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MagyarCAT S40 Smartphone Review
For the original German review, see here.
So far, Caterpillar has been known for its heavy construction equipment and outdoor apparel. However, some time ago, the manufacturer, Bullitt Group, licensed the name, and now offers various outdoor phones and smartphones under the name of CAT Phones. Our review sample, the new CAT S40, belongs to this portfolio, and aims to primarily attract construction site related business customers with its diverse features. In addition to the IP68 certificate and military standard MIL-STD 810G, they include the options of handling the device in a wet state or wearing gloves. The very bright IPS screen also enables easy use in the outdoors. Technically, the rugged phone relies on entry-level hardware in conjunction with the latest Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system.
Currently, there are not many phones in the ruggedized category, and therefore, we will use lower priced devices for comparison. Two of the few representatives are the Kyocera Torque and the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3. We have also added the Sony Xperia M4 Aqua for comparison that is at least waterproof and dustproof.
Case
The martial art design resembles Caterpillar's construction machines, and is aimed at both engineers and construction site workers alike. Aluminum and rubberized plastic create an ideal mix of materials, and ensure high stability. This became evident in our warping attempts: No cracking or creaking noises were audible, and the casing did not yield at all even under high force. The build is beyond reproach.
It is obvious here: Compact dimensions were not the manufacturer's maxim, even though it undercuts its most obvious rival, the Kyocera Torque by one millimeter with a thickness of 12.5 millimeters (~0.49 in). As expected, the relatively heavy weight of 185 grams (~6.5 oz) is also on par with the latter.
The ports in the robust casing are closed by rubberized aluminum flaps, and comply with the IP68 standard. This means that the smartphone is dustproof and waterproof for 60 minutes at a maximum depth of 1 meter (~3.3 ft). Furthermore, the military standard MIL-STD 810G is fulfilled; the device is protected against salt fog, shocks, humidity, sunlight and low air pressure. It can also withstand temperatures ranging between -25 °C and 55 °C (~-13 °F to ~131 °F).
Of course, we dared the acid test in view of these specifications. The CAT S40 passed the underwater test in an open-air swimming pool with flying colors. The touchscreen could still be used in a wet state after diving. However, the exception happened when we dropped the smartphone from approximately 1.10 meters (~3.6 ft) on a tiled floor: The screen cracked from the display bezel over the entire surface. The uncensored comment from the manufacturer:
"The performance of the screens in CAT phones is within a sector where the Bullitt Group continually tries to make improvements. The CAT S40 is tested rigorously in accordance with the MIL SPEC 810G (1.2 m/~3.9 ft)) (we tested a drop of 1.8 m/~5.9 ft), and uses the latest version of Corning Gorilla Glass (GG4). The Cat S40 is dropped on a steel plate 26 times from a height of 1.8 meters (~5.9 ft). Despite the strict tests that Bullitt performs, screens - just like all glass objects - can of course break. Based on a performed analysis, our engineers predict the kind of environment where the phone will withstand a drop without damage or where the glass might rather crack. The glass is more susceptible on uneven surfaces where a sharp object might puncture the screen. Therefore, a screen protector is included in every smartphone box sold, providing additional protection for the phone. Quality Management will examine your review sample closely in the next few weeks to analyze the reason for the screen breaking, and to determine whether this is a one-off damage or whether there is more to it. However, where a screen cracks, such as in your case, the screen would be replaced free of charge."
That gives hope. We will publish further insights here in time. However, it is a reassuring statement. The smartphone's stability is otherwise impeccable.
Connectivity
The port for micro-USB 2.0 and the slots for the nano SIMs and micro-SD card are all under robust cover flaps. The SIM card tray that carries two nano-SIM cards is much too fragile for an outdoor smartphone. Utmost caution is needed when frequently swapping cards to prevent the tray from breaking.
In terms of hardware, the CAT S40 is on a decent level with 1 GB of RAM and a 16 GB of flash memory. In addition, the internal storage can be expanded by up to 64 GB via a micro-SD card, and most apps can be moved via App2SD. USB-OTG is also installed. The smartphone's heart piece is weak; it is only an entry-level SoC from Qualcomm. More about that in the performance chapter.
Software
Fortunately, the CAT S40 relies on the latest Android 5.1 Lollipop version. The user interface has not been modified. Both quick access options for the camera and phone app as well as the unlock icon are on the lock screen. Therefore, handling will be intuitive for Android connoisseurs.
The app store provides a real added value for business users with its "App Toolbox", which is available in addition to the Play Store and offers special applications for many industries. For example, apps like "Oil and Gas Safety Management" or "Bridge Constructor" are found here. Annoying bloatware is not preloaded, but useful apps like "FM Radio", "AntiVirus" or "Clean Master" are included. However, the latter fades in annoying ads.
Communication & GPS
The CAT S40 supports GSM quad-band, UMTS tri-band, and LTE penta-band. Three GSM frequencies and six LTE bands are covered in North America, making the smartphone communication-friendly even on trips. The reception in a rural area was good in the test, and the signal ranged mostly at approximately 3/4.
The integrated Wi-Fi module supports only the 802.11 b/g/n; and unfortunately, high-speed ac networks are not supported. However, the reception was good throughout, and displayed at least half the signal strength in the test approximately 10 meters (~33 ft) away from the router and through several walls. Websites always opened at an agreeable speed. NFC and Bluetooth 4.1 are also installed for short-range transmission.
Indoors, the incorporated aGPS/GPS/GLONASS module connected to some satellites after several minutes. Finding satellites was considerably faster outdoors, and the smartphone was then tracked with an accuracy of approximately 8 meters (~26 ft).
We let the smartphone compete against Garmin's navigation system on a bike route. The CAT S40 tends to take shortcuts, which results in a deviation of about 520 meters (~0.3 mi) over the entire route. The review sample particularly has problems in curved and strongly wooded sections. However, the overall accuracy is still acceptable.
Telephone & Call Quality
The phone app provides all the key features like quick dial, contacts and last calls. Although the sound quality was rather stifled, the call quality convinced with a relatively clear intelligibility on both sides in the test call.
Cameras & Multimedia
Users who want to take photos on the construction site or on the go can fall back on an 8-megapixel lens with auto focus and LED flash. Videos are recorded in 1080p at 60 fps. The front-facing camera with a resolution of 2 MP can be used when the photographer would also like to be in the picture.
Regrettably, the achieved photo quality was not as convincing in the test. Details were blurred, and the exposure was rather too high, which led to pale and rather inaccurate colors. Furthermore, the more poorly an object is illuminated, the stronger the annoying image noise. The 2-MP front-facing camera is only sufficient for video chats. Pictures suffer extremely under image noise, poor color reproduction and low image sharpness.
Accessories
In addition to the smartphone, the manufacturer ships the CAT S40 with a modular power supply including USB cable and a manual. Optional accessories such as car or bike mounts and a 12 V charger are advertised on the CAT Phones website.
Warranty
A 24-month warranty period is included; accessories are covered for 6 months.
Input Devices & Handling
The touchscreen in the CAT S40 responds accurately up into the corners even when the device or the finger is wet. Glove mode is also supported. The physical, rubberized Android buttons with good pressure points are also large enough to account for this. The power button and volume rocker on the casing's right, however, are slightly small and too close to each other, and could lead to erroneous inputs with gloves.
The yellow key that can be mapped on the casing's left is a clever idea. Prolonged pressure either releases the camera or opens another defined application, such as the flashlight or browser.
The virtual QWERTY keyboard corresponds to Google's standard model and can be used well. Its size, layout and color can also be adapted. The feature "Swift Key", which suggests words and learns, is also optionally available. Odd detail: The German keyboard layout had to be downloaded first, but this was direct and uncomplicated via the options.
Display
The 4.7-inch IPS screen in the CAT S40 with a 16:9 format has a somewhat low resolution of 960x540 pixels. Highly reflective Gorilla Glass 4 protects the capacitive touchscreen. As a proclaimed outdoor smartphone, the CAT S40 has a bright screen. We measured an average brightness of 579 cd/m² and a maximum of 697 cd/m². Only the Kyocera Torque can outshine this brightness in the comparison field with an average of 722.1 cd/m². The illumination of 90% is also very homogeneous.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 607 cd/m²
Contrast: 1214:1 (Black: 0.5 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 4.25 | 0.55-29.43 Ø5.1
ΔE Greyscale 4.09 | 0.57-98 Ø5.4
94.1292% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
71.2034% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
Gamma: 2.61
| CAT S40 Adreno 304, 210 MSM8909, 16 GB eMMC Flash | Kyocera Torque Adreno 305, 400 MSM8928, 16 GB eMMC Flash | Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 GC7000UL, Armada PXA1908, 8 GB eMMC Flash | Sony Xperia M4 Aqua Adreno 405, 615 MSM8939, 8 GB eMMC Flash | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | -33% | -20% | -22% | |
| Brightness middle | 607 | 723 19% | 452 -26% | 547 -10% |
| Brightness | 579 | 722 25% | 436 -25% | 535 -8% |
| Brightness Distribution | 90 | 87 -3% | 91 1% | 92 2% |
| Black Level * | 0.5 | 0.65 -30% | 0.53 -6% | 0.81 -62% |
| Contrast | 1214 | 1112 -8% | 853 -30% | 675 -44% |
| Colorchecker dE 2000 * | 4.25 | 9.07 -113% | 5.71 -34% | 5.77 -36% |
| Greyscale dE 2000 * | 4.09 | 8.92 -118% | 5.02 -23% | 5.87 -44% |
| Gamma | 2.61 84% | 1.65 133% | 2.15 102% | 2.14 103% |
| CCT | 6959 93% | 8090 80% | 7441 87% | 7784 84% |
| Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998) | 71.2034 | 72.0875 1% | ||
| Color Space (Percent of sRGB) | 94.1292 | 96.5753 3% |
* ... smaller is better
The black level of 0.5 cd/m² and the high contrast of 1214:1 are in a league of their own. Image contents are razor-sharp and black looks rich subjectively.
The analysis with the CalMAN software and a spectrophotometer reveals a faintly visible bluish tint. The color reproduction is generally appealing. The sRGB color space coverage of approximately 94% is very good. The grayscale levels are also quite decent; the gamma of 2.61 and color temperature of 6959 Kelvin are close to the ideal value. Subjectively, the color reproduction appeals with strong and rich colors.
Despite its high brightness, the smartphone suffers under intense reflections in direct sunlight. Otherwise, outdoor use is not a problem.
The underlying IPS technology also ensures very stable viewing angles. Colors in image contents remain stable and only the brightness decreases marginally even in unrealistic, very acute viewing angles.
Performance
The CAT S40 relies on a new Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 MSM8909 entry-level quad-core SoC that clocks at 1.1 GHz. Evidently, the frugal processor has been reworked compared with the Snapdragon 200 model, and now offers Full HD video decoding and encoding as well as LTE. It has enough power for simple routine tasks like browsing and most up-to-date apps.
The CAT S40 presented a mixed performance in our compulsory benchmark course, and had to let its rivals pass in most tests. The potent Sony Xperia M4 Aqua primarily shows an overall stronger performance. However, the review sample can outrun both the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 and the Kyocera Torque in some cases. We did not notice any noteworthy stutters or delays in the real world test.
| Geekbench 3 | |
| 32 Bit Multi-Core Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| 32 Bit Single-Core Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7 | |
| T-Rex Onscreen (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| 1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| GFXBench 3.0 | |
| 1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Smartbench 2012 - Productivity Index (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Linpack Android / IOS | |
| Single Thread (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Multi Thread (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| PCMark for Android - Work performance score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
In the browser-based benchmarks, the CAT S40 can only outperform its rivals in the Kraken 1.1 test. It is clearly inferior in all other benchmarks.
| Google V8 Ver. 7 - Google V8 Ver. 7 Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Sunspider - 1.0 Total Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Octane V2 - Total Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| WebXPRT 2015 - Overall Score (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
* ... smaller is better
The internal flash memory has a sufficient capacity of 16 GB (net: 10.24 GB), and can be expanded by up to 64 GB via a micro-SD card. Most apps can also be moved to it.
The CAT S40 proves to be very fast, especially with larger memory blocks compared with its rivals in the app AndroBench 3. Only Kyocera Torque stands out significantly in reading and writing smaller 4 KB units. We did not observe any noticeable waiting times with the CAT S40 during the test.
| AndroBench 3-5 | |
| Random Write 4KB (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Random Read 4KB (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Sequential Write 256KB (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
| Sequential Read 256KB (sort by value) | |
| CAT S40 | |
| Kyocera Torque | |
| Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 | |
| Sony Xperia M4 Aqua | |
Games
The SoC-integrated Qualcomm Adreno 304 graphics card that clocks at 400 MHz is only suitable for more basic 3D games in low to medium settings. Both "Asphalt 8" and "Modern Combat 5" ran agreeably fast and lag-free during the test. Simpler games are no challenge for the graphics card. Control via touchscreen, position sensor and accelerometer always functioned well.
Emissions
Temperature
The temperatures measured on the surface always remained within a pleasant range even under permanent full load with an average of 32.2 °C (~90 °F) on the underside and 34.5 °C (~94 °F) on the upper side. The device never got noticeably hot. As it is, the temperatures are very low in idle mode.
We also examined the performance with the battery test of GFXBench 3.0. Here, the T-Rex benchmark is run thirty times in succession. The temperature, performance and battery state are recorded. We did not observe temperature-related throttling, i.e. performance loss under permanent load.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 36.6 °C / 98 F, compared to the average of 34.9 °C / 95 F, ranging from 21.9 to 55.8 °C for the class Smartphone.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 34 °C / 93 F, compared to the average of 33.7 °C / 93 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 31.3 °C / 88 F, compared to the device average of 32.7 °C / 91 F.
Speaker
The speaker located on the lower front delivers a decent sound that is, however, slightly muffled. It also emphasizes trebles more than low tones for construction-related reasons. Furthermore, the maximum volume is not very high, and the sound is still just clear enough in louder environments.
Energy Management
Power Consumption
The frugal processor in the CAT S40 cannot achieve low power consumption rates in conjunction with the bright screen. The review sample already requires between 1.2 and 2.1 watts in idle mode. The even brighter Kyocera Torque is satisfied with a maximum of 1.9 watts here, and the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 with just 1.3 watts. The consumption climbs to 4.3 to 5.3 watts at full load as simulated in the app Stability Test. Once again, the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 consumes considerably less power with 3.6 watts; the Kyocera Torque is somewhat more hungry than the review sample with at most 6 watts. We measured 0.5 watts in both shutdown state and in standby. These rates could however also be a measurement error. Overall, the power consumption does not point to a very good battery life.
| Off / Standby |   0.5 / 0.5 Watt |
| Idle |  1.2 / 2 / 2.1 Watt |
| Load |
4.3 / 5.3 Watt |
    
| |
Battery Runtime
The CAT S40 relies on a non-removable, 3000 mAh lithium ion battery. The manufacturer states a maximum possible runtime of 18 hours, and even 936 hours in standby. Only the Kyocera Torque is equipped with a slightly stronger, 3100 mAh battery. Against all our low expectations in view of the high power consumption, the review sample usually achieved longer battery runtimes than its rivals. Wi-Fi browsing ended after 10:11 hours using a brightness of 25% (150 cd/m²). Most contenders lag far behind in the video loop of the Full HD clip "Big Buck Bunny", in flight mode and a brightness of 150 cd/m². Only the Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 offers 49 minutes more for video entertainment. The 6:10 hours in full load and maximum brightness are just as impressive; the contenders shut down much earlier. Thus, the smartphone should easily last a whole workday of mixed use with adapted brightness.
| CAT S40 Adreno 304, 210 MSM8909, 16 GB eMMC Flash | Sony Xperia M4 Aqua Adreno 405, 615 MSM8939, 8 GB eMMC Flash | Kyocera Torque Adreno 305, 400 MSM8928, 16 GB eMMC Flash | Samsung Galaxy Xcover 3 GC7000UL, Armada PXA1908, 8 GB eMMC Flash | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Runtime | -30% | -46% | -22% | |
| H.264 | 629 | 518 -18% | 678 8% | |
| WiFi v1.3 | 611 | 420 -31% | 446 -27% | 503 -18% |
| Load | 370 | 221 -40% | 132 -64% | 166 -55% |
Pros
Cons
Verdict
The CAT S40 is a rather rugged device with rough corners. High-end specifications and compact dimensions are non-existent. It cannot get rough enough for the smartphone, which is underlined by the IP68 and MIL-STD 810G certifications and the robust exterior. The fact that the review sample's screen cracked in the drop test should be an exception. In addition, a possible one-off damage will be repaired free of charge. Thanks to the latest Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system and the good controls, its utilization is intuitive; even moist fingers or gloves are not an issue. The additional professional app store is a real added value. We very much liked the bright, homogeneously illuminated IPS screen with good color reproduction. The fast internal storage can be expanded via micro-SD, and most apps can be moved. USB-OTG is also on board, which enables connecting USB flash drives, HDDs or input devices. The versatile communication modules with good reception qualities will please users who are frequently on the move, even if high-speed ac Wi-Fi is not installed. Then again, LTE, NFC and Bluetooth 4.1 are on board, and the CAT S40 supports dual-SIM. Unfortunately, the SIM tray is a bit fragile. The casing's low temperatures even during full load are pleasant. Although the power consumption is high, the long battery life is all the more pleasing. The target group will probably ignore the poor camera modules and the screen's somewhat low resolution. The mixed application performance is, however, more weighty. The CAT S40 copes with routine tasks without major restrictions, but a little more power would have looked good in the device, particularly considering the RRP of 429 Euros (~$482).
Users who find the outdoor qualities imperative and can live with the listed shortcomings will find a good and very enduring smartphone with a superb screen that can also take a beating in the CAT S40.
Buyers, who are prepared to invest a little more, should also take a closer look at the Kyocera Torque.
CAT S40
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08/26/2015 v4(old)
Michael Moser