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Verdict
The ROKiT IO Pro 3D could have been a slightly sub-par yet affordable Android phone, but this is a phone that feels like it flew too close to the sun – its unique feature is what lets it down the most.
The 3D features of the phone were uncomfortable to use, and instead of providing us with hours of 3D entertainment, ROKFLiX 3D gave us hours of headaches – we just can’t recommend a 3D phone that causes us physical discomfort to use.
The knock-on effect of this 3D failure can be seen throughout the handset, both in terms of positives and negatives – the shimmering holographic-card-style 3D screen makes everyday functions just that bit more arduous, but on the other hand the bigger battery was also likely included to cope with extensive media use.
We’re not completely opposed to some of the ROKiT IO Pro 3D’s features, as Rok Life Services could be really useful to an older audience who need to be able to contact emergency services and insurance providers easily, and the solid carry case could keep it protected for those users.
But that brings up the tricky question of who the phone’s for –and it seems even ROKiT doesn’t know. When we asked it told us 3D is great for younger entertainment-focused users and Life Services is for older audiences, making the phone perfect for both – but since each group would, by ROKiT’s own logic, find one of the features redundant, it seems the phone would be of only limited use to anyone.
We can’t recommend the ROKiT IO Pro 3D – it has too many weaknesses and problems, and if you’re one of the few people who’s desperate for a 3D phone, the Red Hydrogen One has a better 3D screen.
Competition
Moto G7 Play
If you’re looking for a cheap smartphone with all the basic features you can’t go wrong with the Moto G7 series, and the Moto G7 Play is the cheapest of the bunch.
At $200 / £149 / AU$270 it’s actually cheaper than the ROKiT IO Pro 3D, and while that price gets you a smaller battery and just a single camera, you’re saving a significant amount of money on a phone with better overall specs.
Read our Moto G7 Play review
Blackview BV9500
The ROKiT IO Pro 3D has a lot in common with rugged phones, from its chipset and life services to the carry case it comes in, and the BlackView BV9500 is one of the best rugged handsets around.
The BV9500 has the same processor as the ROKiT IO Pro but a massive 10,000mAh battery, tough design and wireless charging, which may well justify the extra cost at $487 (around £370, AU$690).
Read our Blackview BV9500 review
