Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Review: The Pinnacle of Foldable Phone Technology

The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro stands as a remarkable outlier in the burgeoning market of foldable phones. While many manufacturers have compromised on camera performance to maintain an affordable price point, Vivo has boldly broken this trend by equipping the X Fold 3 Pro with an outstanding camera array. This strategic decision places it in a unique position, setting it apart from competitors like Samsung and Google. With Zeiss, a renowned name in optics, partnering with Vivo, the device not only excels in its native Chinese market but also poses a significant challenge to global players. The collaboration with Zeiss ensures top-notch imaging capabilities, making the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro a formidable contender in the high-end smartphone segment.

One of the most notable aspects of the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is its design ingenuity, which results in a device that is both thinner and lighter than its competitors. This is a significant achievement in the realm of foldable phones, where bulkiness and weight have often been a concern. The phone’s IPX8 water resistance rating further adds to its appeal, although it does lack dust resistance, which might be a drawback for some users. The dual AMOLED panels, one on the front cover and one on the inside, are another highlight. Both panels boast a high peak brightness of 4,500 nits and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a vibrant and smooth visual experience regardless of the lighting conditions.

Under the hood, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, marking a departure from the Mediatek chipsets used in previous models. This upgrade, combined with 12GB of RAM in the 256GB variant, makes the device exceptionally well-suited for multitasking and demanding applications. The phone’s performance is robust, handling everything from intensive gaming to seamless app switching with ease. The Zeiss periscope system is another standout feature, offering 10x hybrid zoom and support for macro shots. This versatility in the camera system ensures that users can capture a wide range of scenes with exceptional clarity and detail.

The rear camera array is covered in Zeiss’ T* coating, which significantly reduces glare and lens flare, enhancing the quality of photos taken in challenging lighting conditions. Vivo offers three main image profiles: vivid, textured, and Zeiss natural, catering to different photographic preferences. Additionally, the device includes a range of filters and presets available in most modes within the camera app, allowing users to customize their photos to their liking. The foldable aspect of the device also facilitates easier editing of photos in two apps simultaneously, a feature that will be appreciated by photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Flex mode is another innovative feature of the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, splitting the app into a viewable half and a control half. This mode offers new opportunities for creative mobile photography, enabling users to frame their shots more precisely and control settings without obstructing the viewfinder. The main camera, with its 50-megapixel sensor and f/1.68 aperture, delivers excellent results, particularly in terms of dynamic range and low-light performance. The ultra-wide camera, while the weakest link in the camera array, is compensated for by the device’s other lenses and the variety of modes available.

Video recording capabilities on the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro are equally impressive. Users can shoot 4K video at 60fps with excellent stabilization, thanks to the improved 3-axis gimbal stabilization system. This system manages particular movements better, resulting in smoother footage. The phone also supports pro video mode, allowing users to record video with the same tools available for still images. This includes the ability to record a separate audio track and switch between lenses with zoom tuned to fit, albeit limited to 1080p resolution. Director’s view is another useful mode, enabling users to see and record live from all four lenses simultaneously, with the footage available for quick edits immediately afterward.

The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s video capabilities are further enhanced by the inclusion of features like supermoon and night mode, even if they might not always be necessary. The improved eyepiece viewfinder and HDR fill button for video also contribute to brighter and clearer footage. The 32-megapixel selfie camera with autofocus handles photos and videos exceptionally well, providing users with versatile tools for capturing high-quality content. The creator tools, inspired by Apple’s cinematic flair, allow users to add creative touches to their videos without requiring substantial post-production effort.

After updating to Android 11, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro has seen significant improvements in performance and stability. The device now experiences fewer issues, particularly around the edges, although there are still minor chances of hiccups depending on the OS version sent to consumers or the level of silencing enforced by Vivo’s notification pane. Despite these minor issues, the overall user experience remains smooth and reliable, making the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro a pleasure to use for everyday tasks and creative endeavors alike.

In terms of pricing, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is positioned as a premium device, reflecting its high-end features and capabilities. The phone is available for purchase on Amazon, where it has seen significant price drops and discounts. Originally priced at Rs.1,69,999, the device can now be purchased for Rs.1,59,999, thanks to a 6% discount. Additionally, there are further ways to reduce the price, such as a Rs.16,000 discount on HDFC and ICICI bank cards and an exchange offer of up to Rs.17,650, provided the old phone is in good condition and a recent model. These offers make the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro more accessible to a broader audience, despite its premium positioning.

The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro also offers an EMI option, starting at Rs.7,575, making it easier for consumers to manage the cost of the device. This flexibility in payment options, combined with the significant discounts and offers available, enhances the phone’s appeal to potential buyers. For those interested in purchasing a high-end foldable phone with exceptional camera capabilities and innovative features, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro presents a compelling option.

Author Jyoti Kumari, an experienced journalist with a background in the media industry, provides a detailed overview of the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro in this article. With five years of experience, including roles as a producer and anchor at TV 100 news channel, Jyoti brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her reviews. Her expertise ensures that readers receive a comprehensive and informed perspective on the latest technology trends and products.

In conclusion, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro stands out as a top-tier foldable phone that combines cutting-edge technology with innovative design. Its excellent camera array, powered by the partnership with Zeiss, sets it apart from other foldable phones in the market. The device’s robust performance, facilitated by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 12GB of RAM, ensures a smooth and efficient user experience. With its flexible payment options and significant discounts, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is an attractive choice for consumers seeking a premium foldable phone with exceptional capabilities.