After six years of perfecting clamshell foldables, Motorola has finally entered the book-style foldable arena with the Razr Fold—unveiled at CES 2026 in Las Vegas and positioned as a direct challenger to Samsung's dominance. This is not a tentative first step: the Razr Fold matches the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in thinness, beats the Pixel 10 Pro Fold in profile thickness, features an 8.1-inch 2K LTPO inner display, sports a triple 50MP camera system with periscope zoom, and introduces Moto Pen Ultra stylus support for productivity workflows. With soft textured vegan leather, Dolby Vision video recording, on-device Moto AI features, and a design that feels refined rather than experimental, Motorola is sending a clear message: we are here to compete, not experiment. Meanwhile, Samsung prepares the Galaxy Z Fold 8 for a July 2026 launch with its own revolutionary feature—a creaseless foldable display unveiled at CES that makes the fold line virtually invisible, a breakthrough six years in the making. Add in a rumored 200MP camera, 5,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 power, and seven years of software updates, and the stage is set for the most competitive book-style foldable battle in history. Can Motorola's first attempt dethrone the reigning king? This is the complete head-to-head comparison.

Motorola Razr Fold

Summer 2026

8.1" LTPO Display
Triple 50MP Cameras
Moto Pen Ultra
First Book-Style Razr

VS

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

July 2026

8.0" Creaseless Display
200MP Camera
S Pen Ready
8th Generation

Launch Timeline and Availability

Motorola Razr Fold The New Challenger

  • Announcement: CES 2026 (January 7, 2026, Las Vegas)
  • Availability: Summer 2026 (likely June-August)
  • Pricing: Not officially announced, expected $1,599-1,799
  • Color Options: PANTONE Blackened Blue, PANTONE Lily White
  • Status: Hands-on demos available at CES, full specs pending

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 The Established King

  • Announcement: July 2026 (Samsung Unpacked event)
  • Availability: Late July/Early August 2026
  • Pricing: Expected $1,999 (consistent with Z Fold 7)
  • Color Options: TBD (typically 4-5 standard colors plus online exclusives)
  • Status: Creaseless display tech demonstrated at CES 2026
Timing Advantage: Motorola may launch 1-2 months before Samsung's traditional July Unpacked event, giving the Razr Fold a head start in capturing early adopter interest. However, Samsung's established brand loyalty and mature ecosystem may offset this timing advantage.

Design and Build Quality

Motorola Razr Fold Ergonomic Confidence

Early hands-on reports from CES 2026 praise the Razr Fold's build quality, with reviewers noting it "doesn't feel like a company's first steps in designing a larger foldable."

Design Highlights:

  • Back material: Vegan leather with soft textured finish (Blackened Blue and Lily White)
  • Thickness: Comparable to Galaxy Z Fold 7 when folded (~8.9-9.5mm estimated)
  • Profile comparison: Beats Pixel 10 Pro Fold in thickness
  • Ergonomics: Rounded edges feel comfortable in hand (not boxy like some competitors)
  • Durability feel: Leather-like finish creates confidence, less fragile feeling than glass
  • Hinge: Confident action with smooth folding mechanism
  • Bezels: Very slim and evenly weighted on all sides

9to5Google's Assessment: "The Razr Fold holds up to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 with pride... it definitely stands a fighting chance against the current reigning king."

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Creaseless Revolution

Samsung showcased its creaseless foldable display technology at CES 2026, representing six years of R&D to eliminate the visible fold line that has plagued every previous generation.

Design Innovations:

  • Creaseless display: Virtually invisible fold line using laser-drilled metal support plate
  • Material technology: Ultra-thin glass (UTG) reduces crease visibility by 20%
  • Weight: Target of 200 grams (one of the lightest book-style foldables)
  • Thickness: Continuing the ultra-thin profile from Z Fold 7 (8.9mm folded)
  • Hinge: Improved symmetry and reduced stress distribution
  • Build materials: Premium glass and metal construction

Design Winner: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

While the Razr Fold impresses with its premium vegan leather and refined ergonomics, Samsung's creaseless display technology represents a genuine breakthrough that addresses the single biggest aesthetic complaint about foldable phones. The ability to view content across the fold without a visible crease is revolutionary. However, the Razr Fold's leather finish may prove more durable in real-world use than Samsung's glass back.

Display Comparison

Specification Motorola Razr Fold Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
Inner Display Size 8.09-8.1 inches 8.0 inches
Inner Resolution 2K (2480 x 2200 pixels) 2K (2184 x 1968 pixels estimated)
Inner Pixel Density Higher than Z Fold 7 (~367+ PPI) ~367 PPI
Inner Display Type LTPO OLED LTPO AMOLED (creaseless)
Refresh Rate (Inner) 120Hz adaptive 120Hz adaptive (1-120Hz)
Peak Brightness (Inner) Not confirmed (likely 1,750-2,000 nits) 2,600 nits peak
Cover Display Size 6.6 inches 6.5 inches
Cover Display Type OLED AMOLED
Cover Refresh Rate 120Hz (likely) 120Hz adaptive
Crease Visibility Minimal (per hands-on reports) Nearly invisible (creaseless technology)
Protection TBD Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 (cover)
Display Analysis: The Motorola Razr Fold offers slightly larger displays (8.1" inner vs 8.0", 6.6" cover vs 6.5") and higher pixel density for sharper text. However, Samsung's 2,600-nit peak brightness and creaseless technology deliver superior outdoor readability and the most seamless viewing experience ever in a foldable phone. Both displays are excellent; Samsung's technological edge is the differentiator.

Performance and Processing

Motorola Razr Fold Flagship Power Likely

Motorola has not officially confirmed the processor, but based on its Razr 50 Ultra Signature Edition (which uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 5) and the premium positioning of the Razr Fold, industry consensus points to flagship-tier silicon.

Expected Specifications:

  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite or Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (unconfirmed)
  • RAM: 12GB or 16GB LPDDR5X
  • Storage: 256GB, 512GB UFS 4.0 or 4.1

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Confirmed

Samsung is expected to continue its Snapdragon-only strategy for the Z Fold 8, following the Z Fold 7's elimination of regional Exynos variants.

Specifications:

  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (TSMC 3nm N3P)
  • CPU: Octa-core Oryon V3 (2x 4.61GHz + 6x 3.62GHz)
  • GPU: Adreno 840 (23% faster than previous gen)
  • RAM: 12GB or 16GB LPDDR5X
  • Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB UFS 4.1
Performance Verdict: If Motorola uses the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, performance will be identical. Both phones will deliver flagship-level speed, gaming performance, and AI processing. Samsung may have a slight edge in optimization due to years of fine-tuning One UI for foldable form factors.

Camera Systems The Battle of Triple 50MPs vs 200MP

Motorola Razr Fold Triple 50MP Setup

Motorola is emphasizing photography as a core strength of the Razr Fold, with all three rear sensors rated at 50MP—rare for a foldable.

Confirmed Camera Configuration:

  • Main Camera: 50MP Sony LYTIA sensor (improved brightness and color accuracy)
  • Ultrawide: 50MP ultrawide with macro capability
  • Periscope Telephoto: 50MP with 3x optical zoom (unusual for book-style foldables)
  • Cover Display Camera: 32MP (for selfies when closed)
  • Inner Display Camera: 20MP (for video calls and content capture)
  • Video Recording: Dolby Vision support, advanced stabilization, cinematic-quality video

AI Camera Features:

  • AI-powered shot optimization
  • Scene recognition and adjustment
  • Enhanced night mode (details pending)

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 200MP Flagship Cameras

Samsung is reportedly bringing its flagship 200MP camera system to the Z Fold 8, matching the S26 Ultra's photography prowess.

Rumored Camera Configuration:

  • Main Camera: 200MP ISOCELL HP3 sensor (16-in-1 pixel binning to 2.4μm effective pixels)
  • Ultrawide: 50MP ultrawide (upgraded from 12MP on Z Fold 7)
  • Telephoto: 12MP 3x optical zoom (or 10MP 5x, depending on final spec)
  • Cover Camera: TBD (likely 10-12MP)
  • Under-Display Camera: Improved UDC technology on inner screen

ProVisual Engine AI:

  • Multi-frame noise reduction in low light
  • AI-powered zoom enhancement up to 100x
  • Generative Edit for object removal and scene expansion
  • Expert RAW support for professional photographers

Camera Winner: Too Close to Call

On paper, Samsung's 200MP sensor captures more detail and supports higher digital zoom. However, Motorola's triple 50MP setup with periscope telephoto and Dolby Vision video is uniquely compelling—most foldables compromise on cameras, but the Razr Fold does not. Real-world testing will determine the winner. Samsung has more computational photography experience, but Motorola's Sony LYTIA sensor and all-50MP configuration could surprise.

Battery Life and Charging

Feature Motorola Razr Fold Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
Battery Capacity Not confirmed (likely 4,800-5,000mAh) 5,000mAh (14% larger than Z Fold 7)
Wired Charging Not confirmed (likely 45-60W) 45W fast charging
Wireless Charging TBD 25W Qi2.2 (MagSafe-compatible)
Reverse Wireless TBD 15W Wireless PowerShare
Battery Life Estimate Full day (pending confirmation) Extended day (30+ hours mixed use)
Battery Speculation: Motorola has not disclosed battery specifications. If the Razr Fold includes a smaller battery to achieve its thin profile, this could be a significant weakness. Samsung's confirmed 5,000mAh battery represents a 14% increase over the Z Fold 7 and should deliver excellent endurance.

Stylus Support The Productivity Factor

Motorola Moto Pen Ultra

Motorola confirmed at CES 2026 that the Razr Fold supports the new Moto Pen Ultra, marking the brand's first stylus-supported foldable.

Moto Pen Ultra Features:

  • Purpose: "Natural extension of one's hand" for mobile-first designers, artists, productivity users
  • Palm rejection: Confirmed support
  • Use cases: Note-taking, sketches, annotations, creative workflows
  • Integration: Transforms Razr Fold into "versatile canvas and work station"
  • Storage: Not integrated into phone body (likely sold separately with case storage)

Samsung S Pen Support

While Samsung has not officially confirmed S Pen support for the Z Fold 8, rumors and the success of the S Pen on the S26 Ultra suggest potential inclusion.

S Pen Ecosystem Advantages:

  • Years of refinement (2.8ms latency on S26 Ultra)
  • 4,096 pressure levels
  • Air Actions gesture controls
  • Deep integration with Samsung Notes, PDF annotation
  • Challenge: S Pen storage in thin foldable body is difficult (may require separate stylus like Fold Edition S Pen)
Stylus Verdict: Both phones support stylus input, a major differentiator from competitors like Google Pixel Fold and iPhone Fold (rumored). Motorola's Moto Pen Ultra with palm rejection is a serious productivity tool. Samsung's S Pen has a more mature software ecosystem. Neither phone integrates the stylus into the body—both require external storage solutions.

AI Features and Software

Motorola Hello UI with Moto AI and Qira

The Razr Fold runs the latest Android with Motorola's Hello UI, featuring foldable-optimized layouts and on-device AI.

AI Capabilities:

  • Catch Me Up: AI summarizes notifications, messages, and missed information
  • Next Move: Proactive suggestions based on context and usage patterns
  • Motorola Qira: On-device intelligence for privacy-focused AI processing
  • Flexible layouts: Foldable-specific app splitting and adaptive interfaces
  • Multitasking enhancements: Drag-and-drop between apps, multi-window workflows

Samsung One UI with Galaxy AI

Samsung's Z Fold 8 will ship with One UI 8.5 based on Android 16, featuring the complete Galaxy AI suite.

Galaxy AI Features:

  • Live Translate: Real-time phone call translation (20+ languages)
  • Circle to Search: Circle anything on screen to search Google
  • Note Assist: Auto-format meeting notes, generate summaries, create action items
  • Generative Edit: AI photo editing (object removal, background changes)
  • Chat Assist: Message composition with tone adjustment
  • DeX Mode: Desktop-like productivity experience on the large inner screen

Software Updates

  • Motorola: Typically 3 years of Android OS updates, 4 years of security updates
  • Samsung: 7 years of OS updates, 7 years of security updates, 7 years of Galaxy AI feature drops

Software Winner: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

While Motorola's Moto AI features like Catch Me Up and Next Move are useful, Samsung's comprehensive Galaxy AI suite is more mature and feature-rich. More importantly, Samsung's seven-year update commitment means the Z Fold 8 receives support through 2033, while the Razr Fold likely stops at 2029. For long-term value, Samsung wins decisively.

Pricing and Value Proposition

Expected Pricing

  • Motorola Razr Fold: $1,599-1,799 (estimated, not confirmed)
    • Positioning as more affordable alternative to Samsung flagship
    • Similar pricing to Galaxy Z Fold 7 ($1,899) or slightly lower
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8: $1,999 (expected, consistent with Z Fold 7)
    • Premium pricing justified by creaseless display, 200MP camera, 7-year updates
    • Potential $200-400 premium over Razr Fold
Value Analysis: If Motorola prices the Razr Fold at $1,599-1,699, it becomes a compelling value proposition—offering similar specs to Samsung at $300-400 less. However, Samsung's seven-year update commitment adds significant long-term value. Over seven years, the $400 premium costs just $57/year for extended software support.

Complete Specifications Comparison

Specification Motorola Razr Fold Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
Launch Date Summer 2026 (June-August) July 2026
Price (Estimated) $1,599-1,799 $1,999
Inner Display 8.1" 2K LTPO OLED, 120Hz 8.0" 2K LTPO AMOLED (creaseless), 120Hz
Cover Display 6.6" OLED, 120Hz 6.5" AMOLED, 120Hz
Peak Brightness TBD (likely 1,750-2,000 nits) 2,600 nits
Processor Likely Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
RAM 12GB or 16GB 12GB or 16GB
Storage 256GB, 512GB 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Rear Cameras 50MP main (Sony LYTIA) + 50MP ultrawide + 50MP 3x telephoto 200MP main + 50MP ultrawide + 12MP 3x telephoto
Front Cameras 32MP (cover) + 20MP (inner) TBD + improved UDC (inner)
Battery TBD (likely 4,800-5,000mAh) 5,000mAh
Charging TBD wired, TBD wireless 45W wired, 25W Qi2.2 wireless
Stylus Moto Pen Ultra support S Pen support (rumored)
AI Features Catch Me Up, Next Move, Moto AI/Qira Full Galaxy AI suite
OS Updates 3 years 7 years
Special Features Vegan leather, Dolby Vision video, minimal crease Creaseless display, DeX Mode, 7-year updates
Weight TBD ~200g (target)

Who Should Buy Which Phone

Buy Motorola Razr Fold If You Want

  • Better value: Expected $200-400 less than Samsung
  • Unique design: Vegan leather finish feels premium and durable
  • Photography focus: Triple 50MP cameras including periscope telephoto
  • Dolby Vision video: Cinematic video recording quality
  • Slightly larger displays: 8.1" inner, 6.6" cover vs Samsung's 8.0" and 6.5"
  • Fresh alternative: Break from Samsung/Google duopoly

Buy Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 If You Want

  • Creaseless display: Revolutionary invisible fold line technology
  • 200MP camera: Best zoom and detail capture in any foldable
  • Seven-year updates: Support through 2033 vs Motorola's 2029
  • Proven durability: Eight generations of refinement vs Motorola's first attempt
  • Ecosystem integration: Works seamlessly with Galaxy Watch, Buds, tablets
  • Brightest display: 2,600 nits peak for superior outdoor visibility
  • DeX Mode: Desktop-like productivity experience
Motorola Razr Fold vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

The Verdict A Genuine Challenge to Samsung Dominance

For the first time in years, Samsung faces a credible threat in the book-style foldable category from a Western manufacturer. Motorola's Razr Fold is not a tentative experiment—it is a fully-realized flagship that matches or exceeds the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in several key areas and positions itself as a legitimate alternative to the upcoming Z Fold 8.

Motorola's Strengths:

  • Impressive first-generation execution (comparable thinness to Samsung's eighth-gen device)
  • Triple 50MP camera system with periscope telephoto (rare for foldables)
  • Vegan leather design that feels premium and durable
  • Likely $200-400 price advantage over Samsung
  • Slightly larger displays (8.1" vs 8.0" inner)
  • Moto Pen Ultra stylus support for productivity

Samsung's Advantages:

  • Creaseless display technology (genuinely revolutionary)
  • 200MP camera with superior zoom capabilities
  • Seven-year software support (4 years more than Motorola)
  • Eight generations of refinement and durability improvements
  • 2,600-nit peak brightness for outdoor readability
  • Comprehensive Galaxy AI suite and ecosystem integration

Can Motorola Beat Samsung?

In raw specifications and build quality, the Razr Fold competes admirably. If priced at $1,599-1,699 versus Samsung's $1,999, Motorola offers excellent value. However, "beating" Samsung depends on your definition:

Motorola wins on: Price, camera versatility (triple 50MP), design uniqueness, initial value proposition.

Samsung wins on: Creaseless display (game-changer), long-term software support, proven durability, ecosystem integration, brand trust.

Our Recommendation:

Choose Motorola Razr Fold if you want maximum value, distinctive design, excellent cameras, and plan to upgrade every 2-3 years. It is the best first-generation book-style foldable we have seen and represents a genuine alternative to Samsung's dominance.

Choose Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 if you prioritize long-term software support, the creaseless display breakthrough, ecosystem integration, and proven durability from eight generations of refinement. The seven-year update commitment alone justifies the premium for users who keep devices 4+ years.

Motorola has proven it can compete at the highest level. Whether it can beat Samsung depends less on hardware—which is excellent—and more on brand perception, ecosystem lock-in, and Samsung's seven-year software advantage. The Razr Fold does not beat the Z Fold 8, but it matches it where it matters and undercuts it on price. That is enough to make this the most competitive book-style foldable battle in history.

The real winners are consumers, who finally have a genuine choice in premium book-style foldables beyond just Samsung and Google.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does the Motorola Razr Fold release?
The Motorola Razr Fold was announced at CES 2026 (January 7) with availability expected in summer 2026 (likely June-August). Motorola has not confirmed exact release dates or pricing yet.
Q: How much will the Razr Fold cost?
Motorola has not announced official pricing. Industry estimates suggest $1,599-1,799, positioning it as a more affordable alternative to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 ($1,999 expected) while still delivering flagship features.
Q: Does the Razr Fold have a creaseless display like Samsung?
No. Hands-on reports describe the Razr Fold's crease as "minimal" but still visible. Samsung's Z Fold 8 features revolutionary creaseless display technology unveiled at CES 2026 that makes the fold line nearly invisible—a significant advantage.
Q: Which phone has better cameras?
On paper, Samsung's 200MP main sensor captures more detail. However, Motorola's triple 50MP setup (main + ultrawide + 3x periscope telephoto) with Sony LYTIA sensor and Dolby Vision video is uniquely compelling. Real-world testing will determine the winner—both are exceptional.
Q: Does the Motorola Razr Fold support a stylus?
Yes. The Razr Fold supports the new Moto Pen Ultra stylus with palm rejection technology. However, the stylus is not integrated into the phone body and must be carried separately or stored in a case.
Q: How long will each phone receive software updates?
Motorola typically provides 3 years of Android OS updates and 4 years of security updates. Samsung guarantees 7 years of OS updates, security updates, and Galaxy AI feature drops for the Z Fold 8. This is a massive advantage for long-term value.
Q: Is this Motorola's first book-style foldable?
Yes. The Razr Fold is Motorola's first book-style foldable after six years of clamshell Razr phones. Remarkably, it matches the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in thinness and refinement despite being a first-generation device.
Q: Which phone is thinner?
Both phones are approximately 8.9-9.5mm when folded. The Razr Fold's rounded edges make it feel slightly thicker, but hands-on comparisons show it is competitive with the Galaxy Z Fold 7. The Z Fold 8 may continue Samsung's ultra-thin profile or potentially be slightly thicker to accommodate the creaseless display mechanism.
Q: Should I wait for the Razr Fold or buy the Galaxy Z Fold 7 now?
If you want a book-style foldable immediately, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is excellent and available now at discounted prices. If you can wait until summer 2026, the Razr Fold offers compelling features at a likely lower price. If you can wait until July 2026, the Galaxy Z Fold 8's creaseless display is revolutionary.

Final Buying Recommendation

Best Value: Motorola Razr Fold (expected $200-400 less than Samsung)

Best Technology: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 (creaseless display, 200MP camera)

Best Long-Term Investment: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 (7 years of updates)

Best First-Generation Foldable: Motorola Razr Fold (impressively refined for a debut)

Most Competitive Foldable Battle: 2026 finally brings genuine choice to book-style foldables beyond Samsung's monopoly. Both phones are excellent—choose based on whether you prioritize value (Motorola) or long-term support and cutting-edge display technology (Samsung).