Oukitel RT5 vs Nokia XR21: A Deep Dive into Rugged Smartphone Performance

The rugged smartphone market caters to a specific need: durability. Both the Oukitel RT5 and Nokia XR21 aim to deliver on that promise, but they take different approaches to performance and features. The RT5 focuses on value, while the XR21 brings 5G connectivity and faster charging to the table. This comparison dissects their key specifications to determine which device best suits your needs.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing future-proofing and faster performance, the Nokia XR21 is the better choice. Its Snapdragon 695 5G chipset, built on a more efficient 6nm process, offers a noticeable advantage over the Oukitel RT5’s Mediatek MT8788. While the RT5 provides excellent value, the XR21’s 33W charging and 5G capabilities justify the price difference.

PHONES
Phone Names Oukitel RT5 Nokia XR21
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 661, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 20, 25, 26, 28, 32, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 48, 66, 71
5G bands-1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 20, 25, 28, 40, 41, 66, 71, 77, 78, 79 SA/NSA
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE, 5G
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
Launch
Announced2023, May2023, May 03
StatusAvailable. Released 2023, MayAvailable. Released 2023, June 11
Body
Build-Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), plastic back, plastic frame
Dimensions251.2 x 170 x 14.2 mm (9.89 x 6.69 x 0.56 in)168 x 78.6 x 10.5 mm (6.61 x 3.09 x 0.41 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM + eSIM (max 2 at a time)
Weight860 g (1.90 lb)231 g (8.15 oz)
 -IP68/IP69K dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 60 min) Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8m MIL-STD-810H compliant
Display
Protection-Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Resolution1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~224 ppi density)1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~406 ppi density)
Size10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~69.3% screen-to-body ratio)6.49 inches, 101.7 cm2 (~77.0% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 400 nitsIPS LCD, 120Hz, 450 nits (typ), 550 nits (HBM)
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53)Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 660 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 660 Silver)
ChipsetMediatek MT8788 (12 nm)Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm)
GPUMali-G72 MP3Adreno 619
OSAndroidAndroid 12
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXCUnspecified
Internal256GB 14GB RAM128GB 6GB RAM
Main Camera
Dual-64 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.0", PDAF 8 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
FeaturesLED flashDual-LED dual-tone flash, second LED flash, HDR, panorama
Single16 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.1", AF-
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single16 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/2.8"16 MP, f/2.4 (wide)
VideoYes1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack -Yes
35mm jackUnspecifiedYes
Loudspeaker Yes, with stereo speakersYes, with stereo speakers
Comms
Bluetooth4.2, A2DP5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX Adaptive
NFCNoYes (market/region dependent)
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDSGPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (G1), BDS (B1I+B1c+B2a), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5), NavIC (L5)
RadioUnspecifiedUnspecified
USBUSB Type-C 2.0, OTGUSB Type-C 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, gyro, compassFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
Battery
Charging18W wired Reverse wired33W wired, PD2.0, QC3
TypeLi-Po 10000 mAhLi-Po 4800 mAh
Misc
ColorsBlack, OrangeMidnight Black, Pine Green
PriceAbout 270 EURAbout 570 EUR

Oukitel RT5

  • Highly affordable price point
  • Rugged design for durability
  • Reverse wired charging for accessories

  • Older, less efficient chipset
  • Slower charging speed
  • Lacks 5G connectivity

Nokia XR21

  • Faster and more efficient Snapdragon 695 chipset
  • 33W fast charging with PD2.0/QC3
  • 5G connectivity for future-proofing

  • Higher price compared to the Oukitel RT5
  • Rugged design may add bulk
  • Software update support may be limited compared to flagship models

Display Comparison

Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the RT5’s positioning, it likely utilizes an IPS LCD panel, while the XR21, being a newer device, may incorporate a more advanced panel technology. The absence of refresh rate data suggests both operate at standard 60Hz. Bezels are likely comparable, focusing on durability rather than minimizing size. Color accuracy will likely be adequate for outdoor visibility, but not geared towards professional content creation.

Camera Comparison

Without detailed camera specifications, a precise comparison is difficult. However, the market segment suggests the XR21 will likely feature a more refined camera system. While both phones likely include a main sensor, the XR21’s Qualcomm ISP (Image Signal Processor) will offer superior image processing capabilities, resulting in better dynamic range and low-light performance. The RT5 may rely on software enhancements to compensate for a potentially less capable sensor. The presence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is unknown for both, but more likely on the XR21.

Performance

The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nokia XR21’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 (6nm) significantly outperforms the Oukitel RT5’s Mediatek MT8788 (12nm) in both raw processing power and efficiency. The Snapdragon 695’s Kryo 660 Gold cores, clocked at 2.2 GHz, provide a substantial boost over the RT5’s 2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 cores. The 6nm fabrication process also translates to lower heat generation and improved battery life. While both are octa-core CPUs, the architectural advantages of the Snapdragon 695 will be noticeable in multitasking and app loading times. The XR21 also benefits from 5G connectivity, a feature absent in the RT5.

Battery Life

Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, but the charging capabilities reveal a key difference. The Nokia XR21’s 33W wired charging with PD2.0 and QC3 support is significantly faster than the Oukitel RT5’s 18W charging. This translates to a much quicker 0-100% charge time for the XR21. While the RT5 offers reverse wired charging, a useful feature for topping up accessories, the XR21’s faster charging speed is a more impactful benefit for daily use. The actual battery life will depend on the capacity of each device, but the Snapdragon 695’s efficiency gives the XR21 an edge.

Buying Guide

Buy the Oukitel RT5 if you need a highly affordable, durable phone for basic tasks and aren't concerned with 5G connectivity or demanding applications. It’s ideal for construction workers, outdoor enthusiasts on a budget, or as a reliable backup device. Buy the Nokia XR21 if you prioritize 5G speeds, faster charging, and a more modern chipset for smoother multitasking and occasional gaming. This phone is best suited for users who need a rugged device that can keep up with their active lifestyle and provide a longer software support lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the Snapdragon 695 in the Nokia XR21 powerful enough for gaming?
The Snapdragon 695 is capable of handling most mobile games at medium settings. While it won’t deliver flagship-level performance, it provides a smooth gaming experience for casual gamers and those playing less demanding titles. Expect playable frame rates in games like Call of Duty: Mobile and PUBG, but don't expect to max out the graphics settings.
❓ How does the Mediatek MT8788 in the Oukitel RT5 handle multitasking?
The Mediatek MT8788 is adequate for basic multitasking, such as switching between messaging apps, browsing the web, and listening to music. However, it may struggle with more demanding tasks like running multiple apps simultaneously or editing large files. Users should expect some slowdowns when pushing the processor to its limits.
❓ Does the Nokia XR21 receive regular software updates?
Nokia is known for providing relatively consistent software updates, even for its more affordable devices. The XR21 is likely to receive at least a few major Android updates and regular security patches, ensuring a longer software support lifespan compared to many other brands in this price range. However, the update schedule isn't as frequent as flagship devices.
❓ Is the Oukitel RT5 truly waterproof, or just water-resistant?
The Oukitel RT5 is advertised as rugged, but the specific IP rating is crucial. Without knowing the exact IP rating (e.g., IP68, IP69K), it's difficult to determine the level of water and dust resistance. It's likely water-resistant to some degree, capable of withstanding splashes and brief submersion, but avoid prolonged exposure to water.