Google’s first foldable smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, has hit the market with a hefty price tag of $2,000. Naturally, it’s drawn plenty of attention, not least because it’s Google’s debut in the foldable category. Competing with the likes of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the impressive Honor Magic V3, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is under close scrutiny—especially when it comes to durability. One person who wasted no time putting it through its paces is Zack Nelson, known for his rigorous stress tests on the YouTube channel JerryRigEverything.
The Usual Durability Tests
Zack’s durability tests are notoriously tough. He puts smartphones through trials that include scratching, burning, dust exposure, and his signature bend test to see just how sturdy they really are. And while no one expects a foldable phone to be as rugged as a traditional smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold had a few surprises up its sleeve—some good, and some not so much.
Not as Tough as the Pixel Fold
Let’s start with the bad news: the Pixel 9 Pro Fold doesn’t quite measure up to its predecessor, the Pixel Fold, when it comes to overall toughness. For starters, while the external screen is well-protected, the internal display is vulnerable—scratching easily, even with a fingernail. This is something we’ve come to expect from foldable screens, but it’s still disappointing, especially at this price point.
On the flip side, it held up better against heat than the original Pixel Fold, which couldn’t withstand exposure to a lighter’s flame. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, however, remained functional, which is a small but significant improvement.
The Real Weak Spot: It’s Not the Hinge
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is waterproof, but it’s worth noting that it’s not dust-resistant. During testing, the device creaked audibly under stress, and the hinge—often the Achilles’ heel of foldable phones—took a noticeable hit. However, in an unexpected twist, the phone didn’t fail at the hinge during the bend test.
This is where things get interesting. Typically, foldable phones are most vulnerable at their hinges, but when Zack applied pressure to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, it broke on the left side near the antennae rather than the hinge. This was a surprise, as the hinge held up better than expected. In comparison to its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold seemed to give out more quickly under stress, but the breakage happened in a different, less predictable spot.
A Foldable That’s Not Built for the Rough Stuff
In the end, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has its strengths, particularly in its waterproof design and improved heat resistance, it’s clear this isn’t a phone designed for the rough-and-tumble of everyday life—at least not without some extra care. The internal screen is delicate, the phone cracks easily under pressure, and its dust resistance is lacking. If you’re eyeing this device, it’s best to handle it with care and maybe invest in a sturdy case.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a testament to Google’s ambition in the foldable market, but as with any new technology, there are still some kinks to iron out. For now, it’s a premium device with a premium price, but it’s clear that durability might not be its strongest selling point.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.