The foldable phone market is rapidly expanding, but high prices remain a barrier for many. The LG Folder 2 and Samsung Galaxy Folder2 represent attempts to bring folding functionality to a more accessible price point. However, with limited publicly available information on the LG Folder 2, this comparison focuses on understanding the Samsung Galaxy Folder2’s capabilities and inferring the LG’s position based on market trends and brand strategy.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a functional, albeit basic, foldable experience, the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 is the clear winner. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 chipset provides a known performance baseline, while the LG Folder 2 remains an unknown quantity with potentially compromised hardware to achieve a lower price.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, April 14. Released 2020, April 17 | 2017, July. Released 2017, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 107.9 x 55 x 18 mm (4.25 x 2.17 x 0.71 in) | 122 x 60.2 x 16.1 mm (4.80 x 2.37 x 0.63 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 127 g (4.48 oz) | 165 g (5.82 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~246 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~40.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.8 inches, 41.1 cm2 (~56.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT |
| | External 0.9 inches monochrome display | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425 (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno 308 |
| OS | - | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Practically unlimited | - |
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| Phonebook | Practically unlimited entries and fields, Photocal | - |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 8 MP, f/1.9, AF |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 5 MP, f/1.9 |
| | Uses main camera | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | - | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | Yes | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Downloadable | - |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM | - |
| Sensors | - | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1470 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1950 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | White, Platinum Gray | Wine Red, Black, Gold |
| Models | - | SM-G1650W, SM-G160N, SM-G165N |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 200 EUR |
LG Folder 2
- Potentially lower price point
- Folding form factor
- Unknown features could be surprisingly good
- Unknown specifications and performance
- Potential for compromised hardware
- Limited support and software updates
Samsung Galaxy Folder2
- Known Snapdragon 425 performance
- Predictable battery life
- Established brand reputation
- Outdated chipset
- Low-resolution display
- Limited camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Details regarding the LG Folder 2’s display are unavailable. The Samsung Galaxy Folder2, being an older model, likely features a TFT LCD panel, prioritizing cost over advanced technologies like OLED or LTPO. Expect lower peak brightness and narrower viewing angles compared to modern smartphones. The folding mechanism on both devices will likely result in a visible crease, a common characteristic of early-generation foldable designs. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within the folded form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications for the LG Folder 2 are unavailable. The Samsung Galaxy Folder2 likely features a modest camera setup, prioritizing functionality over image quality. Expect a single rear camera, potentially 8MP, and a basic front-facing camera for video calls. Image processing will be limited, resulting in photos with reduced dynamic range and detail, particularly in low-light conditions. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 will further exacerbate low-light performance issues. Any 2MP macro or depth sensors found on either device should be considered marketing features with minimal practical benefit.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy Folder2 is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425, a 28nm chipset featuring a quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This chipset is geared towards entry-level smartphones and prioritizes power efficiency over raw performance. While sufficient for basic tasks, it will struggle with demanding applications or multitasking. The LG Folder 2’s processor is unknown; however, to maintain a competitive price point, it likely utilizes a similarly low-end chipset, potentially from MediaTek. The Snapdragon 425’s architecture, while dated, is well-understood, allowing for predictable performance and thermal behavior. Users should expect limited gaming capabilities on both devices.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for the LG Folder 2 is unknown. The Samsung Galaxy Folder2’s battery size is also not readily available, but given its chipset and display technology, it likely falls in the 2000-3000 mAh range. Charging wattage is expected to be low, resulting in relatively slow charging times. The Snapdragon 425’s power efficiency will contribute to reasonable battery life for basic usage, but heavy multitasking or prolonged screen-on time will quickly deplete the battery. The LG Folder 2’s battery life will depend heavily on its chipset and display efficiency, which remain unknown.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG Folder 2 if you prioritize absolute affordability and are willing to accept potential compromises in performance and features. It's a gamble for users who need a folding form factor above all else. Buy the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 if you value a predictable experience with a known chipset, even if it's not a powerhouse, and require a device that will reliably handle everyday tasks like calls, messaging, and light web browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Snapdragon 425 in the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 powerful enough for social media apps?
Yes, the Snapdragon 425 can handle basic social media apps like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. However, expect some lag when loading images or videos, and avoid running multiple apps simultaneously. The chipset is optimized for efficiency, not speed.
❓ What is the likely build quality of the LG Folder 2, given its potential lower price?
Given the likely focus on affordability, the LG Folder 2 may utilize more plastic materials in its construction. This could result in a less premium feel compared to the Samsung Galaxy Folder2, and potentially reduced durability. The folding hinge is a critical component, and its quality will be a key factor in the device’s longevity.
❓ Will the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 receive software updates?
Given its age, the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 is unlikely to receive any further major Android updates. Security patches may be limited or non-existent. Users should be aware of the potential security risks associated with running an outdated operating system.
❓ How durable is the folding mechanism on the Samsung Galaxy Folder2 likely to be?
The folding mechanism on the Samsung Galaxy Folder2, being an early-generation foldable, is likely to be less durable than those found on newer, more expensive devices. Expect some wear and tear over time, and avoid excessive opening and closing of the device.
