Cat S30 Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to CAT S30

The CAT S30 is a robust smartphone released in September 2015, designed to withstand harsh environments and provide reliable performance with essential features for users seeking durability. With its rugged design and practical functionalities, it targets construction workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a device that can endure extreme conditions.

Design and Build

The CAT S30 boasts a durable build with dimensions measuring 141.9 x 72.7 x 13.3 mm and a weight of 181g, making it a bit bulkier than typical smartphones. The bulkiness, however, is complemented by its rugged construction, ensuring resistance to drops, water, and dust. Adopting Caterpillar’s trademark rugged styling, the device is IP68 rated, meaning it is dustproof and water-resistant up to 1.2 meters for 30 minutes.

Display

The device features a 4.5-inch TFT display with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels, granting it a pixel density of approximately 218 ppi. While the resolution might not match high-end devices, it’s adequate for basic tasks and rugged environments. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, adding an extra layer of durability against scratches and impacts.

Performance

Under the hood, the CAT S30 is equipped with a Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 chipset, featuring a Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and an Adreno 304 GPU. While this hardware setup is not designed for high performance, it suffices for general usage like browsing, calling, and using standard applications. The device runs on Android 5.1 Lollipop, providing a straightforward and stable user interface.

Memory and Storage

The CAT S30 incorporates 1GB RAM and 8GB of internal storage. While this is quite low by current standards, the storage can be expanded via a dedicated microSDXC slot, allowing users to extend storage capacity for additional media and apps. The limited RAM might affect multitasking abilities, but it should manage basic applications without significant issues.

Camera

The smartphone is equipped with a 5 MP rear camera that features autofocus and an LED flash, capable of recording 1080p videos at 60fps. Though not advanced, it is suitable for capturing simple photos and occasional video recording. For selfies, there is a 2 MP front camera, providing basic functionality for video calls and selfies without high expectations of quality.

Battery Life

Powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, the CAT S30 offers impressive battery life. It supports up to 936 hours on standby and up to 18 hours of talk time, making it ideal for users who require long-lasting battery performance in the field or during adventures where charging may not be readily available.

Network and Connectivity

The CAT S30 supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring wide compatibility and decent browsing speeds with LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG support. However, it lacks NFC capabilities. The inclusion of an FM radio receiver is a nice touch for entertainment and connectivity in areas without internet access.

Additional Features

Apart from its primary specifications, the CAT S30 comes with several sensors including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, adding to the functionalities necessary in rugged environments. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack allows users to connect traditional audio devices without needing adapters.

Conclusion

Overall, the CAT S30 is designed with specific users in mind—those who prioritize durability over high-end specifications. While it may not boast the latest technology, its robustness, long battery life, and adequate performance for everyday tasks make it a reliable companion for users in demanding professions or adventurous lifestyles. Released at an initial price around 340 EUR, the device represents a solid investment for durability and dependability, even though it has been discontinued and may now be harder to find in the market.