Honor isn’t playing backup anymore. The Magic V5 is here, and it’s not just chasing the foldable trend; it’s landing hits on Samsung’s Galaxy Fold 7. With sharp cameras, blazing performance, and a design that lives up to the “thincredible” nickname, this foldable means business.
The Magic V5’s design is sleek and actually pocketable
While most foldables still feel chunky when closed, the Magic V5 keeps things slim. It’s lightweight, elegant, and easy to carry, a rare combination in the category. Even with a sizable camera module on the back, it doesn’t scream “prototype” the way early foldables used to.
Honor also nailed the hinge mechanism, solid, fluid, and reassuringly durable.
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Displays that outshine the competition
Honor packed the brightest OLED panels you’ll find on a foldable right now. Both the inner and outer screens look vivid in any lighting, and colors pop without feeling oversaturated. That said, the outer cover display is slightly smaller than some rivals, which might not appeal to everyone.
Still, when it comes to readability and sharpness, the Magic V5 sets a new benchmark.
Best-in-class cameras for a foldable
Here’s where the Magic V5 really pulls ahead: the cameras. Most foldables compromise here, but not Honor. The results from this device rival high-end flagships, not just other foldables. Shots come out clean, dynamic, and well-balanced, even in low light.
Add to that a wide, ultrawide, and capable zoom lens, and you’re not left wanting.
Battery life is another strong suit
Despite its thin profile, the Magic V5 delivers serious battery endurance. It goes head-to-head with the best in the segment and often beats them. Honor didn’t just fit in a decent battery; they optimized the power draw across the board.
This is a foldable you don’t need to babysit by lunchtime.
What the Magic V5 gets right and what it doesn’t
Let’s break it down:
What works:
- Sleek and refined design
- Outstanding cameras across all lenses
- Brightest OLED screens in the foldable category
- IP58 and IP59 rated for water and dust resistance
- Seven years of Android OS updates
What doesn’t:
- Doesn’t ship with Android 16
- UI design feels dated
- Rear camera bump is bulky
- Slightly smaller screen real estate than some competitors
A real alternative to the Fold
Honor isn’t trying to reinvent the foldable, just outdo it. The Magic V5 succeeds by doing the fundamentals better: sharper photos, longer battery life, brighter displays, and thinner hardware.
For now, it won’t launch in North America, which limits its reach. But in Europe and other regions, the Magic V5 is already slicing into Samsung’s share. It’s not just another foldable. It’s a warning shot.
Foldables are getting serious, and Honor just raised the stakes.
