OUKITEL WP33 PRO Review: Rugged, loud and with a big battery!
Today, we delve into the rugged smartphone realm with the OUKITEL WP33 PRO.
In the competitive landscape of rugged smartphones, the WP33 PRO distinguishes itself with its robust build and an oversized speaker, a feature previously showcased by other brands like Ulefone and AGM. OUKITEL joins the fray with the WP33 PRO, which not only boasts a large speaker but also packs a massive 22,000 mAh battery—a standout feature that promises exceptional autonomy, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
As we delve deeper into our test report, we’ll explore the capabilities of the OUKITEL WP33 PRO, highlighting its strengths and limitations.
OUKITEL WP33 PRO: Video Review
| Specs | OUKITEL WP33 PRO |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| Memory Internal | 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Display | 6.6 inch, IPS LCD, 1080 x 2408 pixels, 450 nits, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density |
| Display Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Software | Android 13 |
| SIM support | Nano-SIM, eSIM |
| NFC | Yes |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| Ports | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| Rear cameras | 64 MP, f/1.9, (wide), 20 MP, f/2.2, (night vision), 2 MP, f/2.2, (macro) |
| Front camera | 32 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/2.74" |
| Battery | Li-Po 22000 mAh, non-removable |
| Charging | 33W wired, 18W reverse wired |
| Dust/water resistance | IP68/IP69K, MIL-STD-810H compliant |
| Size | 175.4 x 84 x 27.2 mm (6.91 x 3.31 x 1.07 in) |
| Weight | 577.5 g (1.27 lb) |
| Colors | Black |
OUKITEL WP33 PRO: Design
OUKITEL WP33 Pro is a secure smartphone. Measuring at 174 x 84.2 x 28.1 millimeters, with a slight increase to 31.1 millimeters due to the speaker module, the WP33 Pro commands attention with its bulky stature. The shell, crafted from reinforced polycarbonate, emphasizes durability, particularly on the corners where impacts are most likely to occur. This design feature ensures added protection for the device, especially against accidental drops.
The display, surrounded by a protective bezel, boasts a flat design for enhanced structural integrity. Safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, though now considered outdated by newer iterations, the screen promises resilience against scratches and minor impacts.
What truly sets the WP33 Pro smartphone apart is its impressive array of certifications. With an IP69K rating, the device demonstrates exceptional resistance to water and dust, capable of withstanding immersion for up to 30 minutes under high pressure. Furthermore, MIL-STD-810H certification ensures durability against extreme temperatures, radiation, and vibrations, making it suitable for a variety of challenging environments. OUKITEL claims that the device can even survive a 1.5-meter drop onto concrete, further bolstering its rugged credentials.
Positioned along the edges of the device are the volume control and power buttons, providing easy access for users. The inclusion of a USB-C port at the bottom, accompanied by strategically placed microphones, ensures convenient connectivity and clear audio quality. Additionally, a SIM drawer, easily accessible without the need for specialized tools, and a dedicated “Smart Key” button offer added versatility and functionality.
However, it’s important to note that the WP33 Pro’s robust construction comes with a trade-off in terms of weight and handling. Weighing a hefty 577 grams, this smartphone is not designed for those seeking lightweight portability. Maneuvering the device with a single hand may prove challenging due to its size and weight. Fortunately, the inclusion of a textured back and a secure leather strap provides users with added grip and peace of mind when handling the device.
The leather strap, affixed to the smartphone with durable metal screws, features a convenient ring for attaching the device to belts or carabiners, ensuring easy access and preventing accidental drops.
Display
WP33 Pro features a 6.6-inch screen with a 20:9 aspect ratio and offers spacious viewing space. However, it is worth noting that the display technology is not the latest, as evidenced by the presence of a waterdrop notch.
The smartphone has a resolution of 1080 x 2408 pixels and a pixel density of 400 ppi. This provides clear images and makes it suitable for a variety of tasks, from streaming video to reading text clearly.
However, its 60 Hz refresh rate may not match the smoothness offered by higher refresh rate displays found in some contemporary smartphones.
Equipped with an IPS screen, the WP33 Pro delivers decent image quality, although it falls short in terms of contrast and deep blacks compared to displays utilizing superior technologies. The contrast ratio hovers between 3450/1 and 3480/1, leading to a loss of detail in shadowy scenes, which may impact viewing experiences, especially during nighttime usage.
In terms of brightness, the WP33 Pro offers an average of 440 nits in manual mode, slightly below the 500 nits commonly observed in similar devices. While the device’s maximum brightness of 450 nits in automatic mode is adequate, it may not suffice for optimal outdoor visibility, considering the intended use of the smartphone.
Performance
The OUKITEL WP33 PRO, when it comes to performance, relies on a mid-range platform provided by MediaTek: the Dimensity 6100+. This 6nm System-on-Chip (SoC) features eight cores, including two Cortex-A76 cores for demanding tasks and six Cortex-A55 cores for everyday use. While not at the forefront of high-performance processors, the Dimensity 6100+ does offer 5G connectivity, aligning with current connectivity standards.
Backing up the processor is 8 GB of RAM, supplemented by up to 16 GB of virtual memory sourced from the device’s storage. The storage, presented in UFS 2.2 format, may not be optimal for virtual memory utilization. It’s worth noting that the functionality allowing storage to be used as virtual memory, while initially touted as a feature, has seen its maximum volume reduced from 24 GB to 16 GB through an update. Consequently, users may find this feature less impactful than initially marketed.
In terms of processing power, the WP33 PRO’s platform delivers average performance, comparable to devices equipped with the Snapdragon 695 chipset, falling slightly below the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1. While the CPU performs adequately, the GPU component struggles, particularly evident during gaming sessions. For instance, in games like Honkai Star Rail, significant slowdowns occur, necessitating a reduction in graphics quality and effects to maintain smoother gameplay, with the default setting often limited to “low” graphics.
Additionally, the WP33 PRO boasts comprehensive connectivity features. It supports dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.2, alongside notable inclusions like NFC and an FM tuner—a feature increasingly rare in modern smartphones. Despite the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack, the device compensates with its compatibility with 5G networks, dual SIM functionality (nano SIM format), and support for eSIM profiles. While its connectivity suite may not be the most cutting-edge, it provides a comprehensive range of options for users.
OUKITEL WP33 PRO: Interface
The OUKITEL WP33 PRO, upon powering up, greets users with Android, specifically version 13, adorned with a proprietary overlay. This overlay, while distinct, maintains the familiar organization of the Android interface. The interface features two home screens, a Discover screen, a notifications pane, and another for quick settings. By default, the WP33 PRO does not include an app drawer, but users have the option to activate it through the home screen settings.
Out of the box, the WP33 PRO comes loaded with a plethora of applications. Alongside Google’s suite of software, users will find a selection of standard system applications. Noteworthy among these are utilities such as a pedometer, flashlight, and a toolbox complete with a sound level meter, compass, and inclinometer. Additionally, the device offers specialized modes like child mode and game mode, catering to different user needs.
Furthermore, the WP33 PRO provides additional settings tailored for outdoor usage conditions. Notably, users have the option to customize touch gestures for navigation, allowing for easier interaction in adverse weather conditions such as rain, where traditional swiping may prove challenging with a wet touchscreen.
A standout feature of the WP33 PRO is the “Smart Key,” a distinctive red hardware button located on the left edge, opposite the power button. This button is fully customizable via the settings menu, allowing users to assign three different actions to it: single short press, double short press, and long press. These actions can serve as shortcuts to applications or tasks such as activating the flashlight, initiating audio recording, or making emergency calls. The inclusion of an additional hardware button proves invaluable, particularly for users engaging in outdoor activities where quick access to specific functions is essential.
Camera
The OUKITEL WP33 PRO comes equipped with a camera setup, featuring four sensors, three on the back and one on the front, catering to various photography needs. While three sensors follow a conventional setup, including a 64 MP main sensor, a 32 MP selfie sensor, and a 2 MP macro sensor, the fourth module stands out for its specialized functionality—a 20 MP night camera accompanied by infrared emitters. This particular module may not appeal to the average smartphone user but holds significance for outdoor enthusiasts, backpackers, and adventurers.
In terms of performance, the results of photo shoots are deemed average. The main sensor captures decent photos during the day, albeit with room for improvement in light balance and color vibrancy. Autofocus on the main sensor is relatively slow, leading to blurred images of moving subjects. Backlighting isn’t well managed, resulting in lost details in shadow areas. While there’s a 64 MP mode available, it’s not recommended due to decreased brightness.
Portrait mode is absent, and the “Beauty” mode offered is rudimentary, lacking advanced features like automatic bokeh. Selfies and portraits may suffer from focus issues, with the background often sharper than the subject. Furthermore, there’s no dedicated night mode, though the integrated AI occasionally enhances brightness in low-light conditions. However, photos taken in the evening may suffer from pronounced noise and grain.
Optical zoom is unavailable, with only digital zoom up to 10x ratio provided, yielding average results. The absence of optical stabilization exacerbates the challenge, particularly in low-light conditions or when zooming. Notably, there’s no ultra-wide-angle module, necessitating the use of additional modes to capture panoramic shots. Macro mode, while available, may not deliver the same quality as an ultra-wide-angle module.
The standout feature of the WP33 PRO is its “night vision” mode, utilizing infrared lights to produce monochrome images reminiscent of military night cameras. While not high in quality, this mode often outperforms the automatic mode in low-light conditions, making it a compelling option for professionals and adventurers seeking enhanced visibility at night.
Audio
The WP33 Pro boasts an impressive speaker setup, featuring a 36mm diaphragm capable of delivering a peak output power of 5 watts and sound intensity surpassing 130 decibels. This powerful speaker eliminates the need for external Bluetooth speakers, offering sufficient volume to enliven gatherings. However, the emphasis on power comes at the expense of audio quality, with noticeable distortion and limited treble at higher volumes.
Despite its remarkable speaker performance, the WP33 Pro’s audio experience is minimalist beyond its primary speaker. It offers only two microphones for telephone conversations, lacking additional audio enhancements such as an equalizer for optimizing sound reproduction. Moreover, the absence of a 3.5mm jack port limits connectivity options for wired headphones or external audio accessories.
Battery life
What makes OUKITEL WP33 PRO different from regular smartphones is its whopping 22,000mAh battery.
The primary advantage of this mammoth battery is its ability to deliver unparalleled autonomy to the phone. In standard usage scenarios encompassing social media browsing, web surfing, music and video streaming, casual gaming, telephony, and messaging, the WP33 PRO effortlessly surpasses a week of continuous operation. With an estimated maximum battery life approaching 10 days, users can rely on the WP33 PRO for extended periods without the need for frequent recharges.
Beyond its remarkable endurance, the WP33 PRO’s enormous battery also offers the convenience of reverse charging—a feature that transforms the device into a supplementary external battery pack. With its substantial capacity, the WP33 PRO can recharge other high-end smartphones multiple times over. Equipped with 18-watt reverse fast charging capability, the device ensures swift replenishment of connected devices, such as a standard Galaxy S24, achieving a full charge in just over an hour.
The device supports wired charging with a maximum power input of 33 watts, and a compatible charger is provided in the box for convenience. Charging the phone overnight is recommended, as it takes approximately four hours to fully charge from 0% to 100% using the supplied charger.
OUKITEL WP33 PRO: Conclusion
The WP33 PRO boasts a balanced technical profile, featuring a modest yet efficient processor, a spacious screen, and reliable connectivity options.
Designed to withstand the rigors of extreme environments, the WP33 PRO’s hardened shell provides robust protection for its vital components, ensuring resilience against impacts, water immersion, and environmental changes. Additionally, its mammoth battery capacity, powerful speaker, night vision camera, and integrated strap enhance its usability and functionality in challenging outdoor scenarios.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the WP33 PRO is not without its drawbacks. The audio experience may not meet the standards of audiophiles, the device’s weight may pose challenges for some users, and the overall quality of photos may fall short compared to flagship smartphones.
The WP33 PRO may not be the ideal choice for “ordinary” consumers accustomed to the refined user experience offered by mainstream devices. However, for extreme adventurers, and outdoor professionals seeking a dependable companion that can withstand the harshest conditions, the WP33 PRO stands out as a reliable and specialized tool.
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