Best Flip Phone 2026: Modern Foldable Flips Ranked
'Flip phone' in 2026 means something different than it did in 2010. Modern flip phones are foldable smartphones — Galaxy Z Flip 7, Motorola Razr 2024 — that close to fit in a pocket but unfold to a full-size display. Here are the best.
Updated · 3 picks · Rankings reflect MKBHD Smartphone Awards outcomes.
How we picked
Modern foldable flip phones with active update support. Award context from MKBHD's Best Small Phone category.
- #1
Won Best Small Phone at MKBHD's 2025 Smartphone Awards. The 4.1-inch cover screen is now usable as a standalone for most quick tasks; 6.9-inch inner display is full smartphone-class.
Pros
- MKBHD's 2025 Best Small Phone
- 4.1-inch usable cover screen
- Galaxy AI
Cons
- Battery shorter than slabs (5h SOT)
- $999 is steep for the form factor
- #2
The original Z Flip (2020) was Samsung's first commercial flip foldable. Now $150–$250 used. Software support is exhausted (security ended 2024); treat it as a collectible, not a daily driver. Important historical reference for the form factor.
Pros
- Original Samsung flip foldable
- Now $150–$250 used
Cons
- Software support exhausted
- Inferior to current flip foldables across the board
- #3
The Razr 2019 is one of the original modern flip foldables. Now $200–$300 used or refurbished — historical interest pick for foldable enthusiasts. Software support is exhausted; treat it as a collectible, not a daily driver.
Pros
- Historical foldable design
- Now $200–$300 used
Cons
- Software support exhausted
- Inferior to current flip foldables across the board
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best flip phone in 2026?
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 — winner of MKBHD's 2025 Best Small Phone award. Most pocketable flagship; cover screen is now usable as a standalone.
Is a flip phone worth it in 2026?
Only if pocketability is decisive for you and you'll actually use the cover screen. The Z Flip 7 is the most refined option but the iPhone 17 (Phone of the Year, $200 less) is the more practical buy for most.
Are old-school flip phones still made?
Yes — basic 'feature phone' flips are still sold (Cat S22 Flip, TCL Flip Pro) for buyers who specifically want a non-smartphone. We don't recommend them — modern foldable flips are dramatically more capable.
About this list
We index every phone that won or placed in MKBHD's annual Smartphone Awards (2014–2025) and surface the strongest matches for this category. Award badges link to the full award history. We earn a commission on purchases via our retailer links — at no extra cost to you.