Tuesday Tea: Z Fold 7 & Z Flip 7

Let me start by saying: I’ve been a Samsung fan since the Galaxy Note era. That’s right, back in 2012, when the first Note dropped, I was OBSESSED. Could I afford it as a student? No. Did that stop me from watching every single unboxing video on YouTube? Also no.

My actual first Galaxy phone was the S7 Edge. It was waterproof, it had the cool curved screen, and at the time, it felt like the right choice. But deep down? I was still dreaming of having that S Pen in my hand.

Then came the infamous Note 7 drama, so I skipped that generation (my trust issues said nope). I waited… and finally caved when the Note 9 came out. To this day, I still believe the Note 9 is the best Galaxy Note Samsung has ever made. Solid performance, amazing battery life, and that S Pen? Chef’s kiss.

---

When the Fold Era Began…

In 2019, Samsung launched the first-gen Z Fold, and I remember telling myself:

“Okay this is it. This is the future of phones.”

But, again first-gen problems. So I waited for the Z Fold 2, and while it looked amazing, I couldn’t bring myself to commit without S Pen support. I was still emotionally attached to that pen. Then came the Z Fold 3, which finally had S Pen support and was waterproof. Game. Changer.

Since then, I’ve upgraded to the Z Fold 4 (hello bigger cover screen and better camera), and now I’m using the Z Fold 6, which I believe is peak Fold. Truly.

---

Now Enter: Z Fold 7 & Z Flip 7

When Samsung announced the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, I was excited. The new Fold is sleeker, thinner, and finally doesn’t feel like you’re carrying a mini brick in your pocket. Design-wise, it’s a clear upgrade. But then I saw the specs and realized, no S Pen support.

Cue heartbreak.

Do I use the S Pen daily? No. But do I like having it there for random sketches, quick edits, or just to tap around and feel cool? Absolutely. I also own a Tab S8, so technically, I could just use that for more serious sketching, but the convenience of the S Pen on a phone, especially one that folds is hard to beat.

So now I’m stuck wondering:

Do I upgrade for design and sacrifice the pen… or hold off and enjoy my Z Fold 6 a little longer?

And part of me is even considering switching things up with the Z Flip 7. If I’m already letting go of the S Pen, then why not go all in on a compact design? It folds smaller, looks stylish, and doesn’t pretend to be a tablet. It is what it is.

---

Right now, I’m leaning toward not upgrading… but let’s be honest, tech temptations are real. If I can live without the S Pen (or if Samsung sneakily adds support with an update or accessory), who knows?

What do you think? Is the Z Fold 7 worth it without the S Pen? Or is the Z Flip 7 looking like the better choice for compact phone lovers?

Let’s chat. I need someone to talk me into or out of spending money I don’t have.