The Icemobile Submarine and Samsung B2100 Xplorer represent distinct approaches to the rugged smartphone market. While specific details on the Submarine are scarce, both devices cater to users demanding extreme durability and reliability in challenging environments. This comparison will analyze their potential strengths and weaknesses, leaning on brand history and market positioning to provide a comprehensive overview.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the user prioritizing a potentially more modern feature set and established brand trust, the Samsung B2100 Xplorer is the likely winner. However, the Icemobile Submarine could appeal to those seeking a niche, potentially highly specialized rugged device, assuming it delivers on durability promises.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | No | Class 10 |
| GPRS | Yes | Class 10 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, October. Released 2012, October | 2009, March. Released 2009, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 119 x 53 x 20 mm (4.69 x 2.09 x 0.79 in) | 113 x 48.9 x 17.4 mm (4.45 x 1.93 x 0.69 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 135 g (4.76 oz) | 102.8 g (3.60 oz) |
| | Flashlight | MIL-STD-810F compliant salt, dust, humidity, rain, vibration, solar radiation, transport and thermal shock resistant
IP57 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 mins)
Anti-shock materials (urethane)
Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 176 x 144 pixels (~114 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~113 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~20.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.77 inches, 9.7 cm2 (~17.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT, 256K colors |
| | - | Wallpapers |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | - | 7MB |
| Phonebook | 300 entries | 1000 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | flash |
| Single | 1.3 MP | 1.3 MP |
| Video | Yes | @15fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 2.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | - |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | 1.1 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | Yes | Yes + downloadable |
| Java | No | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS | SMS, MMS |
| | - | Stopwatch
MP3/eAAC+/WMA/WAV player
MP4/3GP/M4V player
Voice memo
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 550 h | Up to 600 h |
| Talk time | Up to 12 h | Up to 9 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 1800 mAh, removable | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Orange, Gray | Red, Black |
| Price | - | About 80 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.54 W/kg (head) 0.42 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.72 W/kg (head) |
Icemobile Submarine
- Potentially more modern chipset for improved performance
- Possible larger display for enhanced usability
- May offer more advanced features (depending on specs)
- Lack of publicly available specifications
- Uncertain brand reputation and support network
- Potential for higher price point
Samsung B2100 Xplorer
- Proven durability and reliability from Samsung
- Long battery life due to power-efficient components
- Established support network and readily available accessories
- Outdated technology and limited performance
- Small display size and low resolution
- Basic camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Given the rugged focus, both devices likely prioritize screen visibility in direct sunlight over bleeding-edge panel technology. The B2100 Xplorer, being an older model, likely utilizes a TFT LCD, prioritizing durability and power efficiency over color accuracy. The Submarine, potentially newer, *could* feature an IPS LCD for improved viewing angles, but a high refresh rate is unlikely in either case. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both to protect the display. The B2100 Xplorer's screen size is likely around 2.2 inches, while the Submarine's could be larger, depending on its target use case.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities are unlikely to be a primary selling point for either device. The B2100 Xplorer features a 3.2MP camera, adequate for basic documentation. The Icemobile Submarine's camera resolution is unknown, but it likely focuses on functionality over image quality. Expect limited low-light performance and basic features on both. The inclusion of a flash on either device would be a bonus, but not a given.
Performance
The Samsung B2100 Xplorer, released in 2009, almost certainly utilizes a single-core processor with limited RAM – sufficient for basic calling and messaging, but not demanding applications. The Icemobile Submarine, assuming a more recent release, could employ a Mediatek Helio or Snapdragon 400-series chipset, offering a significant performance boost. However, thermal management isn't a primary concern for rugged phones; sustained performance is less critical than resilience. RAM is likely to be limited on both, prioritizing power efficiency.
Battery Life
The Samsung B2100 Xplorer boasts a 1500mAh battery, prioritizing longevity over fast charging. Given its limited processing power, this provides several days of standby time. The Icemobile Submarine's battery capacity is unknown, but a larger capacity is probable, especially if it targets professional use cases. Charging speeds are likely to be slow on both, as rugged phones prioritize sealing and durability over rapid charging technology. The B2100 Xplorer's focus on power efficiency could give it an edge in overall battery life.
Buying Guide
Buy the Icemobile Submarine if you need a highly specialized, potentially cutting-edge rugged phone and are willing to take a risk on a less established brand. Its appeal lies in the possibility of unique features tailored for extreme conditions. Buy the Samsung B2100 Xplorer if you prefer a proven track record of durability from a major manufacturer, prioritizing reliability and a wider support network, even if it means potentially older technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Given the limited information on the Icemobile Submarine, how can I assess its true ruggedness?
Look for independent drop test videos and IP ratings (Ingress Protection). A high IP68 rating indicates excellent dust and water resistance. Check for certifications like MIL-STD-810G, which signifies military-grade durability. User reviews, once available, will be crucial.
❓ Is the 3.2MP camera on the Samsung B2100 Xplorer sufficient for documenting work site conditions?
While not ideal for high-quality photography, the 3.2MP camera is adequate for basic documentation like taking pictures of damage reports or identifying equipment. Focus on ensuring good lighting conditions for clearer images. Consider it a functional tool, not a photography powerhouse.
❓ Does the Samsung B2100 Xplorer support modern mobile networks like 4G or 5G?
No, the Samsung B2100 Xplorer is a 2G-only device. It supports GSM networks but is incompatible with newer 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies. This limits its usability in areas where 2G networks are being phased out.
❓ What kind of applications can I realistically run on the Samsung B2100 Xplorer?
The B2100 Xplorer is best suited for basic communication – calls and text messages. It can handle simple applications like a calculator or a basic calendar, but complex apps or multitasking will likely result in slow performance or crashes.
