My wife’s first reaction to the Unihertz Tank 3 Pro’s box? “Why did someone send you a brick?” This phone breaks the mold of today’s ultra-thin devices. It’s the thickest, heaviest handset I’ve held in ages – a 1.5-pound device that doubles as a self-defense tool. But this hefty design houses a massive 23,800mAh battery and a built-in DLP projector. Yes, a projector on a phone! I’ve used the Tank 3 Pro extensively, both for its novelty and as my daily driver, and here are my key takeaways. (Warning: Don’t drop this on your face. It’s not an iPhone; it’s a dumbbell.)
A Flat Surface is Essential for Optimal Projection
The Tank 3 Pro is a rugged smartphone built for challenging environments like hiking and camping trips. Its enormous battery life makes it a natural choice for outdoor adventures. However, using the projector in the wilderness requires planning. Projecting onto a tent wall is possible, but a flat surface and proper phone positioning are crucial for an undistorted image. While a smooth rock face might work in a pinch, a dedicated portable screen is highly recommended for the best viewing experience.
Darkness is Key for Projector Performance
The projector’s 100 lumens brightness is quite low. Even in dimly lit rooms, the projected image appears washed out, a common projector issue. Daytime outdoor use is practically impossible. To illustrate, a standard 60-watt bulb emits 500-700 lumens. The Tank 3 Pro’s directed light struggles to produce vibrant colors without near-total darkness.
Surprisingly Powerful Built-in Speakers
The Tank 3 Pro’s audio output is impressive. Its speakers are incredibly loud, reaching a maximum of 88.5 dB in my tests – equivalent to a blender or hair dryer. A volume level of 20-30% was sufficient for close-range listening. While holding it to your ear is not recommended (hearing damage risk!), placing the phone in the center of a room provides ample volume for movie watching, even over the sound of popcorn.
Projector Usage Impacts Battery Life
The Tank 3 Pro’s 23,800mAh battery initially seemed excessive, especially given Unihertz’s claim of 118 hours of call time or 38 hours of gaming. However, using the projector clarifies its necessity. While the phone can function as a power bank, projecting video with high volume consumes significant power. Despite over an hour of projector use, the battery only depleted by 10%, a remarkable feat. This makes the Tank 3 Pro ideal for extended camping trips, providing days of entertainment without frequent recharging.
A Stand Enhances the Viewing Experience
While sturdy, the Tank 3 Pro requires a stand or mount for angled projection. My makeshift book stacks worked temporarily, but adjusting the angle was cumbersome. A dedicated stand also minimizes shaking. Even slight movements like swiping between videos caused noticeable image instability when projecting onto my ceiling. For the best experience, secure the Tank 3 Pro on a stable surface at the desired angle before starting your movie.
