Rugged smartphones are a niche market, but the Doogee S118 carves out a solid position as a midrange option designed for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals working in extreme environments. It delivers a robust feature set that balances rugged durability with impressive modern smartphone capabilities.
While its rugged design and MIL-STD-810H certification scream durability, the Doogee S118 also boasts a capable MediaTek Helio G100 chipset, a massive 10800 mAh battery, and a versatile triple-camera system. This makes it a great choice for users who prioritize resilience and long battery life.
However, those looking for lightweight designs or flagship-level performance might need to look elsewhere.
Let's break down the specifications and features that make the Doogee S118 stand out.
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Body: Durability First - Built to Last
The Doogee S118 is not just a smartphone; it's a fortress. With dimensions of 178.5×83.1×17.9 mm, it's clear that this device is designed for rugged use. Its Corning Gorilla Glass-protected display is tough enough to withstand scratches and minor impacts. Available in bold Celadon Green and sleek Mirage Silver, the S118 strikes a balance between rugged aesthetics and modern style. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
General |
|
Dimensions | H: 178.5 mm (7.03″), W: 83.1 mm (3.27″), D: 17.9 mm (0.7″) |
Mass | N/A |
Material | Corning Gorilla Glass for display protection |
Colors | Celadon Green, Mirage Silver |
The body of the Doogee S118 is designed with ruggedness and durability as its primary focus, which comes with trade-offs in portability and ergonomics. Although the exact weight is not listed in the spec sheet, it's safe to assume that the Doogee S118 is quite heavy. Its dimensions and the massive 10800 mAh battery are indicators of significant heft.
Holding this phone for extended periods - whether for reading, gaming, or video calls - could feel tiring, especially for users accustomed to slimmer devices.
Its thickness and likely weight make it less pocket-friendly. You'd probably feel it pulling down on your pocket or need to carry it in a bag. For active users like hikers and field workers, a holster or rugged phone clip might be more practical.
This design is acceptable for a rugged phone since its primary audience values durability and utility over compactness and lightness. But if you're looking for a device you can forget you're carrying, the S118 might not be the best option.
The Corning Gorilla Glass used on the display is a standout feature for rugged phones. Its primary benefits include scratch and impact resistance and longevity. This glass provides a durable barrier against scratches from keys, tools, and rough surfaces - essential for outdoor and industrial use.
While no glass is shatterproof, Gorilla Glass significantly improves the phone's survivability when dropped. This pairs well with the MIL-STD-810H compliance, reinforcing the device's toughness. It keeps the display looking clear and functional even after prolonged use in harsh environments, which adds to the phone's value over time.
The Celadon Green and Mirage Silver color variants offer a refreshing touch of personality to a category of phones typically dominated by darker, industrial shades:
- Celadon Green: Bold, adventurous, and eye-catching, the Celadon Green version suits users who like to make a statement. It's perfect for thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone with a vibrant personality who wants one's device to stand out.
- Mirage Silver: Sleek and understated, the Mirage Silver variant appeals to users who prefer a more professional, minimalistic look. It's a good match for field workers or business-oriented individuals who need rugged functionality without flashy aesthetics.
The color options ensure the Doogee S118 can cater to diverse user personas while maintaining its rugged DNA.
Overall, the Doogee S118's dimensions, combined with its rugged build and large battery, prioritize endurance over lightweight convenience. While it may not be the most ergonomic for prolonged handheld use or snug pocketability, it's a workhorse designed to excel in tough environments. The Gorilla Glass protection and color options enhance its appeal, blending practicality with a touch of personal flair.
If durability, battery life, and resilience are your priorities, the bulkiness is a small price to pay. But if portability is a dealbreaker, this device might feel more like a brick than a buddy.
IP Rating and MIL-STD Compliance
(Related: IP ratings and MIL-STD explained.)
The Doogee S118 is IP68/IP69K rated, ensuring it can handle dust and water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. For added durability, it meets MIL-STD-810H standards, making it resistant to extreme temperatures, shocks, and vibrations. Whether you're hiking in the wilderness or working on a construction site, this device is built to keep up.
The IP68 and IP69K ratings of the Doogee S118 are a testament to its durability. In the world of electronics, IP stands for Ingress Protection, and it's followed by two digits. The first digit (6 in this case) refers to the device's protection against solid objects like dust. An IP rating of 6 means the S118 is dust-tight, ensuring no harmful particles can infiltrate its internals.
The second digit (8 in IP68) signifies its resistance to water. An IP68 rating indicates that the phone is capable of withstanding immersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. So, whether it accidentally takes a plunge into a puddle or gets caught in a rainstorm, your Doogee S118 will emerge unscathed, ready for action.
The digit 9 and the letter K in IP69K hold special significance. The combination 9K means the device has undergone high-pressure, high-temperature water spray tests. In the case of the S118, it can withstand powerful, high-temperature water jets (up to 80 °C) aimed at it from different angles. This rating ensures that even in the most intense conditions, where water jets resembling a strong, focused steam of water are present, the phone remains resilient and functional.
The MIL-STD-810H compliance takes the Doogee S118's durability to a whole new level. This standard, established by the US Department of Defense, outlines a series of stringent tests that a device must pass to be deemed 'military-grade' tough.
To achieve MIL-STD-810H compliance, the S118 underwent a battery of tests that simulate the harshest conditions it might encounter in real-world scenarios. These tests include the following:
- High-Temperature Test: The phone was exposed to scorching temperatures to ensure it doesn't falter even in the hottest environments.
- Low-Temperature Test: On the flip side, the Doogee S118 was subjected to freezing temperatures to guarantee it remains operational in icy conditions.
- Drop Test: The phone faced drops from heights of up to a few feet, simulating real-world accidents. Its ability to survive these falls showcases its durability, protecting it from everyday slips and tumbles.
- Vibration Test: The S118 was shaken vigorously to mimic the vibrations it might endure during transportation, ensuring its internal components remain intact and functional.
- Humidity Test: Humidity can be a silent killer for electronics. The S118 was tested in high humidity environments to guarantee it won't succumb to moisture, even in tropical climates.
- Salt Fog Test: This test replicates exposure to salty sea air, making sure the Doogee S118 won't corrode when used near the ocean or in coastal areas.
By passing these tests, the Doogee S118 has proven its mettle, assuring users that it can withstand the toughest challenges thrown its way. So, whether you're scaling mountains, working on a construction site, or embarking on wild adventures, this phone has proven it can handle the pressure, literally! It's not just a smartphone; it's a robust, battle-tested device ready for any mission you undertake.
Display
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The Doogee S118 features a 6.6-inch IPS LCD panel with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate. The 1080×2408 pixels resolution ensures sharp visuals with a pixel density of approximately 400 PPI. While the low (about 75%) screen-to-body ratio might feel dated to some, it's a trade-off for the added durability. The display remains vibrant and responsive, making it ideal for both outdoor usage and multimedia consumption.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
Size |
|
Type | IPS LCD, 120 Hz |
Resolution (px) | 1080×2408, about 400 - 401 PPI |
The display of the Doogee S118 strikes a balance between practicality and performance. It's built to endure the rigors of rugged environments while delivering a smooth and vibrant viewing experience. The IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) panel of the Doogee S118 offers several advantages, making it a solid choice for this rugged smartphone.
IPS panels maintain color accuracy and brightness even when viewed from steep angles. This is crucial for outdoor workers, hikers, or adventurers who might need to view the screen from unconventional positions.
While it doesn't rival OLED displays in contrast or deep blacks, IPS LCD provides vibrant and realistic colors, making it great for browsing, videos, and basic photography tasks.
Compared to OLEDs, IPS LCDs are more resilient to burn-in and display degradation over time, which is a plus for rugged devices designed to last years.
At 6.6 inches, the screen offers ample real estate for both productivity and entertainment. Whether you're reading maps, editing photos, or enjoying a movie after a long day, the display feels immersive without being overwhelmingly large.
The screen-to-body ratio is modest compared to modern mainstream smartphones, but for a rugged device, the slightly thicker bezels can be seen as a feature rather than a flaw - they provide added durability and minimize damage in case of accidental drops.
One of the standout features of this display is the 120 Hz refresh rate, which delivers smoother animations and transitions compared to standard 60 Hz displays. This means enhanced usability and improved gaming. Scrolling through long documents, swiping between apps, and navigating maps feels much smoother, reducing strain during prolonged use.
For users who enjoy mobile gaming, the higher refresh rate ensures a more fluid and responsive experience. Even simple tasks like unlocking the phone and switching screens feel more polished and premium, thanks to the buttery-smooth visuals.
The 1080×2408 px Full HD+ resolution, with a 20:9 aspect ratio and a pixel density of about 400 PPI, ensures that the display is both sharp and detailed. Whether you're reading documents, viewing detailed maps, or editing photos, the display renders text and images sharply without pixelation.
Watching videos or movies benefits from the higher resolution, as details appear crisp and the wide aspect ratio enhances immersion. The ample resolution is ideal for multitasking or viewing detailed information on the go, especially in environments where clarity is critical.
IPS LCDs generally perform well in outdoor conditions. Combined with the Corning Gorilla Glass protection, the display is well-suited for rugged environments, as it resists scratches and minor impacts while remaining functional in sunlight.
In conclusion, the Doogee S118's IPS LCD display might not compete with flagship OLED screens in color richness, but it delivers a robust and practical viewing experience that excels in real-world usage. The 120 Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution elevate the device's usability, making it feel modern and smooth even in demanding conditions.
For a rugged smartphone, this display does more than just survive - it thrives, offering a sharp, smooth, and durable window to the device's capabilities. Whether you're out in the field, navigating terrain, or enjoying some downtime, the S118's display ensures you'll have no complaints.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Navigating through the tech landscape, the Doogee S118 supports the GSM, CDMA, HSPA, and LTE technologies.
GSM, the reliable workhorse, lays the foundation for 2G connectivity, ensuring seamless voice calls and text messages. CDMA is a parallel powerhouse, offering a different approach to network communication with distinct coding techniques. Then, HSPA steps up to the plate, championing 3G connectivity, providing faster data transfer rates and improved multimedia capabilities.
LTE, the bedrock of 4G networks, elevates the user experience with swift internet speeds and enhanced call quality.
SIM
The Doogee S118 supports dual Nano-SIM.
Chipset - Performance: Reliable Speed
Under the hood, the S118 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G100 chipset, built on a 6-nm process. Its octa-core CPU (comprising two types of cores) and Mali-G57 MC2 GPU deliver solid midrange performance. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
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Chipset |
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CPU | Octa-core (2×2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 + 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 |
The MediaTek Helio G100, paired with an octa-core CPU and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, offers a balance of efficiency and performance that caters to most day-to-day tasks while maintaining respectable power efficiency. It is a modern midrange chipset designed for solid, dependable performance, with a focus on affordability.
Built on the 6-nm node, the Helio G100 is designed to deliver better battery life compared to older 12-nm or 8-nm chips, which is critical for a phone like the Doogee S118 with its large 10800 mAh battery.
The octa-core CPU features a 2 + 6 core configuration, which balances high performance with energy efficiency:
- Two Cortex-A76 Performance Cores (2.2 GHz): These cores are optimized for demanding tasks requiring higher processing power. They handle heavy app usage (e.g., image editing, gaming, and multitasking) and tasks requiring fast response times, such as high-speed data processing in augmented reality apps or online workflows.
- Six Cortex-A55 Efficiency Cores (2.0 GHz): These cores are designed for energy-efficient performance and handle lightweight tasks, such as background processes (notifications, syncing apps, etc) and simple tasks like texting, web browsing, and streaming music.
By delegating tasks between the two types of cores, the Helio G100 ensures a smooth user experience while conserving battery life.
The Mali-G57 MC2 GPU handles the graphical workload of the device. While it's not the most powerful GPU on the market, it's capable of providing decent gaming performance and visual output. Games like PUBG Mobile Lite, Asphalt 9, and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings run smoothly.
It efficiently handles high-resolution video decoding, making it a good choice for streaming Full HD+ content. While capable of running heavy 3D games, it might struggle at high settings or with games that demand top-tier GPUs, such as Genshin Impact.
With the Helio G100, the Doogee S118 is suitable for a variety of tasks, including:
- Everyday Usage: Messaging, calls, social media, and browsing are all smooth.
- Media Consumption: Streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify perform seamlessly.
- Moderate Multitasking: Switching between apps like documents, emails, and lightweight editing apps works without lag, thanks to the 12 GB RAM.
- Casual Gaming: Handles most games well at medium settings with good frame rates.
- Navigation and Field Work: GPS-based apps, maps, and tools used in rugged environments work efficiently.
However, while the Helio G100 is great for midrange performance, it's not intended for high-end tasks or professional-grade applications. Here's where its limits might show:
- High-End Gaming: Advanced games with heavy graphics like Genshin Impact and Diablo Immortal at ultra settings might result in frame drops or stutters.
- Advanced Photo and Video Editing: While basic editing is possible, professional apps requiring powerful CPUs and GPUs, such as Adobe Premiere Rush or Lightroom, may feel sluggish during rendering or exporting.
- Machine Learning and AI Tasks: AI-driven apps that rely on advanced neural processing units will feel constrained due to the lack of dedicated hardware for such tasks.
- Extreme Multitasking: Running multiple demanding apps simultaneously might strain the chipset, leading to slower app-switching and heating.
In summary, the Doogee S118's Helio G100 chipset delivers a reliable performance that caters well to casual users, adventurers, and field workers who prioritize durability and battery life over raw processing power. With the dual Cortex-A76 cores for power and Cortex-A55 cores for efficiency, the device can handle most day-to-day tasks with ease while remaining power-efficient.
However, users looking for a phone to tackle high-end gaming, advanced editing, or professional multitasking might want to look elsewhere. For its intended audience and use cases, though, the Doogee S118 strikes a practical balance between performance, durability, and energy efficiency.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
RAM |
|
Internal Storage | 512 GB |
Memory Card Slot | microSDXC (shares with SIM) |
Paired with 12 GB of RAM and a whopping 512 GB of internal storage, this phone can handle multitasking and store large amounts of media without breaking a sweat. Plus, the microSDXC slot (shared with the SIM slot) provides expandable storage for users needing even more space.
Cameras: Versatility in Tough Environments
The Doogee S118 offers a triple-camera setup that ensures versatility: a 50 MP wide lens with PDAF for crisp, detailed shots; a 12 MP night vision camera with infrared lights for pitch-dark environments; and an 8 MP ultrawide lens with a 121° field of view for capturing expansive landscapes.
Video recording is capped at 1440p and 1080p, which, while not 4K, still delivers respectable quality.
The 32 MP front-facing camera provides detailed selfies and supports 1080p video recording, making it a solid choice for video calls and vlogging.
Rear Camera
The Doogee S118 comes equipped with a triple-camera system, which provides versatility in capturing a wide range of scenarios, from everyday photography to night-time imaging in challenging conditions. Let's break down the components and features of the camera setup. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
Number of Cameras | 3 (Triple) |
Resolution (Megapixels) | 50 MP (wide), 12 MP (night vision, with 2 infrared night vision lights), 8 MP (ultrawide) |
Aperture | f/1.8, f/1.8, f/2.4 |
Sensor Size | 1/2.76″, N/A, N/A |
Autofocus | PDAF, N/A, N/A |
Field of View | N/A, N/A, 121° |
Video Recording | 1440p, 1080p |
Other Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
The 50 MP wide lens (f/1.8) is the primary lens and the workhorse of the camera setup. With a 50-megapixel sensor, it captures detailed and high-resolution images, making it ideal for landscapes, portraits, and everyday photography.
Its f/1.8 aperture allows more light to hit the sensor, improving low-light photography.
The 12 MP night vision lens (f/1.8) is specifically designed for low-light and complete darkness scenarios, where traditional cameras struggle. The accompanying infrared night vision lights illuminate the scene without visible light, enabling the camera to capture black-and-white images in total darkness.
The inclusion of infrared night vision lights sets the Doogee S118 apart from most mainstream smartphones. These lights emit infrared rays, which are invisible to the naked eye but detectable by the camera sensor.
The night vision is ideal for capturing clear images in complete darkness, where standard cameras fail. It is useful for adventurers, night workers, and security personnel who often operate in low-light conditions. And it adds an extra layer of functionality for outdoor enthusiasts or professionals in remote environments.
The 8 MP (f/2.4) ultrawide lens expands your photographic possibilities with a 121° field of view, making it ideal for capturing wide landscapes and group photos where you want to fit more people in the frame.
While its resolution is lower than the primary lens, it excels in giving you creative flexibility for framing.
Among the camera features, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) ensures quick and precise focusing, reducing motion blur and enabling you to capture moments on the go.
Dual-LED flash provides ample illumination for low-light conditions. It ensures even lighting for nearby subjects, minimizing harsh shadows or uneven exposure often seen with single-LED flashes.
This is especially useful for taking sharp, clear photos in dark indoor environments or poorly lit outdoor settings.
Panorama mode allows you to capture ultra-wide, sweeping vistas by stitching together a series of photos into a single, seamless image.
It is ideal for landscapes, cityscapes, or capturing wide fields of view that don't fit in a single frame.
And HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode improves image quality in scenes with high contrast between bright and dark areas.
It works by capturing multiple exposures of the same shot and combining them to create a balanced image where details are preserved in both shadows and highlights. This is useful for scenes with backlighting, such as sunsets or bright skies.
The camera supports 1440p video recording, which offers a higher resolution than standard Full HD (1080p). This provides sharper details for videos.
While it lacks 4K recording, the available resolution is sufficient for most users who prioritize smooth and crisp video quality.
In conclusion, the Doogee S118's triple-camera system is well-suited for the rugged smartphone's target audience, offering:
- A high-resolution wide lens for everyday use.
- A dedicated night vision lens for security or adventure scenarios.
- An ultrawide lens for creative and expansive shots.
With additional features like PDAF, HDR, dual-LED flash, and panorama, the camera ensures versatility, especially for users who need a reliable photographic tool in challenging environments. While it may not rival flagship devices in terms of advanced computational photography, the S118's camera system excels in durability and practicality, perfectly aligned with its rugged design.
Front Camera
The selfie camera sits inside a centered, waterdrop notch on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
Resolution | 32 MP (wide) |
Aperture | f/2.0 |
Sensor Size | 1/2.74″ |
Field of View | 85° |
Video Recording | 1080p |
Battery Beast: 10800 mAh Powerhouse
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
Capacity | 10800 mAh |
Wired Charging | 33 W |
Others | Reverse wired |
One of the standout features of the Doogee S118 is its colossal 10800 mAh battery. This battery ensures multiple days of use on a single charge, even with heavy usage. The 33 W fast charging support allows for relatively quick top-ups, while the reverse wired charging feature lets the S118 double as a power bank.
If you're constantly on the move or far from power outlets, the S118's battery is a game-changer.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Doogee S118 |
---|---|
Loudspeaker | Yes (dual speakers) |
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No |
The S118 features dual speakers for loud, clear audio, though the absence of a 3.5 mm headphone jack might be a downside for some users.
Connectivity
In the connectivity department, the Doogee S118 offers a comprehensive range of options. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The S118 boasts Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
The Doogee S118 features GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO positioning systems for accurate navigation and location services.
Depending upon the market where you get your S118, it may have NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.
The inclusion of FM radio adds a touch of nostalgia for those who love the classic radio experience and like to keep it old school.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C 2.0 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 2.0 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
Sensors
The Doogee S118 comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the S118.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
Final Thoughts: Is the Doogee S118 Worth It?
The Doogee S118 is a rugged midrange smartphone that excels in durability, battery life, and versatility. It's a great option for users who need a reliable device in extreme conditions, whether for outdoor adventures or demanding work environments.
However, its bulkier design and midrange performance might not appeal to users seeking sleek aesthetics or flagship-grade power. The lack of a 3.5 mm headphone jack could also be a drawback for audiophiles.
At its core, the Doogee S118 is a dependable tool for those who prioritize ruggedness and endurance over luxury. If that sounds like you, the S118 might just be your perfect companion.
2024 version (Helio G99)
Unlocked
Buy on Amazon US Doogee S118
2025 version (Helio G100)
Unlocked
Buy on Amazon US
Feature (top) image credit: Doogee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Doogee S118 release date?
The Doogee S118 was announced and released in June 2024.