
ⓘ Ulefone
A wolf in sheep’s clothing: A new smartphone looks like a feature phone or “dumb phone”, but even allows apps to be installed and used. The model has a compact display and is intended to work particularly well as a secondary phone.
Silvio Werner (translated by Enrico Frahn), Published 🇩🇪
The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 is technically a new smartphone, although in practice it is likely somewhere between a feature phone and a smartphone. It runs Android 11, and additional apps can be installed. There is also a 2.8-inch touchscreen. However, it only has a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which means more demanding smartphone apps are likely less suitable. Ulefone puts particular emphasis on WhatsApp use. Whether the Ulefone Armor Mini 5 combines the best of both worlds or, conversely, the drawbacks of both platforms, will likely depend heavily on actual use.
The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 uses the rather ancient MediaTek MT6739, an SoC introduced in 2017, which is paired with just 1GB RAM. Internal storage is very limited at 8 GB, but can be expanded by up to 64GB with a memory card. There are also two additional card slots, making it possible to use two cellular networks and two phone numbers. 5G networks are not supported, but LTE can be used.
There is both a front and rear camera, though both sensors have a resolution of just 0.3 MP. That is likely very close to the limit of practical usability, and perhaps almost gives it a certain retro charm again. The removable 2,500 mAh battery is said to enable a standby time of up to 311 hours. Compliance with IP68, IP69K and MIL-STD-810H requirements is listed. The smartphone is available from the manufacturer for $99.

ⓘ Ulefone

ⓘ Ulefone
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Editor of the original article: Silvio Werner – Senior Tech Writer – 17366 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2017
I have been active as a journalist for over 10 years, most of it in the field of technology. I worked for Tom’s Hardware and ComputerBase, among others, and have been working for Notebookcheck since 2017. My current focus is particularly on mini PCs and single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi – so in other words, compact systems with a lot of potential. In addition, I have a soft spot for all kinds of wearables, especially smartwatches. My main profession is as a laboratory engineer, which is why neither scientific contexts nor the interpretation of complex measurements are foreign to me.
Translator: Enrico Frahn – Senior Tech Writer – 7947 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2021
My fascination for technology goes back a long way to the Pentium II era. Modding, overclocking and treasuring computer hardware has since become an integral part of my life. As a student, I further developed a keen interest in mobile technologies that can make the stressful college life so much easier. After I fell in love with the creation of digital content while working in a marketing position, I now scour the web to bring you the most exciting topics in the world of tech. Outside the office, I’m particularly passionate about motorsports and mountain biking.
Silvio Werner, 2026-06- 2 (Update: 2026-06- 2)



