With looks more like that of a rugged business radio, but with the reach of LTE, the XP5Plus might be the best of both worlds. If You find yourself constantly out of range with your on-site radios, maybe it's time to look at a different option.
The Xp5Plus uses a variety of push to talk apps to give you nationwide coverage wherever you have cell service. With its form factor more closely resembling that of a radio than a cell phone you'll definitely have no trouble making the switch.
With its dedicated volume and channel knobs on top along with a large PTT button and proprietary microphone connector, you'll definitely use it more like a radio then a phone, making one hand operation easy and getting a hold of someone quicker.
The Sonim XP5plus: Refining the Rugged Radio Experience
While the XP5s set the standard for durability, the Sonim XP5plus refines that rugged foundation, bridging the gap between a modern smartphone and the classic ergonomics of a field radio. It is a capable evolution designed for professionals who demand instant, reliable communication without sacrificing the connectivity of a cellular device.
Evolution of the Industrial Interface
The most immediate change is in the handling. Sonim has introduced a dedicated channel selector knob and a volume knob at the top, perfectly mimicking the tactile experience of a traditional two-way radio, allowing users to change groups or volume levels without looking. Additionally, the device features a new dedicated emergency button on top, similar to those found on public safety or advanced business radios—though its functionality remains app-dependent. While the device is thinner, it is slightly taller than its predecessor; it is not a small device and it is not a toy, but it is also not the size of most commercial radios, offering a good balance of size and weight in the hand.
It is important to note that the XP5plus is not a flagship device designed for scrolling through social media or watching YouTube videos; its display and hardware are optimized for the rigors of construction sites and utility field work rather than media consumption.
• The Interface: While the buttons are slightly larger than on the previous model, they can still feel a bit crowded. During field testing, while wearing thick, heavy-duty protective gloves occasionally led to pressing multiple buttons when intending to press only one.
• The Battery: Security remains a priority; the battery is protected and sealed exactly like its predecessor, accessed via a sealed water-resistant door secured with a screw to ensure it stays put during high-impact drops.
• Charging & Expansion: The device retains the practical charging contacts on the rear, allowing for seamless integration with desktop drop-in chargers and vehicle mounts, alongside standard USB-C support.
Built for Reliable Communication
The XP5plus keeps the proprietary, screw-in connector for wired shoulder microphones. In loud industrial environments, this is a non-negotiable feature, ensuring your audio connection remains bolted in and secure even if the device is holstered or jostled during a shift.
• Network & Support: The device is readily available through major carriers and backed by US-based customer support, offering peace of mind for corporate fleet managers and individual contractors alike.
• The Camera: It is important to note that the camera optics are not on par with a high-end flagship smartphone. However, that is not the reason you purchase a device like this; you are choosing the XP5plus for connectivity, not content creation.
Final Verdict
The Sonim XP5plus strikes an excellent middle ground, acting as a perfect hybrid between the radio and phone experience. It provides the power of LTE-based Push-to-Talk for wide-area or statewide coverage without costly infrastructure, while maintaining the essential functionality of a phone for those who need to not only coordinate across vast distances with PTT, but still need the ability to dial out and manage calls.