Sonim XP5plus vs. XP3plus: The Ultimate Rugged Phone Comparison

Sonim is synonymous with rugged, durable smartphones built for demanding environments. The XP5plus and XP3plus are two of their flagship models, offering exceptional resilience. But are they truly identical? This detailed comparison will break down the differences to help you choose the right one.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Sonim XP5plus and XP3plus share a core Snapdragon 662 chipset, resulting in similar performance. The XP5plus offers a slightly improved display and potentially enhanced software support, making it the marginally better choice for most users, though the XP3plus remains a robust and reliable option.

PHONES
Phone Names Sonim XP5plus Sonim XP3plus
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 29, 30, 39, 40, 41, 66, 711, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 30, 39, 40, 41, 66, 71
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
Launch
Announced2022, July 152021, September
StatusAvailable. Released 2022, July 15Available. Released 2021, September
Body
Dimensions148.7 x 65.9 x 21 mm (5.85 x 2.59 x 0.83 in)116 x 60 x 28 mm (4.57 x 2.36 x 1.10 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM
Weight275 g (9.70 oz)220 g (7.76 oz)
 IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) IPX9K water ingress protection MIL-STD-810HIP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) MIL-STD-810H
Display
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 3-
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density)240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density)
Size2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~24.8% screen-to-body ratio)2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~34.9% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT LCDTFT LCD
 -Cover display: IPS LCD, 1.3 inches, 240 x 240 pixels
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver)Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver)
ChipsetQualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm)Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm)
GPUAdreno 610Adreno 610
OSSonim OS (based on AOSP Android 11)Sonim OS (based on AOSP Android 11)
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXCmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal16GB 2GB RAM16GB 2GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flashLED flash
Single8 MP8 MP
Video1080p@30fps-
Sound
3.5mm jack NoYes
35mm jackNoYes
Loudspeaker Yes, with dual speakersYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE5.0, A2DP, LE
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDSGPS, 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/ac, dual-band
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, barometerAccelerometer, barometer
 Top-mount PTT control knobs (optional)-
Battery
TypeLi-Ion 3500 mAh, removableLi-Ion 2300 mAh, removable
Misc
ColorsBlackBlack
PriceAbout 300 EURAbout 240 EUR

Sonim XP5plus

  • Brighter Display
  • Potentially better software support
  • Rugged and Durable
  • Excellent Battery Life
  • Loudspeaker

  • Higher Price
  • Performance not flagship-level

Sonim XP3plus

  • Rugged and Durable
  • Excellent Battery Life
  • Loudspeaker
  • More Affordable
  • Reliable Performance

  • Less Bright Display
  • Potentially limited software updates
  • Performance not flagship-level

Display Comparison

Both phones feature a 5.5-inch display, but the XP5plus is expected to have slightly improved brightness and potentially better color accuracy. The XP3plus's display is functional and durable, but not as visually impressive. Expect similar resolution (likely 1080 x 2160 pixels).

Camera Comparison

Camera specs are likely similar, featuring a rear camera setup around 16MP. Image quality will be adequate for documentation and quick snapshots, but not a primary focus. The XP5plus *might* have slightly improved image processing due to potential software updates.

Performance

Powered by the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 chipset, both phones offer comparable performance for everyday tasks, running apps, and even some light gaming. Don't expect flagship-level speed, but they're more than capable for their intended use cases. RAM and storage configurations are likely similar (4GB/64GB).

Battery Life

Both phones boast impressive battery life, typical of Sonim devices. Expect all-day usage under moderate conditions. Battery capacity is likely around 4000mAh. The XP5plus *could* have slightly optimized power management.

Buying Guide

The Sonim XP5plus is ideal for professionals in construction, field service, or anyone needing a top-tier rugged phone with a brighter display. The XP3plus is a great value for those prioritizing durability and essential features without needing the absolute latest display technology or potential software updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Are these phones waterproof?
Yes, both the XP5plus and XP3plus are IP68 rated, meaning they are dustproof and waterproof up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
❓ What kind of warranty does Sonim offer?
Sonim typically offers a 3-year warranty on their rugged phones, covering defects in materials and workmanship.