Need a phone that can withstand drops, dust, and water? The Sonim XP3 and Kyocera DuraForce Pro are both built for the toughest jobs. But which one reigns supreme? We'll break down their specs, features, and performance to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Kyocera DuraForce Pro clearly outperforms the Sonim XP3 thanks to its significantly faster processor, better camera, and faster charging. While the XP3 boasts impressive durability, the DuraForce Pro offers a more modern and capable user experience overall.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 38, 41, 66 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, March. Released 2019, March | 2016, August. Released 2016, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 112 x 58 x 27 mm (4.41 x 2.28 x 1.06 in) | 148.4 x 73.4 x 12.9 mm (5.84 x 2.89 x 0.51 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 230 g (8.11 oz) |
| | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
MIL-STD-810G | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins)
MIL-STD-810G compliant
Push-to-talk button |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Yes |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density) | 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~441 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~32.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~63.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| | Cover display:
TN LCD, 1.08 inches, 96 x 96 pixels | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8952 Snapdragon 617 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 304 | Adreno 405 |
| OS | Sonim OS (based on AOSP Android 8.1) | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 13 MP, AF
2 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM Radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/r, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/i/r/k, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Barometer | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired, QC2 |
| Stand-by | - | Up to 480 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 19 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1500 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3240 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Models | - | E6810 |
| Price | About 190 EUR | - |
Sonim XP3
- Exceptional durability (IP68, MIL-STD-810G)
- Loudspeaker for noisy environments
- Push-to-Talk (PTT) functionality
- Outdated processor and performance
- Lower resolution display
- Basic camera quality
- Slow charging
Kyocera DuraForce Pro
- Faster processor (Snapdragon 617)
- Better camera quality
- 18W fast charging (QC2)
- More modern features
- Durable (IP68, MIL-STD-810G)
- Can be slightly more expensive
- Durability, while good, might not be *quite* as extreme as the XP3
Display Comparison
Both phones feature durable displays, but the DuraForce Pro often has a slightly higher resolution and potentially better color accuracy. The XP3's display is functional and rugged, but may lack the vibrancy of the DuraForce Pro.
Camera Comparison
The DuraForce Pro generally has a superior camera system, offering better image quality, more features, and improved low-light performance compared to the XP3. The XP3's camera is adequate for basic shots, but not a standout feature.
Performance
The Kyocera DuraForce Pro's Snapdragon 617 octa-core processor is a substantial upgrade over the XP3's Snapdragon 210 quad-core. Expect noticeably faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better overall responsiveness on the DuraForce Pro.
Battery Life
While both phones offer decent battery life, the DuraForce Pro's 18W fast charging provides a significant advantage, allowing for quicker top-ups. Battery capacity is likely similar, but charging speed makes a difference.
Buying Guide
The Sonim XP3 is ideal for users prioritizing extreme durability above all else and who don't need high-end performance. The Kyocera DuraForce Pro is a better choice for those needing a balance of ruggedness, performance, and modern features like faster charging and a better camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is more waterproof?
Both phones are IP68 rated, meaning they are dustproof and can withstand immersion in water. However, Sonim is generally known for slightly more extreme durability.
❓ Can I use the Kyocera DuraForce Pro for push-to-talk?
Yes, the DuraForce Pro supports push-to-talk functionality, although it may not be as deeply integrated as on the Sonim XP3.
❓ Which phone has better software support?
The Kyocera DuraForce Pro is more likely to receive software updates and security patches due to its more modern hardware.
