The Ulefone Armor 22: A Quick Review

Rugged smartphones have become increasingly popular, leading to the creation of two sub-classes – one with huge batteries and another with sleeker designs. Among the latter is the Ulefone Armor 22, offering practicality and elegance without sacrificing battery life.

Available in black or black with green highlights, the Armor 22 sports the classic rugged phone features, including chunky metal sides with an isometric relief and angled corners. Its layout includes the power button and rocker on the right, and a custom button and SIM card slot on the left. Notably, it features a 3.5mm audio jack, and a SIM tray that accommodates two Nano SIMs and a MicroSD card simultaneously.

The camera department sets the Armor 22 apart from its competitors, with dual 64MP sensors on the rear – one serving as the main lens and the other as a night vision sensor. The use of the new SONY IMX686 sensor, in particular, produces impressive results.

In terms of processing power, the Armor 22 is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G96, which is slightly less powerful than the more popular G99 chip. Despite this, the Armor 22 remains a class-leading design that performs well in rugged environments, all with a reasonable price tag.

In terms of pricing and availability, the Ulefone Armor 22 is currently available from $220. It comes in two colors and two memory size options. While purchasing from Ulefone directly can be more affordable, online retailers like Amazon and AliExpress also offer the phone.

Design-wise, the Armor 22 features isometric patterning on its sides, making it easier to grip. However, its octagonal camera projection prevents the phone from lying flat. Although it is rugged and functional with robust buttons, its rubber plugs may not be as effective against water and dust with repeated use. On the plus side, it weighs just 324g, making it one of the lighter rugged phones available.

In terms of hardware, the Armor 22 is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G96 chip, offering a practical user experience. Its 8GB of RAM and 4G support make it suitable for everyday use, while its camera specifications set it apart from other smartphones in its category.

All in all, the Ulefone Armor 22 provides a well-rounded package of features at a modest price point, making it an attractive option for those in need of a durable and capable smartphone.