But the real issue here is that the pricing of this phone and its technology are at odds.
30-second review
The review sample of this phone is designated the X1 Pro.
But for whatever reason, since we received it, this product has magically become the Phonemax X3.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
is certified IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810G.
Phonemax probably decided to not use the metal band construction method to reduce weight.
And at just 253g, this is one of the lighter (but not lightest) rugged phones around.
However, there are a few things about the X3 that are decidedly old-school.
Other oddities include the placement of the USB-C port on the top, not the bottom.
The SIM tray is typically two Nano SIMs or one with a MicroSD card affair.
The reason is possibly that thisARMA75-based SoC has made it into a relatively small number of phones.
It offers the Mali G57 MP1 GPU and has an integrated LTE/4G modem.
The T606 supports LPDDR4X memory at up to 1600MHz and eMMC 5.1, UFS 2.1 and UFS 2.2 storage.
The published specifications mention a 6GB RAM version, but the review hardware had 8 GB.
This SoC does not support mapping storage to memory for more virtual program space.
Crisper results can be obtained from theSONYIMX350 Night Vision Camera, but obviously only in monochrome.
What it does offer is an underwater mode.
But inexplicably, this isn’t available in the camera app but with a binding to the user-defined button.
We must call out a promotional image that Phonemax placed on its website X3 pages.
The image shows a woman snorkelling over a reef with a turtle.
And the Nokia XR21 is twice the speed or better in most tests.
In short, if you are looking for a performance phone, the X3 isn’t for you.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
When all things are considered, it’s a decidedly budget phone that’s been waterproofed.
Should I buy a Phonemax X3?
Then, the Phonemax X3 is a robust solution with reasonable battery life.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
The maximum video quality of the selfie camera is only 720p.
Read ourFossibot F102 reviewfor more information.
If this machine isnt for you, check out ourbest Rugged Phones collection.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
