Looking for a phone that can withstand the toughest conditions? Cat phones are renowned for their durability, and the S31 and S30 are two popular choices. But which one is right for you? This detailed comparison will break down the differences to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Cat S31 edges out the S30 thanks to its slightly faster processor and potentially improved software support. Both offer exceptional ruggedness and battery life, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those working in demanding environments. The S30 remains a strong contender, especially if budget is a primary concern.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EU | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - Global |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20 - EU | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 - Global |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17 - USA | 2, 4, 5, 7, 17 - North America |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, September. Released 2017, October | 2015, September. Released 2015, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 146 x 74.4 x 12.6 mm (5.75 x 2.93 x 0.50 in) | 141.9 x 72.7 x 13.3 mm (5.59 x 2.86 x 0.52 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 200 g (7.05 oz) | 181 g (6.38 oz) |
| | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.2m for 30 min)
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8m
MIL-STD-810G compliant | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 60 min)
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8m
MIL-STD-810G compliant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~312 ppi density) | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~218 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.7 inches, 60.9 cm2 (~56.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 4.5 inches, 55.8 cm2 (~54.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 304 | Adreno 304 |
| OS | Android 7.0 (Nougat) | Android 5.1 (Lollipop) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM |
| | eMMC 4.5 | eMMC 4.5 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 4.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 936 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 18 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Models | - | S30 |
| Price | About 330 EUR | About 340 EUR |
Cat S31
- Slightly faster processor
- Potentially longer software support
- Rugged and durable design
- Excellent battery life
- Higher price than S30
- Camera quality is basic
Cat S30
- More affordable
- Rugged and durable design
- Excellent battery life
- Reliable for basic tasks
- Slightly slower processor
- Potentially shorter software support
- Camera quality is basic
Display Comparison
Both the Cat S31 and S30 feature a 5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. While the displays are similar in size and resolution, the S31 may offer slightly improved color accuracy and brightness due to potential software optimizations. However, the ruggedness of both screens is the primary selling point.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature an 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. Image quality is generally acceptable for a rugged phone in this price range, but don't expect flagship-level performance. Low-light performance will be limited on both devices. The S31 might have slightly better image processing due to its newer chipset.
Performance
The key difference lies in the CPU clock speed. The Cat S31 boasts a 1.3 GHz quad-core Cortex-A7 processor, while the S30 has a 1.1 GHz version. This translates to a noticeable, albeit not massive, performance boost on the S31, particularly when multitasking or running more demanding applications. Both phones will handle basic tasks without issue.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 4000mAh battery, providing excellent battery life. Expect all-day usage even with moderate to heavy use. The rugged design also contributes to efficient thermal management, further extending battery life.
Buying Guide
The Cat S31 is ideal for users who prioritize a bit more performance and potentially longer software updates. It's a good choice for those who frequently use demanding apps or games. The Cat S30 is perfect for users who need a reliable, rugged phone for basic communication and tasks, and want to save some money. Both are excellent choices for construction workers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone needing a durable device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Cat S31 waterproof?
Yes, both the Cat S31 and S30 are IP68 rated, meaning they are dustproof and waterproof up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
❓ Can I run demanding games on the Cat S31?
While the Cat S31's processor is slightly faster, neither phone is designed for high-end gaming. You can play less demanding games, but don't expect smooth performance on graphically intensive titles.
