The rugged smartphone market caters to a specific need: durability. Both the Blackview BV5900 and Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro aim to deliver that, but at vastly different price points and with significantly different internal hardware. This comparison dissects the trade-offs, helping you determine which device best suits your needs – whether you're a construction worker, outdoor enthusiast, or simply prone to dropping your phone.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing affordability and basic functionality, the Blackview BV5900 offers a compelling entry point into the rugged phone world. However, the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro’s superior processing power, thanks to the Exynos 9611, makes it the better choice for users needing sustained performance for work applications or occasional gaming.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 900 / 1800 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 40 | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat11 600/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 20, 29, 38, 40, 41, 66 - Canada |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, August 14. Released 2019, August | 2020, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2020, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 159 x 80 x 15 mm (6.26 x 3.15 x 0.59 in) | 159.9 x 76.7 x 10 mm (6.30 x 3.02 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 268 g (9.45 oz) | 218 g (7.69 oz) |
| | - | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 35 min)
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.5m
MIL-STD-810G compliant*
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~409 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.7 inches, 81.1 cm2 (~63.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 97.4 cm2 (~79.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Exynos 9611 (10 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G72 MP3 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSD | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
0.3 MP, f/2.8 | 25 MP, f/1.7, 26mm (wide), PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 123˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio (market/region dependent) |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/k/v/r, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| | - | ANT+ |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | 5580 mAh | Li-Po 4050 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Orange, Green | Black |
| Models | - | SM-G715FN/DS, SM-G715FN, SM-G715F, SM-G715W, SM-G715U, SM-G715U1 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.47 W/kg (head) 1.23 W/kg (body) |
Blackview BV5900
- Significantly lower price point
- Excellent durability for the cost
- Potentially longer standby time due to efficient processor
- Slow processor struggles with demanding tasks
- Slow 10W charging
- Lower camera quality
Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro
- Much faster processor for smooth multitasking
- Faster 15W charging
- Superior camera performance
- Higher price tag
- More power-hungry processor may reduce battery life during heavy use
- Still a relatively basic display
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a cutting-edge display. While specific panel technologies aren't provided, the focus is clearly on durability, not visual fidelity. The lack of detailed display specs suggests both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. The real difference lies in the processing power driving them; the Exynos 9611 in the XCover Pro will handle display rendering more smoothly, especially in demanding UI transitions. Bezels are likely substantial on both to contribute to structural integrity.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely a secondary consideration for both devices, but the XCover Pro has a clear advantage. While specific sensor details are missing, the Exynos 9611’s image signal processor (ISP) is significantly more capable than the one paired with the Helio A22. This translates to better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The presence of a dedicated ISP in the Exynos chip allows for more sophisticated image processing, resulting in sharper details and more accurate colors. The BV5900 will likely rely on basic software enhancements, resulting in less refined images. We can assume both will have a basic macro camera, but its utility is limited on both.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Blackview BV5900’s MediaTek Helio A22, a quad-core processor built on a 12nm process, is geared towards efficiency, not speed. It’s suitable for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light app usage. Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro’s Exynos 9611, an octa-core chip fabricated on a more efficient 10nm node, offers substantially more processing power. The Cortex-A73 cores provide a noticeable boost in responsiveness and multitasking, making the XCover Pro far better suited for running multiple apps simultaneously or handling more complex workloads. The A22 will likely struggle with demanding applications, while the 9611 offers a smoother, more fluid experience.
Battery Life
Both phones prioritize battery life, but achieve it through different means. The Blackview BV5900’s Helio A22 is inherently more power-efficient, potentially offering longer standby times. However, the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro’s 15W wired charging is 50% faster than the BV5900’s 10W charging. This means less downtime when you do need to replenish the battery. While mAh capacity isn’t specified, the more powerful Exynos chip will consume more power during active use, potentially negating some of the efficiency gains.
Buying Guide
Buy the Blackview BV5900 if you need a highly durable phone for basic communication, light tasks, and long battery life on a tight budget. It’s ideal for those who prioritize drop resistance and water protection over demanding applications. Buy the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro if you prefer a more responsive user experience, require better multitasking capabilities, and anticipate using productivity apps or occasional gaming, even if it comes at a higher cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 9611 in the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro tend to overheat during prolonged use?
The Exynos 9611 is a mid-range chip, and while it offers significantly more performance than the Helio A22, it's not known for extreme heat generation. The XCover Pro’s rugged design likely incorporates thermal management features to dissipate heat effectively, minimizing throttling during extended use. However, demanding tasks like prolonged gaming or video recording may still cause some warming.
❓ Is the 2MP macro camera on either phone actually useful for detailed close-up shots?
Generally, 2MP macro cameras on budget and mid-range phones offer limited utility. The low resolution results in images lacking detail and sharpness. While they can capture a close-up perspective, don't expect professional-quality macro photography from either the Blackview BV5900 or the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro.
❓ Can the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro handle demanding games like PUBG Mobile at reasonable frame rates?
The Exynos 9611 can run PUBG Mobile, but expect to play at medium graphics settings to maintain a stable frame rate. While it won't deliver a flagship gaming experience, it's capable of providing a playable experience. The Blackview BV5900, with its Helio A22, will likely struggle to run PUBG Mobile smoothly, even at the lowest settings.
❓ What type of water and dust resistance certifications do these phones have?
While specific certifications aren't provided in the context data, both phones are marketed as rugged devices. The Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro typically carries an IP68 rating, offering protection against dust and immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The Blackview BV5900 likely has an IP68 or similar rating, but it's crucial to verify the exact certification for specific protection levels.
