Nokia XR21: The Rugged Android Smartphone for the Modern Adventurer

The Nokia brand is synonymous with durability and reliability, and the latest addition to their lineup is no exception. The Nokia XR21 is a rugged Android smartphone designed for those who live life on the edge – whether that means hiking through the wilderness or simply dropping their phone in the shower.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you’ll notice about the Nokia XR21 is its robust build quality. Made from a combination of polycarbonate and metal, this phone can withstand even the most extreme conditions. It’s IP69K-rated for dust and water resistance, meaning it can survive being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes.

The phone’s design is functional rather than flashy, with a focus on simplicity and practicality. The rear panel features a durable texture that provides excellent grip, even when wet or slippery. The edges are slightly rounded, making it comfortable to hold in the hand.

Display

The Nokia XR21 boasts a 6.2-inch HD+ display (720 x 1600 pixels) with a 19:9 aspect ratio. While not the sharpest screen on the market, it’s more than sufficient for general use – including watching videos, browsing the web, and playing casual games.

Performance

Powering the Nokia XR21 is an octa-core Unisoc Tiger T618 processor, paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. While this may not be the most powerful chipset out there, it’s more than capable of handling everyday tasks – including social media, email, and basic gaming.

Camera

The Nokia XR21 features a triple-camera setup on its rear, consisting of:

• A 50-megapixel primary sensor with f/1.8 aperture
• A 13-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens with f/2.4 aperture
• A depth sensor for improved portrait mode and bokeh effects

The camera app is straightforward and easy to use, with options for manual focus, ISO control, and more. Image quality is generally good, especially in well-lit conditions – although it may struggle in low-light environments.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Nokia XR21 is its impressive battery life. With a 4500mAh cell, this phone can easily last two days on a single charge – even with moderate usage. The included 18W fast charger helps to top up the battery quickly when you need it most.

Software

The Nokia XR21 runs on Android 11 out of the box, with regular security updates and timely software patches. While there’s no sign of Google services (such as Google Play Store or Google Assistant), this phone is still a solid choice for those who value customizability and control over their device.

Additional Features

The Nokia XR21 also includes:

• Dual-SIM support
• NFC for contactless payments
• FM radio
• MicroSD card slot for expandable storage

Conclusion

The Nokia XR21 is an excellent option for anyone looking for a rugged Android smartphone that can withstand the rigors of daily life. While it may not be the most powerful device on the market, its durability and reliability make it an attractive choice for those who value practicality over high-end features.

With its affordable price tag starting at $499 (base model) and going up to $699 (high-end configuration), the Nokia XR21 is definitely worth considering for anyone in search of a rugged smartphone that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

Technical Specifications:

• Processor: Unisoc Tiger T618 octa-core
• RAM: Up to 6GB
• Storage: Up to 128GB internal storage, expandable via microSD card slot
• Display: 6.2-inch HD+ (720 x 1600 pixels), 19:9 aspect ratio
• Rear Camera: Triple-camera setup with 50-megapixel primary sensor, 13-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and depth sensor
• Front Camera: 8-megapixel selfie camera
• Battery Life: Up to two days on a single charge (4500mAh)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM support, NFC, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
• Operating System: Android 11