Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: The “Thick” Foldable That Gets It Right
Google’s third-generation foldable, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, has arrived — and while it may not win any awards for being the thinnest phone around, it proves that thickness isn’t everything. Packed with major upgrades like an IP68 water-resistance rating, Qi2 magnetic charging, brighter dual displays, and a larger 5,015 mAh battery, this foldable is a powerhouse that prioritizes practicality over chasing paper-thin dimensions.
A Slightly Thicker Foldable — and That’s Okay
At 10.8 mm thick when closed and 5.2 mm when open, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is a touch heavier and thicker than last year’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold. While competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 (8.9 mm) and Honor’s Magic V5 (8.8 mm) have set new records for slimness, Google seems comfortable staying just outside the race.
The extra bulk, however, doesn’t translate to discomfort. As reviewer Dominic Preston from The Verge noted, “Day to day, with the phone in my jeans pocket or in one hand on the bus, I’ve never once thought it felt too thick.” In short, Google’s foldable is “thin enough” for everyday use — and that’s what truly matters.
Weight vs. Battery Life: A Fair Trade
Weighing 258 g, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is about 50 g heavier than the Z Fold 7 — noticeable, but far from a deal-breaker. That added weight houses one of the phone’s biggest advantages: a massive 5,015 mAh battery. Compared to the Z Fold 7’s 4,400 mAh cell, Google’s foldable easily delivers a full day of heavy use with power to spare. Most users report ending the day with around 40 percent battery left, a rare luxury in the foldable world.
And while Oppo and Honor’s ultra-thin models gain efficiency from next-gen silicon-carbon batteries, Google’s decision to stick with tried-and-true lithium-ion tech ensures reliable performance across markets — including the U.S., where silicon-carbon batteries remain limited.
Durability Takes the Spotlight
Perhaps the most notable upgrade is the IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating, a world-first for foldable phones. Combined with stronger hinge mechanics and a more refined folding experience, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold feels built to last — a crucial factor for users worried about longevity.
A Design That Ages Gracefully
While Google’s design might look conservative compared to Honor’s or Oppo’s futuristic silhouettes, its build quality feels premium and balanced. Even when used with Google’s slim Pixelsnap case, the phone maintains a sleek profile without feeling bulky.
Preston admits he initially criticized the Pixel’s “outdated” design — but after a week of use, he changed his mind: “Phones like Honor’s, Oppo’s, and Samsung’s certainly feel like the future of foldables, but the fractionally thicker Pixel feels just fine for now.”
Verdict: Practical, Powerful, and Perfectly Thin Enough
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold may not be the slimmest, but it’s arguably the most practical foldable yet. With its solid build, huge battery, bright screens, and IP68 protection, it focuses on what truly enhances the user experience rather than chasing specs for headlines.
As the foldable market matures, Google’s strategy proves one thing: you don’t need to be the thinnest to be the smartest.
Key Specifications:
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Thickness: 10.8 mm (closed) / 5.2 mm (open)
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Weight: 258 g
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Battery: 5,015 mAh
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Charging: Qi2 magnetic wireless, USB-C
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Water Resistance: IP68 certified
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Display: Brighter dual OLED panels
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Case Option: Pixelsnap slim protector
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