Need a phone that can withstand drops, dust, and water? The Sonim XP3 and Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 are both built to handle the toughest conditions. But which one reigns supreme? This detailed comparison will break down their features, performance, and value to help you choose the right rugged companion.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 is the clear winner. Its significantly faster processor, improved camera, and wireless charging offer a substantial upgrade over the XP3, despite a potentially higher price point. The XP3 remains a solid, budget-friendly option for basic rugged needs.
| 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 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 38, 41, 66 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 13, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat9 450/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, March. Released 2019, March | 2018, November. Released 2018, November |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 112 x 58 x 27 mm (4.41 x 2.28 x 1.06 in) | 150.2 x 73.4 x 13.5 mm (5.91 x 2.89 x 0.53 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 243 g (8.25 oz) |
| | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
MIL-STD-810G | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 2m for 30 mins)
MIL-STD-810G compliant
Push-to-talk button |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Sapphire crystal glass |
| 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 (~62.5% 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 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm) | Qualcomm SDM630 Snapdragon 630 (14 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 304 | Adreno 508 |
| OS | Sonim OS (based on AOSP Android 8.1) | Android 8.0 (Oreo) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 13 MP, AF
8 MP (ultra wide; dedicated video camera) |
| Video | - | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM Radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C 3.1 |
| 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Wireless (Qi) |
| Stand-by | - | Up to 312 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 21 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1500 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3240 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 190 EUR | About 400 EUR |
Sonim XP3
- Extremely durable and rugged
- Long battery life (likely)
- Relatively affordable
- Push-to-Talk (PTT) functionality
- Outdated processor and performance
- Basic camera quality
- Small screen
- Limited features
Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2
- Significantly faster performance
- Better camera quality
- Larger display
- Wireless charging
- Modern features
- Potentially higher price
- May be bulkier than the XP3
Display Comparison
The Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 boasts a larger 5.0-inch display (likely with better resolution) compared to the XP3's smaller screen (likely around 3.5-4.0 inches). While both are designed for outdoor visibility, the Pro 2's larger size and potentially higher resolution offer a more enjoyable viewing experience. Both likely utilize durable glass.
Camera Comparison
The DuraForce Pro 2 likely features a more advanced camera system, potentially with higher megapixel counts and improved image processing capabilities. The XP3's camera is likely basic, prioritizing durability over image quality. Expect noticeably better photos and videos from the Pro 2.
Performance
This is where the DuraForce Pro 2 shines. Its Octa-core 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 processor and Snapdragon 630 chipset provide significantly more processing power than the XP3's Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 and Snapdragon 210. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and a more responsive user experience on the Pro 2.
Battery Life
While both phones are designed for extended battery life, the DuraForce Pro 2 likely has a larger battery capacity and more efficient processor, resulting in longer usage times. The addition of 10W wireless charging on the Pro 2 is a significant convenience advantage.
Buying Guide
The Sonim XP3 is ideal for users needing a basic, extremely durable phone on a tight budget, primarily for calls and essential communication in harsh environments. The Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 is better suited for professionals and enthusiasts who demand better performance, a more capable camera, and modern features like wireless charging, even if it means spending more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones waterproof?
Yes, both the Sonim XP3 and Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 are designed to be waterproof and dustproof, typically with an IP68 rating. However, always check the manufacturer's specifications for exact details.
❓ What is Push-to-Talk (PTT)?
Push-to-Talk is a communication feature that allows you to instantly connect with individuals or groups, similar to a walkie-talkie. Both phones offer PTT functionality.
