CAT S22 Flip vs Nokia XR21 5G
If you want a phone that performs well in rugged conditions, the Nokia packs a punch with features like a 120Hz display and a 64MP camera. In real-world use, the CAT S22 Flip shines when it comes to durability, being rated for hazardous environments, but its low resolution of 2.8 inches with 640 x 480 pixels falls short for modern applications. Meanwhile, the Nokia's FHD+ display at 2400 x 1080 pixels makes it a joy to scroll through social media or watch videos, meaning you'll enjoy a much smoother experience overall.
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CAT S22 Flip

Nokia XR21 5G
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: CAT S22 Flip vs Nokia XR21 5G

CAT S22 Flip

Nokia XR21 5G
| Criterion | CAT S22 Flip | Nokia XR21 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4(147)Amazon | ★3.5(60)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | No guaranteed future OS/security updates (End of Life product) | 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023) |
Processor | Qualcomm 215 Mobile Platform (QM215) — 1.3GHz Quad-core | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) |
Graphics | Adreno 308 | Adreno 619 |
RAM | 2GB LPDDR3 | 6GB |
Storage | 16GB eMMC 5.1 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 128GB) | 128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable) |
Display Size | 2.8" (Main) / 1.44" (External Cover) | 6.49" |
Screen Type | TFT LCD (Main), Gorilla Glass 5, Glove/Wet Finger Support | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 550 nits (Sunlight Boost), Wet Hands/Glove Support |
Resolution | 640 x 480 pixels (VGA - Main) / 128 x 128 pixels (Cover) | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 400 nits (Typical) | 450 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 5MP, Fixed Focus, Single LED Flash | 64MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Dual-LED Flash |
Ultra-Wide Camera | No (Not supported) | 8MP, f/2.2, 112-degree FOV, Fixed Focus |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | 4x | Up to 8x |
Video Recording | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30/60fps (Chipset limitation) |
Front Camera | 2MP, Fixed Focus | 16MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 2,000mAh (User-Removable) | 4,800mAh (Non-removable) |
Wired Charging | USB-C (Standard 5W-10W charging) | 33W Fast Charging (QC3.0 / PD 2.0 compatible) |
Wireless Charging | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) — *Note: Downgrade from Nokia XR20* |
Connectivity | 4G LTE (T-Mobile/Metro optimized), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Bluetooth 4.2, GPS | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, GNSS (L1+L5) |
USB | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG supported) | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG) |
Durability | IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); MIL-STD-810H; Non-Incendive Class 1 Div 2 (Hazardous Locations) | IP68/IP69K (High Temp/Pressure Jets); MIL-STD-810H; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
Dimensions | 4.70 x 2.40 x 0.91 in (119.4 x 61.0 x 23.0 mm) | 6.61 x 3.09 x 0.41 in (168.0 x 78.6 x 10.5 mm) |
Weight | 7.90 oz (224 g) | 8.15 oz (231 g) |
Biometrics | None (No Fingerprint, No Face Unlock) | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Programmable PTT (Push-to-Talk) Key, FM Radio, T9 Keyboard with Android Navigation Keys | Two Programmable Buttons (Top Emergency/Side Quick Access), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Dual Stereo Speakers (96dB) |
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CAT S22 Flip
✓ Pros:
- • Rare 'Non-Incendive' Class 1 Div 2 rating for use in hazardous/explosive environments
- • Runs full Android apps (WhatsApp, Maps, Spotify) unlike feature phones
- • Physical T9 keypad combined with a touchscreen for versatile input
- • User-replaceable battery and microSD expansion
- • Incredibly durable hinge and chassis (IP68/MIL-STD-810H)
✗ Cons:
- • Performance is extremely slow (2GB RAM + Android Go) for anything beyond basics
- • Display is low resolution (VGA) and small for modern app interfaces
- • No 3.5mm headphone jack (requires USB-C adapter)
- • Bulky and heavy (nearly 8 oz) for a flip phone
- • Audio quality from earpiece is often cited as tinny in reviews
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Nokia XR21 5G
✓ Pros:
- • Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets)
- • Guaranteed 3 OS updates and 4 years of monthly security patches
- • Screen works flawlessly with wet hands and gloves
- • Includes 3.5mm headphone jack and loud stereo speakers (96dB)
- • Programmable hardware buttons are excellent for push-to-talk or emergency use
✗ Cons:
- • Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless)
- • Removed microSD card slot (The older XR20 had expandable storage)
- • Video recording limited to 1080p (No 4K) due to Snapdragon 695
- • Display brightness (550 nits) is dim for outdoor use compared to Galaxy XCover6
- • Expensive for the specs (Snapdragon 695 is a budget chip found in $200 phones)
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Which one is better?
Grab the CAT S22 Flip if you need rugged durability for hazardous environments - it's a no-brainer if you're working in an explosive setting.
Who should buy each?
Choose the CAT S22 Flip if: you need a phone for hazardous work environments, want a physical keypad for easy texting, or prefer a user-removable battery. (2.8" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Choose the Nokia XR21 5G if: you want a long-lasting battery for 2+ days of use, need a powerful camera for high-quality photos, or want a smooth display for gaming and streaming.
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
CAT S22 Flip excels if you value rare 'non-incendive' class 1 div 2 rating for use in hazardous/explosive environments. Nokia XR21 5G is better if you prioritize certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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