Samsung's new Galaxy phone is a smash hit, but I'd rather use something way more exciting

Samsung's range of foldable Z Flip phones have been slowly getting better and better. Each year, the Korean technology giant has refined things with upgrades that make these already eye-catching devices appear even more desirable. Now, the latest Flip7 available in stores and having used it for over a month, I can honestly say it's Samsung's finest flippable to date.

The new 4.1 inch Infinity FlexWindow cover screen - which is now bigger than the 3.4-inch panel on its Flip6 predecessor - not only looks great but is far more usable than before.

From this mini screen, you can check notifications, reply to texts, control music, search for answers using Google Gemini and access numerous widgets such as the calculator.

It still won’t do everything that the main 6.9-panel offers, but it’s a nice way of checking a quick text, email or WhatsApp message without flipping the phone open.

When you do fancy a more expansive experience, the main screen is very good indeed. Yes, you will still see a very slight crease down the middle, but other than that I really have no complaints.

It’s not just on the outside where things have changed. Under the metal shell is a slightly bigger battery, which means longer usage between charges. During my tests I've easily got through a whole day and a three-hour streaming session only makes a 20 percent dent in the battery which is pretty impressive.

There's a new Exynos 2500 processor, which is easily fast enough for those daily digital tasks, and the new design should mean it survives much longer in your pocket - that's long been a concern for some when buying previous Flip models

The Flip7 now features a strengthened Dual Rail Hinge made of Samsung’s Advanced Armour Aluminium and is also covered in Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for added protection.

I haven't dropped it or unfolded the screen thousands of times just yet, but hopefully, Samsung is correct about the improved durability.

The dual-lens cameras remain decent enough, though note there’s no telephoto lens for quality zoom snaps, and you can still do all of the cool things that come with owning a Z Flip device, such as prop it up to take selfies and bend it so it feels like an old-fashioned camcorder.

There really isn't much to dislike about the Z Flip7, in fact, there's loads to love.

However, for the first time ever, I'm far more excited by Samsung's Z Fold range than its Z Flip.

Until now, I haven't been a massive fan of the Fold.

Older versions have always been far too big and cumbersome, and I’ve never wanted it anywhere near my skinny jeans.

But that all changed at Samsung’s Unpacked launch this summer, and it has totally switched my opinion.

In fact, since taking delivery of both the Z Fold7 and Flip7 it's the Fold I keep wanting to pick up and show off down the pub.

Its new sleek design (it’s now just 4.2mm thin once opened) makes it feel far more like a normal phone when snapped shut. Open it like a book and you’ll get a whopping 8-inch panel that’s just like a tablet.

It also features Qualcomm’s impressive 8 Gen Elite processor inside for better performance than the Flip, and it has a triple-lens camera setup on the rear case which takes very good photos and crystal clear video.

Of course, the Z Fold7 is over £600 more than the Flip7, so it’s not a device I expect anyone to rush out and buy as it’s far too expensive.

But the Fold really is something that has to be seen to be believed, and this year it has made the Flip7 simply feel a little less exciting,

If you’ve been thinking about joining the Flip revolution, then this is a good year to invest. Just expect a bit of FOMO if one of your mates has splashed out on the Z Fold7.

READ MORE: Galaxy Z Fold7 review: Samsung's foldable finally makes perfect sense