Nokia XR20: The Finns create a great outdoor phone on their first try

A few months ago, we still suspected that the Nokia XR20 could be a watered-down version of the Nokia X20. In this regard, of course, we spoke based on first hints as well as our experience that manufacturers are usually rather conservative when it comes to the price and therefore also the features of rugged phones.

Fortunately, however, Nokia has taken a different path: The Nokia XR20 doesn't feel like at all like a compromise in our test. Sure, you have to live with a slightly weaker camera compared to the Nokia X20, but overall, the robust Nokia phone offers a lot that other outdoor phones lack:

• 5G, NFC, and modern Bluetooth with aptX HD
• a three-year warranty and even a display replacement within the first year
• the promise of three years of new Android versions and four years of security updates
• a simple but still quite stylish case
• fast WLAN and good mobile signal strength
• a customizable button
• a bright display

Needless to say, the basic requirements of a phone intended for work or outdoor recreational activities are also met: An IP-68 certification ensures that the device is protected against water and dirt, and the sturdy Gorilla Glass Victus on top of the screen can withstand quite a bit.

However, the Nokia XR20 is not exactly cheap: You can get much stronger phones like the OnePlus Nord 2 for 499 Euros (~$592), but they are more delicate.

Does the Nokia XR20 have any weak points? Naturally, Nokia's outdoor phone isn't perfect: The speakers offer a rather mediocre sound, the camera is decent but no highlight, and the manufacturer preinstalls some advertising apps.

But when you consider that this is Nokia's first rugged smartphone, it's definitely impressive what the Finns have put together here.

Our comprehensive review of the Nokia XR20 provides more details, benchmark results, and information on how the device compares to other rugged phones.