Umidigi Bison X10G vs X10S NFC: A Deep Dive into Rugged Functionality

Umidigi's Bison series consistently delivers durable, affordable smartphones. The X10G and X10S NFC represent incremental updates within this line, but a single feature – NFC – differentiates them. This comparison dissects the nuances between these two models, helping you determine if the convenience of contactless payments and data transfer justifies the potential price difference.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

For most users, the Umidigi Bison X10S NFC is the superior choice. The inclusion of NFC adds significant everyday utility without compromising performance or battery life, given both phones share the same Unisoc Tiger T310 chipset and 10W charging. The small premium for NFC is well worth it.

PHONES
Phone Names Umidigi Bison X10G Umidigi Bison X10S NFC
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 661, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
Launch
Announced2021. Released 20212021. Released 2021
StatusDiscontinuedDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions172.1 x 83.8 x 13.1 mm (6.78 x 3.30 x 0.52 in)172.1 x 83.8 x 12.9 mm (6.78 x 3.30 x 0.51 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight-279 g (9.84 oz)
Display
Resolution720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)
Size6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio)6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCDIPS LCD
Platform
CPUQuad-core (1x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 3x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)Quad-core (1x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 3x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetUnisoc Tiger T310 (12nm)Unisoc Tiger T310 (12nm)
GPUPowerVR GE8300PowerVR GE8300
OSAndroid 11Android 11
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)
Internal32GB 4GB RAM64GB 4GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesDual-LED flash, HDR, panoramaDual-LED flash, HDR, panorama
Triple16 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF 8 MP, 119˚ (ultrawide) 5 MP (macro)16 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF 8 MP, 119˚ (ultrawide) 5 MP (macro)
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single8 MP, f/2.2, (wide)8 MP, f/2.2, (wide)
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE5.0, A2DP, LE
NFCNoYes
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDSGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS
RadioWireless FM radioWireless FM radio
USBUSB Type-C, OTGUSB Type-C, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi DirectWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, proximity, compassFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging10W wired10W wired
Type6150 mAh6150 mAh
Misc
ColorsHack BlackStorm Grey

Umidigi Bison X10G

  • Potentially lower price point.
  • Rugged design for durability.
  • Adequate performance for basic tasks.

  • Lacks NFC functionality.
  • Slow 10W charging.
  • Limited camera capabilities.

Umidigi Bison X10S NFC

  • Includes NFC for contactless payments and data transfer.
  • Rugged design for durability.
  • Adequate performance for basic tasks.

  • Slow 10W charging.
  • Limited camera capabilities.
  • Slightly higher price than the X10G.

Display Comparison

Both the Bison X10G and X10S NFC likely feature similar LCD panels, given their positioning. While specific details like peak brightness and color gamut aren't provided, the focus here isn't display quality; it's ruggedness. Expect a durable, scratch-resistant screen, but not necessarily vibrant colors or high resolution. The absence of high refresh rates (like 90Hz or 120Hz) is typical for this price point, prioritizing battery efficiency over visual fluidity.

Camera Comparison

Details regarding camera sensors are limited. However, given the market segment, it's reasonable to assume both phones feature a primary camera alongside supporting lenses (likely a depth or macro sensor). The image processing capabilities of the Unisoc T310 will be a limiting factor, so don't expect exceptional image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is also probable, relying on software stabilization instead. The focus should be on capturing usable snapshots rather than professional-grade photography.

Performance

The core of both devices is the Unisoc Tiger T310 (12nm). This chipset, with its quad-core configuration – a 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and three 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores – provides adequate performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. The 12nm process node, while not cutting-edge, offers a reasonable balance between performance and power consumption. Users shouldn't expect flagship-level speeds, but the T310 is capable of handling typical smartphone workloads. The shared chipset means performance will be virtually identical between the two models.

Battery Life

Both the Bison X10G and X10S NFC are equipped with 10W wired charging. This is a relatively slow charging speed compared to modern standards, meaning a full charge will take a significant amount of time. While the battery capacity isn't specified, the shared chipset and similar form factors suggest comparable battery life. Users should expect a full day of moderate use, but heavy users may need to top up the battery during the day. The slow charging speed is a trade-off for the rugged design and affordability.

Buying Guide

Buy the Umidigi Bison X10G if you absolutely prioritize the lowest possible price and have no need for NFC functionality. This makes it ideal for users who primarily need a durable phone for calls and basic messaging. Buy the Umidigi Bison X10S NFC if you value the convenience of contactless payments, quick pairing with accessories, or data transfer via NFC, making it a more versatile option for modern smartphone users.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the NFC on the Bison X10S NFC compatible with Google Pay and other mobile payment systems?
Yes, the Bison X10S NFC supports NFC, making it compatible with popular mobile payment systems like Google Pay. This allows for convenient and secure contactless transactions at compatible terminals.
❓ How does the Unisoc Tiger T310 handle multitasking on these phones?
The Unisoc Tiger T310 is capable of handling moderate multitasking. While it won't match the performance of higher-end chipsets, it can comfortably switch between several apps without significant slowdown. However, running many demanding apps simultaneously may result in some lag.
❓ What type of USB port do these phones use?
Given the price point and typical specifications for Umidigi devices, both the Bison X10G and X10S NFC likely use a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. This is the current standard for most Android smartphones.
❓ Are these phones waterproof, or just water-resistant?
Umidigi markets these phones as 'rugged,' implying water resistance, but they are *not* fully waterproof. They can likely withstand splashes and brief immersion, but prolonged exposure to water or submersion should be avoided. Check the official IP rating for specific details.