Modern smartphones have glass backs that match the glass display. However, all this glass can cause a phone to be broken if it is dropped. Although phone manufacturers and wireless carriers will gladly sell you insurance to cover any breakage, there are other options.
A rugged case that wraps around your flagship smartphone can be purchased for $50 and up. Although these cases are usually equipped with drop protection (from 6ft to 13ft), the case/phone combination has not been subjected to the same rigorous tests as MIL-STD-810G, which we find in almost every rugged phone on our list.
It is also worth noting that these rugged phones are much more affordable than flagship smartphones because they are designed to do the job and are not equipped with advanced technology. These phones are affordable and can be used for work and outdoor adventures. You can also keep your flagship phone around so you have the latest mobile technology.
Glass displays are the weakest link in smartphones and can break even in rugged phones. These phones have a higher chance of screen survival, but you will be out less money if the glass is cracked .
These phones have high IP ratings to resist water and dust, as well as durability characteristics that are compatible with MIL-STD-810G standards.
Kyocera DuraSport 5G UW
The best rugged phone overall
CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 480
The rugged phones can withstand all the elements and field work. With the new Kyocera DuraSport5G UW, we have the added support of Verizon’s 5G network. We just received this phone and are currently reviewing it. This phone is sleeker than the DuraForce Ultra Kyocera previously offered for Verizon customers.
The Kyocera DuraSport5G UW is priced at $579.99 and features a Qualcomm Snapdragon480 processor with 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, two rear camera, 6.1-inch IPS LCD display with Gorilla Glass 6, and a large 4,500 mAh lithium battery. You don’t have to take out the USB-C plug at the bottom to charge it wirelessly.
Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro
The best rugged phone for fieldwork
CPU: Samsung Exynos 9611
The XCover Pro is smaller than the bulky, rugged smartphones of the past and offers better protection against the elements and other accidents. The XCover Pro is powered by a Samsung Exynos 9611 CPU with a 6.3-inch screen, dual rear cameras, plus many other features.
MIL-STD-810G 1.5m drop testing certification, IP68 dust and water-resistant rating, large capacity removable 4,050mAh battery and Pogo Pin support to attach accessories are just a few of the rugged features.
Unihertz Atom XL
The best dual-mode rugged phone
CPU: MediaTek Helio P60
Unihertz AtomXL is a rugged, affordable phone that can also be used in harsh environments. It is small enough to fit in your pocket while out and about.
This phone has a 4-inch display and is powered by Android 10, which includes 6GB RAM and 128GB of internal storage. It is certified MIL-STD-810G and has an IP68 rating. The phone’s 4,300mAh battery is enough to keep it going for hours.