Top 10 Rugged Phones of 2024

Rugged smartphones have become essential tools for outdoor adventurers, industrial workers, and anyone in need of a tough, durable device. Below are the top 10 rugged phones of 2024, ranked by experts and reviewers, each evaluated for its unique features, strengths, and drawbacks.

1. Nokia XR20

This smartphone, launched in August 2021, supports multiple network technologies, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, LTE, and 5G. It features a 6.67-inch IPS LCD with 1080 x 2400 resolution, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. Powered by a Snapdragon 480 5G chipset, the device has 64GB/128GB of internal storage and a 4630 mAh battery with 18W wired and 15W wireless charging.

It is built to withstand tough conditions with IP68 dust/water resistance, MIL-STD-810H compliance, and drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8 meters. The camera setup includes a 48 MP main camera, 13 MP ultrawide, and 8 MP selfie camera.

Key Specifications:

• Display: 6.67″ IPS LCD, 1080 x 2400 pixels
• Chipset: Snapdragon 480 5G
• Storage: 64GB 4GB RAM / 128GB 6GB RAM, expandable via microSDXC
• Main Camera: Dual 48 MP (wide) + 13 MP (ultrawide)
• Selfie Camera: 8 MP
• Battery: 4630 mAh, 18W wired, 15W wireless charging
• OS: Android 11, upgradable to Android 13
• Water/Dust Resistance: IP68, MIL-STD-810H compliant
• Price: $246.42 / €169.95 / £179.97

Pros:

• Exceptional durability
• Strong water, dust, and drop resistance
• Reliable battery life for extended use

Cons:

• Mediocre camera performance
• Mid-range processor compared to competitors

2. Blackview BV9900 Pro

The Blackview BV9900 Pro is a rugged smartphone designed for tough environments with a focus on durability and performance. It runs on Android 10 and is available in Grey and Silver colors. The device features a 5.84-inch FHD+ IPS display with 1080×2280 resolution and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. It is powered by a MediaTek MT6779V/CE processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of internal storage, expandable via a TF card.

Key highlights include its 48MP quad-camera setup with thermal imaging capabilities and a 16MP front camera. The phone is also MIL-STD-810G compliant and can operate in extreme temperatures (-30°C to 55°C). It supports wireless charging, NFC, and has a 4380 mAh battery. The phone is equipped with multiple sensors, including GPS, GLONASS, and Beidou for navigation, as well as a fingerprint scanner for security.

Note: It is not compatible with U.S. carrier Verizon Wireless.

Key Specifications:

Feature	Details
OS	Android 10
Display	5.84-inch FHD+ IPS (1080×2280), Gorilla Glass 5
Processor	MediaTek MT6779V/CE
RAM/Storage	8GB RAM / 128GB ROM, expandable via TF card
Main Camera	48MP + 5MP + 2MP + Thermal Imaging
Front Camera	16MP
Battery	4380 mAh, 9V 2A charging
Wireless Charging	Yes
Water/Dust Resistance	MIL-STD-810G compliant
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0
4G Bands	FDD and TDD LTE, no Verizon Wireless support
Sensors	GPS, Gyroscope, Compass, Fingerprint, NFC, etc.
Dimensions	156.5 x 78.3 x 14.2 mm, 273g
Price	Varies based on region

Pros:

• Thermal imaging capability
• Excellent value for the price
• Solid overall performance and battery life

Cons:

• Slightly bulky design
• Camera quality could be better outside of thermal imaging

3. AGM H6

Specifications:

• Battery: Large capacity
• Special Feature: Thermal imaging
• Durability: Military-grade rugged design

Pros:

• Highly durable design
• Thermal imaging for specialized needs
• Impressive battery longevity

Cons:

• Limited availability
• Display resolution is not as sharp as competitors

4. CAT S75

Specifications:

• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H
• Battery: Long-lasting

Pros:

• Strong build quality tailored for industrial or outdoor use
• Long-lasting battery for extended fieldwork
• Excellent water and dust protection

Cons:

• High price for its specs
• Lack of premium features (e.g., higher-end cameras, displays)

5. Blackview BV9300 Measuring Edition

Specifications:

• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H
• Battery: Large capacity
• Special Feature: Built-in measuring tools

Pros:

• Unique built-in measuring tool for professionals
• Solid battery life and rugged protection
• Practical for construction and engineering use

Cons:

• Niche features may not appeal to the general public
• Average camera and processing power

6. Kyocera DuraForce Pro 3

Specifications:

• Processor: High-performance
• Battery: Large capacity
• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H

Pros:

• Sleek design for a rugged phone
• Strong performance with a reliable processor
• Excellent water and drop protection

Cons:

• Premium price point
• Camera quality could be improved

7. Blackview BV9900 Pro (Reappearance)

Specifications:

• Processor: Octa-core
• Battery: Large capacity
• Special Feature: Thermal imaging
• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H

Pros:

• Thermal imaging camera for specific tasks
• Durable build with strong battery life
• Good balance of price and features

Cons:

• Slightly repetitive design compared to the newer models
• May feel heavy for everyday users

8. AGM H5 Pro

Specifications:

• Battery: Long-lasting
• Special Feature: High-quality sound
• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H

Pros:

• Great sound quality for a rugged phone
• Excellent battery for all-day use
• Reliable toughness and water/dust resistance

Cons:

• Limited camera options
• Slightly bulky compared to sleek competitors

9. Oukitel WP33 Pro

Specifications:

• Battery: Large capacity
• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Large battery for long-lasting use
• Strong rugged design with great protection

Cons:

• Lacks advanced features (e.g., high-end cameras, displays)
• Performance may lag behind higher-end rugged phones

10. Doogee DK10

Specifications:

• Processor: Powerful
• Durability: IP68, MIL-STD-810H
• Design: Stylish rugged look

Pros:

• Stylish yet durable design
• High-performance processor for smooth use
• Great durability for outdoor use

Cons:

• Lower battery life compared to competitors
• Camera quality is not on par with premium models

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Final Thoughts: The rugged phone market in 2024 offers a variety of options to suit different needs, whether you’re looking for a device with thermal imaging, built-in measuring tools, or simply a strong phone to withstand harsh environments. While some devices excel in durability and battery life, others trade off camera quality or processing power. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific requirements.