Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Flip 7 foldable phone has been making waves with its refined design, a larger edge-to-edge cover display, and upgraded durability. While the device has received positive reviews from the tech community, a recent in‑depth durability test has put the phone through a series of punishing challenges, ranging from scratch and burn tests to hinge torture. The test reveals the strengths and unavoidable compromises of the foldable design, which makes us question whether the technology will ever go beyond past trends.
Durability test shows the Galaxy Z Flip 7’s sturdy frame, but fragile inner screen remains a foldable’s biggest compromise
Starting with the outer display, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 held up reasonably well in the scratch test, as it showed marks at a level 6 with deeper grooves forming at level 7. This is pretty standard, as nearly all latest handsets, be it from Google or Apple, share the same level of display durability. Impressively, the outer display also survived the burn test for over 20 seconds without any permanent damage. However, the inner display tells a different story, as it did not hold up well against the scratch and the burn test.
Since foldable screens are softer, it picked up marks at the base level 2, and it was even vulnerable to scratches from fingernails. It also suffered two distinct burn marks with the same level of heat exposure. This soft inner layer is a known drawback of the foldable technology, and it will be a challenge even for Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone, which is slated to arrive next year. To help users, Samsung is offering a free replacement of the inner top protective layer for the first time, a sigh of relief for first‑time owners of a foldable device.
The frame of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is made from strong aluminum, giving it a reassuringly sturdy feel that protects the innards. While it can easily resist bending or snapping, sharp objects like keys can leave a permanent mark. On the back of the device, Samsung has gone with a frosted Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which not only resists scratches but also helps hide fingerprints for a cleaner look. However, the durability testing did not stop here, as the YouTube channel JerryRigEverything also performed its famous dust test with the foldable to test the hinge mechanism and its resistance to debris.
The dust test is performed to simulate real‑world abuse, and if the hinge will be able to take it. While the hinge continued to function, it did produce a few cracking noises, suggesting that fine particles had found their way inside. Despite this, the device passed the bend test without any structural failure, surviving with only some minor noises under pressure.
Overall, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 emerges from the durability test in solid shape. The device is so good, even Apple shared it on its official support account, by accident of course. Since it is a foldable, the inner screen remains a work in progress for the entire industry, and it will take a breakthrough to make the display more sturdy and durable.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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