The Unihertz Tank 3 Pro boasts the largest battery I’ve ever encountered in a mobile device. This rugged phone prioritizes longevity, aiming to last for days on a single charge, and it delivers. If battery anxiety is your nemesis, the Tank 3 Pro offers a compelling solution, albeit with some trade-offs.
This massive battery capacity isn’t just for extended usage. It also powers a remarkable 1,200-lumen flashlight and a built-in projector. Forget screen mirroring; the Tank 3 Pro brings its own big screen. Additionally, it functions as a power bank for other devices, making it a versatile companion for camping, festivals, or any off-grid adventure. My time with the Tank 3 Pro highlighted its strengths in these areas, but it also revealed some drawbacks.
Unihertz Tank 3 Pro
A Heavyweight Champion
At 696 grams (1.53 pounds), the Tank 3 Pro is remarkably heavy. This isn’t a phone for sweatpants pockets; a belt is practically mandatory. Its bulk also impacts usability, even simple tasks like texting require adjustment.
Transitioning from a slim, lightweight phone to the Tank 3 Pro takes time. One-handed operation is challenging, and gaming feels more akin to using a handheld console like a 3DS.
The Tank 3 Pro weighs a substantial 696 grams, or roughly 1.53 pounds.
Phone calls also present a challenge. Holding the phone to my ear quickly became tiring, necessitating speakerphone use. After using the Tank 3 Pro, my iPhone felt featherlight. Another point to consider: dropping this phone could be hazardous to your feet.
Unexpected Heat
Surprisingly, the Tank 3 Pro gets noticeably warm while charging, despite its built-in vapor chamber and cooling fan. These components effectively manage heat during operation, even with the projector running, making the charging warmth an odd inconsistency.
While not dangerously hot, the phone became uncomfortable to hold tightly after charging. Thankfully, it cooled down quickly.
Tank 3 Pro Projector
Fast Charging Despite Massive Battery
Impressively, the Tank 3 Pro charges faster than my iPhone, thanks to the included 120W fast charger. In testing, it charged from 23% to 100% in just 37 minutes. A quick top-up over dinner proved sufficient, eliminating the need for overnight charging.
That 23% charge remained after a week of intensive use, including projector viewing, gaming, and other demanding tasks. Draining the Tank 3 Pro’s battery requires a concerted effort.
Charging the Tank 3 Pro doesn’t require overnight charging. A quick charge during dinner was enough.
While I suspect the flashlight at maximum brightness would drain the battery more significantly, I rarely needed it. Unihertz rates the Tank 3 Pro for 118 hours of talk time, 48 hours of video playback, 98 hours of music playback, and 38 hours of gaming.
Impressive Camera System
Beyond the battery and projector, the camera system impressed me. With a 200MP main camera, a 64MP night vision camera, a 50MP wide-angle camera, and an 8MP telephoto lens, the Tank 3 Pro captures stunning images. A programmable side button provides quick access to the camera app. However, the phone’s weight makes it slightly challenging to hold steady while taking photos.
Technically, the Tank 3 Pro’s camera surpasses the iPhone 16 Pro Max, although different image processing makes direct comparison difficult. The Pro features, offering granular control over settings for enhanced night photography, were particularly appreciated.
Should You Buy the Tank 3 Pro?
While I enjoyed my time with the Tank 3 Pro, its weight and bulk make it unsuitable for everyday use. However, it’s an ideal companion for outdoor adventures like hiking or camping, especially given its power bank functionality.
The immense battery capacity is a major selling point, but the phone could be significantly smaller without the projector. While the projector is a unique feature, its quality doesn’t justify purchasing the phone solely for that purpose. If you’re seeking a rugged phone with a distinct edge, the Tank 3 Pro is a solid (literally) choice.
