Affordable Foldable Phones: Prices Drop, But Beware of Hidden Costs

The Rise of Affordable Foldable Screen Phones

Recently, Gearbest reported that Libero Flip, a small foldable screen smartphone, has been introduced to the Japanese market. This device is sold under SoftBank’s Ymobile brand but is actually manufactured by Chinese smartphone giant ZTE. As Japanese mobile brands like Sony and Sharp struggle to maintain their market presence, they increasingly rely on overseas manufacturers to produce cutting-edge devices like foldable phones.

The Libero Flip has made waves by breaking the price barrier for foldable phones. Priced at 63,000 yen (around 3,000 yuan), its cost drops to just 39,800 yen (approximately 1,910 yuan) when purchased with a contract plan. Officially released on February 29, this budget-friendly foldable device signals a major shift in smartphone pricing trends.

Falling Prices in the Chinese Market

While the Libero Flip is currently limited to Japan, China already offers multiple affordable foldable screen phones. Many of these devices remain under the radar, but with careful research, budget-conscious consumers can find excellent deals.

For instance, small foldable screen phones like the Samsung Z Flip 3 and Moto Razr 2022 have seen prices drop to around 3,000 yuan for the 8GB+256GB versions. The Samsung Z Flip 3, launched two years ago, features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, 3,300mAh battery, and a 6.7-inch inner screen with a 1.9-inch external display. Meanwhile, the Moto Razr 2022 offers superior specs, including a Snapdragon 8+ chipset, a 3,500mAh battery, and a 50MP main camera.

For those interested in large foldable screen phones, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 and Vivo X Fold+ have also seen significant price reductions. The 12GB+256GB version of the Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is available for just 5,500 yuan through third-party sellers on JD.com, while Vivo X Fold+ is similarly priced under 6,000 yuan. Both devices run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8+ platform and offer solid performance, even if they no longer feature the latest cutting-edge specs.

The Hidden Costs of Foldable Phones

At first glance, the price of affordable foldable screen phones is now comparable to mid-range flagship devices. However, potential buyers should be aware of an often-overlooked expense: after-sales repair costs. While the initial price tag may be attractive, the cost of fixing a damaged foldable screen can be exorbitant.

For example:

• Moto Razr 2022 (8GB+256GB): Costs just over 3,000 yuan, but repairing a damaged inner screen costs 1,979 yuan—bringing the total repair expense to over 2,000 yuan with labor.
• Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 (12GB+256GB): Available for 5,500 yuan, yet replacing the inner screen costs a staggering 4,139 yuan.

These repair costs remain fixed even as phone prices drop. Over time, the price of a device may decline significantly, but the cost of parts and repairs does not follow the same trend. Many users in tech forums have expressed frustration over these high maintenance costs, making it essential for buyers to consider long-term expenses before making a purchase.

Are Foldable Phones Worth It?

While affordable foldable screen phones continue to evolve with improved technology, they still come with durability concerns. Unlike traditional smartphones, foldable devices rely on delicate hinge mechanisms and flexible screens, which can wear out over time. This factor significantly increases the long-term usage and maintenance costs.

A useful comparison can be made to luxury cars—many used high-end vehicles are available for under 100,000 yuan, yet buyers hesitate due to their expensive repair and upkeep costs. Similarly, while foldable screen phones are now more affordable, potential repair expenses make them less appealing in the long run.

Final Thoughts

As smartphone manufacturers continue refining foldable technology, these devices are becoming more accessible. However, before investing in one, it is crucial to consider not just the upfront cost, but also the potential long-term expenses related to durability and repairs. Affordable foldable screen phones may seem like a great deal at first, but their hidden costs could make them less budget-friendly in the long run.

To make an informed decision, consumers should research repair prices, check warranty coverage, and weigh the practicality of a foldable phone against its novelty appeal. Only then can they determine if these innovative devices truly fit their needs.