{"id":10264,"date":"2023-07-19T14:50:05","date_gmt":"2023-07-19T21:50:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gazelle.com\/thehorn\/?p=10264"},"modified":"2024-04-10T13:30:53","modified_gmt":"2024-04-10T20:30:53","slug":"rugged-phones-that-can-survive-any-vacation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gazelle.com\/thehorn\/2023\/07\/19\/rugged-phones-that-can-survive-any-vacation\/","title":{"rendered":"Rugged Phones That Can Survive Any Vacation"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you\u2019re getting ready for the road trip of a lifetime and you\u2019d rather not break another smartphone, or you\u2019re investing in a new device for the first time in a few years and want something that\u2019s built to last, you\u2019ve probably considered something like a rugged smartphone before.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The nice thing is you don\u2019t necessarily need to purchase the toughest cell phones on the market to get the benefits of high-quality materials, shock resistance, and waterproofing. Even base models of the Samsung Galaxy and iPhone line of devices have enough features to make them more damage-resistant than older smartphones and other electronics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When you\u2019re ready to splurge on an upgrade or treat yourself to a renewed smartphone backed by a rigorous quality guarantee, there are a few things you should know about rugged phones, what makes a strong phone, and which are the toughest ones on the market right now.<\/span><\/p>\n

What are some factors that go into making a rugged phone?\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Between drop tests and water resistance tests, manufacturers put a lot of time, energy, and research into ensuring even their flagship devices can withstand wear, tear, and the occasional splash.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Modern phones typically have to pass drop ratings at around six feet, and most flagship devices come with some degree of water resistance, though proper waterproofing still doesn\u2019t exist. A rugged device should also resist other liquids, dirt, grime, and extreme temperatures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Many devices rely on materials like stainless steel, ceramic, and Gorilla Glass to create tough smartphones that can withstand everyday wear and tear alongside the occasional drop or bump. Some devices even come with built-in bumpers or rubber housings, though these are typically specialized devices that may miss out on some bells and whistles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the toughest cell phones on the market?\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

There are entire lines of rugged phones, satellite phones, and tough smartphones on the market that sacrifice vital device features, style, and form to prioritize durability and functionality. While these are suitable devices for many demanding physical jobs and high-risk professions, the average smartphone user won\u2019t necessarily need a device classified as \u201crugged.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So, outside of so-called \u201crugged smartphones,\u201d what are the toughest phones out there? Most often, they boil down to the two major manufacturers, Samsung and Apple. Modern iterations of both Samsung\u2019s Galaxy line and Apple\u2019s iPhone include added features and quality materials that lessen the severity of drops, scratches, and plunges.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Each manufacturer even offers premium editions of their flagship devices\u2014the + and Ultra lines for Samsung and the Pro and Max lines for Apple\u2014that boost the form factor further and add some welcome toughness to already fairly durable devices. Of course, premium materials can mean premium pricing, so factor that in when you\u2019re budgeting for a new smartphone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Samsung Phone Durability<\/span><\/h2>\n

At first glance, there isn\u2019t much to distinguish different Galaxy models except for their size. However, premium models<\/a> often incorporate premium materials, design features, and add-ons that can impact durability and drive up costs. Here are some of the differences between the existing Galaxy models.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n