Engadget weighs foldables as tablet replacements
Book-style foldables now match compact tablet screen sizes, but compromises remain for serious work.
What to know
- Foldables now match compact tablet sizes (Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra are within 0.3 inches of iPad Mini's 8.3-inch screen), making the comparison timely.
- For casual, portable use, foldables can replace tablets with the key advantage of eliminating dual cell plans and fitting in a back pocket.
- Foldables have significant trade-offs: hardware complexity adds cost and bulk, display creases are visible, battery drain increases under heavy work, and premium pricing may cost more than buying separate devices.
- Foldables work best for casual users; they cannot replace tablets designed for serious work like video editing or graphic design.
“The foldable consolidates those uses into a single device and slides into your back pocket when you're done. It's not perfect, and it's not a universal replacement, but it's more than enough to replace a casual tablet, especially on the go.”
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Engadget compares foldable phones and compact tablets on screen size and functionality
Engadget published an analysis of whether foldable phones should replace tablets. The article notes that book-style foldables like the Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra now feature screens only 0.3 inches smaller than the iPad Mini (8.3 inches), making the form-factor comparison relevant for consumers.
“Foldable phones are a premium convenience, but not quite full-blown replacements for every phone and tablet. They can absorb the job of a casual compact tablet, but there are a few compromises along the way.”
— Engadget -
first by Engadget, 1d ago
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