Mobilawy

Sonim XP3 The Ultimate Rugged Phone Guide

Release Date
2019, March
Camera
5MP
Battery
1500mAh
Processor
Snapdragon 210
Screen
2.6"
Storage
8GB , microSDXC
Ram
1GB RAM
Operating System
Sonim OS

Design and Build Quality

The Sonim XP3 is designed for the rugged individual who seeks durability in challenging environments. With dimensions of 112 x 58 x 27 mm and a weight of 195 grams, it is both compact and robust. Its sturdy build ensures it can withstand drops and harsh conditions, making it ideal for outdoor usage. The rugged body features a black color that radiates a professional and robust aesthetic, further emphasized by its Nano-SIM compatibility and resilience against environmental factors.

Display

The device sports a 2.6-inch TFT LCD screen with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 32.2%, making it functional and compact. The 240 x 320 pixel resolution at a 4:3 aspect ratio provides a modest visual experience suitable for basic usage like calls, messaging, and simple app navigation. With a pixel density of ~154 ppi, the display is not designed for high-resolution viewing but serves its purpose well in basic readability and functionality, ideal for a device focused on durability rather than multimedia consumption.

Performance and Software

Powered by a Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 chipset built on a 28 nm process, the Sonim XP3 offers reliable performance for its intended basic functions. It features a quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU accompanied by an Adreno 304 GPU. While not suitable for intense gaming or multitasking, these specifications are sufficient for the smooth operation of lightweight applications and general phone tasks. The device runs on Sonim OS, based on AOSP Android 8.1, providing a stable and straightforward user interface with essential application support.

Memory and Storage

The Sonim XP3 comes with 1GB RAM, which while minimal by modern standards, supports its function-oriented design aimed at basic use. The internal storage capacity is 8GB, but with a dedicated microSDXC card slot, users can expand storage to accommodate additional media or essential applications, facilitating versatility in managing personal data.

Camera Features

The device is equipped with a 5 MP rear camera complemented by an LED flash, which is adequate for capturing basic photos. There is no front camera, reflecting the phone’s focus on functionality over multimedia features. The camera allows for essential photography and video recording for documentation and basic sharing purposes, aligning with the device’s robust nature.

Connectivity Options

The Sonim XP3 is equipped to support multiple network technologies including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE, ensuring broad connectivity capabilities. It supports multiple 2G, 3G, and 4G bands, enabling the user to stay connected in various regions globally. Connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/r with dual-band support provide reliable internet access when within range of a hotspot. Bluetooth 4.2 supports wireless connectivity with other devices for media sharing and peripheral connectivity. However, NFC is not supported, an understandable omission given its overall targeted uses.

GPS and Sensors

The device is equipped with GPS capabilities, supporting GLONASS and GALILEO for enhanced location accuracy, particularly useful for navigation in challenging terrains. Additionally, it includes a barometer, enhancing its utility in outdoor conditions where altitude and atmospheric pressure measurements are needed.

Battery Life

The Sonim XP3 is powered by a 1500 mAh Li-Ion removable battery, offering satisfactory endurance given its basic functionality and efficient hardware. This battery life is suitable for long workdays outdoors, especially important when access to power sources may be limited. The removable aspect allows for battery swaps, providing an advantage for users requiring prolonged usage without downtime.

Additional Features

Being a feature phone with rugged capabilities, the Sonim XP3 includes a 3.5mm jack and FM radio, catering to users who value traditional media formats. It utilizes a USB Type-C port for efficient charging and data transfer. These features simplify connections and enhance the device’s adaptability to various user needs.

Market Price and Availability

Released in March 2019, the Sonim XP3 is available for purchase at approximately 190 EUR. This pricing reflects its specialized market segment, offering durability for users who require a reliable device in harsh environments. Its availability continues due to its niche appeal to outdoor workers, adventurers, and those requiring a sturdy and dependable communication tool.

Key Features of Sonim XP3

  • Supports multiple network technologies: GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, LTE
  • Durable design with dimensions of 112 x 58 x 27 mm and a weight of 195 g
  • Compact TFT LCD display at 2.6 inches
  • Powered by Sonim OS (based on AOSP Android 8.1) with Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 chipset
  • Quad-core CPU with an Adreno 304 GPU
  • Expandable storage with microSDXC card and 8GB internal memory with 1GB RAM
  • Main camera with a 5 MP sensor and LED flash
  • Equipped with basic audio features including a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack
  • Wi-Fi support with dual-band capabilities
  • Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity
  • Advanced positioning systems including GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO
  • FM Radio available for broadcast listening
  • Utilizes a USB Type-C connection port
  • Includes a Barometer sensor
  • Removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery
  • Offered in a simple Black color option

Sonim XP3 Disadvantages

  • Limited internal storage with only 8GB capacity, which may require frequent use of the microSD slot for expansion.
  • Low RAM capacity of 1GB, which can impact multitasking performance and limit the ability to run more demanding apps smoothly.
  • Outdated operating system based on Android 8.1 (AOSP), lacking some modern features and security updates.
  • Basic camera capabilities with a single 5 MP main camera and no front-facing selfie camera.
  • Small screen size of 2.6 inches with low resolution, resulting in less immersive media viewing experience.
  • Limited GPU performance with Adreno 304, which is not suitable for graphics-intensive applications or games.
  • No NFC support, limiting potential for contactless payments and other NFC-based functionalities.
  • Relatively low battery capacity of 1500 mAh, which may require frequent recharging, especially under heavy use.
  • Thick and heavy body design (195g), which may not be suitable for users looking for a lighter or more compact device.
Network
Technology GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bands HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 2100
4G bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 38, 41, 66
Speed HSPA, LTE
Launch
Announced 2019, March
Status Available. Released 2019, March
Body
Dimensions 112 x 58 x 27 mm (4.41 x 2.28 x 1.06 in)
Weight 195 g (6.88 oz)
SIM Nano-SIM
Display
Type TFT LCD
Size 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~32.2% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density)
Platform
OS Sonim OS (based on AOSP Android 8.1)
Chipset Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm)
CPU Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7
GPU Adreno 304
Memory
Card slot microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal 8GB 1GB RAM
Main Camera
Single 5 MP
Features LED flash
Video
Selfie camera
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes
3.5mm jack Yes
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/r, dual-band
Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP, LE
Positioning GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO
NFC No
Radio FM Radio
USB USB Type-C
Features
Sensors Barometer
Battery
Type Li-Ion 1500 mAh, removable
Misc
Colors Black
Price About 190 EUR

All Rights Reserved +13571 Phones © Mobilawy 2025