Why I’m Returning the Samsung Z Fold 7 (And Why the Fold 6 Still Wins for Productivity)

Samsung’s new Z Fold 7 is here — thinner, brighter, and more refined. But for power users, creators, and digital professionals, one major feature is missing: S-Pen support. In this post, I’ll share why that’s a dealbreaker, how it impacts productivity, and why I’m choosing to return the Z Fold 7 and stick with the Fold 6.

Table of Contents

• The Hype Around Z Fold 7
• Why S-Pen Removal Hurts
• Foldable Phones Are Productivity Tools
• Z Fold 7 Features (What Actually Improved)
• Z Fold 6 vs Z Fold 7: Which to Buy?
• Why I’m Returning My Fold 7
• Our Planning System for Fold Devices
• Watch the Full Review

The Hype Around the Samsung Z Fold 7

Samsung positioned the Z Fold 7 as its sleekest, most advanced foldable yet. It features a slimmer body, improved brightness, and a slightly larger outer screen. On paper, it looks like a great step forward. But the surprise removal of S-Pen support left many longtime fans — including me — questioning its direction.

Why S-Pen Removal Is a Dealbreaker

Samsung’s S-Pen has been the standout feature for Fold devices since the Fold 3. For professionals and creatives, it’s more than a stylus — it’s a tool for planning, note-taking, design, and productivity.

Unlike the removal of the headphone jack (which had wireless workarounds), there’s no alternative to precise handwritten input. Taking it away without an equal or better solution feels like a step backward — especially at a $2,000+ price point.

Foldable Phones Should Be Tools, Not Toys

For me, the Z Fold is not about entertainment — it’s about execution. With the Fold 6, I could use:

• Samsung Notes for handwritten planning
• OneNote for synced task lists
• PDF annotation apps for contracts and client reviews

The Fold 6 was a digital notebook, planner, and mobile workstation all in one. Removing the S-Pen kills that workflow.

Z Fold 7 Improvements – What Actually Changed

Let’s give credit where it’s due. The Z Fold 7 does improve in some key areas:

• Slightly brighter outer screen (up to 2600 nits)
• Thinner and lighter build
• Wider front screen for better messaging usability
• Improved battery efficiency thanks to hardware changes
• Subtle reduction in the crease visibility

These are nice touches — but none justify removing the S-Pen.

Fold 6 vs Fold 7: Which Should You Buy?

If you’re a productivity-focused user, the Z Fold 6 is still the better choice. Here’s why:

Why I’m Returning the Z Fold 7

I had high hopes. But the lack of S-Pen support makes the Fold 7 incompatible with the way I work. Instead, I’ll continue using the Fold 6 — and I’m already exploring alternative devices that prioritize real-world productivity over sleek marketing.

Try Our Digital Planning System for Fold Devices

Looking to turn your Fold phone or tablet into a productivity powerhouse? Check out our Key2Success Digital Planning System — designed for Samsung Notes, OneNote, and other PDF apps.

👉 Click here to explore our planners

Watch the Full Review

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