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Doogee S119: A Rugged Midrange Smartphone With Dual Displays And Powerful Features For Adventure Enthusiasts

🔑 Article ID: 625
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📅 Published: 2025-01-24 11:57:55
Author: Radon Lee

Explore the Doogee S119, a rugged smartphone with dual displays, a massive 10200 mAh battery, and a 100 MP camera. Discover its features and if it's worth the price tag.

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The Doogee S119 is a rugged midrange smartphone designed for users who demand durability without sacrificing functionality. With its tough IP68/IP69K rating and MIL-STD-810H compliance, the S119 is built to withstand the harshest conditions, making it ideal for outdoor adventurers, field workers, and anyone who needs a reliable companion in extreme environments.

Despite its rugged nature, this phone is packed with standout features, including a unique secondary AMOLED display on the back, a massive 10200 mAh battery, and a 100 MP primary camera. However, it might not appeal to users who prioritize slim designs or flagship-level performance.

Let's dive into its detailed specifications and see if it lives up to its promise.

Body: Built Like a Tank

The Doogee S119 has a commanding presence with dimensions of 178.1×84.2×15.7 mm and a hefty weight of 368 g. It is available in two bold colors - Glacier Silver and Lava Red - which add a premium touch to its rugged build. Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
General
  • Predecessor: Doogee S118
  • Slogan: Powerful Punch, Always a Munch
  • Type: Smartphone
  • OS: Android 14
Dimensions H: 178.1 mm (7.01″), W: 84.2 mm (3.31″), D: 15.7 mm (0.62″)
Mass 368 g (12.98 oz)
Colors Glacier Silver, Lava Red

The body of the Doogee S119 is a classic example of rugged design, prioritizing durability over slim aesthetics. With those dimensions and weight, it's definitely on the bulkier side, even for rugged smartphones. While this size and weight contribute to its durability and premium feel, they make it less ideal for long one-handed use and extended periods of holding.

At almost 370 g, the Doogee S119 feels substantial in hand. While the textured rugged exterior offers a secure grip, the sheer weight can lead to fatigue during prolonged use, such as reading, gaming, or browsing.

With its thickness of 15.7 mm and large footprint, the phone will bulge in most pockets and may not sit comfortably in slim-fit trousers. However, it's perfect for a bag, especially for those who carry their phones along with tools or other outdoor essentials.

The width of 84.2 mm makes one-handed use difficult unless you have very large hands. Reaching across the screen to interact with apps, type messages, or use the secondary display on the back requires both hands in most cases.

The Glacier Silver and Lava Red color variants are striking choices that complement the rugged personality of the device while offering distinct vibes:

  • Glacier Silver: A versatile, clean, and futuristic color that suits tech enthusiasts, professionals, and users who prefer understated elegance. It projects a sophisticated and modern aesthetic, making it appealing for everyday use or in formal environments.
  • Lava Red: A bold and fiery option that screams adventure and energy. It's perfect for users with dynamic lifestyles, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who like their gadgets to reflect their daring personalities.

If you're someone who prioritizes slim, lightweight phones for casual usage or extended holding, the S119 might not be your best choice. Additionally, users who prefer ultra-compact devices that are easy to pocket and use one-handed may find the S119 too cumbersome. However, if ruggedness and a bold statement are your goals, this phone checks those boxes effortlessly.

In sum, the Doogee S119's size and weight are typical for rugged smartphones, and while they may compromise portability and one-handed use, they ensure the phone's tough-as-nails build quality. Its bold color options let you align the phone with your personality, making it a durable and stylish companion for outdoor escapades.

If we compare the S119 with the predecessor Doogee S118, it's a bit slimmer. The S118 was 178.5×83.1×17.9 mm. It featured Gorilla Glass for display protection.

IP Rating and MIL-STD Compliance

(Related: IP ratings and MIL-STD explained.)

The Doogee S119's IP68/IP69K rating ensures resistance to dust and water, with the ability to survive depths of up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. Additionally, its MIL-STD-810H compliance means it can endure drops, extreme temperatures, and other tough environmental conditions.

The IP68 and IP69K ratings of the Doogee S119 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 S119 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 S119 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 S119, 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 S119'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 S119 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 S119 was subjected to freezing temperatures to guarantee it remains operational in icy conditions.
  • Drop Test: The phone faced drops from heights of 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 S119 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 S119 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 S119 won't corrode when used near the ocean or in coastal areas.

By passing these tests, the Doogee S119 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.

For comparison, the predecessor Doogee S118 came with the same IP ratings and MIL-STD certification.

Display: Dual-Screen Innovation

(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)

Doogee S119 display
Doogee S119 display. Image credit: Doogee

The S119 boasts a 6.72-inch IPS LCD display with a 1080×2400 pixels resolution, delivering a pixel density of 391 PPI. The display supports a 120 Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals, though its brightness is capped at 380 nits, which may be a limitation under direct sunlight.

The highlight is the secondary 1.32-inch circular AMOLED screen on the back. This multi-functional display offers features such as:

  • Clock Customization: Analog and digital options with static and dynamic dials.
  • Utility Tools: Calendar, compass, and battery status.
  • Smart Controls: Camera viewfinder, call answering, message viewing, alarm setting, and music control.

This unique addition adds versatility to the phone, especially for quick interactions without unlocking the device.

Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
Size
  • Main: 6.72″ (171 mm) diagonal
  • Secondary: 1.32″ (34 mm) circular
Type
  • Main: IPS LCD, 120 Hz
  • Secondary: AMOLED
Resolution (px)
  • Main: 1080×2400, about 391 PPI
  • Secondary: 360×360
Brightness
  • Main: 380 nits
Features
  • Main: 1400:1 contrast ratio

The main display of the Doogee S119 is a 6.72-inch IPS LCD panel that combines functionality with rugged usability. While not a premium AMOLED screen, it offers a good balance for a midrange rugged device.

The IPS LCD technology is known for offering consistent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making the display usable even when viewed from the side. This is a practical choice for rugged users who may frequently tilt or rotate their device while working or using it outdoors.

The display's 120 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling, animations, and overall responsiveness, making interactions feel fluid.

It's particularly beneficial for gaming, where rapid motion is rendered seamlessly, as well as for apps that require quick transitions, such as maps and videos.

With a 1080×2400 pixel resolution (FHD+) and a 391 PPI (pixels per inch) density, the display is sharp and detailed.

This level of clarity is great for viewing photos, reading small text, and streaming content. It's more than adequate for most rugged users, who typically prioritize functionality over ultra-high pixel density.

The display's 380 nits brightness is a definite weak point. While it's fine for indoor environments, it falls short when it comes to visibility in bright outdoor conditions or under direct sunlight.

For most rugged users working outdoors, brighter displays (at least 700 - 800 nits) are better for ensuring clear visibility. The S119's display may require frequent shading with your hand or adjusting your position in sunlight to see details clearly.

A low brightness level diminishes the phone's usability in environments where rugged devices typically thrive, such as construction sites or adventure settings.

The display's 1400:1 contrast ratio, while not as deep as OLED's infinite contrast ratios, ensures decent separation between bright and dark areas of the screen, delivering an acceptable visual experience for movies, apps, and web browsing.

Overall, for general use indoors or in shaded outdoor environments, the display will perform well. The 120 Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution ensure that everyday tasks and entertainment look smooth and sharp. However, in harsh sunlight or extremely bright environments, you might struggle to view the screen clearly, which is a notable downside for a rugged phone marketed for outdoor use.

In conclusion, while the Doogee S119's display is well-suited for rugged scenarios with its sharp resolution, fluid refresh rate, and color accuracy, the 380 nits brightness holds it back. A rugged phone should be optimized for all environments, and this level of brightness feels like a compromise.

For users frequently working under direct sunlight, this could be a frustrating limitation. That said, for users primarily using the phone indoors, in vehicles, or in shaded areas, it delivers a decent experience for its price range.

For comparison, the predecessor S118 (2025 version) featured a smaller 6.6-inch, 1080×2408 px IPS LCD display with a 120 Hz refresh rate.

Networks

(Related: Cellular networks explained.)

The Doogee S119 supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring reliable connectivity for calls and data.

GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.

SIM

The Doogee S119 supports dual Nano-SIM.

Chipset - Performance: Decent for the Price

Under the hood, the Doogee S119 is powered by the MediaTek MT8788 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU with two types of cores. Paired with the Mali-G72 MP3 GPU, the performance is sufficient for everyday tasks and light gaming. Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
Chipset Mediatek MT8788 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 + 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A53)
GPU Mali-G72 MP3

The Doogee S119's chipset, the MediaTek MT8788, powers the device with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G72 MP3 GPU. While not a flagship-level processor, it strikes a balance between power efficiency and performance, suitable for midrange rugged smartphones.

The MediaTek MT8788 is built on a 12-nm fabrication process, offering a decent compromise between performance and power efficiency. It's designed for day-to-day tasks rather than heavy workloads, making it suitable for users who value reliability and ruggedness over sheer computational power.

The CPU consists of eight cores, split into two clusters. Even though both core types are clocked at the same 2.0 GHz, they serve different purposes:

  • 4×Cortex-A73 (Performance Cores): These cores handle intensive tasks, such as gaming, photo editing, and multitasking. They feature a more complex design with higher instructions-per-clock (IPC) performance, making them faster and better suited for demanding workloads.
  • 4×Cortex-A53 (Efficiency Cores): These cores are optimized for energy efficiency, designed to handle lighter tasks like browsing, messaging, and background app management. By using these cores for less demanding processes, the phone conserves battery life.

This big.LITTLE architecture ensures that the phone dynamically switches between core types based on workload.

This approach saves battery during light usage (A53 cores take over); delivers higher performance when needed (A73 cores kick in); and provides a smoother overall experience by balancing power and efficiency.

The Mali-G72 MP3 GPU is a midrange graphics processor with 3 cores, suitable for casual gaming and multimedia consumption. It supports decent gaming, handling popular games like PUBG Mobile, Asphalt 9, and Call of Duty Mobile on low to medium settings. However, demanding games with high graphics settings might exhibit frame drops.

It is also capable of smooth playback of FHD+ videos, ensuring a pleasant experience for movie streaming and video calls.

With these components under the hood, the Doogee S119's processing prowess is adequate for:

  • Day-to-Day Tasks: Messaging, calls, browsing, social media, and basic apps run smoothly.
  • Multitasking: With 8 GB of RAM, the phone can comfortably manage multiple apps in the background.
  • Casual Gaming: Handles casual and moderately demanding games at lower settings.
  • Media Consumption: The chipset and GPU are sufficient for smooth video streaming at FHD resolution.

However, it might struggle with more demanding tasks, such as:

  • High-End Gaming: Demanding games like Genshin Impact and Fortnite may lag, especially at higher graphics settings.
  • Heavy Multitasking: Power users with multiple demanding apps running simultaneously may experience slowdowns.
  • Professional Applications: Tasks like 4K video editing, rendering, and other compute-heavy workloads will exceed the capabilities of the MT8788.
  • Future-Proofing: While it performs well for now, the chipset might struggle to keep up with future apps and games that demand more power.

In summary, the MediaTek MT8788 chipset with its octa-core CPU and Mali-G72 MP3 GPU is well-suited for rugged smartphone users who prioritize reliability, durability, and solid day-to-day performance. The use of two core types allows for an efficient balance between performance and battery life, making the phone a dependable choice for casual tasks and moderate multitasking. However, power users and mobile gamers who expect cutting-edge performance might need to look for a device with a more powerful processor.

For comparison, the predecessor Doogee S118 (2025 version) featured the Mediatek Helio G100 (6 nm) chipset, housing an octa-core CPU (2×2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 + 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) and the Mali-G57 MC2 GPU.

Memory and Storage

Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
RAM 8 GB LPDDR4
Internal Storage 512 GB
Memory Card Slot microSDXC

With 8 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSDXC slot, storage concerns are virtually eliminated.

For comparison, the predecessor S118 (2025 version) came with 12 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSDXC card.

Cameras: A Rugged Photographer's Dream

The triple-camera setup on the Doogee S119 is a standout feature, comprising a 100 MP primary sensor for detailed shots; a 20 MP night vision camera with two infrared lights, making it perfect for low-light and nighttime use; and a 5 MP ultrawide lens with a 120° field of view for capturing expansive landscapes. But video recording is limited to 1080p at 30 fps.

The 16 MP front camera ensures decent selfies with a wide 74° field of view and similar video capabilities.

Rear Camera

Doogee S119 main camera setup
Image credit: Doogee

The main camera setup of the Doogee S119 is a standout feature, especially for a rugged smartphone in this price range. With a triple-camera configuration, complemented by two infrared night vision lights, this phone caters to users who need versatility in capturing photos and videos, whether during outdoor adventures, in low-light conditions, or for general use. Let's break it down. Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
Number of Cameras 3 (Triple)
Resolution (Megapixels) 100 MP (wide), 20 MP (night vision, with 2 infrared night vision lights), 5 MP (ultrawide)
Aperture f/1.8, f/1.8, f/2.2
Autofocus PDAF, N/A, N/A
Field of View 79°, 79°, 120°
Video Recording 1080p at 30 fps
Other Features Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR

The 100 MP primary lens is the star of the show, designed for capturing detailed and sharp photos in most lighting conditions. Its f/1.8 aperture allows for decent light intake, which is crucial for low-light photography.

With PDAF, this lens ensures fast and accurate focusing, which is particularly useful for capturing moving subjects or quickly framing shots. It's best for landscapes, portraits, and general photography.

The 20 MP night vision lens, paired with the two infrared (IR) lights, is specialized for night vision photography. It enables the phone to capture clear monochrome images in complete darkness, making it ideal for security purposes, wildlife observation, and exploring caves and other pitch-dark environments.

The f/1.8 aperture ensures adequate light capture, even in low-light settings. The IR lights illuminate the scene without being visible to the human eye, allowing stealthy captures in the dark. This camera is ideal for nighttime exploration, surveillance, and emergency situations.

The 5 MP ultrawide lens offers a 120° field of view, perfect for capturing wider scenes like group photos, architecture, and landscapes.

Its f/2.2 aperture is sufficient for daylight shots but might struggle in low-light scenarios. It is suitable for wide-angle photography where fitting more into the frame is essential.

Among the camera features, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) is used in the primary lens to achieve quick and precise focusing.

This is especially useful for moving subjects, as it reduces the time taken to lock focus compared to traditional contrast-detection autofocus systems.

Dual-LED flash provides bright and consistent illumination for low-light photography.

Compared to single-LED setups, dual-LED flash delivers more natural colors and better coverage in dim conditions.

Panorama mode allows you to capture wide, sweeping landscapes by stitching multiple shots together.

It's great for scenic views, group shots, and capturing the full expanse of an environment.

And HDR (High Dynamic Range) enhances photos by balancing the exposure between highlights and shadows, ensuring no detail is lost in bright skies or dark areas.

This is ideal for capturing scenes with high contrast, like sunsets or brightly lit outdoor environments.

Given this combination of hardware and features, here are the practical use cases for this camera setup:

  • Everyday Users: The 100 MP primary lens and ultrawide lens ensure versatility for day-to-day photography, from portraits to wide-angle landscapes.
  • Adventurers and Explorers: The night vision lens and IR lights are invaluable for those exploring caves, forests, or outdoor environments in the dark.
  • Security Personnel: The ability to capture details in complete darkness is useful for surveillance or monitoring.

Bottom Line: The Doogee S119's camera setup punches above its weight, offering a powerful 100 MP primary lens, a specialized night vision lens, and a versatile ultrawide lens. Combined with PDAF for fast focusing, HDR for balanced photos, and dual-LED flash for nighttime shots, this phone's camera is well-equipped for a variety of scenarios.

The night vision capabilities are a unique selling point, making it an attractive choice for users who need a phone for low-light or stealthy photography tasks. For a rugged phone in this price range, the camera features feel well-rounded and worth the investment.

For comparison, the older Doogee S118 featured a triple camera setup, consisting of a 50 MP (f/1.8) wide lens supporting PDAF, a 12 MP (f/1.8) night vision lens with 2 IR emitters, and an 8 MP (f/2.2) ultrawide lens with a 121° field of view. Its video recording capabilities included 1440p and 1080p; and its feature set matched that of the S119.

Front Camera

The selfie camera sits inside a centered, waterdrop notch on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
Resolution 16 MP (wide)
Aperture f/2.25
Field of View 74°
Video Recording 1080p at 30 fps

For comparison, the predecessor S118 featured a 32 MP (f/2.0) wide selfie shooter, capable of recording 1080p videos.

Battery: Massive Power to Keep You Going

(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)

Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
Capacity 10200 mAh
Wired Charging 33 W
Others 5 W reverse wired

One of the key selling points of the Doogee S119 is its 10200 mAh battery, which can last several days on a single charge. The device supports 33 W fast charging, allowing you to recharge quickly despite the large battery size. It also includes 5 W reverse wired charging, letting you charge other devices in a pinch.

For comparison, the older S118 came with a 10800 mAh battery with 33 W wired charging. It too supported reverse wired charging.

Sound

(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)

Here are the relevant specs:

SpecificationDoogee S119
Loudspeaker Yes
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack No

The absence of a 3.5 mm headphone jack might disappoint audiophiles who prefer wired audio solutions.

For comparison, the predecessor Doogee S118 came with dual loudspeakers. It too lacked the 3.5 mm jack support.

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Doogee S119 leaves little to be desired. 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 S119 features Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. It supports A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming.

The Doogee S119 features GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO positioning systems for accurate navigation and location services.

The Doogee S119 features NFC, which is a huge plus, enabling contactless payments - a feature not always available in budget phones. This technology also allows you to 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.

Plus, FM radio adds a touch of nostalgia for those who enjoy traditional broadcasts.

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 S119 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 S119.
  • 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 Verdict: Features That Punch Above Their Weight

The Doogee S119 comes with an affordable price tag, making it a compelling choice for rugged smartphone enthusiasts. Its unique secondary display, massive battery, and capable camera system deliver excellent value for the price. However, its midrange chipset and relatively low brightness might deter power users or those seeking flagship performance.

In conclusion, the S119 is an impressive rugged smartphone that balances durability, utility, and affordability. It's an excellent choice for adventurers, field workers, or anyone who needs a reliable, feature-packed device in harsh environments.

Its features justify its price, particularly the secondary AMOLED screen, 100 MP camera, and massive 10200 mAh battery. However, if you're looking for a slim, lightweight device or high-end performance, you might want to explore other options.

What are your thoughts on the Doogee S119? Let us know in the comments!

Feature (top) image credit: Doogee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What is Doogee S119 release date?

    The Doogee S119 has been announced and released in January 2025.




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