The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is a rugged smartphone designed for those who need a tough device that can withstand harsh environments. With its IP68 ruggedness rating and removable battery, the XCover7 is built to last. However, it lacks some features found in other smartphones at a similar price point, such as built-in satellite messaging.
Design & Build:
The XCover7 is a 6.6-inch smartphone with an integrated protective case and a single rear camera lens. It features a large button for quick access to the LED camera flash/torch. The phone is heavy at 240g but not overly thick considering its rugged build. The weight is likely due to the extra armor and the removable battery.
Screen & Speakers:
The XCover7 sports a 6.6-inch LCD display with Samsung’s Plane Line Switching (PLS) technology for a bright and sharp screen. The display is covered in Gorilla Glass Victus+ for scratch resistance. The phone has a mono speaker at the bottom, which is adequate but not exceptional. It is recommended to use Bluetooth headphones or the 3.5mm headphone jack for better sound quality.
Specs & Performance:
Powered by a Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ MT6835 octa-core chipset, the XCover7 offers efficient performance with 6GB of RAM. The phone handles multitasking well but may lag slightly in speed. It supports Wi-Fi 5 instead of Wi-Fi 6, which may limit internet speed in certain locations. The battery life is decent, lasting up to 15 hours of continuous use.
Cameras:
The XCover7 features a 50MP rear camera that takes decent photos in good lighting conditions. However, the image quality may drop in low light. The phone can shoot video at 1080p/30fps, which is sufficient for most users. The 5MP selfie camera is suitable for video calls but not for high-quality selfies.
Battery Life & Charging:
The XCover7 comes with a replaceable 4050mAh battery that offers long usage from a single charge. Replacements may not be easily available, so carrying a USB charging pack is recommended. The phone supports 15W charging via USB-C, making it convenient for outdoor use.
Software & Apps:
Running on Android 14 with Samsung’s OneUI 6.0, the XCover7 offers a modern software experience with seven years of support. The phone’s Easy mode is suitable for outdoor use, providing increased contrast and larger icons for better visibility.
Price & Availability:
Priced at £349, the XCover7 is positioned in the mid-range market for rugged smartphones. It is available from Samsung, Amazon, and other retailers in the UK. While it may not be the best performer, the XCover7 is a solid choice for those who prioritize durability over top-of-the-line features.
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is a rugged smartphone ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those working in harsh environments. While it may not offer the same performance as flagship smartphones, its durability and replaceable battery make it a reliable choice for those who need a tough device.
