I tested the new Galaxy Z Fold8 in a camera phone shootout against the Z Fold8 Ultra

Samsung has unveiled its latest Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 8 series, and these fancy foldable devices have been hugely popular since launch. For existing Samsung users, the decision-making process on whether or not to upgrade, and which model to choose, can be a real test of strength.

As a photographer, the camera quality on a phone is my biggest priority, and some of the best camera phones of 2026 do an excellent job of blending raw image quality with AI enhancements, and not forgetting excellent video stability too.

Psst – Want the same phone as Spider-Man? The Z Flip8 features heavily in Brand New Day.

With the Samsung Z Fold8 series, there are now 2 options to choose from for the first time. The Fold8 has a new shape, with a 4:3 aspect ratio that feels super comfortable to use, a nd a 50MP main camera sensor.

The new "Ultra" model, on the other hand, is essentially what the flagship Fold series has always been, with a continuation of the same device shape and boasting that triple rear camera system with the 200MP main sensor.

What this means on paper is that the Z Fold8 Ultra has the better camera (200MP Vs 50MP on the Fold8), but how much of a difference are users going to notice if they opt for the Z Fold8 instead of the Ultra this year? That's what we're here to find out.

Prefer Apple? Check out our guide to the best iPhones for photography instead.

Quick Camera Specs

Camera Phone Shootout: Z Fold8 Ultra Vs Z Fold8

Take a look at the video I put together below to check out how these cameras compete.

*If you can't see the video above please refresh the page.

Image comparisons in detail

A lot of the images captured during my shoot in Bath were splitting hairs regarding quality, HDR, rich detail and exposure.

This is great news for those wanting the slightly smaller (and more affordable) Fold8 primarily for social media shooting, although the Z Fold8 Ultra model really shines when it comes to small details and will be worth the extra £200 if you ever plan on blowing your images up larger.

The main focus of this camera phone shootout has been quality, as the Z Fold8 Ultra and Z Fold8 standard both share the same 50MP Ultra Wide lens, as well as the same 10MP front camera – so there would have been no point in comparing those.

In the below image slider, you'll notice that the Fold8 Ultra offers a much more true-to-life image, whereas the Fold8 provides a high-contrast output with darker leaves in the foreground and lost detail in the building and sky in the background.

One other example shows how the images can look very similar when viewed normally, making them great for social sharing and general everyday photography. However, when you view these images zoomed in or blown up larger onto a desktop or monitor, you can really see where the 200MP does its job, and how soft the image really is with just the 50MP sensor.

Quality of the Z Fold8 Ultra Vs standard Z Fold8

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What's the verdict?

Clearly the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra has the better camera, that was never a debate. But the question is whether or not sacrificing the 150MP difference in main camera quality to get the Fold8 is worth it for creatives.

After testing both of these phones for around a month, I can confident vouch for both as excellent options. I prefer the Fold8 for daily use, things like editing video, watching YouTube shorts and general social scrolling is so much more comfortable on this pocket-sized device.

With that said, If you're using your phone as a replacement for a pro-level DSLR or mirrorless camera (as I often do when travelling for press events to cut down on bulk) then it is absolutely worth opting for the Ultra model in this instance to ensure you're getting the highest quality image in every circumstance.