In recent years, smartphones have evolved remarkably, and among them, "foldable smartphones" have attracted significant attention as next-generation devices that dramatically change the mobile experience.

However, it is not uncommon for new models to exceed 200,000 yen, and many people may be hesitant to purchase one due to the high price. We often hear concerns such as, "Can I really make the most of it?" or "Isn't it prone to breaking?"

This article is for those considering adopting a foldable smartphone, and it provides a detailed explanation from a professional perspective, covering everything from the basic knowledge of the device to its specific pros and cons, and why choosing a "used" option offers the best cost performance.

What is a foldable smartphone? The two main types and their features

A foldable smartphone, as its name suggests, refers to a special smartphone with a display that can be folded. This is made possible by "flexible display" technology, which utilizes the flexibility of organic EL (OLED).

Since its appearance around 2019, technological innovation has progressed, and its practicality has now reached an extremely high level. Foldable smartphones currently on the market are broadly divided into two types: "horizontal-fold type" and "vertical-fold type."

Each type has distinct uses and target audiences, so it is important to determine which one best suits your lifestyle.

The table below summarizes the general characteristics of each type.

Thus, the horizontal-fold type focuses on "how to carry a large screen," while the vertical-fold type focuses on "how to store a large screen compactly."

Both offer new value that traditional slab-shaped smartphones could not, but their complex structure tends to drive up new product prices. Therefore, for those who want to acquire them smartly, considering the reliable used market is a very practical option.

Horizontal-fold Type (Fold): Large screen doubles as a tablet

The horizontal-fold type foldable smartphone's biggest feature is that when closed, it can be used much like a regular smartphone, and when opened, a large screen comparable to a small tablet appears. This "two-in-one" convenience is overwhelmingly popular among business professionals who work on the go and users who want to enjoy content on a large screen.

For example, you can intuitively perform multi-window operations such as opening a website on the left side while taking notes or checking your SNS timeline on the right side.

It is also excellent for e-books. Manga and magazines, which can appear small on a regular smartphone, can be comfortably read in a two-page spread on a horizontal-fold type. This is the ideal solution for those who are tired of carrying both a smartphone and a tablet and want to minimize their luggage.

Recent models also support pen input, making them virtually "portable creative studios." However, they tend to be heavier and thicker, so if you are considering purchasing a used one, we recommend checking the actual specifications and reviews to see if the weight is acceptable to you.

Explore our extensive lineup of Android devices here: https://prodig.co.jp/collections/android

Vertical-fold Type (Flip): Compact and highly portable

The vertical-fold type foldable smartphone is attractive for its style, reminiscent of old flip phones, opening up to a standard smartphone size and folding down to a compact size that fits perfectly in a pocket or small bag.

It is particularly popular among fashion-conscious users in their 20s and 30s, and female users who dislike putting large smartphones in their pockets. Even when closed, the "cover display" on the outside allows users to check notifications and control music playback, which has the added benefit of reducing the frequency of unnecessarily opening the smartphone.

Another significant advantage of this type is the "Flex Mode," which allows the device to be fixed in an "L-shape." This makes it possible to take selfies or make video calls by placing it on a table without a tripod.

This self-standing feature is surprisingly useful in various everyday situations, such as cooking while looking at a recipe or watching videos while doing makeup. Since the price is relatively lower compared to the horizontal-fold type, it is often chosen as an entry-level model for foldable smartphones.

Three major benefits of using a foldable smartphone

The benefits of adopting a foldable smartphone are not merely the visual surprise of a "bending screen." It holds the potential to fundamentally change how we interact with our digital devices.

Especially for modern professionals who prioritize cost performance and time performance, having a single device that serves multiple roles offers significant monetary and time-related advantages. Here, we will delve deeper into the convenience of three points that are particularly highly rated by users.

The advantages of foldable smartphones are mainly summarized in the following three points:

1. Improved information display and operability: A dramatic increase in the amount of information that can be obtained at once.

2. Unique shooting style and convenience: New ways of using the device by utilizing its self-standing structure.

3. Design and scarcity that satisfies the desire for ownership: Differentiates you from others and offers the joy of experiencing cutting-edge technology.

By enjoying these benefits, daily stress is reduced, and you can allocate more time to creative activities. For example, you no longer need to struggle with a tablet on a crowded commuter train; you can simply open your device and secure a large workspace. This experience is so impactful that once you try it, you might not want to go back to traditional smartphones.

Two-in-one! Comfortable for video viewing and multitasking (Fold)

The horizontal-fold type foldable smartphone is truly the embodiment of "smartphone and tablet fusion." Have you ever felt, when watching videos on your smartphone, "If only the screen were a little bigger," or when replying to work emails, "I wish I could type while looking at a document"?

With a Fold type device, the large screen, which is 7 inches or more with an excellent aspect ratio, dramatically improves the viewing experience of movies and YouTube. Not only is the power of the visuals different, but in terms of readability of subtitles and expressive power of details, it is in a league of its own compared to regular smartphones.

Furthermore, its multitasking capabilities are even more powerful. Some models can display three apps simultaneously by splitting the screen, allowing for advanced operations such as attending a web conference while reviewing documents and simultaneously replying to chats. This is a very powerful tool for those in their 20s and 30s who are working on side jobs or studying for qualifications. Even if you choose an older model on the used market, the convenience of this large screen can be fully enjoyed, so for those who were deterred by the high new price, it's worth exploring the used market for a device that suits you.

Find used devices that offer a tablet-like experience: https://prodig.co.jp/collections/android

Pocket-friendly portability and ease of selfies

The advantage of the vertical-fold (Flip) type lies in its "overwhelming portability," which can be seen as an antithesis to the increasing size of modern smartphones. Recent smartphones have grown larger, with screen sizes ranging from 6.1 to 6.7 inches, and cases where users struggle to find a place for their phone, especially when wearing light clothing in summer or using small trendy bags, have increased.

With the Flip type, folding it reduces its area by half, resulting in a size that fits in the palm of your hand. This "perfect fit" provides a great sense of liberation for active generations.

Furthermore, the camera function has undergone unique evolution. By bending the main body 90 degrees and placing it down, stable shooting is possible without a tripod, allowing for easy long-exposure night shots, group photos with friends, and even video streaming. The ability to take selfies with the main camera using the cover display is also a welcome point for users who prioritize image quality.

In this way, the true essence of the Flip type is to make everyday actions more enjoyable and convenient. For cost-conscious users, used Flip type phones are also a very attractive option because their prices tend to drop significantly, making them available at a relatively affordable price range.

The satisfaction of owning cutting-edge technology and design aesthetics

Owning a foldable smartphone means gaining an "experience" that goes beyond just a tool. In a world where everyone else is using similar slab-shaped smartphones, the act of flipping it open and the smoothly bending display have a presence that can spark conversations.

Feeling cutting-edge technology close at hand satisfies gadget curiosity and brings the joy of ownership. This is a surprisingly significant factor for younger generations who value daily motivation.

Furthermore, in terms of design, each manufacturer puts a lot of effort into their flagship models, so the texture and color schemes are highly refined. The intricate craftsmanship of the hinge and the beauty of the folded form even have the feel of a work of art.

Even when choosing a used product, this "quality as an object" is unlikely to be lost, and if you choose a carefully used individual, you can achieve the same satisfaction as a new product. Even for those with a strong preference for the latest models, acquiring a one-generation-old model on the used market is becoming a common way to cleverly enjoy the benefits of cutting-edge technology.

Disadvantages and countermeasures to know to avoid regret

Every excellent product has its drawbacks. Foldable smartphones, in particular, due to their unique structure, have different considerations than traditional smartphones that must be understood.

To avoid regretting "spending so much money only to have it break quickly" or "the usability wasn't what I expected," it is essential to understand the risks beforehand and know how to mitigate them. For those considering a used product, it is even more crucial to calmly analyze these points.

The main concerns are as follows:

• Risk of physical damage: Due to moving parts, it can be vulnerable to impact and dust.

• High repair costs: Display replacement costs can be several times higher than for regular smartphones.

• Lack of app optimization: Some apps may not support large screens or irregular aspect ratios.

You don't need to think, "Maybe this isn't for me after all," when you see these disadvantages. That's because most problems can be covered by "choosing correctly," "handling appropriately," and "shop warranty." For example, when buying a used one, choosing a device that has already been checked by a specialized shop, or selecting a shop with its own warranty plan in case of an emergency, can significantly reduce the risk.

New product prices are extremely high

The biggest hurdle for foldable smartphones is undeniably their "price." The latest Fold type generally costs over 250,000 yen, and even the Flip type typically costs around 150,000 yen. This is due to the high manufacturing cost of flexible displays themselves, coupled with the added development costs of complex hinge mechanisms.

For working professionals in their 20s and 30s, investing over 200,000 yen in a single smartphone, even with installment payments, requires considerable resolve. Furthermore, due to the high price, the psychological pressure of "what if I drop it?" becomes a constant concern in daily life.

The most effective countermeasure to this problem is the "utilization of used and older models." Prices for foldable smartphones tend to drop relatively quickly compared to iPhones, and models from one to two years ago are often sold at less than half the price of new ones.

For example, even when comparing the latest model with one from a previous generation, there is often no dramatic difference in perceived speed or screen quality in daily use. By choosing a used one, the saved funds can be allocated to more robust accessories or other gadgets. If you want to experience cutting-edge technology smartly and cost-effectively, the used market is an indispensable sanctuary.

Check our reliable used smartphone inventory: https://prodig.co.jp/collections/used-smartphones

Increased weight and thickness compared to regular smartphones

Foldable smartphones, especially the horizontal-fold type (Fold), inevitably have more weight and thickness because their structure resembles two smartphones stacked together. While typical smartphones weigh around 170g to 200g, Fold type devices commonly weigh around 230g to 260g.

Holding it with one hand for a long time can strain the wrist, and putting it in the pocket of tight pants can distort the silhouette. Even with the Flip type, while compact when closed, the thickness is equivalent to two smartphones, so caution is needed when placing it in a shirt pocket, for example.

The countermeasure to this is, first, to "know your limits." The best way is to try out the actual device in a store, but if that's difficult, compare it to the weight of your current smartphone with a case or phone ring attached. Also, in the case of the Fold type, by shifting your mindset from "using it as a smartphone" to "using it as a mini-tablet," the negative impression of the weight can be reduced. Conversely, if lightness is your top priority, not sticking to foldables and instead looking for a lightweight, new-generation regular smartphone at a good price in the used market is also a smart option.

Concerns about display durability

The biggest concerns for people considering buying a foldable smartphone are the "crease in the screen" and "durability." It is natural to worry whether the screen will crack or the crease will lift after repeated folding and unfolding.

Indeed, early models had durability issues, but current models from the 4th and 5th generations onwards have passed tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of open/close tests and are designed to be used without problems for several years under normal use.

However, grit or dust getting into the hinge can cause malfunctions, so caution is advised when using it outdoors.

When purchasing a used device, there is a risk that you cannot see how the previous user used it. Therefore, we strongly recommend purchasing from a specialized shop where professional appraisers rigorously check the devices, rather than through individual transactions on flea market apps. In particular, if the device has been inspected for unique items such as abnormal hinge noises or black lines in the center of the screen, you can use it with peace of mind for a long time, even if it's used.

Also, the protective film is often a specialized one, and peeling it off yourself may void the warranty, so be sure to read the shop's precautions carefully before purchasing.

For cost-performance, a "used foldable smartphone" is the ultimate choice

For smart consumers who "like new things but want to keep unnecessary expenses down," the used foldable smartphone market is a treasure trove. In fact, foldable smartphones are one of the categories where buying used offers the greatest benefits.

This is because if you can overcome the psychological hurdle of used goods, the return (improvement in experience) is overwhelmingly greater than with other smartphones. Here, we will specifically explain why a used foldable smartphone is the "ultimate choice" right now.

The biggest advantages of choosing used are as follows:

1. Dramatic reduction in initial costs: Breaking the 200,000 yen barrier and becoming available at a realistic price.

2. Avoidance of depreciation risk: Avoiding the shock of value dropping quickly after buying new.

3. Cost savings by eliminating the need for two devices: Consolidating smartphone and tablet costs into one.

Especially for working professionals in their early to mid-20s and 30s, who often experience many life events, smart asset management and savings are crucial. Minimizing smartphone costs while acquiring the latest productivity tools – this balance can be achieved by purchasing a used device from a trustworthy shop like PRODIG.

Older models can sometimes be found for less than half the price of new ones.

The world of foldable smartphones is evolving very quickly, so when new models are released, the prices of older models drop significantly. However, as mentioned earlier, even models from one or two generations ago offer a basic "folding" experience and screen beauty that are on par with the latest models.

For example, isn't a 100,000 yen price reduction more valuable to many users than a 0.2-second increase in CPU processing speed?

In fact, good condition "A-rank products" or "unused products" that are almost new can sometimes be found at surprisingly low prices at used retailers. By targeting these, you can use the tens of thousands of yen saved to buy high-quality wireless earphones or save for future replacements. PRODIG strives to keenly detect these market trends and offer a lineup that users will find "most cost-effective" right now. The search for a used smartphone can also be as enjoyable as finding your own hidden gem, making it ideal for those who want to make a satisfying purchase.

Browse our curated selection of used Android devices: https://prodig.co.jp/collections/android

Eliminate the need for two devices and consolidate costs.

Many people currently carry two devices, such as a "smartphone and an iPad mini," for work on the go. However, the cost of two devices, plus their respective communication fees (SIM charges), the hassle of charging, and the weight of carrying them, are significant burdens that cannot be ignored.

By introducing a Fold-type foldable smartphone, it is possible to consolidate all of these into a single device. Consolidating into one device eliminates data synchronization issues and minimizes interruptions to work.

The economic benefits of this "consolidation" are enormous. Let's say you purchase a used Fold device in the low 100,000 yen range. This is significantly cheaper than buying the latest iPhone and latest iPad separately. Furthermore, monthly mobile insurance and subscriptions only apply to one device.

Thus, considering the total operating cost, consolidating to a foldable smartphone is a very rational decision. With the money saved, you can subscribe to a better data plan or invest in apps that boost your work efficiency, making it the best partner to support your career growth.

How to choose a used foldable smartphone without making mistakes

When choosing a used foldable smartphone, the most important aspects are "where to buy it" and "what to look for." Unlike typical smartphones, foldable smartphones have a "fateful weakness" in their movable parts, meaning there are special inspection points in addition to the usual checks.

Neglecting these can lead to unexpected problems after purchase. Even if you are cautious, by understanding the following points, you can turn your anxiety about used products into confidence and choose a satisfactory device.

The main points to check are as follows:

• Smoothness of operation: Check for any catching or unusual noises when opening and closing.

• Screen condition: Check for discoloration, lifting, or dead pixels in the crease area.

• Shop reliability: Is the inspection system and warranty clear?

While it can be difficult to check these things by yourself, a shop with a physical store (like in Akihabara) offers peace of mind because you can actually hold and examine the device. Also, even when buying online, checking whether the product photos and condition descriptions are detailed and if there's a clear return policy is the first step to a "successful purchase."

Check hinge operation and screen crease

The heart of a foldable smartphone is its "hinge." When considering a used item, first slowly open and close the device. Listen and feel with your fingertips for any unusual "clicks" or gritty sensations, indicating a smooth or rough movement. It's also important to check if the "freestop" function, which allows the device to be fixed at specific angles, is still functional. If the hinge is loose, it can be inconvenient, such as closing unexpectedly when used in a self-standing position.

Next, examine the display. Turn on the power, display a white screen, and observe the crease area from an angle. Slight indentations are normal, but if there are streak-like discolorations or black stains resembling liquid leakage, it's best to avoid it. Also, check if the original protective film is peeling off. The film on foldable smartphones is made of special material, and if it peels off, it can lead to damage to the display itself. Whether a shop offers devices that have been checked for these points is a major criterion for distinguishing good shops.

Battery level and exterior condition

This is common to selecting any smartphone, but foldable smartphones tend to have particularly high "battery consumption." Since they drive large screens and many models feature two displays, battery degradation directly impacts convenience. If the model allows you to check "maximum battery capacity" from the settings screen, choose one that maintains 80% or more. Specialized shops like PRODIG check for such unseen degradation beforehand.

For the exterior, check for scratches and dents on the corners. Foldable smartphones have delicate structures, so signs of strong impact could indicate damage to internal hinges or the circuit board. Pay particular attention to deep scratches on the hinge part of the exterior. While minor scuffs won't matter if you attach a case, you should rigorously check for any distortions that might affect functionality. Purchasing from a shop with clearly defined condition ranks allows you to properly balance your acceptable condition with the price.

Choose a shop with a comprehensive warranty

No matter how carefully you check, used electronic devices always carry a certain risk of malfunction. Foldable smartphones, in particular, tend to have high repair costs. That's why purchasing "as-is" from flea market apps or similar platforms is extremely risky and not recommended.

When choosing a shop, look closely at their "after-sales support attitude" in addition to their reputation. For example, if a shop has a physical store in Akihabara, you can directly consult them in case of an emergency. Also, shops that regularly post information on Twitter (X) and actively communicate with users are generally more trustworthy.

By paying a little extra for peace of mind, the comfort of your used foldable smartphone life will increase many times over.

PRODIG's reliable warranty and support system: https://prodig.co.jp/

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are common questions asked by those considering adopting a foldable smartphone. We hope this helps alleviate your concerns.

Q: Is the crease on a foldable smartphone screen noticeable? A: The crease can be seen when the screen is off or viewed from an angle, but when watching videos or browsing head-on, it has evolved to a level where it is barely noticeable. The human brain adapts quickly, so most users forget about the crease itself after a few days of use.

Q: Can I use Osaifu-Keitai (mobile payment)? A: Yes, models officially sold in Japan (such as domestic versions of the Galaxy Z series and Pixel Fold) generally support Osaifu-Keitai (FeliCa). However, if you purchase an overseas SIM-free model used, it is often not supported, so please be sure to check the detailed specifications before purchasing. PRODIG clearly states whether a model is a domestic or international version when selling them.

Q: Do I need a special case for a foldable smartphone? A: Yes, due to its special structure, we recommend a dedicated case. Choosing a type that also protects the hinge area can significantly reduce the risk of damage from drops. When purchasing used, choosing a model for which cases are easily available (a popular model) is also a good technique.

Q: Is it true that the screen is more likely to crack in winter? A: In early models, there were reports that the display's flexibility decreased in extremely low temperatures, making it more prone to cracking. However, with the latest generations, material improvements have enhanced cold resistance. Nevertheless, it's generally best to avoid abruptly opening and closing the device in extreme sub-zero environments, just in case.

Summary

Foldable smartphones are innovative devices with the potential to make our lives more convenient and enjoyable. The magical experience of having a large screen in the palm of your hand is undeniably addictive once you try it. While the high new price and concerns about durability are certainly hurdles, cleverly choosing the "used" option from a reputable shop can minimize these worries.