Ulefone, the undisputed king of rugged phones, has done it again. This time, they’ve delivered the Armor X31 Pro 5G, a device that slims down the typically bulky rugged phone profile without sacrificing the durability or features you’ve come to expect.
The X 31 is part of Ulefone’s Armor X Series of classic tough phones, released in December 2024, it will be one to look out for in 2025. (Now superseded by the Ulefone Armor X32 Pro)
We’ve put this phone through its paces, so read on to see if it does what it says on the tin.
Product: Ulefone Armor X31 Pro
Price: £280
Verdict: 9/10
Short Description: A slim, rugged smartphone with lots of features.
Pros: Slim, Rugged, Waterproof, Powerful, Infrared Camera, 16GB RAM, 256GB ROM, Large Battery, Price.
Cons: 3mp macro camera.
To Buy:
Amazon UK : https://amzn.to/4lD3Zk7
Key Features & Specifications Of The Ulefone Armor x31 Pro 5G
- IP68/IP69K
- MIL-STD-810H
- 25MP infrared Night Vision Camera – Sony IMX550, 1/2.78″ sensor with two IR Lights.
- 64MP Main Camera – Sony IMX682, 1/1.73″ sensor, f 1.9
- 2K QHD at 30FPS on Main Camera
- 3MP Macro Camera
- 16MP Front Camera –
- Dimensity 6300 5G SOC – 6nm, octa core, 2x A76 cores, 6x A55 cores, Arm Mali G57 GPU – 450,000 on AnTuTu
- NFC, Google Pay
- Ir Blaster – Remote Control for TV, DVD, etc
- 6.56″ HD+ IPS Dispaly, 120HZ, Includes glove mode
- Independant powerful flashlight
- Android 14
- 16 GB RAM
- 256 GB ROM
- 6050 mAh battery – 35 hrs Talk, 330Hrs Stand By
First Impressions of the Ulefone Armor X31 Pro
Inside the Box.
- Phone
- 9V/2A 18W charger
- USB C Cable
- Glass Screen Protector
- Sim Tool
- Lanyard
- Paperwork
You don’t get a better first impression. This is a nice smartphone. I am talking about the feel in the hand. It is a large phone but not large by rugged phone standards. The Armor 27T Pro and the Armor 26 Ultra are both bigger, taller, wider and thicker. The X31 Pro is on par with something like the Samsung 24 Ultra with a slim case on in terms of size and thickness. First impressions of the X31 are solid.
Initial Smartphone Setup
The set up was a breeze and as usual Ulefone have opted for a great vanilla like Android experience, in this case Android 14 with only a few key Ulefone apps installed. BTW these are useful apps, like Ulefone’s FM Radio (I do not know why other brands don’t include this feature), IR remote control, and the super useful Ulefone Outdoor Tools app that houses a compass, barometer, protractor, height merer, plumb, noise test, underwater camera and more.
The finger printer and face unlock were easy to set up and now unlock the phone instantly.
The touch responsiveness is smooth and capable, we have experienced no lag! Easily powering through all gestures, app switches, and commands with buttery smoothness. This is due to the powerful Dimensity 6300 5G SOC and 8GB ( + 8GB of VRAM) of ram.
Initial setup 10/10 – Effortless.
Built to Endure:
The Armor X31 is part of Ulefone’s Classic Tough Range and well, this is Ulefone, it goes without saying that this is built like a tank. The X31 Pro boasts an IP68/IP69K rating, meaning it can withstand dust, dirt, and submersion in water. It’s also MIL-STD-810H certified, so it can handle drops, shocks, and extreme temperatures.
The day this phone was delivered, it sat outside in my parcel box for 12 plus hours in -6 degrees centigrade (21 in Fahrenheit.) until I returned home. Out the box it was frozen. It was so cold it was hard to hold, yet it started up no problem.
Our testing; Drop test, Cold test, Water submerging test, fine Dust and dirt test. We found it lived up to the claims. Whether you’re kayaking down a raging river or hiking through a dusty desert, this phone can take it. And it is this kind of protection we as adventurers need.
When stuff goes wrong in the wilderness, it usually goes wrong fast and hard and if you’re travelling with a standard feature phone, you increase your chances of things going wrong! For example, if you drop your iPhone it will smash, or crack, potentially rendering it unusable. Drop it in water, it dies. Use the navigation apps too long and the poor battery will wilt. This is why we recommend a rugged phone for the outdoors, because most of the basics of how things could go wrong with your phone are covered. Drop proof, waterproof with large batteries and feature packed for the outdoors.
Capture Every Adventure:
The main camera system is another highlight. The 64MP main camera captures stunning photos in daylight, and gives users the option of a 2x digital zoom which works well. The 25MP infrared night vision camera lets you see in the dark. This is a game-changer for low-light adventures, whether you’re exploring a cave, spotting wildlife or simply walking through the woods at night. Finally, the 16MP selfie camera gives crisp and well-defined pictures too.
Feature-Packed And Rugged for the Outdoors:
The Armor X31 Pro is loaded with features that make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Infrared camera for clear night vision, a game changer for night time adventures. An independent powerful flashlight is bright and can be a lifesaver in emergencies. And with Ulefone’s amazing Custom Key (Programmable button, yes another feature that should be on every phone) you can set the flash to trigger with a press of the custom key. The large 6.56-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate is buttery smooth and perfect for viewing maps and navigating, even in bright sunlight. And with a massive 6050 mAh battery, you can go days without needing to recharge.
Add in tools like the compass, barometer, 3.5mm headphone jack for easy listening, and we have a winner.
Powerful Performance:
Under the hood, the X31 Pro packs a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G SOC, providing ample power for demanding tasks. With upto 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, you’ll have no problem running multiple apps, playing games, or storing your photos, maps, music and videos. We found it handled everything we threw at it with ease, from navigating with GPS to editing photos on the go and even a few cheeky FPS games whilst we waited on buses.
NOTE: MediaTek chips used to be seen as third rate, SnapDragon, Apple or Samsung silicone being preferred, but now MediaTek chips are powering some of the fastest feature phones in the Android space. This is a serious work horse.
Use Cases For The Armor X31 Pro:
In a general sense, this is a great tough phone for almost all outdoor activities and adventures. Here are some example use cases.
1. Kayaking/Canoeing:
- Example: Imagine navigating the rapids of the river Tay in Scotland. You need a phone that can withstand splashes, accidental drops, and even a full submersion if you need to roll all without having to dry bag or dry box your phone.
2. Hiking:
- Example: We always recommend carrying a paper map & compass and being able to use it, but this is an adventure. So, picture yourself trekking through the Scottish highlands. The wind picks up and the map blows out from your hand. You’re now relying on your phone for GPS for navigation and staying connected in case of emergencies. The phone’s powerful yet efficient processor with plenty of battery life will navigate you off the mountain and back to safety. (Because of potential data coverage issues, we always recommend downloading the appropriate maps to your phone before setting off). The X31 is a navigation powerhouse with access to GPS, GLONASS, BEIDOU and GALILEO.
3. Wild Swimming:
- Example: You’re enjoying a refreshing dip in a hidden loch. You want to use your phone to time how long you have been in and hear the alerts you have set, as well as keep it hand in case of an emergency. Possibly, you want to capture underwater photos and videos to share with friends. You use a tow float with an external mesh pouch and you know with the X31 you can store your phone there knowing that its water proof enough to be accessible at all times.
4. Mountain Biking:
- Example: You’re tackling a challenging downhill trail. You need a phone that can handle the vibrations and potential impacts, while also allowing you to track your speed and distance. This phone would pair well with Ulefone’s Armor Mount Pro Bike Phone holder, and when you crash (it is mountain biking after all) you know that your phone has a better chance of surviving than a standard feature phone.
5. Camping:
- Example: You’re setting up camp in a remote location. You need a reliable device for communication, entertainment, and light. The Armor X31 Pro’s powerful flashlight illuminates your campsite, while the long-lasting battery ensures you stay connected even without access to power outlets. Download movies or games beforehand, and enjoy them on the vibrant display.
These are just a few examples, and the possibilities are endless. The Ulefone Armor X31 Pro 5G is a versatile tool for anyone who loves spending time outdoors, providing durability, performance, and features that enhance any adventure.
Final Verdict of Our Ulefone Armor X31 Pro 5G Rugged Phone Review
The Ulefone Armor X31 Pro 5G is a fantastic rugged phone that offers excellent value for money. It’s tough, powerful, and packed with features that make it perfect for outdoor adventurers. If you’re looking for a phone that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Armor X31 Pro is a great choice.
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