Kyocera occupies a unique niche with its focus on durable, rugged smartphones. We're comparing the DuraForce Pro 2, a device aiming for a balance of toughness and modern features, against the Hydro C5170, a more basic, entry-level rugged phone. This comparison isn't about flagship specs; it's about understanding where each phone excels within its intended market segment and who will benefit most from its capabilities.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the vast majority of users, the Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 is the superior choice. Its Snapdragon 630 chipset delivers a dramatically improved user experience, supporting modern apps and multitasking. While the Hydro C5170 offers basic functionality and ruggedness, its outdated Snapdragon S2 processor severely limits its usability in today's mobile landscape.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | CDMA 800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 13, 66 | - |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat9 450/50 Mbps | EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | CDMA / EVDO |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2018, November. Released 2018, November | 2012, May. Released 2012, Q3 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 150.2 x 73.4 x 13.5 mm (5.91 x 2.89 x 0.53 in) | 115 x 62 x 12.8 mm (4.53 x 2.44 x 0.50 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 243 g (8.25 oz) | 120 g (4.23 oz) |
| | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 2m for 30 mins)
MIL-STD-810G compliant
Push-to-talk button | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 mins)
IPX5, IPX7 certified |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Sapphire crystal glass | - |
| Resolution | 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~441 ppi density) | 320 x 480 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~165 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~62.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.5 inches, 36.5 cm2 (~51.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 | 1.0 GHz |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM630 Snapdragon 630 (14 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8655 Snapdragon S2 |
| GPU | Adreno 508 | Adreno 205 |
| OS | Android 8.0 (Oreo) | Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot), 2 GB included |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 2GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | - |
| Single | 13 MP, AF
8 MP (ultra wide; dedicated video camera) | 3.15 MP, AF |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | - |
| | - | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | Yes | - |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.1 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/i/r/k, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| | - | MP4/WMV/H.264 player
MP3/WAV/eAAC+ player
Organizer
Photo/video editor
Document viewer
Voice memo/dial/commands
Predictive text input (Swype) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired
Wireless (Qi) | - |
| Stand-by | Up to 312 h (3G) | - |
| Talk time | Up to 21 h (3G) | Up to 8 h 20 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 3240 mAh, non-removable | Removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 400 EUR | - |
Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2
- Significantly faster processor for smoother performance
- Qi wireless charging for added convenience
- More power-efficient chipset for longer battery life
- Likely more expensive than the Hydro C5170
- May be larger and heavier due to more features
Kyocera Hydro C5170
- Extremely affordable
- Rugged design for harsh environments
- Simple and easy to use
- Outdated processor severely limits performance
- Poor battery life due to inefficient chipset
- Limited app compatibility
Display Comparison
Details regarding the displays of both devices are unavailable. However, given the DuraForce Pro 2’s positioning, it likely features a higher resolution and potentially better color accuracy than the Hydro C5170. The age of the Hydro C5170 suggests a TN panel is probable, prioritizing durability over viewing angles. The Pro 2, being a later model, may incorporate Gorilla Glass for added scratch resistance, a feature likely absent on the C5170.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications for both devices are limited. However, the age and market segment of the Hydro C5170 suggest a very basic camera setup. The DuraForce Pro 2, while not a camera powerhouse, likely benefits from the improved image signal processor (ISP) within the Snapdragon 630, resulting in better image quality and faster processing. The Pro 2’s potential for software optimizations and features like HDR is significantly higher due to its more powerful chipset.
Performance
The performance gap between these two devices is substantial. The Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2’s Qualcomm SDM630 Snapdragon 630, with its octa-core 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, represents a significant leap over the Hydro C5170’s Qualcomm MSM8655 Snapdragon S2, clocked at just 1.0 GHz. The Snapdragon 630’s 14nm process node is far more efficient than the S2’s, resulting in better battery life and reduced thermal throttling. This translates to a smoother, more responsive user experience on the Pro 2, capable of handling multitasking and moderately demanding applications. The S2 struggles with even basic web browsing and app loading times.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are unavailable for both devices. However, the Snapdragon 630 in the DuraForce Pro 2 is significantly more power-efficient than the Snapdragon S2 in the Hydro C5170. This efficiency, combined with the Pro 2’s 10W wired and Qi wireless charging capabilities, provides a substantial advantage in real-world battery life and charging convenience. The Hydro C5170 will likely require more frequent charging and lacks the modern convenience of wireless charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 if you need a rugged phone capable of handling demanding tasks, streaming media, and running modern applications. It’s ideal for field workers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who requires a durable device with a reasonable level of performance. Buy the Kyocera Hydro C5170 if you prioritize extreme affordability and only need a phone for basic calling, texting, and minimal app usage in a harsh environment. It’s best suited for users with very limited technical needs and a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Snapdragon S2 in the Hydro C5170 capable of running modern apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
The Snapdragon S2 is severely underpowered for modern applications. While basic versions of Facebook or WhatsApp *might* function, expect extremely slow loading times, frequent crashes, and a generally frustrating user experience. It's not designed to handle the demands of current app development.
❓ Does the DuraForce Pro 2's wireless charging work with all Qi-compatible chargers?
The DuraForce Pro 2 supports the Qi wireless charging standard, meaning it *should* work with most Qi-compatible chargers. However, charging speeds can vary depending on the charger's output wattage. Using a 5W charger will result in slower charging than a 10W or higher charger.
❓ How does the ruggedness of the DuraForce Pro 2 compare to the Hydro C5170?
Both phones are built to withstand harsh conditions, but the DuraForce Pro 2 likely offers a more robust level of protection. While both will likely meet MIL-STD-810G standards, the Pro 2’s more recent design and potentially more advanced materials may provide better resistance to drops, shocks, and extreme temperatures.
