for early adopters who prioritize design and portability over raw performance.
ASUS ZenBook 17 Fold OLED (2022)
Brand: ASUS
Release Year: 2022
Price: TBA
The upcoming ASUS ZenBook 17 Fold OLED is a highly anticipated foldable laptop with a large 17.3-inch display that can be used as a massive tablet or a traditional laptop with a detached keyboard. It’s expected to offer high-end specs suitable for demanding tasks. The price is yet to be announced, but it’s likely to be positioned as a premium offering.
Pros:
– Large foldable OLED screen
– Versatile usage scenarios
– Expected high-end performance
Cons:
– Likely to be expensive
– Pending release, untested in real-world scenarios
Verdict: The ASUS ZenBook 17 Fold OLED is a promising device for users who need a large screen and versatility, but its practicality and value will be clearer post-launch.
Tablets
Foldable tablets blend the convenience of a larger screen with the portability of a smartphone, making them ideal for productivity tasks that benefit from more display real estate.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G (2021)
Brand: Samsung
Release Year: 2021
Price: Starting at $1,799
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G blurs the line between tablet and smartphone. As a foldable device, it offers a 7.6-inch tablet experience that fits in your pocket. With S Pen compatibility and robust multitasking features, it’s a powerhouse for productivity. However, its high price and relatively delicate screen may deter some users.
Pros:
– Large, vibrant inner screen
– S Pen support for note-taking and drawing
– Water-resistant design
Cons:
– Premium price
– Screen durability concerns
Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is an excellent choice for those seeking a pocket-sized device with tablet capabilities, provided the cost is within budget.
Huawei Mate X2 (2021)
Brand: Huawei
Release Year: 2021
Price: Starting at approximately $2,785
The Huawei Mate X2 impresses with its foldable design that unfolds into an 8-inch tablet. It boasts high-end specs, a fantastic camera system, and a robust hinge mechanism. However, the lack of Google services due to US trade restrictions and its steep price may limit its appeal to some users.
Pros:
– Expansive 8-inch display
– High-quality camera setup
– Strong build quality
Cons:
– No Google services
– Very high cost
Verdict: The Huawei Mate X2 is suitable for users seeking a premium foldable tablet experience and who can manage without Google services.
Smartphones
Foldable smartphones offer a compact way to carry a device that can transform into a tablet-like experience, making them excellent for productivity on the move.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G (2021)
Brand: Samsung
Release Year: 2021
Price: Starting at $999
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G stands out with its clamshell design, folding into a pocket-friendly square. It provides a full smartphone experience when unfolded, with flagship features and water resistance. While battery life could be better, its more approachable price makes it a popular choice.
Pros:
– Compact and stylish design
– Lower price point for a foldable
– Water-resistant
Cons:
– Average battery life
– Smaller cover display limits functionality
Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is great for those who want a foldable phone at a more accessible price point, with a focus on style and portability.
Microsoft Surface Duo 2 (2021)
Brand: Microsoft
Release Year: 2021
Price: Starting at $1,499
The Microsoft Surface Duo 2 is a dual-screen foldable device that excels in multitasking with its unique dual-display setup. It’s optimized for Microsoft 365 applications, making it an excellent tool for productivity. However, its software experience still needs refinement, and it lacks the appeal of a single, large folding screen.
Pros:
– Dual-screen multitasking
– Microsoft 365 integration
– Improved camera over its predecessor
Cons:
– Software can be buggy
– Not a traditional foldable screen
Verdict: The Microsoft Surface Duo 2 is best for users deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem who require multitasking capabilities.
OPPO Find N (2021)
Brand: OPPO
Release Year: 2021
Price: Starting at approximately $1,200
The OPPO Find N is a foldable smartphone that offers a well-balanced combination of features, with a smaller footprint and less noticeable crease compared to its competitors. It also comes with a high refresh rate display and a competitive price. Its availability is currently limited to certain markets, which may affect its accessibility.
Pros:
– Less prominent crease
– High refresh rate display
– Competitive pricing for a foldable
Cons:
– Limited global availability
– No IP rating for water resistance
Verdict: The OPPO Find N is an excellent foldable smartphone for those who can purchase it, offering a refined design and solid performance.
Motorola Razr 5G (2020)
Brand: Motorola
Release Year: 2020
Price: Starting at $1,399
The Motorola Razr 5G revives the classic Razr design with a modern twist. Its foldable screen and nostalgic form factor make it an attractive device for those valuing design and portability. However, compared to other foldables, it compromises on battery size and camera quality.
Pros:
– Iconic Razr design with a foldable screen
– Compact and easy to carry
– Improved 5G connectivity
Cons:
– Smaller battery capacity
– Mediocre camera performance
Verdict: The Motorola Razr 5G caters to enthusiasts of the original Razr who are looking for a blend of nostalgia and modern tech in a foldable form.
In conclusion, the best foldable device for productivity depends on individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a foldable laptop with a large screen, a tablet that can slip into your pocket, or a smartphone that doubles as a mini-tablet, there’s a foldable device out there to enhance your productivity. As technology evolves, these devices are expected to become more robust, affordable, and mainstream, shaping the future of portable computing.