As smartphone manufacturers strive to improve the durability of their devices, I notice that there are fewer and fewer models with very thick designs. A few years ago, rugged smartphones were bulky and heavy: their design was constrained in order to be able to withstand falls, immersion in water and the sandiest beaches.
I’ve been using the AGM H6 for a few weeks now and I can’t imagine how “normal” this device is compared to previous generations of rugged smartphones. It’s also relatively affordable, at €270. This is what characterizes it.
Key takeaways for the AGM H6
- The AGM H6 is the company’s latest rugged smartphone model.
- The smartphone passes several protection certifications, has a large capacity battery and is much thinner than most of its competitors.
- Since this is a mid-range device, there are a few compromises, including no 5G support, a single camera lens on the back, and no software support at all. long term.
A large 6.56-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate
Let’s start with the essentials. The AGM H6 features a large 6.56-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, Unisoc T606 processor, 16GB of RAM, 256GB internal storage, and a microSD card slot, a 3.5mm audio port, a 50MP main camera, NFC support and a 4,900mAh battery. The phone does not support 5G networks, however.
With a weight of 240 grams and a thickness of 10.75mm, you certainly wouldn’t think that this is a rugged phone designed to withstand field work. Still, I’ve dropped it, submerged it, and run through the rain with it, and the device is virtually unchanged since taking it out of the box. Not bad is not it ?
Matthew Miller/ZDNET
I often carry a phone with me when I run, for safety reasons and to be able to capture candid images. Heading into a dark, rainy season in the Pacific Northwest, using an affordable smartphone like this for these types of sessions is perfect.
It’s less risky than carrying around a high-end $1,000-plus smartphone, but it’s largely reliable for staying in touch with family members and my social network.
Survival is the name of the game with the AGM H6
Survival is the name of the game with the AGM H6, thanks to its IP68 waterproofing, IP69K resistance to dust and high pressure water projection as well as its shock resistance to 1.8 meters. The bezel around the screen is raised 0.4mm above the screen for better protection, while additional corner reinforcement (with a hole for attaching a wrist strap at the top left) is provided. there to guard against possible falls.
The USB-C port and the headphone jack are sealed by covers, and that’s a good idea.
This is the first smartphone I have tested with the Unisoc Tiger processor and the test results show that it beats the Snapdragon 630 and 640 processors, common chipsets in this price category by around €300. I was able to use the AGM on a daily basis without issue, although I don’t play intensive games either. The large 4,900 mAh battery got me through a day and a half quite easily.
Matthew Miller/ZDNET
For €270, the camera is quite acceptable
The cameras, 50MP main and 2MP macro, performed well, and as expected, the low-light performance just can’t compete with flagship smartphones that cost five times as much. I was able to take photos during my runs that my family liked, and for €270, the camera is quite acceptable. It’s also nice to know that NFC is built in, so Google Wallet can be used for contactless payments.
Android 13 is installed on the phone and it runs a fairly stock version of Android. I just wish AGM would be more proactive with software updates, especially when other manufacturers emphasize this even with cheaper devices. After reading this AGM blog post about updates and checking out the AGM phones I’ve tested, it’s unlikely that the AGM H6 will receive any of the major Android updates.
There is a yellow side key on the left side of the phone with settings for single press, double press and press/hold. It’s similar to the action button on the iPhone 15 Pro, but even more functional.
Matthew Miller/ZDNET
I like the side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking, the large screen for looking at spreadsheets and data, and the sturdy build that lets me use it anywhere and anytime without worry to destroy it or pay a high price for a protection service.
ZDNET’s purchasing advice for the AGM H6 smartphone
The new AGM H6 is perfect for those who plan to ski, hike, fish and explore various environments. It’s particularly stylish for a rugged smartphone, and at this price its durability features are definitely worth it.
Source: “ZDNet.com”