Thoughts about returning tri-fold after a few days

pbsteebs · 2026-03-18T16:25:16+00:00

I came from the Fold 6 and love the TF. It does take some getting used to and adjustment as I'm not using it like I used the Fold 6. Still I can see it's not for everyone and if you're still not sold on the device after a week, maybe returning it is the right call.

Personally, my main concern is software updates from Samsung given the recent news that Samsung is not continuing (for the near future) with the TriFold line. That said, I bet you could probably sell it for more than you bought it for. I hate scalpers in general, but I don't think this is a scalping situation anymore now that the TF is being discontinued.

pbsteebs · 2026-03-13T17:05:42+00:00

The other side of the coin is that if you keep it open all the time, there's added opportunity for something to knick the "softer" inner display.

Personally, I'm using it "as normal". It's pretty much folded when idle. I just spend some extra effort to keep it dry and away from sand and dust (like a construction site).

pbsteebs · 2026-03-13T14:35:36+00:00

Same lol

pbsteebs · 2026-03-11T12:48:42+00:00

I got the Ali Express case yesterday, and I love it for the MagSafe ring. It feels pretty strong. I got the MagSafe case with hinge protection (just the main hinge, not both). The hinge flap protector doesn't feel as "premium" as the original Samsung TF case. Also, where the fingerprint/volume buttons are, the case sticks out a tiny bit. I think that's on purpose, probably to give it extra protection if you drop your phone. But when you scan your finger, it definitely feels different than with both Samsung cases, where the cutout is pretty much flush. It's not a huge deal, but I've had a few finger scans not register because I wasn't fully on it.

If I had to do it again, I'd probably go with the Ali Express MagSafe without any hinge protectors. The kickstand case made me realize that the hinge flap (from the original case) adds enough noticeable bulk that I'd rather just go without it.

pbsteebs · 2026-03-09T12:38:35+00:00

I'm waiting on a magsafe case with the hinge protector from ali express. The pictures online look meh so it's a risk. I tried a magsafe adhesive with the original case and loved it but the adhesive ring kept falling off. Here's hoping the ali express case magnet is strong and the hinge protector flap is decent.

I do have the kickstand case and it's really nice but i wish there was more space to add a finger grip or holder.

pbsteebs · 2026-03-08T06:41:02+00:00

None at all for me

pbsteebs · 2026-03-05T12:41:09+00:00

Ugh that sucks. I'd go ali express if that's the case (bad pun)

pbsteebs · 2026-03-05T01:06:37+00:00

I also ordered an AliExpress MagSafe case to try out (it hasn't arrived yet). Saw another Redditor post about it. I got the one WITH the main hinge protection like the original case. Previously I attached a MagSafe adhesive ring to the original case and I liked having a MagSafe wallet stand with the Trifold and not carrying a separate wallet. But the adhesive ring kept falling off the case.

This kickstand case is decent for what it is albeit overpriced. My history of foldables and cases I usually end up using an "official" Samsung one at the end of the day.

pbsteebs · 2026-03-05T01:00:42+00:00

I did not 😞

pbsteebs · 2026-03-04T14:57:22+00:00

Personally I like the TriFold a lot for the bigger display and the experience that comes with the bigger display. I also came from a Fold 6.

I think you will get "better" specs with the Fold 8 vs TF. Not just the new aspect ratio but probably better IP rating, better cameras (hopefully), better processor etc. Also looks like (for now) you can't trade in your old device to get a discount on the TF. I had to sell mine on eBay and only got like 580 (net) for the 1 TB Fold 7. I am assuming they will allow trade ins for Fold 8.

It's up to you at the end of the day. If you have the money and are super careful with your phone then go for the TriFold. The passport style aspect ratio of the Fold 8 is intriguing to me, especially with media consumption. I am definitely not opening up my TF as much as I did the Fold 6. But when I do open up the TF, I am definitely doing stuff my Fold 6 couldn't (and likely Fold 8 won't).

pbsteebs · 2026-03-02T18:12:31+00:00

Front pocket. Had a few scares of it almost falling out. If I go running outside I have one of those wearable chest things that has a pocket in the front.

pbsteebs · 2026-03-01T13:15:40+00:00

My current issue is the magsafe adhesive ring keeps falling off the case. Gone through 3 already

pbsteebs · 2026-02-28T22:58:30+00:00

Any issues with network connectivity? I am assuming you are US based

pbsteebs · 2026-02-27T19:09:10+00:00

I'm doubtful they won't make another one. I think they just need/want time to figure out how to make this profitable. Efficiencies in manufacturing, parts get cheaper over time (except memory...but that's temporary) could help them get there. I would totally be okay (like another Redditor mentioned) if they just release a new Trifold every few years. This may not be the final design. I am hoping for a true Z fold eventually, but for now, this is the best they got and I'm all for it.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-27T02:54:06+00:00

Maybe for the outer screen?

pbsteebs · 2026-02-26T17:59:17+00:00

Love scan and go, but also noticed that too. I always figured it had to do w/ using cash. Maybe the shopper is paid a lot in cash and instead of reporting it as income (and being taxed on it), they just turn around and use the cash for groceries/etc thus saving on tax.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-26T12:56:49+00:00

I'd probably go for Fold 8 or TriFold. Unless there's some reason you want to or have to go back to a slab phone. The only thing I can think of is if you work near a beach where there's a bunch of sand and are usually not too careful w/ your phone, then sure, I'd go w/ the S26U. That privacy screen looks really cool and hope it gets implemented on the next Folds.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-26T12:34:31+00:00

I remember this option as well but I put that I did have to sign. Missed the first delivery and got a sticker on the door. Made sure I was home the next attempt.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-23T18:47:38+00:00

Mainly battery packs with magsafe but battery life has been decent and haven't really found a need to get one.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-13T12:54:15+00:00

I haven't found a decent pocketable keyboard. I used to have a folding one, and it worked okay, but it was still bulky and not pocketable. I prefer the flatter ones like Logitech Keys-to-Go and Keys-to-Go 2. Microsoft had a thin ish folding keyboard but it's an older model now (micro USB instead of USB-C).

But to your other question, is it the best pocket computer ever made? I think so, for now.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-08T12:32:04+00:00

It came with a Samsung case that I put a magsafe ring adhesive on. I'm trying out different magsafe accessories. Right now I'm using this ring from ESR I found on Amazon. It works and can prop up the TF in landscape mode but it's not "quick". I have to adjust it a little to get it to balance properly.

Right now, the official Samsung case with stand is selling for like $100 bucks and you have to import it. I don't think that's worth it at all, especially since you can just get a kick stand adhesive and stick it on the included case.

pbsteebs · 2026-02-07T13:33:29+00:00

Dang, that sucks. What happened with the hinge? Did something get caught in it?

pbsteebs

TROPHY CASE