CAT S61 Review: The Ultimate Rugged Smartphone for Industrial Environments » Felix' Review

CAT S61 Review: The Ultimate Rugged Smartphone for Industrial Environments


The Cat S61, designed for industrial and military environments, is a rugged and waterproof smartphone with integrated FLIR camera. With features like thermal imaging, air quality sensor, and laser distance measurement, this phone offers unique tools for specialized use. In this review, we will delve into the product details and explore the pros and cons based on user experiences.

Having used the CAT S61 for a while now, I can confidently say that it excels in its industrial purposes. The IR camera is a standout feature, delivering impressive thermal imaging capabilities. The air quality sensor is also highly effective, accurately measuring temperature, humidity, and volatile organic compounds. The phone’s durability is commendable, surviving drops on hard surfaces and even being waterproof in various conditions. The battery life is long-lasting and charges quickly, making it suitable for heavy use. The size and weight are manageable, fitting comfortably in pockets and being easily identifiable. The visible light camera performs adequately for social media or casual photography.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The processing power and RAM are not on par with other smartphones, resulting in slower performance in certain tasks. The occasional random crashing can be frustrating, requiring a reset to power the phone back on. The charging port cover may wear out over time, making it difficult to charge the phone. Despite these issues, the overall performance of the CAT S61 as a smartphone is satisfactory, especially considering its primary use in rugged environments.

Cat S61: Industrial Tools and Features

Cat S61

 

Packed with industrial-grade tools and features, the CAT PHONES S61 is a reliable companion for professionals in rugged environments. The integrated FLIR thermal imaging camera provides accurate temperature readings and allows users to detect issues that would otherwise go unnoticed. The air quality sensor is capable of measuring temperature, humidity, and volatile organic compounds, providing valuable insights into the environment. Additionally, the phone’s IP68, IP69, and mil-spec 810G rugged credentials ensure that it can withstand water, vibration, sand, salt mist, and pressure, making it suitable for even the harshest conditions. The laser-assisted distance measurement feature adds another layer of functionality, allowing for precise measurements in various scenarios. Overall, the CAT PHONES S61 offers a comprehensive set of tools and features that cater to the needs of professionals in industrial settings.

Cat S61: Performance and Operating System

Cat S61

 

With an upgrade to TPU and a Qualcomm SD630 octa-core 2, the CAT PHONES S61 is powered by Google Android Oreo.2GHz processor, the CAT PHONES S61 delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. While it may not match the processing power of high-end smartphones, it still gets the job done efficiently. Users may experience slight delays when selecting apps or operating the IR camera, but it’s not a dealbreaker considering the phone’s industrial focus. The phone’s compatibility with the SAF/EST Thermal Screening App, available for purchase on the Google Play Store, further enhances its functionality. Overall, the CAT PHONES S61 strikes a balance between performance and functionality, making it a reliable choice for professionals who prioritize ruggedness and utility over raw processing power.

Cat S61: Durability and Design

Cat S61

 

With its impressive durability, the CAT PHONES S61 lives up to its reputation as a rugged smartphone. Users commend its ability to withstand drops onto hard surfaces without any major damage, and its waterproof certification up to 3 meters for 60 minutes provides peace of mind in wet environments. The phone’s compact size and weight make it easy to carry around, while its solid build quality ensures it can handle the rigors of military and industrial environments. While some may find the design bulky, it serves a purpose by providing added protection and durability. Overall, the CAT PHONES S61’s durability and design make it a reliable choice for professionals working in challenging conditions.

Cat S61: Camera Capabilities

Cat S61

 

The standout feature of the CAT PHONES S61 is its thermal imaging camera. Users report that the thermal camera works exceptionally well, detecting temperature variations accurately and providing valuable insights in various applications. The phone’s visible light camera is suitable for everyday photography needs, although it’s not on par with high-end smartphone cameras. Users can adjust the camera settings to their preferences, but it’s important to note that this phone is not designed for professional photography. Overall, the CAT PHONES S61’s camera capabilities cater to its intended industrial and practical uses, rather than being focused on high-quality photography.

Cat S61: Connectivity and Battery Life

Cat S61

 

Users report reliable connectivity on T-Mobile and a stable connection to Wi-Fi networks with the CAT PHONES S61. The phone’s large battery provides long-lasting power, even under heavy use, and charges quickly, especially when the phone is turned off. Users appreciate the phone’s ability to retain charge for hours, making it suitable for extended work shifts. Overall, the CAT PHONES S61 delivers reliable connectivity and impressive battery life, ensuring that professionals can stay connected and productive throughout the day.

Cat S61: User Experience and Limitations

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/815LzGzenAL._AC_SL1500_.jpg

 

The CAT PHONES S61 is packed with industrial-grade tools and features, making it a reliable companion for professionals in rugged environments.

Pros:

  • The IR camera works well and is a useful tool for industrial purposes.
  • The air quality detect sensor is accurate and picks up various substances.
  • The phone is durable and waterproof, making it suitable for harsh environments.

Cons:

  • The processing power and RAM are not as fast as other phones, resulting in slower performance.
  • The charging port cover is prone to tearing and can be difficult to deal with.
  • The phone occasionally crashes and requires a reset to turn back on.

Read also:

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CAT S61 is a highly functional phone that excels in its industrial capabilities. The built-in tools, such as the IR camera and air quality sensor, are valuable additions for specialized use. While it may not match the processing power of other smartphones, it still gets the job done efficiently. The durability, battery life, and overall performance make it a reliable choice for those working in rugged environments. The CAT S61 is a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a tough and versatile smartphone.

Questions & Answers:

Question: How is the camera quality of the CAT S61 phone?

Answer: The visible light camera is decent, although it is not designed for professional photography. It can still capture good enough pictures for social media or general use.

Question: Is the phone compatible with all network providers?

Answer: The phone works well with T-Mobile and has good service in the Norfolk area. However, it is always recommended to check the compatibility with your specific network provider.

Question: How long does the battery last on the CAT S61 phone?

Answer: The battery life is long-lasting and can retain charge for hours, even under heavy use. It also charges quickly, especially when the phone is turned off.

Just so you know, I’m part of the Amazon Associate program. If you find something you love on Amazon through my reviews I get a small commission at no extra costs for you. It’s a little way to support what I do. Thank you!