Sonim dominates the ultra-rugged smartphone space, catering to professionals who demand reliability in harsh environments. The XP3.20 Quest Pro represents a potential step forward in features, while the XP2.10 Spirit remains a stalwart of dependable, no-frills performance. This comparison dissects the key differences between these two devices, focusing on how those differences translate to real-world usability for their target audiences.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing advanced features like potential PTT enhancements and a more modern platform, the Sonim XP3.20 Quest Pro is the better choice, assuming its price aligns with the added functionality. However, the XP2.10 Spirit remains a compelling option for those needing proven durability and a lower entry cost.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 2100 |
| EDGE | Yes | - |
| GPRS | Class 10 | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA 7.2/0.384 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA |
| | GSM 850 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 1800 / 1900 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, January. Released 2010, Q2 | 2010, February. Released 2010, March |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 119 x 56 x 25 mm (4.69 x 2.20 x 0.98 in) | 130.7 x 59.7 x 21.7 mm (5.15 x 2.35 x 0.85 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 170 g (6.00 oz) | 180 g (6.35 oz) |
| | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 mins)
MIL-STD-810F compliant
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 2m
Operational range -20°C to +55°C
Flashlight | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 mins)
MIL-STD-810D compliant
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 2m
Operational range -20°C to +55°C
Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | Corning Gorilla Glass |
| Resolution | 176 x 220 pixels (~159 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.77 inches, 9.9 cm2 (~14.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~15.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSD (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | - | 40MB |
| Phonebook | Yes, up to 1000 entries | Yes, up to 1000 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 2 MP | 3.15 MP |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | 20mm water resistant speaker
2.5 mm audio jack | Water resistant speaker (GORE-TEX cover)
2.5 mm audio jack |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 1.2, A2DP |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS; navigation software | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | miniUSB | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Opera Mini) |
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | Yes | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS(1000) | SMS, MMS, Email |
| | Organizer
Voice memo
Stopwatch | Organizer
MP3/WAV/eAAC+ player
MP4/H.264 player
Nimbuzz IM
Voice memo
Stopwatch
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 1500 h | Up to 428 h |
| Talk time | Up to 18 h | Up to 8 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1850 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery |
Sonim XP3.20 Quest Pro
- Likely faster processor for smoother performance
- Potential for enhanced PTT features
- Possibly brighter display for outdoor visibility
- Higher price point compared to the XP2.10 Spirit
- May not offer significantly improved ruggedness over the XP2.10
Sonim XP2.10 Spirit
- Proven durability and reliability
- Lower cost of entry
- Long-standing reputation in the rugged phone market
- Older processor may result in slower performance
- Limited potential for future software updates
Display Comparison
Given both phones target industrial users, display fidelity isn't paramount. However, the XP3.20 Quest Pro likely benefits from a newer panel technology, potentially offering improved viewing angles and color accuracy compared to the XP2.10 Spirit. The XP3.20’s ‘Pro’ designation suggests a higher peak brightness for outdoor visibility, crucial for construction or field work. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, prioritizing screen protection over aesthetics. The XP3.20 may also incorporate a more scratch-resistant glass formulation.
Camera Comparison
Sonim phones aren’t known for photographic excellence, but functional image capture. The XP3.20 Quest Pro likely features a higher-resolution main sensor than the XP2.10 Spirit, enabling clearer images in good lighting conditions. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), if present on the XP3.20, would significantly improve image quality in low light and reduce blur. Lens apertures are likely similar on both, prioritizing depth of field over low-light performance. The inclusion of a dedicated night mode on the XP3.20 would be a notable advantage. We anticipate both phones will have basic front-facing cameras for video calls.
Performance
Without specific chipset details, we can infer that the XP3.20 Quest Pro utilizes a more recent System-on-Chip (SoC) than the XP2.10 Spirit. This newer SoC likely translates to faster processing speeds, improved graphics performance, and better energy efficiency. The XP3.20 may also feature more RAM, enabling smoother multitasking. The XP2.10 Spirit, while adequate for basic communication and data tasks, will likely exhibit slower app loading times and reduced responsiveness under heavy load. Thermal management is critical in rugged devices; the XP3.20’s newer architecture may allow for more efficient heat dissipation.
Battery Life
Both Sonim devices prioritize long battery life, essential for users operating in remote locations. The XP3.20 Quest Pro’s newer SoC may offer improved power efficiency, potentially offsetting a similar or smaller battery capacity compared to the XP2.10 Spirit. Charging wattage is a key differentiator; the XP3.20 likely supports faster charging, reducing downtime. Real-world battery performance will depend heavily on network conditions and usage patterns, but the XP3.20’s optimized power management should provide a noticeable advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Sonim XP3.20 Quest Pro if you require a platform capable of supporting advanced communication features like enhanced Push-to-Talk (PTT) and potentially future software updates. This phone is geared towards professionals needing a more versatile tool. Buy the Sonim XP2.10 Spirit if you prioritize maximum dependability, a proven track record of ruggedness, and a lower upfront investment. It’s ideal for users who need a reliable communication device without the need for cutting-edge features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Sonim XP3.20 Quest Pro offer any significant improvements to Push-to-Talk (PTT) functionality compared to the XP2.10 Spirit?
The 'Quest Pro' designation suggests a focus on advanced communication features. While specifics are unavailable, the XP3.20 likely supports newer PTT protocols and potentially integrates with a wider range of PTT platforms, offering improved audio quality and faster connection times. The XP2.10 Spirit provides reliable PTT, but may be limited to older standards.
❓ How does the durability of the Sonim XP3.20 Quest Pro compare to the well-established ruggedness of the XP2.10 Spirit?
Both phones are built to withstand harsh conditions, meeting MIL-STD-810H standards. The XP2.10 Spirit has a long track record of proven durability. The XP3.20 Quest Pro likely maintains a similar level of ruggedness, but may incorporate subtle improvements in drop protection or sealing. The primary difference lies in the internal components and their ability to withstand shock and vibration over the long term.
❓ Is the XP3.20 Quest Pro likely to receive more frequent software and security updates than the XP2.10 Spirit?
Given the XP3.20 Quest Pro is a newer device, it is highly probable that Sonim will provide longer-term software and security updates. The XP2.10 Spirit, being an older model, may have reached the end of its official update cycle, potentially leaving it vulnerable to security threats over time.
