Cat B35 Rugged Features Price & Performance Review

Overview

The Cat B35 is a rugged feature phone designed for those who need a reliable communication device in tough environments. Launched in October 2018, this phone combines basic smartphone functionalities with Cat brand durability, catering to users who require more than just a standard mobile phone.

Design and Build

The Cat B35 exhibits a robust construction featuring dimensions of 138 x 60 x 14 mm and a weight of 130 g. The body is built to withstand harsh conditions, making it suitable for industrial use. It supports either a single Nano-SIM or a hybrid dual SIM, offering flexible connectivity options. The inclusion of scratch-proof glass further ensures durability.

Display

The phone sports a 2.4-inch TFT display with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, achieving approximately 167 pixels per inch density. While the screen-to-body ratio is about 21.5%, the display is adequate for basic navigation and communication tasks, ensuring visibility even in outdoor conditions.

Performance

Powered by the Qualcomm MSM8905 Snapdragon 205 chipset, the Cat B35 efficiently handles everyday tasks required from a feature phone. Its dual-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and Adreno 304 GPU ensure smooth performance for the installed KaiOS 2.5.1 operating system. Though not designed for heavy multitasking, it efficiently runs essential apps and services provided by KaiOS.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 512 MB of RAM and 4 GB of internal storage, allowing users to store essential apps and a limited number of media files. For additional storage needs, the Cat B35 offers a microSDXC slot, which utilizes the shared SIM slot, facilitating expandable memory for those who require it.

Camera

The Cat B35 features a modest 2 MP main camera accompanied by an LED flash, enabling basic photography and video recording capabilities at 480p@30fps. Although it lacks a front-facing selfie camera, the primary camera is functional for capturing quick shots in various environments.

Battery Life

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 2300 mAh battery, the Cat B35 offers impressive longevity. The phone delivers up to 720 hours of standby time on 3G networks and up to 12 hours of talk time. This extended battery life is advantageous for users operating in remote areas with limited access to charging facilities.

Network and Connectivity

The device supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, ensuring broad network coverage and reliable connection speeds up to 150 Mbps on LTE Cat4. It covers multiple bands, including 2G (GSM 850/900/1800/1900), 3G (HSDPA 850/900/1900/2100), and 4G (bands 1, 3, 7, 8, 20). This compatibility makes it suitable for varied geographic locations.

Concerning connectivity, the Cat B35 is equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, GLONASS, and FM radio. However, it lacks NFC, limiting contactless payment capabilities. USB charging and data transfer are facilitated through a microUSB 2.0 port.

Audio and Multimedia

The device includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack for multimedia enjoyment and hands-free calls. Though it doesn’t support high-definition audio, it adequately fulfills basic audio requirements.

Extra Features

Several additional features enhance the device's usability, including an accelerometer sensor and the capability to run KaiOS apps, giving users access to popular applications such as Facebook and WhatsApp. While it does not incorporate advanced smartphone features, its simplistic OS ensures ease of use.

Pricing and Market Position

Priced at approximately 110 EUR, the Cat B35 is positioned as a cost-effective solution for users needing robust reliability over advanced features. Its durable build and extended battery life cater to a niche market of outdoor professionals and industrial workers where smartphones might fail.

Conclusion

In summary, the Cat B35 stands out as a ruggedized feature phone with essential functionalities suited for harsh environments. Its durable design, coupled with efficient performance and robust battery life, make it a practical choice for users prioritizing longevity and reliability over high-end features. Perfect for those in need of a reliable communication device that withstands the challenges of demanding work conditions, the Cat B35 proves to be a sturdy companion.