Folding smartphones have evolved fast — from futuristic luxury gadgets to practical midrange options. But are foldable phones in 2025 finally worth it for Filipino users?
Let’s break down the best budget-friendly foldables available this year, what you give up compared to premium models, and whether it’s a smart buy for you.
What “Budget” Means in the Philippine Market (2025)
In the Philippines, “budget foldable” now refers to phones priced between ₱25,000 to ₱45,000.
While flagship models like the Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Fold can easily exceed ₱90,000, brands such as TECNO, HONOR, Infinix, and Motorola are shaking things up with more accessible alternatives.
However, prices still depend on import costs, local warranty coverage, and repair availability, so “budget” in PH terms may differ from global pricing.
Top Affordable & Midrange Folding Phones in 2025
Here’s a rundown of the top foldables that offer solid performance without breaking the bank.
1. TECNO Phantom V Flip 5G
- Price: Around ₱29,999
- Display: 6.9-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8050
- Camera: 64MP + 13MP rear, 32MP front
- Battery: 4000mAh, 45W fast charging
✅ Great value with stylish clamshell design
⚠️ Limited after-sales support in the provinces
2. HONOR Magic V Flip
- Price: Around ₱39,999
- Display: 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
- Camera: 50MP dual setup
- Battery: 4500mAh, 66W fast charging
✅ Large external display and excellent performance
⚠️ May be imported only; confirm local warranty
3. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5
- Price: ₱56,990 (discounted in promos)
- Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Camera: 12MP + 12MP
- Battery: 3700mAh
✅ Excellent build quality and proven reliability
⚠️ Higher price but strong service network in PH
4. Motorola Razr 40
- Price: Around ₱30,000
- Display: 6.9-inch pOLED, 144Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
- Battery: 4200mAh
✅ Retro-modern design, bright screen, decent performance
⚠️ Limited availability locally
5. ZTE Libero Flip 5G
- Price: Around ₱13,900
- Display: 6.6-inch AMOLED
- Processor: Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
- Battery: 4300mAh
✅ Among the cheapest foldables available online
⚠️ Import-only and may lack official PH warranty
6. Infinix ZERO Flip (PH Exclusive Launch)
- Price: ₱24,999
- Display: 6.9-inch FHD+ AMOLED
- Processor: Dimensity 8020
- Camera: 108MP + 13MP
- Battery: 4300mAh, 45W fast charging
✅ Great balance of specs and price
⚠️ First-gen model, long-term durability untested
7. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold (Premium Benchmark)
- Price: Around ₱104,000
- Processor: Tensor G4
- Display: 7.6-inch LTPO OLED, IP68 water resistance
- Battery: 5000mAh
✅ Sets the standard for premium foldables
⚠️ Way beyond the “budget” range, but great for comparison
Feature Tradeoffs in Budget Foldables
Affordable foldables cut costs in specific areas. Before buying, be aware of what you’re giving up:
- Weaker hinges (less certified folds before wear)
- Plastic screens that scratch easier than glass
- Limited or no IP water/dust protection
- Lower-tier cameras (especially ultrawide/telephoto)
- Slower charging and fewer updates
- Smaller outer screens
If you’re fine with these compromises, you’ll still get that futuristic feel without the flagship price tag.
Durability and Real-World Use
Durability remains the main question mark for budget foldables.
Most hinges are rated for 200,000 folds, but long-term use can cause:
- Crease visibility over time
- Inner screen bubbles or black lines after a few years
- Hinge stiffness or cracking sounds
Care Tips for Foldable Owners
- Keep the hinge clean — dust and sand can cause damage
- Avoid pressing the inner screen too hard
- Use the included screen protector only
- Avoid moisture — most budget foldables lack water resistance
Foldables can last long if handled carefully, but they’re not ideal for heavy outdoor or field use.
Software and App Compatibility
While premium models like Samsung and Google optimize their UIs for split-screen and multitasking, budget foldables may struggle with app scaling.
- Some social media and video apps still display awkwardly on inner screens
- Multitasking can feel laggy on lower chipsets
- Android 15 improves foldable compatibility — check brand update promises (at least 2–3 years recommended)
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy a Foldable in 2025
| Ideal For | Maybe Skip If You… |
|---|---|
| Love sleek, futuristic designs | Need rugged or waterproof phones |
| Want to multitask and flex tech | Want long battery life |
| Enjoy taking selfies and vlogs | Use phone heavily outdoors or on-site |
| Prefer compact devices | Keep phones for 4+ years |
If you’re a student, creative, or professional who values aesthetics and multitasking, a foldable might be a fun upgrade.
If you prioritize durability and battery, a flagship slab phone may still be wiser.
Future Outlook for Foldables
Foldables are here to stay — and getting stronger each year.
Here’s what’s coming next:
- Better hinge materials that resist dust and creasing
- Cheaper mass-market foldables under ₱20,000 by 2026
- Triple-fold or rollable screens for productivity
- IP68-rated models (like Pixel 10 Pro Fold) becoming common
- Local availability in PH improving via telco partnerships
Expect more competition — and lower prices — as the tech matures.
Final Verdict: Worth It or Not for Filipinos?
✅ Yes, if you want style, flexibility, and uniqueness.
Foldables in 2025 are more practical than ever, with strong specs under ₱40k.
⚠️ But no, if you value durability, battery life, or repairability.
Screen replacement and hinge repairs remain expensive and limited in PH.
Bottom line:
Folding phones are no longer luxury toys — they’re everyday-ready devices for early adopters and style-conscious Filipinos.
Just choose a brand with local service support and handle it with care.
Disclaimer: Images used in this article are for illustrative purposes only. All photos belong to their respective owners. If you are the copyright holder of any image and wish to request removal or credit update, please contact us.
