Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

Welcome to my review of the Samsung Galaxy XCover 5, a rugged smartphone designed for those who live an active lifestyle or work in harsh environments. The Galaxy XCover 5 was announced in March 2021 and released shortly after, boasting improved features from its predecessor, the XCover 4.

Design and Build Quality

The Samsung Galaxy XCover 5 is a rugged smartphone designed to withstand harsh environments and demanding conditions. Its physical appearance exudes a no-nonsense vibe, with a simple and straightforward design language. The phone measures 147.1 x 71.6 x 9.2 mm and weighs 172 g, making it compact and lightweight enough to carry around with ease.

The XCover 5's construction is MIL-STD-810H compliant, which means it meets military standards for durability and ruggedness. It can survive drops, shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures, making it an ideal device for outdoor adventurers, construction workers, and other professionals who need a reliable device that can withstand tough conditions.

The phone's IP68 rating also means it is dust and water-resistant, and can survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. This makes it a great option for those who work or play in wet or dusty environments.

The XCover 5's ergonomic design ensures that it is comfortable to hold, with a textured back for added grip. The physical buttons on the side of the device are easy to press, and the fingerprint scanner is conveniently located on the back of the phone.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy XCover 5 is a well-built device that can withstand harsh environments and demanding conditions. Its rugged construction and water-resistant design make it an ideal smartphone for those who need a reliable device that can survive tough conditions.

Display

The Samsung Galaxy XCover 5 features a 5.3-inch PLS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1480 pixels and an 18.5:9 aspect ratio. While the screen size might seem small when compared to other devices in the market, it is still quite sufficient for everyday use.

The display technology used in the XCover 5 is LCD, which is not as advanced as OLED displays found in higher-end devices. Nonetheless, the display still provides clear and vibrant colors that make using the device a pleasure.

This smartphone also boasts good color accuracy and vibrancy, making it ideal for streaming videos and playing games. The screen has a peak brightness of 450 nits, which is quite impressive for a device in this price range. This allows for comfortable usage even in direct sunlight, albeit with some slight glare.

The touch sensitivity and responsiveness of the display are also noteworthy. The screen is quite sensitive, and it registers even the slightest touch. This allows for smooth scrolling and easy navigation through apps and menus.

Overall, while the display technology might not be as advanced as that of high-end devices, the Samsung Galaxy XCover 5 still manages to deliver a decent viewing experience. Its display is bright, colorful, and responsive, making it a great choice for everyday use.

Performance

The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is equipped with the Exynos 850 chipset, which provides decent performance for its intended rugged usage. The octa-core CPU, consisting of four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz, ensures smooth multitasking and app loading speeds. While it may not be the most powerful chipset in the market, it offers a good balance between performance and efficiency.

In terms of GPU benchmarks, the Mali-G52 GPU on the Xcover 5 delivers satisfactory graphics scores. While it may not be able to handle the most demanding games at maximum settings, it is capable of providing a decent gaming experience for casual gamers. The GPU efficiency of the Mali-G52 ensures that the device does not drain the battery excessively during gaming sessions.

The Xcover 5 also performs well in synthetic benchmarks, showcasing its overall performance capabilities. It manages to provide a smooth user experience with lag-free performance, thanks to its system optimization. The device handles multitasking effortlessly, allowing users to switch between apps without any noticeable slowdowns.

Thermal management is another aspect where the Xcover 5 excels. It does not overheat even during extended gaming sessions or intensive tasks, ensuring a consistent performance without any throttling issues. This is particularly important for a rugged device as it needs to withstand harsh conditions without compromising on performance.

Overall, the performance of the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is commendable considering its target audience and purpose. While it may not be the most powerful smartphone in terms of raw specifications, it offers a smooth and reliable user experience with its optimized software and efficient hardware. Whether you're using it for everyday tasks, multitasking, or casual gaming, the Xcover 5 delivers a satisfactory performance that meets the needs of its rugged design.

Software and User Interface

The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 comes with the Android 11 operating system, which can be upgraded to Android 13 and is overlaid with Samsung's own One UI 5. This combination offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and customize to suit individual preferences. The device runs on the Exynos 850 chipset, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking capabilities.

In terms of pre-installed apps, the Galaxy Xcover 5 offers a range of useful applications out of the box. These include popular apps like Samsung Health, Samsung Pay, and Samsung Notes, which provide various functionalities for health tracking, mobile payments, and note-taking, respectively. While some users may find these apps beneficial, others might consider them as bloatware if they don't use them frequently. However, it's worth noting that Samsung allows users to uninstall or disable many of the pre-installed apps, providing flexibility and freedom to customize the device according to personal preferences.

The device is equipped with the necessary sensors such as accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, which enhance its usability and enable various features and functionalities. Additionally, the Galaxy Xcover 5 supports NFC, allowing users to make contactless payments and interact with other NFC-enabled devices.

Overall, the software experience on the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is smooth, thanks to the optimized Android operating system and Samsung's One UI 5 interface. The device offers a range of pre-installed apps that cater to different needs, although some users may consider them as bloatware. However, the ability to uninstall or disable these apps provides customization options to streamline the user experience. The inclusion of various sensors and NFC support further enhances the device's functionality and convenience.

Camera

The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is equipped with a single 16-megapixel rear camera with an aperture of f/1.8. This camera setup allows for detailed and crisp images, especially in daylight photography. The camera's focal length and sensor size contribute to capturing a wide range of subjects with good sharpness and dynamic range. The device also offers features like HDR and panorama mode, enhancing the image quality and allowing for stunning landscape shots.

In terms of low-light performance, the Galaxy Xcover 5 performs reasonably well. While it may not excel in extreme low-light conditions, the camera's low-light sensitivity and noise reduction capabilities help in capturing decent images in challenging lighting situations. The addition of a dual LED flash further aids in night photography, providing adequate illumination for subjects in darker environments.

For video recording, the camera supports up to 1080p@30fps resolution. While it may not offer 4K video recording, the device does provide video stabilization, ensuring smoother and steady footage. Slow-motion video and time-lapse features are also available, allowing users to get creative with their videos. The device supports various video formats, offering flexibility in sharing and editing recorded videos.

Overall, the camera of the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is suitable for everyday photography needs, delivering natural colors, good sharpness, and decent low-light performance. While it may not have the most advanced camera features found in flagship smartphones, it still offers a reliable camera experience for users seeking a durable and rugged device.

Battery Life

The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is equipped with a removable Li-Ion 3000mAh battery. While this capacity might seem modest compared to some other smartphones on the market, it is important to note that the Xcover 5 is designed to prioritize durability and ruggedness over battery longevity. The device supports 15W wired charging, which allows for relatively fast charging times. However, it does not support wireless charging options.

In terms of battery performance, the Xcover 5 offers a decent standby time and screen-on time, thanks to its power-efficient Exynos 850 chipset and the optimization features of Android 11 with One UI 5. The device also includes a battery saver mode, which helps to extend battery life by limiting background processes and reducing power consumption.

While the Xcover 5's battery may not be the largest or most advanced in terms of technology, it provides sufficient power for everyday use and is well-suited for users who prioritize durability and ruggedness over extended battery life.

Connectivity and Networking

The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 offers a range of connectivity options to cater to the needs of its users. It supports network compatibility with GSM, HSPA, and LTE, ensuring reliable and fast data speeds. The device comes with dual SIM capabilities, allowing users to manage two different numbers simultaneously. In terms of wireless connectivity, the Galaxy Xcover 5 supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, enabling seamless internet browsing and access to Wi-Fi networks. It also features Bluetooth 5.0 with A2DP and LE, facilitating easy and efficient file sharing between devices. NFC is available on the Xcover 5, enabling convenient contactless transactions and interactions with compatible devices. For wired connections, the device is equipped with a USB Type-C 2.0 port, offering fast charging and data transfer capabilities. Additionally, the Xcover 5 supports GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS for accurate positioning and navigation. With its array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, and network compatibility, the Galaxy Xcover 5 ensures that users stay connected and enjoy a seamless experience.

Additional Features

• The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 comes with several standout features that make it a reliable choice for users in need of a rugged smartphone.


• Firstly, it boasts an IP68 rating, which means it is not only dustproof but also resistant to water. This makes it capable of withstanding submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.


• Additionally, the Galaxy Xcover 5 is MIL-STD-810H compliant, ensuring its durability in harsh environments and making it suitable for outdoor activities and demanding work conditions.


• The device is equipped with a range of advanced sensors, including an accelerometer, gyroscope, and proximity sensor. These sensors enhance the user experience by enabling features such as auto screen rotation, gesture control, and improved gaming performance.


• Furthermore, the Xcover 5 supports Qi wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their device without the need for cables. This feature is especially useful for users who are always on the go or working in environments where charging ports may be inaccessible.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is a rugged smartphone that offers durability and reliability for outdoor and tough environments. When comparing it to related gadgets in the market, we can see how it stacks up against its competitors.

In terms of market positioning, the Galaxy Xcover 5 is positioned as a rugged smartphone, targeting users who require a device that can withstand harsh conditions. Its IP68 dust/water resistance and MIL-STD-810H compliance make it suitable for outdoor activities and industrial use.

When comparing its specifications, the Xcover 5 features a 5.3-inch PLS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1480 pixels. While it may not have the high-resolution screens found on flagship devices, it offers decent clarity for its target audience. Its Exynos 850 chipset and 4GB of RAM provide smooth performance for day-to-day tasks, although it may struggle with intensive gaming or multitasking compared to higher-end devices.

In terms of camera capabilities, the Xcover 5 offers a 16 MP main camera and a 5 MP front-facing camera. While these may not compete with flagship devices that boast multiple lenses and higher megapixel counts, they are sufficient for capturing everyday moments and outdoor adventures.

One of the key selling points of the Xcover 5 is its ruggedness, which sets it apart from other smartphones in the market. Similar devices in this segment include the CAT S62 Pro and the Blackview BV9900 Pro. These devices also offer durability and ruggedness, but the Xcover 5 stands out with its IP68 rating and MIL-STD-810H compliance.

In terms of pricing, the Xcover 5 is competitively priced at around €215.98 / £149.99. When comparing it to other rugged smartphones in the market, it offers good value for money. However, if consumers are looking for higher-end specifications and features, they may opt for flagship devices from other brands at a higher price point.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 competes well in the rugged smartphone market with its durability, decent specifications, and competitive pricing. While it may not offer the same level of performance or features as flagship devices, it caters to a specific audience that values ruggedness and reliability in their smartphones.

Pros and Cons

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5 is a rugged smartphone that offers small improvements over its predecessor. With its IP68 dust and water resistance, along with MIL-STD-810H compliance, it can withstand tough environments. The 5.3-inch PLS LCD display provides decent visuals, while the Exynos 850 chipset ensures smooth performance. The 16MP main camera produces satisfactory results, and the 5MP selfie camera is adequate for basic photography needs. Other notable features include NFC support and a removable 3000mAh battery. While it may not excel in any particular area, the Galaxy Xcover 5 is a reliable choice for individuals seeking durability and functionality in their smartphone. Potential buyers looking for a robust device should consider the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 5.