Sonim XP3plus vs. XP3: Which Rugged Phone Reigns Supreme?

Sonim is synonymous with rugged, durable phones built for demanding environments. The XP3 and XP3plus represent different generations of this ethos. This comparison dives deep into their specs, features, and performance to help you decide which model best suits your needs.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Sonim XP3plus is the clear winner, boasting a significantly faster processor, improved camera, and potentially better battery life. While the XP3 remains a durable option, the XP3plus offers a substantial upgrade in performance and modern features, justifying its higher price.

PHONES
Phone Names Sonim XP3plus Sonim XP3
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 30, 39, 40, 41, 66, 711, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 38, 41, 66
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE
 -CDMA2000 1xEV-DO
Launch
Announced2021, September2019, March. Released 2019, March
StatusAvailable. Released 2021, SeptemberDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions116 x 60 x 28 mm (4.57 x 2.36 x 1.10 in)112 x 58 x 27 mm (4.41 x 2.28 x 1.06 in)
SIMNano-SIMNano-SIM
Weight220 g (7.76 oz)195 g (6.88 oz)
 IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) MIL-STD-810H IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) MIL-STD-810G
Display
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density)240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density)
Size2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~34.9% screen-to-body ratio)2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~32.2% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT LCDTFT LCD
 Cover display: IPS LCD, 1.3 inches, 240 x 240 pixelsCover display: TN LCD, 1.08 inches, 96 x 96 pixels
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver)Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7
ChipsetQualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm)Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm)
GPUAdreno 610Adreno 304
OSSonim OS (based on AOSP Android 11)Sonim OS (based on AOSP Android 8.1)
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal16GB 2GB RAM8GB 1GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flashLED flash
Single8 MP5 MP
Sound
3.5mm jack YesYes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE4.2, A2DP, LE
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEOGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO
RadioFM RadioFM Radio
USBUSB Type-CUSB Type-C
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/r, dual-band
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, barometerBarometer
Battery
TypeLi-Ion 2300 mAh, removableLi-Ion 1500 mAh, removable
Misc
ColorsBlackBlack
PriceAbout 240 EURAbout 190 EUR

Sonim XP3plus

  • Significantly faster processor
  • Improved camera quality
  • Potentially better battery life
  • Modern chipset (Snapdragon 662)
  • Likely better display

  • Higher price
  • May be larger/heavier than XP3

Sonim XP3

  • Lower price
  • Rugged and durable design
  • Long battery life (typical for Sonim)
  • Compact size (potentially)

  • Slow performance
  • Basic camera
  • Outdated chipset (Snapdragon 210)
  • Limited features

Display Comparison

The XP3plus likely features a slightly larger and potentially higher-resolution display than the XP3, though specific details are often limited on these models. Both prioritize visibility in bright sunlight, but the XP3plus's newer display technology could offer improved clarity and color accuracy.

Camera Comparison

The XP3plus's camera is expected to be a considerable upgrade. While neither phone is a photography powerhouse, the XP3plus's newer sensor and processing capabilities should result in better image quality, especially in low light. The XP3's camera is likely basic and limited.

Performance

This is where the XP3plus shines. Its Snapdragon 662 chipset is vastly superior to the XP3's Snapdragon 210. Expect significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience on the XP3plus. The XP3 will feel sluggish by comparison.

Battery Life

While both phones are known for their robust battery life, the XP3plus's more efficient chipset and potentially larger battery capacity could give it a slight edge in overall endurance. Expect all-day battery life from both, but the XP3plus might stretch it further.

Buying Guide

The Sonim XP3plus is ideal for professionals in construction, field service, or anyone needing a powerful, rugged phone with a good camera. The Sonim XP3 is a budget-friendly choice for those prioritizing basic durability and communication in harsh conditions, where performance isn't a top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the Sonim XP3plus worth the extra cost?
If performance and camera quality are important to you, then yes. The XP3plus offers a significant upgrade over the XP3. If you only need basic durability and communication, the XP3 might suffice.
❓ How durable are these phones?
Both phones are built to military standards (MIL-STD-810G) and are waterproof and dustproof, making them highly durable for demanding environments.