If you work outdoors or lead an active lifestyle, you need a hard-working phone that can keep up with you.
It can be tough for your phone to withstand the occasional knocks and blows a busy lifestyle brings. But if you’re after a device that can take on demanding conditions and deal with water, dust, heat and drops, these are the kind of features which you should look for.
Why do IP ratings matter?
Only devices with an IP68 rating (waterproofing and dirt resistance) and MIL-STD-810G rating (durability) are considered tough and rugged.
Phones with an IP68 rating can withstand dust, dirt and sand, and be submerged in deep water. Standard testing doesn't provide a universal depth, but manufacturers normally provide details for each device.
MIL-STD-810G is military-specification which guarantees a very high level of durability. Any device with this rating has been put through its paces to prove its robustness - including seeing how the phone performs when faced with shock, vibrations, heat, cold and humidity.
If you're looking for a rugged phone for company use like the Samsung Galaxy XCover 5, we may have more rugged phones available on our business site or you can chat to one of our business sales representatives by visiting our business plans page.
Dust and heat resistant
Dusty, hot conditions can play havoc with mobile phones. If you frequently work outdoors or in hot countries, you’ll need a phone with a well-sealed exterior to cope with sand, dirt and dust. Dustproof phones are made to be easy to clean - if they get a bit grubby, you can wipe them down easily with a damp cloth.
When you're looking to buy a rugged phone, it's a good idea to try and find a device which is resistant to extreme temperatures. So if you leave it in your van or car during a heatwave, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Apps and features to stay on track
Just because your phone is built to last doesn’t mean you should compromise on the features you love. Look for a rugged phone which is compatible with the apps and features you need, such as Google Assistant, Google Maps, Facebook, WhatsApp or Twitter. Check with the retailer that your phone will support them.
Finally, if you’re worried about having sensitive information on your phone, look for a rugged phone which has anti-theft remote locking capability and erase features for peace of mind.