The new Essential Phone from Android founder Andy Rubin launched recently. We recently saw a teardown of the handset, and now there is a drop test video of the device. The handset comes with a ceramic rear casing and it is also made from titanium, which are materials known for their durability and premium feel.
Durability and Build Quality
In the video below, the new Essential Phone is put through a number of drop tests to see how well the handset stands up to accidental drops, knocks, and bumps. The use of ceramic and titanium is particularly interesting because these materials are not only strong but also lightweight. Ceramic is known for its scratch resistance, while titanium is celebrated for its strength-to-weight ratio, making it an excellent choice for a smartphone frame.
As we can see from the video, the handset performed pretty well in the drop tests. While the screen broke easily, the rear ceramic panel seemed to hold up well to all the drops. This suggests that while the phone’s body is robust, the screen may still be a point of vulnerability, which is a common issue with many smartphones today.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing the Essential Phone to other flagship devices, it’s clear that the choice of materials sets it apart. For instance, many smartphones use aluminum or glass for their construction. Aluminum is lightweight and strong but can be prone to dents and scratches. Glass, while offering a premium look and feel, is notoriously fragile and can shatter upon impact. The Essential Phone’s combination of ceramic and titanium aims to offer a balance between durability and aesthetics.
Moreover, the Essential Phone’s design philosophy extends beyond just materials. The phone features a nearly bezel-less display, which maximizes screen real estate without increasing the overall size of the device. This design choice is becoming increasingly popular among flagship smartphones, as it offers a more immersive viewing experience.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the modularity of the Essential Phone. The device supports modular accessories that can be attached via magnetic connectors on the back. This feature allows users to customize their phone with additional functionalities, such as a 360-degree camera or a high-fidelity audio module. This modular approach is relatively unique in the smartphone market and adds another layer of versatility to the device.
In terms of performance, the Essential Phone is equipped with top-of-the-line hardware, including a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of internal storage. These specifications ensure that the phone can handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The device also runs on a near-stock version of Android, which provides a clean and responsive user experience.
While the Essential Phone has many strengths, it’s not without its drawbacks. The camera performance, for instance, has received mixed reviews. Although the phone features a dual-camera setup with a monochrome sensor for improved low-light performance, it doesn’t quite match up to the camera quality of other flagship devices like the Google Pixel or the iPhone.
The Essential Phone by Andy Rubin offers a compelling package with its unique choice of materials, modular capabilities, and high-end specifications. While it has some areas for improvement, particularly in screen durability and camera performance, it stands out as a strong contender in the crowded smartphone market. The drop test video highlights the phone’s resilience, particularly its ceramic and titanium construction, making it a noteworthy option for those seeking a durable and premium smartphone.
Source JerryRigEverything
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.