Energizer Hardcase H240S Full Specs Prices & Performance Review

Overview

The Energizer Hardcase H240S is a rugged mobile phone that addresses the needs of users looking for durability and basic smartphone functionality. Released in January 2018, this device combines the robust design characteristic of Energizer products with essential smartphone features, making it suitable for those working in harsh environments or needing a reliable secondary phone. Its blend of physical toughness and technological simplicity offers an interesting choice in the market of durable phones.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Energizer Hardcase H240S is a testament to its rugged nature. Measuring 132 x 56 x 18.5 mm and weighing 256 grams, it’s notably bulkier compared to typical smartphones. These dimensions are a result of its durable casing, which is designed to withstand harsh conditions. The phone's exterior is robust, offering protection against bumps and drops, making it ideal for outdoor activities and demanding professions. Despite its rugged attributes, the phone maintains a firm grip due to its textured surface which prevents accidental slips.

Display

The phone features a 2.4-inch TFT display with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, allowing it to display up to 256K colors. While the display size and resolution might not compete with modern smartphones, it provides adequate visual clarity for basic tasks and essential applications. Its smaller screen size also contributes to the phone's longevity by reducing battery consumption and minimizing damage risk during drops.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Energizer Hardcase H240S is powered by a MediaTek MT6737M chipset, featuring a Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. Accompanied by 1GB of RAM, this hardware configuration is modest by today’s standards but sufficient for basic operations such as calling, messaging, and occasional internet browsing. The device runs on Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), offering a simplified user experience with access to various applications through the Google Play Store, albeit limited by its hardware capabilities.

Camera

Photography is not the centerpiece of the Energizer Hardcase H240S, but it still includes a 5 MP main camera with LED flash. While this specification allows for basic photo capturing, it lacks advanced features found in higher-end smartphones. The camera performs sufficiently in well-lit conditions, suitable for capturing casual moments without the expectation of high-quality imagery. Notably, there is no front-facing camera, which aligns with the phone's focus on durability and essential functionality over multimedia performance.

Battery Life

A significant highlight of the Energizer Hardcase H240S is its battery performance. It is equipped with a removable Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery, providing up to 230 hours of standby time and up to 5 hours of talk time over 3G. This battery endurance ensures that the device remains operational over extended periods, even in areas where charging opportunities might be scarce. The removable battery design also allows users to carry a spare battery, further extending its usability during long fieldwork or travel.

Storage and Memory

The internal storage of the device stands at 8GB, which is relatively low but manageable for users primarily interested in basic phone functions and limited app installations. There is an option to expand storage using a microSDHC card, which shares a slot with the SIM, providing flexibility in terms of additional storage. This expansion capability is essential for users who may need additional space for media and application data without needing to delete existing files continually.

Connectivity

The Energizer Hardcase H240S supports multiple network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, ensuring broad compatibility with different network providers and robust connectivity. It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for internet access and Bluetooth 4.0 for short-range wireless communication with other devices. The phone also includes GPS and GLONASS capabilities, providing reliable navigation solutions. Although it lacks NFC, it does offer FM radio, allowing users to listen to broadcast radio stations, which can be a valuable feature in areas with limited internet access.

Durability and Practicality

Designed with durability in mind, the Hardcase H240S from Energizer is made to endure tough conditions, making it a suitable choice for users in construction, mining, or adventure sports. Its robust build is a significant advantage for anyone in environments where phones are prone to damage. This durability does not come at a substantial cost to practicality, as the device remains functional for everyday tasks and communication needs.

Price and Market Position

Priced at approximately 120 EUR, the Energizer Hardcase H240S positions itself as an affordable device in the niche of rugged phones. Its price point makes it appealing for users seeking reliability and ruggedness without the high cost typically associated with high-end rugged smartphones. This makes it a prudent choice for cost-conscious buyers looking for a secondary phone with reliable performance in challenging settings.

Conclusion

In summary, the Energizer Hardcase H240S is tailored for users who need a mobile phone with rugged build quality and basic smartphone functionality. While it might not fulfill the needs of tech enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge features, it excels in offering durability, reliability, and essential connectivity. Whether as a primary phone for users in harsh environments or a secondary device for adventurers, the Hardcase H240S delivers on its promise of resilience and practicality at an accessible price.