In a market saturated with sleek but fragile glass slabs, the Blackview Xplore X1 arrives as a defiantly tough alternative. Launched in January 2026 and reviewed by Gareth Butterfield, this heavyweight contender promises to survive almost anything, while packing a surprising array of features at a remarkably low price point.
A Titan Built for the Toughest Tasks
Unboxing the Blackview Xplore X1 immediately reveals its core philosophy: durability above all. Weighing in at a substantial 420 grams—more than double the weight of a flagship iPhone—it feels built like a brick. However, its design isn't purely utilitarian. Distinctive aluminium band panels on the sides elevate its look beyond the typical rubberised competitors.
The phone's resilience is backed by an exhaustive suite of certifications. It boasts IP68 and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance, meets the rigorous MIL-STD-810H military standard, and can withstand pressure of up to 500KG. This robust armour protects a large 6.78-inch main display, which offers a sharp 2.4K resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
Unusually, the Xplore X1 also features a second screen on its rear. This 2.01-inch Panda Glass panel provides smart access to tools like a compass, notifications, music controls, and a clock, adding a layer of convenience to its rugged persona.
Power That Lasts and Features That Impress
Where the Xplore X1 truly separates itself from the pack is in its phenomenal battery capacity. It doesn't have one battery; it has two. Each is a 5,000mAh unit, combining for a colossal 10,000mAh total. Blackview claims this can deliver up to 26 days of standby life, and in practical use, it easily provides two to three days of power under reasonable use.
Supporting this are 55-watt fast charging and a clever reverse charging function that turns the phone into a power bank for other devices. The feature set extends much further, including:
- A 106MP Samsung rear camera with night-vision and a 50MP front sensor.
- An IR blaster to use the phone as a universal remote.
- Built-in construction tools (plumb bob, protractor, height measure).li>
- Dual 5G SIM slots, Wi-Fi 6, and two beefy speakers.
- A super-bright LED torch and a glove mode for enhanced screen sensitivity.
Compromises and The Bottom Line
For all its hardware bravado, the Xplore X1 isn't without flaws. The software experience can be buggy and occasionally laggy, and the high-megapixel cameras don't perform as well in real-world conditions as their specs suggest, especially when compared to AI-powered systems from Apple or Samsung.
Yet, the most compelling argument for this phone is its price. At the time of review, it was available for just £273 with a discount, or £326 at full price. This makes it an astonishing proposition for anyone who needs a functional, near-indestructible tool rather than a fashion accessory.
The Blackview Xplore X1 is not for everyone. Its size and weight are significant compromises. But for adventurers, tradespeople, or anyone who prioritises battery life and durability above all else, it represents exceptional value. Given its price and staggering specification sheet, it demands serious consideration.
