Smartphones have come a long way, and few push the envelope like the Tank 4 Pro from 8849 (Unihertz sub-brand). This device is aimed at people who need durability, big battery life, and unique features for use outdoors, in tough environments, or simply off the grid. Its claim to fame is being the world’s first rugged phone with a 720p projector.
Here’s what makes Tank 4 Pro stand out.
Key Specifications & Highlights
- Display
Tank 4 Pro has a large 6.73-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1440 × 3200 pixels (3K) and a 120 Hz refresh rate. Smooth and vibrant visuals.
- Projector
Built-in DLP projector, outputting 720p (1280 × 720) resolution with about 100 lumens brightness. Includes auto laser focus and keystone correction. Best used in dim or dark conditions.
- Processor & Memory
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chip. RAM options up to 18 GB; Storage up to 1 TB (or variants like 16 GB + 512 GB) with UFS 4.0 speed.
- Camera System
Multiple cameras: 50 MP main (with large sensor, ~1/1.3-inch), 64 MP night vision, 50 MP telephoto, plus a high-resolution selfie cam (~50 MP). Infrared LEDs for night vision. Tank 4 Pro is good for dark-light situations and versatile shooting.
- Battery & Charging
Massive 11,600 mAh battery. Supports 120 W fast wired charging. Reverse charging also supported.
- Rugged Build & Durability
Certified to IP68 / IP69K, expected to withstand dust, water, shocks, drops. Also meets MIL-STD-810H in many reports.
- Other Features
Dual SIM, TF (microSD) card slot, IR blaster, camping LED lights (multiple modes like SOS, high, medium, etc.), NFC, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, large size & weight (~530 g).
What Works Well / Strengths
- Unique projection capability – The 720p projector makes it possible to project movies, presentations, or images without a separate device. Especially useful outdoors, for camping, or for field work. The laser autofocus and keystone correction help get a usable image without too much fuss.
- Rugged & long battery life – With an 11,600 mAh battery, you can expect days of usage even under heavy use. The build quality (IP68/IP69K, MIL-STD) adds peace of mind in harsh environments. The phone seems built for adventurers, field professionals, and even emergency services.
- Good camera flexibility – The inclusion of a night-vision camera, telephoto lens, and high-res sensor allows for more varied photography. In darkness, the night-vision module gives it extra capability that many phones lack.
- High performance and modern features – The Dimensity 8300 chip, UFS 4.0 storage, up to 1 TB memory, fast 120 Hz screen make it decently future-proof. Also, dual SIM, microSD options, etc., provide flexibility.
Limitations & Trade-Offs
No device is perfect. Here are the downsides to be aware of:
- Projector brightness is low (~100 lumens). In bright ambient light or daylight, the projection will be washed out. Needs a dim/dark environment for best effect.
- Size & weight – With all the ruggedness, battery, projector, etc., the phone is bulky and heavy (~530 g) and thick. Not something you tuck in your pocket lightly.
- Mid‐to-upper midrange performance – Although the SoC is modern and capable, it’s not flagship-top. Demanding 3D games or very heavy workloads may not be as smooth as premium flagship phones.
- No wireless charging (from what available sources say), which is a drawback for some.
Who Is the Tank 4 Pro For?
This isn’t a mainstream phone for everyone. It fits a specific audience:
- Outdoor enthusiasts: camping, hiking, travelling in rugged terrain, who want a phone that can double as a projector.
- Field workers or professionals in industrial, construction, or emergency services where waterproofing, dust protection, and robustness matter.
- People who need long battery life and don’t have frequent access to charging points.
- Users who like novelty and extra features: night vision, projector, camping lights… things that go beyond the basics.
Comparisons & Market Position
Within the rugged phone niche, Tank 4 Pro occupies a special place. Many rugged phones emphasize battery, durability, or extra cameras; few include projectors. Its predecessor models, like the Tank 3 Pro, had projectors too, but at lower resolutions (e.g., 480p) and perhaps with lower specifications elsewhere. The upgrade to 720p, better display, newer SoC, and more storage position Tank 4 Pro as a premium rugged-feature phone.
Price is steep compared to regular non-rugged phones, but when you factor in the extra hardware for ruggedness and projector, it becomes more reasonable for its class.
Conclusion
The Tank 4 Pro is a bold mixture of rugged durability, high-spec hardware, and novelty features (especially the built-in projector). If you often find yourself outdoors, need dependable phone performance in challenging environments, and would benefit from projecting media or images without extra gear, this device can really shine.
However, if your use is mostly indoors, in well-lit spaces, or you prioritize slim design and lightweight phones, many of its strengths may feel like overkill or burdensome.
