Nostalgia is back! Samsung's Galaxy Golden and Folder2 offer a throwback to the classic flip phone design, but which one delivers the better experience? We're diving deep into their specs and features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy Golden boasts a slightly faster processor, potentially offering a smoother experience. However, the Folder2's quad-core CPU and generally more modern software might provide better overall value. It's a close call, leaning slightly towards the Folder2 for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013, October. Released 2013, November | 2017, July. Released 2017, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 118 x 59.5 x 15.8 mm (4.65 x 2.34 x 0.62 in) | 122 x 60.2 x 16.1 mm (4.80 x 2.37 x 0.63 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 179 g (6.31 oz) | 165 g (5.82 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~252 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~246 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.7 inches, 39.0 cm2 (~55.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.8 inches, 41.1 cm2 (~56.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | Super AMOLED | TFT |
| | External Super AMOLED
480 x 800 pixels, 3.5 inches | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.7 GHz Krait 300 | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8930AB Snapdragon 400 (28 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 305 | Adreno 308 |
| OS | Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1.5GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 4.5 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, f/1.9, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, stereo sound rec. | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.9 MP | 5 MP, f/1.9 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 (MHL) | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot, DLNA | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1820 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1950 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black and Gold | Wine Red, Black, Gold |
| Models | - | SM-G1650W, SM-G160N, SM-G165N |
| Price | About 590 EUR | About 200 EUR |
Samsung I9230 Galaxy Golden
- Slightly faster processor
- Premium build quality (generally)
- Slightly larger display
- Older software
- Potentially shorter battery life
- Limited app support
Samsung Galaxy Folder2
- More modern software
- Slightly better battery life (potentially)
- More affordable
- Reliable and compact design
- Slightly slower processor
- Basic camera performance
- Smaller display
Display Comparison
Both phones feature relatively small, standard LCD displays. The Galaxy Golden's display is slightly larger (3.88 inches vs 3.8 inches), but resolution is similar. Expect adequate viewing for basic tasks, but not a multimedia powerhouse.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are modest on both devices. The Galaxy Golden has a slightly better rear camera resolution (8MP vs 5MP), but image quality will largely depend on software and sensor performance. Expect decent photos in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light. Front cameras are basic, suitable for video calls.
Performance
The Galaxy Golden's dual-core 1.7 GHz Krait 300 CPU holds a slight edge over the Folder2's quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53. However, real-world performance is often more complex than raw specs. The Folder2's Cortex-A53 cores are generally more efficient, potentially mitigating the Golden's CPU advantage. Both are suitable for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing, but don't expect to run demanding apps.
Battery Life
The Galaxy Folder2 generally has a slightly larger battery capacity (1900 mAh vs 1800 mAh). This, combined with the Cortex-A53's efficiency, suggests the Folder2 might offer slightly better battery life, though both should comfortably last a full day with moderate use.
Buying Guide
The Galaxy Golden is ideal for those prioritizing a slightly more powerful processor and a more premium feel. The Galaxy Folder2 is a better choice for users seeking a more affordable option with a generally more modern software experience and a reliable, compact design.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones 4G compatible?
Yes, both the Galaxy Golden and Folder2 support 4G LTE connectivity.
❓ Can I install apps on these phones?
Yes, both phones run Android and support app installation from the Google Play Store, although app compatibility may be limited due to the older hardware.
