The foldable smartphone market has reached a new frontier with tri-fold devices that transform from pocket-sized phones into full-sized tablets. Samsung and Huawei, two giants of mobile innovation, have released their most ambitious foldable devices yet: the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold and the Mate XT. These engineering marvels represent the cutting edge of what's possible in smartphone design, offering unprecedented screen real estate in a (somewhat) pocketable form factor.
But which tri-fold reigns supreme? Is Samsung's decades-long expertise in foldable technology enough to outshine Huawei's first-mover advantage in the tri-fold space? In this comprehensive comparison, we'll examine every aspect of these revolutionary devices to help you decide which deserves your considerable investment.
Design & Build Quality: Two Paths to Tri-Fold Innovation
The Samsung Z Tri-Fold (left) features a U-shaped inward folding design, while the Huawei Mate XT (right) employs a Z-shaped folding mechanism
The most striking difference between these two tri-fold smartphones is their fundamental folding approach. Samsung has opted for a U-shaped inward folding design where both hinges fold in the same direction, similar to closing a book twice. Huawei, meanwhile, has implemented a Z-shaped folding mechanism where the hinges fold in opposite directions.
Folding Mechanisms & Form Factors
Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold
Samsung's approach uses two different-sized hinges that allow the three panels to fold inward and stack on top of each other. This creates a device that can be used in two primary configurations:
- Fully folded (phone mode): 6.5-inch cover display
- Fully unfolded (tablet mode): 10-inch main display
The Galaxy Z Tri-Fold measures 159.2 × 75 × 12.9mm when folded and expands to 159.2 × 214.1 × 3.9mm when fully opened. It weighs 309g, making it slightly heavier than the Huawei offering.
Huawei Mate XT
Huawei's Z-shaped folding design offers greater versatility with three distinct usage modes:
- Fully folded (phone mode): 6.4-inch cover display
- Partially unfolded (book mode): 7.9-inch mini-tablet
- Fully unfolded (tablet mode): 10.2-inch main display
The Mate XT measures 156.7 × 73.5 × 12.8mm when folded and 156.7 × 219 × 3.6mm when fully opened. At 298g, it's marginally lighter than Samsung's offering.
Materials & Durability
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | Huawei Mate XT |
| Frame Material | Advanced Armor Aluminum | Aluminum alloy |
| Hinge Material | Titanium | Not specified |
| Back Panel | Ceramic-glass fiber reinforced polymer | Faux leather (premium models) |
| Cover Display Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 | Not specified |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP48 | Not specified |
| Weight | 309g | 298g |
| Thickness (Folded) | 12.9mm | 12.8mm |
| Thickness (Unfolded) | 3.9mm | 3.6mm |
Samsung has clearly prioritized durability with its IP48 rating (protection against water splashes and dust particles larger than 1mm) and premium materials like titanium hinges and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2. Huawei offers a more luxurious aesthetic with its faux leather back panel options but provides less information about durability ratings.
Samsung Z Tri-Fold Design Advantages
- Better protection for the inner foldable display
- IP48 water and dust resistance
- Premium materials (titanium hinges, Gorilla Glass)
- More durable overall construction
Huawei Mate XT Design Advantages
- More versatile with three distinct usage modes
- Slightly lighter (11g difference)
- Thinner when fully unfolded (3.6mm vs 3.9mm)
- Premium leather finish options
Display Technology: Screen Quality Showdown
The displays on both tri-fold devices offer tablet-like experiences with minimal visible creases
The display is arguably the most critical component of any foldable phone, and both manufacturers have implemented cutting-edge screen technology in their tri-fold flagships.
Display Specifications
| Display Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | Huawei Mate XT |
| Main Screen Size | 10.0 inches | 10.2 inches |
| Main Screen Resolution | 2160 × 1584 pixels | 3184 × 2232 pixels |
| Main Screen Technology | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | LTPO OLED |
| Main Screen Refresh Rate | 120Hz adaptive | 90Hz adaptive |
| Main Screen Brightness | 1,600 nits peak | Not specified |
| Cover Screen Size | 6.5 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Cover Screen Resolution | 2520 × 1080 pixels | 2232 × 1008 pixels |
| Cover Screen Refresh Rate | 120Hz adaptive | 90Hz adaptive |
| Cover Screen Brightness | 2,600 nits peak | Not specified |
| Mid-Size Configuration | Not available | 7.9 inches (2232 × 2048) |
Display Quality & User Experience
Samsung's Display Advantages
Samsung leverages its industry-leading display technology with the Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel that offers superior brightness, color accuracy, and refresh rate. The 120Hz adaptive refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations compared to Huawei's 90Hz display.
The Galaxy Z Tri-Fold's cover display is essentially the same excellent panel used in the Galaxy Z Fold 7, providing a premium experience even when the device is folded.
Huawei's Display Advantages
While Huawei's display refreshes at a lower 90Hz rate, it offers significantly higher resolution on the main screen (3184 × 2232 pixels vs Samsung's 2160 × 1584). This results in sharper text and images, particularly noticeable when viewing documents or detailed content.
The Mate XT's unique advantage is its middle configuration, which provides a 7.9-inch mini-tablet experience that's perfect for reading or casual browsing without needing to fully unfold the device.
Crease Visibility & Durability
Both manufacturers have made significant strides in minimizing the visibility of screen creases. The Galaxy Z Tri-Fold features minimal creases that are only visible at extreme angles or under direct artificial light. The Mate XT's creases are slightly more pronounced but still represent a major improvement over earlier foldable generations.
In terms of long-term durability, Samsung's inward-folding design offers better protection for the flexible display when the phone is closed. Huawei's design leaves a portion of the flexible display exposed on the outside of the device when folded, potentially making it more vulnerable to scratches and damage.
Performance & Hardware: Processing Power Face-Off
The Snapdragon 8 Elite in the Samsung Z Tri-Fold offers significantly better performance than Huawei's Kirin 9020
With their expansive displays and multitasking capabilities, tri-fold smartphones demand exceptional processing power. Let's examine how these devices compare in terms of raw performance and hardware specifications.
Core Specifications
| Hardware | Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | Huawei Mate XT |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm) | Kirin 9020 (7nm) |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5X | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage Options | 512GB / 1TB UFS 4.0 | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Expandable Storage | No | No |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | 4G only, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Biometrics | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor |
| Stylus Support | No | Yes |
Performance Analysis
The Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold has a clear advantage in raw processing power with its Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset manufactured on a 3nm process. This provides better performance and power efficiency compared to Huawei's 7nm Kirin 9020. In benchmark tests, the Snapdragon 8 Elite consistently outperforms the Kirin 9020 by 20-30% in both CPU and GPU tasks.
Both devices come with 16GB of RAM, which is essential for the heavy multitasking these tri-fold devices are designed for. However, Samsung uses the newer LPDDR5X standard, which offers faster data transfer rates and better power efficiency.
Samsung's standalone DeX mode transforms the Z Tri-Fold into a powerful productivity workstation
Connectivity & Additional Features
One significant advantage for the Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold is its 5G connectivity, which Huawei cannot offer due to ongoing trade restrictions. The Mate XT is limited to 4G in most global markets, which is a notable drawback for a premium device in 2025.
Huawei counters with stylus support, allowing for precise input on its large display. Samsung has not included S Pen support for the Z Tri-Fold, likely due to concerns about the durability of the tri-folding display.
Software & Ecosystem
Samsung's One UI 8
The Galaxy Z Tri-Fold runs Android 16 with Samsung's One UI 8, offering a refined experience optimized for the tri-fold form factor. Key software features include:
- Standalone DeX mode that transforms the device into a desktop-like experience
- Support for running three apps side-by-side
- Full Google services integration
- Seven years of OS and security updates
Huawei's HarmonyOS
The Mate XT runs on HarmonyOS 5.1, Huawei's proprietary operating system. While it offers a smooth experience, it comes with significant limitations:
- No Google services or Play Store
- Limited app ecosystem outside China
- Reliance on Huawei's AppGallery
- Excellent optimization for the tri-fold form factor
Performance Verdict: Samsung's Galaxy Z Tri-Fold offers superior performance with its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 5G connectivity, and full software ecosystem. Huawei's Mate XT counters with stylus support but is hampered by its older processor and lack of Google services.
Camera Systems: Photography Capabilities Compared
Camera samples from both devices show different approaches to image processing and color science
Despite their focus on display and folding technology, both manufacturers have equipped their tri-fold devices with flagship-level camera systems. Let's examine how they compare.
Camera Specifications
| Camera | Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | Huawei Mate XT |
| Main Camera | 200MP, f/1.7, OIS | 50MP, f/1.4-f/4.0 (variable), OIS |
| Ultrawide Camera | 12MP, f/2.2, 120° FOV | 40MP, f/2.2 |
| Telephoto Camera | 10MP, f/2.4, 3x optical zoom | 12MP, f/3.4, 5.5x optical zoom |
| Front Camera | 10MP (cover) + 10MP (inner) | 8MP |
| Video Recording | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps |
| Special Features | Nightography, AI Photo Assist | Variable aperture, XD Fusion Pro |
Camera Performance Analysis
Samsung's Camera Strengths
The Galaxy Z Tri-Fold's 200MP main sensor is the headline feature, offering exceptional detail in good lighting conditions. Samsung's image processing tends to produce vibrant, slightly saturated colors that are immediately pleasing to the eye.
The device excels in low-light photography thanks to Samsung's Nightography features, and the dual front cameras provide flexibility for selfies whether the phone is folded or unfolded.
Huawei's Camera Strengths
Huawei counters with its innovative variable aperture main camera (f/1.4-f/4.0), which provides greater flexibility across different lighting conditions. The Mate XT also offers superior optical zoom capabilities with its 5.5x periscope telephoto lens compared to Samsung's 3x optical zoom.
Huawei's image processing typically produces more natural colors with excellent dynamic range, though it can struggle with certain skin tones.
Huawei's 5.5x optical zoom provides better results at higher magnifications compared to Samsung's 3x optical zoom
Video Recording
Samsung has the edge in video recording with support for 8K capture at 30fps, while Huawei maxes out at 4K60fps. Both devices offer excellent video stabilization thanks to their OIS systems, but Samsung's superior processing power allows for more advanced real-time effects and better low-light video performance.
Camera Verdict: Both devices offer excellent camera systems with different strengths. Samsung excels with its high-resolution main sensor and superior video capabilities, while Huawei offers better zoom performance and its innovative variable aperture. For pure versatility, Huawei has a slight edge, but Samsung delivers better overall consistency.
Battery Life & Charging: Power Management
Both devices feature 5,600mAh batteries, but Huawei offers significantly faster charging speeds
Powering these large, multi-display devices requires substantial battery capacity and efficient power management. Both manufacturers have equipped their tri-fold devices with 5,600mAh batteries, but their charging technologies differ significantly.
Battery & Charging Specifications
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | Huawei Mate XT |
| Battery Capacity | 5,600mAh (3-cell system) | 5,600mAh (Silicon Carbon) |
| Wired Charging | 45W | 66W |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 50W |
| Reverse Wireless | 4.5W | 7.5W |
| 0-50% Charging Time | ~30 minutes | ~20 minutes |
| Full Charge Time | ~75 minutes | ~45 minutes |
Real-World Battery Performance
Both devices can last a full day with moderate use, but heavy usage of the large unfolded displays will drain the battery more quickly. In typical usage scenarios:
Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold
- Video playback (unfolded): ~10 hours
- Web browsing (unfolded): ~8 hours
- Mixed use (folded): ~12-14 hours
Samsung's more efficient 3nm processor helps compensate for the higher refresh rate displays, resulting in comparable battery life to the Huawei device despite potentially higher power consumption from the screens.
Huawei Mate XT
- Video playback (unfolded): ~11 hours
- Web browsing (unfolded): ~8 hours
- Mixed use (folded): ~13-15 hours
Huawei's lower 90Hz refresh rate helps conserve battery life, though its less efficient 7nm processor somewhat offsets this advantage. The middle configuration (7.9-inch) offers a good balance of screen size and battery efficiency.
Charging Speed Comparison
Huawei has a clear advantage in charging technology, with its 66W wired and 50W wireless charging significantly outpacing Samsung's 45W wired and 15W wireless capabilities. The Mate XT can reach a full charge in approximately 45 minutes, while the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold requires around 75 minutes.
Battery Verdict: Both devices offer comparable battery life, but Huawei's significantly faster charging speeds give it a clear advantage in this category. If quick recharging is important to you, the Mate XT is the better choice.
Software & Multitasking: Productivity Powerhouses
Both devices excel at multitasking, but Samsung's DeX mode provides a more desktop-like experience
The expansive displays of these tri-fold devices are designed for productivity and multitasking. Let's examine how each manufacturer has optimized their software for these unique form factors.
Samsung's Productivity Features
Samsung's multi-window implementation allows for efficient multitasking with up to three apps
Samsung has leveraged its years of experience with foldable devices to create a refined software experience for the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold:
- Standalone DeX Mode: The Z Tri-Fold is the first mobile device to offer a standalone DeX experience, transforming the unfolded display into a desktop-like interface without requiring an external monitor.
- Multi-Window Excellence: Run up to three full-sized applications side-by-side on the 10-inch display.
- App Continuity: Seamless transition of apps between folded and unfolded states.
- Flex Mode: Optimized interfaces for partially folded configurations.
- Google Integration: Full access to Google services and Play Store.
Huawei's Productivity Features
Huawei's stylus support and middle configuration provide unique productivity advantages
Huawei has created a versatile experience that takes advantage of the Mate XT's unique three-mode design:
- Triple Mode Versatility: Optimized interfaces for phone (6.4"), book (7.9"), and tablet (10.2") configurations.
- Stylus Support: Precise input for note-taking and creative work.
- Multi-Window Support: Run multiple apps simultaneously with flexible window management.
- Desktop Mode: Connect to external displays for a PC-like experience.
- App Limitations: No Google services or Play Store access outside China.
Software Ecosystem Comparison
Samsung Software Advantages
- Full Google services integration
- Standalone DeX for desktop-like productivity
- Seven years of OS and security updates
- Robust app ecosystem through Play Store
- Better third-party app optimization
Huawei Software Advantages
- Triple mode optimization (phone, book, tablet)
- Stylus support for precise input
- Excellent hardware-software integration
- Smoother performance with HarmonyOS
- Better battery optimization
Software Verdict: Samsung offers a more complete software experience with Google services integration and its innovative standalone DeX mode. Huawei's triple-mode versatility and stylus support are compelling, but the lack of Google services severely limits its appeal outside China.
Price & Availability: Premium Investments
Both tri-fold devices command premium prices reflecting their cutting-edge technology
As expected for such cutting-edge technology, both the Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold and Huawei Mate XT command premium prices and have limited availability.
Pricing Structure
| Model | Storage | Price (USD) |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | 512GB | $2,450 |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold | 1TB | $2,650 |
| Huawei Mate XT | 256GB | $2,550 |
| Huawei Mate XT | 512GB | $2,800 |
| Huawei Mate XT | 1TB | $3,100 |
Regional Availability
Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold
Samsung is taking a phased approach to the Z Tri-Fold's release:
- South Korea: December 12, 2025
- China, Taiwan, Singapore, UAE: Late December 2025
- United States: Q1 2026
- Europe: Q2 2026 (expected)
The device is available in a single color option: Crafted Black.
Huawei Mate XT
Huawei's availability is more limited due to ongoing trade restrictions:
- China: Available now
- Select Asian Markets: Available now
- Middle East: Available now
- Europe: Limited availability
- United States: Not available
The Mate XT is available in four colors: Red, Black, Purple, and White.
Value-Added Features
To help justify their premium price tags, both manufacturers offer additional benefits:
Samsung Extras
- 50% discount on one screen repair
- Six-month Google AI Pro trial
- 2TB Google Cloud storage (6 months)
- Seven years of OS and security updates
Huawei Extras
- Premium case included
- Optional stylus (sold separately)
- Huawei cloud storage bundle
- Extended warranty in select markets
Pros & Cons Summary: At a Glance
The Samsung Z Tri-Fold and Huawei Mate XT represent two different approaches to tri-fold smartphone design
Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold Pros
- Superior processor performance (Snapdragon 8 Elite)
- Better protection for the inner foldable display
- IP48 water and dust resistance
- 120Hz refresh rate on all displays
- Full Google services and Play Store access
- Standalone DeX mode for desktop-like productivity
- Seven years of software updates
- 200MP main camera with 8K video recording
- Global 5G connectivity
- More affordable than the Huawei Mate XT
Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold Cons
- Heavier at 309g
- Limited to two usage configurations
- Slower charging (45W wired, 15W wireless)
- No stylus support
- Limited color options (only Crafted Black)
- Thicker when unfolded (3.9mm vs 3.6mm)
- Lower resolution main display
Huawei Mate XT Pros
- More versatile with three distinct usage modes
- Stylus support for precise input
- Faster charging (66W wired, 50W wireless)
- Slightly lighter (298g vs 309g)
- Thinner when unfolded (3.6mm vs 3.9mm)
- Higher resolution main display
- Superior optical zoom (5.5x vs 3x)
- Variable aperture main camera
- More color options
Huawei Mate XT Cons
- No Google services or Play Store
- Limited app ecosystem outside China
- No 5G connectivity in most markets
- Less powerful processor (Kirin 9020)
- Lower 90Hz refresh rate
- Exposed foldable display when in phone mode
- No IP rating for dust and water resistance
- More expensive than the Samsung Z Tri-Fold
- Limited availability outside Asia
Conclusion & Verdict: Which Tri-Fold Reigns Supreme?
Both tri-fold devices offer unprecedented screen real estate in a (somewhat) pocketable form factor
After thoroughly comparing the Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold and Huawei Mate XT across all key aspects, it's clear that both devices represent remarkable engineering achievements with different strengths and weaknesses.
Best For Different Users
- Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold
- Full Google services ecosystem
- Better app compatibility
- Global 5G connectivity
- More consistent software experience
- Better availability outside Asia
Best for Global Users
- Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold
- Standalone DeX mode
- Superior multitasking capabilities
- More powerful processor
- Better third-party app optimization
- Seven years of software updates
Best for Productivity
- Huawei Mate XT
- Three distinct usage modes
- Stylus support
- More color options
- Better form factor for reading
- Unique middle configuration
Best for Versatility
- Mixed Result
- Samsung: Higher resolution main camera
- Samsung: Better video recording
- Huawei: Superior optical zoom
- Huawei: Variable aperture
- Samsung: Better low-light performance
Best for Photography
- Huawei Mate XT
- Similar overall battery life
- Much faster wired charging (66W vs 45W)
- Superior wireless charging (50W vs 15W)
- Better power efficiency in middle mode
- More versatile power management
Best for Battery Life
- Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold
- Lower starting price ($2,450 vs $2,550)
- Better long-term software support
- More included value-added features
- Better durability and repairability
- More practical for most users
Best Value
Final Verdict
For most users, especially those outside China, the Samsung Galaxy Z Tri-Fold represents the better overall choice. Its combination of Google services integration, powerful performance, standalone DeX mode, and global 5G connectivity make it more practical for everyday use despite its less versatile folding design.
The Huawei Mate XT offers compelling advantages with its three-mode versatility, stylus support, and faster charging, but the lack of Google services and limited global availability significantly restrict its appeal outside China.
Both devices represent the cutting edge of smartphone innovation, and your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, geographic location, and ecosystem preferences. If you're willing to invest in these premium devices, you'll be rewarded with a glimpse into the future of mobile computing.
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