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Why I'm Returning the Samsung Z Fold 7: S Pen and Productivity Review
Quick Answer
After pre-ordering the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, Branden returned it -- and this 8-minute video explains exactly why. He covers S Pen support, note-taking performance versus the Z Fold 6, and what productivity users need to know before buying.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 was one of the most anticipated foldable releases of 2025, and Branden pre-ordered one. After using it for note-taking, digital planning with the Key2Success Planner, and real productivity work, he returned it. This video is the unfiltered take on why.
The core issue for productivity users comes down to S Pen compatibility and the changes Samsung made to the foldable form factor in this generation. Branden walks through each pain point side by side with the Z Fold 6, covering what changed, what stayed the same, and whether those changes matter for the way he actually uses the device.
For Samsung foldable digital planners and Key2Success users, see the Samsung planner shop for editions designed for foldable screens.
Video Transcript
Branden shares his hands-on experience with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 after pre-ordering and actually using it. He covers the hardware changes from the Z Fold 6, how S Pen support changed, how note-taking apps like Samsung Notes perform on the new display, how the Key2Success Digital Planner works on the foldable screen, and ultimately why the changes were a dealbreaker for his productivity workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Samsung Z Fold 7 support S Pen?
The Samsung Z Fold 7 does not include an S Pen in the box and made changes to S Pen support compared to previous generations. Branden covers exactly what changed and how it affects note-taking users in this review.
Is the Samsung Z Fold 7 good for digital planning?
Branden's honest take is that the Z Fold 7 made tradeoffs that hurt its appeal for dedicated digital planners, particularly around S Pen support. He walks through the specific issues in this 8-minute review so you can decide if they matter for your workflow.
How does the Z Fold 7 compare to the Z Fold 6 for note-taking?
Branden compares both devices directly in the review, covering display changes, stylus support, and how the overall note-taking experience shifted between generations. His conclusion is that the Z Fold 6 was the better choice for his use case.
Does the Samsung Z Fold 7 still support the S Pen?
Yes, but Samsung stopped including a slot to store the S Pen inside the device starting with certain Fold models, so it's worth checking current specs before assuming built-in storage.
Why is Branden returning the Samsung Z Fold 7?
Branden's main reason centers on S Pen support changes that made the Z Fold 7 less useful for his note-taking and planning workflow compared to the Z Fold 6. He breaks down the specific dealbreakers in the review.
Is the Samsung Z Fold 7 still a good phone even if it's not ideal for note-taking?
Branden focuses this review specifically on the note-taking and S Pen experience, so his return decision is about that use case rather than the phone overall. If note-taking isn't your priority, the tradeoffs he covers may matter less to you.
Evaluate the Samsung Z Fold 7 for Your Workflow
- Watch the full 8-minute review before deciding whether to upgrade from the Z Fold 6.
- If S Pen note-taking is a core part of your workflow, pay close attention to the S Pen section of the review.
- Compare the Z Fold 7 and Z Fold 6 side by side on the specific features that matter for your use case.
- If you do get a Samsung foldable, check the Key2Success planner shop for editions designed for foldable screens.
Get the Key2Success Planner for Samsung Devices
Digital planning editions designed for Samsung foldable and tablet screens.
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