Best Rugged Phones

Updated September 2020

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.Read more

Bottom Line

Pros

Cons

Best of the Best

CAT PHONES

Rugged Waterproof Smartphone

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Bottom Line

Everything about this phone places it in a class by itself, including its long-lasting battery, cameras, storage ceiling, and durability.

Pros

5000 milliamp hour battery. 5-inch full HD screen with Corning Gorilla glass 5. 3GB RAM with 32GB internal storage (expandable to 2TB). 810G shock and drop proof. IP68 certified waterproof to 2 meters for up to 60 minutes. Dual cameras (13MP rear, 8MP front). Quality speaker.

Cons

On the expensive side. Button configuration makes it easy to accidentally dial someone.

Best Bang for the Buck

Simple yet cost-effective flip phone option if you need basic phone capabilities during excursions in extreme conditions.

Pros

As it’s built to military specs, it functions even when exposed to high humidity, dust, shock, and temperature extremes. Equipped with voice-activated commands, making it convenient to use when your hands are occupied. Sound quality is impressive due to dual-microphone design and noise-cancelling technology.

Cons

As it’s an older model, not all providers will support it anymore. The buttons are also sensitive to touch, and accidental activation drains the battery.

Has a nice look and a rugged build, but it only works with GSM carriers such as AT&T.

Pros

Compatible with most GSM carriers. Has a 2500 milliamp hour battery, as well as front (5MP) and rear (16MP) cameras. 3GB RAM, 64GB storage. 5.1-inch screen. 810G compliant. Resists dust, shock, and solar radiation. Waterproof up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

Cons

Will not work with CDMA carriers like Verizon, Sprint, or Boost. No SD card slot.

Best option for travelers who spend most of their time in cities, as it’s unlocked to work with most carriers and has a long battery life.

Pros

Lengthy 60-hour battery life. Water-repellent design allows the phone to withstand occasional splashes, rain, and moisture exposure. Fingerprint reader provides added security, and if it’s stolen, thieves won’t be able to access sensitive information easily.

Cons

Despite claims, the phone won’t work for WiFi calling on ATT or Verizon networks due to its firmware.

Top-rated for its high IP- and military-grade ratings, it’s a solid choice for globetrotters who need an all-weather, all-terrain phone.

Pros

Has an IP68/IPK69 rating, which means the phone can be immersed in 2 meters of water. Functions without interruption in environments ranging from -4°F to 140°F. Sustains impact and shock far better than competitors given its performance in tests with blunt and sharp objects.

Cons

Finger reader may require you to remove your gloves, making it somewhat of an inconvenient feature in plunging temperatures.

Why trust BestReviews?

How we decided

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

30 Models Considered

8 Hours Researched

3 Experts Interviewed

149 Consumers Consulted

Zero products received from manufacturers.

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

A rugged phone is great for industrial workers and everyday adventurers alike. It is usually waterproof, shockproof, drop-proof, and includes a long-lasting battery. Additionally, a rugged phone works in conjunction with networks from AT&T, T-Mobile, and other leading mobile carriers. A rugged phone may include a built-in flashlight, along with a camera and various apps. Also, a rugged phone typically offers a set amount of internal storage that can be expanded based on your data storage needs. Rugged phones come in a variety of sizes and styles. They tend to be easy to set up and customize to match your individual preferences.

Other Products We Considered

The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5.

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