The best rugged phones in 2026: Tested by experts

The best smartphones like the Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel have sharp displays, powerful performance, and versatile cameras. They are IP-rated for dust and water resistance, but most of them won't be enough for an outdoorsy person seeking phones that can withstand rough elements. In that case, you'd need a rugged phone.

The top contenders on this list are tested for military-standard durability, so you don't have to worry about dropping them. These phones are perfect for outdoor adventures and can withstand harsh environmental conditions.

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What is the best rugged phone right now?

The Oukitel WP210 is one of the latest and best rugged phones on the market right now. Most of these phones severely compromise on performance, but this one carries a mid-range MediaTek chipset for a smooth performance. Another good option from a mainstream brand is the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 Pro, which provides smooth performance and good battery life. If you want a mainstream phone with added durability, the OnePlus 15 is a great alternative, too. However, there are more options to consider according to your priorities.

Also: The best Android phones to buy in 2026

The best rugged phones of 2026

The Oukitel WP210 is one of the recent rugged phones released in 2025. It features an upgraded processor, more storage, a sharper screen, and decent cameras.

 Why we like it: This Oukitel phone delivers a good balance of rugged form factor and features. It weighs 311 grams, which might seem heavy, but in comparison to other rugged phones, it is on the lighter side. The 8,800mAh battery will likely last you for days, and 45W charging will top up faster than usual. 

Apart from a light design, big battery and good performance, the Oukitel WP210 also has a big and sharp AMOLED screen. Unlike most rugged phones, this display offers decent contrast and vibrancy. Plus, you get two cameras alongside a 0.3MP depth sensor for optics. It is rated IP68 and IP69K for dust and water resistance as well as MIL-STD-810H certification for protection against knocks and drops.

Review: Oukitel WP210

Who it's for: The Oukitel WP210 is for those who want an all-rounder rugged phone, without compromising on screen quality. It delivers a satisfactory video consumption experience. It is also for those who don't want a heavy, rugged phone.

Who should look elsewhere: If you want the best battery life on a rugged phone, this isn't for you. That's not to say the battery life is bad, but you can get more options with 22,000mAh and more battery capacity.

Oukitel WP39 Pro specs: Display: 6.7 inches (FHD+ resolution), AMOLED | CPU: Dimensity 8200 | RAM: 12GB | Internal Storage: 512GB (up to 2TB with microSD card) | Rear cameras: 108MP main, 2MP macro, 0.3MP depth | Front camera: 32MP | Battery: 8,800 mAh | Weight: 311g

• Great all rounder
• Good display
• Not the heaviest

• 8,800mAh battery might be less for some

The Oukitel WP210 is one of the recent rugged phones released in 2025. It features an upgraded processor, more storage, a sharper screen, and decent cameras.

 Why we like it: This Oukitel phone delivers a good balance of rugged form factor and features. It weighs 311 grams, which might seem heavy, but in comparison to other rugged phones, it is on the lighter side. The 8,800mAh battery will likely last you for days, and 45W charging will top up faster than usual. 

Apart from a light design, big battery and good performance, the Oukitel WP210 also has a big and sharp AMOLED screen. Unlike most rugged phones, this display offers decent contrast and vibrancy. Plus, you get two cameras alongside a 0.3MP depth sensor for optics. It is rated IP68 and IP69K for dust and water resistance as well as MIL-STD-810H certification for protection against knocks and drops.

Review: Oukitel WP210

Who it's for: The Oukitel WP210 is for those who want an all-rounder rugged phone, without compromising on screen quality. It delivers a satisfactory video consumption experience. It is also for those who don't want a heavy, rugged phone.

Who should look elsewhere: If you want the best battery life on a rugged phone, this isn't for you. That's not to say the battery life is bad, but you can get more options with 22,000mAh and more battery capacity.

Oukitel WP39 Pro specs: Display: 6.7 inches (FHD+ resolution), AMOLED | CPU: Dimensity 8200 | RAM: 12GB | Internal Storage: 512GB (up to 2TB with microSD card) | Rear cameras: 108MP main, 2MP macro, 0.3MP depth | Front camera: 32MP | Battery: 8,800 mAh | Weight: 311g

Doogee has established itself as one of the more popular options for a rugged phone. And their new Doogee V Max Pro offers everything you could ever want in a tough smartphone as well as an impressive, week-long battery life. It's also equipped with 33W fast-charging, letting you quickly top up your battery before heading out for off-site work or a long weekend camping trip. 

Why we like it: The Doogee V Max Pro is packed with features like 512GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 2TB with a microSDXC card slot. ZDNET expert Jack Wallen got to check out the Plus model and was very impressed with the 1,500-hour standby life as well as the sheer durability of the phone chassis, which is capable of withstanding drops, bumps, and even water splashes.

Review: The most durable Android phone I've tested also has a week-long battery life

Who is it for: The Doogee V Max Pro is for those who want a big display and excellent battery life. If you don't mind the 500-gram+ weight, this is the phone to buy for its powerful performance, big battery, sharp screen, and versatile cameras.

Who should look elsewhere: If you want a lightweight, rugged phone, this is not for you. It will last you for days on a single charge, but that comes at the expense of weight.

Doogee V Max Pro specs: Display: 6.58 inches (FHD+ resolution), IPS | CPU: Dimensity 7050 | RAM: 12GB | Internal Storage: 512GB (up to 2TB with microSDXD slot) | Rear cameras: 108MP, 20MP night vision, 8MP wide-angle/macro | Front camera: 16MP | Battery: 22000 mAh | Weight: 536g

• Brilliant battery life
• Dual SIM support
• Night vision video support

• Very heavy

Doogee has established itself as one of the more popular options for a rugged phone. And their new Doogee V Max Pro offers everything you could ever want in a tough smartphone as well as an impressive, week-long battery life. It's also equipped with 33W fast-charging, letting you quickly top up your battery before heading out for off-site work or a long weekend camping trip. 

Why we like it: The Doogee V Max Pro is packed with features like 512GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 2TB with a microSDXC card slot. ZDNET expert Jack Wallen got to check out the Plus model and was very impressed with the 1,500-hour standby life as well as the sheer durability of the phone chassis, which is capable of withstanding drops, bumps, and even water splashes.

Review: The most durable Android phone I've tested also has a week-long battery life

Who is it for: The Doogee V Max Pro is for those who want a big display and excellent battery life. If you don't mind the 500-gram+ weight, this is the phone to buy for its powerful performance, big battery, sharp screen, and versatile cameras.

Who should look elsewhere: If you want a lightweight, rugged phone, this is not for you. It will last you for days on a single charge, but that comes at the expense of weight.

Doogee V Max Pro specs: Display: 6.58 inches (FHD+ resolution), IPS | CPU: Dimensity 7050 | RAM: 12GB | Internal Storage: 512GB (up to 2TB with microSDXD slot) | Rear cameras: 108MP, 20MP night vision, 8MP wide-angle/macro | Front camera: 16MP | Battery: 22000 mAh | Weight: 536g

• One UI 6 is good
• Decent performance
• Lightweight

• Small battery

Survival is the name of the game with the AGM H6, thanks to its IP68 waterproof rating, IP69K dustproof rating, and 1.8m shock-resistant test certification. The frame around the display is raised 0.4mm above the screen to help protect it. In addition, the extra corner protection with a lanyard opening in the top left is provided for drops. The USB-C port and headset jack are sealed with covers, which is a thoughtful touch.

Why we like it: At a weight of just 240 grams and a thickness of just 10.75mm, you may not think this is a rugged phone designed to withstand fieldwork. However, I've dropped it, submerged it, and gone running in the rain with it, and the device looks just about the same as when it came out of the box.

Read the review: Finally, a rugged Android phone that doesn't look and feel like a brick

Who is it for: The AGM H6 is perfect for those who plan to ski, hike, fish, and explore the outdoors. It's especially sleek for the rugged phone that it is, and at the sub-$300 price, its durability features are totally worth it. Verified customer reviews from both Amazon and Walmart love the price and value of the AGM H6. Customers are divided over the phone's fingerprint detection for unlocking the device.

Who should look elsewhere: The AGM H6 isn't for you if you want the best performance or battery life on your rugged phone. It offers average performance and battery backup.

AGM H6 specs: Display: 6.56 inches (1612 x 720-pixel resolution) | CPU: Unisoc T606 | RAM: 16GB  | Internal Storage: 256GB with microSD | Rear cameras: 50MP main and 2MP macro | Front camera: 8MP | Battery: 4,900 mAh | Weight: 240g

• Low price
• Rugged build and certifications
• Large capacity battery
• Slim form factor

• No 5G support
• Single rear camera

Survival is the name of the game with the AGM H6, thanks to its IP68 waterproof rating, IP69K dustproof rating, and 1.8m shock-resistant test certification. The frame around the display is raised 0.4mm above the screen to help protect it. In addition, the extra corner protection with a lanyard opening in the top left is provided for drops. The USB-C port and headset jack are sealed with covers, which is a thoughtful touch.

Why we like it: At a weight of just 240 grams and a thickness of just 10.75mm, you may not think this is a rugged phone designed to withstand fieldwork. However, I've dropped it, submerged it, and gone running in the rain with it, and the device looks just about the same as when it came out of the box.

Read the review: Finally, a rugged Android phone that doesn't look and feel like a brick

Who is it for: The AGM H6 is perfect for those who plan to ski, hike, fish, and explore the outdoors. It's especially sleek for the rugged phone that it is, and at the sub-$300 price, its durability features are totally worth it. Verified customer reviews from both Amazon and Walmart love the price and value of the AGM H6. Customers are divided over the phone's fingerprint detection for unlocking the device.

Who should look elsewhere: The AGM H6 isn't for you if you want the best performance or battery life on your rugged phone. It offers average performance and battery backup.

AGM H6 specs: Display: 6.56 inches (1612 x 720-pixel resolution) | CPU: Unisoc T606 | RAM: 16GB  | Internal Storage: 256GB with microSD | Rear cameras: 50MP main and 2MP macro | Front camera: 8MP | Battery: 4,900 mAh | Weight: 240g

 The Glory G1S also has some pretty awesome and highly specialized features for users who need them: a built-in laser pointer, which comes in handy for presentations, work-site inspections, and survey projects. It also has a 20MP night vision camera that uses both infrared and thermal imaging to help you capture clear images and a host of important information. It also has a 2MP macro lens for close-up photography and a 16MP front camera for video calls and selfies.  

Why we like it: ZDNET's Matthew Miller was able to check out the AGM Glory G1S for himself, and while he loved the specialized features, he did note that the USB-C charging port may be too deep for some cables to properly connect with and that the 4-pin charging dock means you're stuck with a proprietary system; which can prove a nuisance in a sea of civilian iPhones and Android smartphones that use Lightning or USB-C cables or wireless charging pads. 

Who is it for: The AGM Glory G1S is designed for just about any edge case -- pun intended -- you might need to put it through. The ruggedized phone chassis is IP68 and IP69K certified for water, dust, and shock/drop resistance, protecting your phone from up to a 4-foot drop and from being submerged in up to five feet of water for 30 minutes. 

Read the review: AGM Glory G1S review: Superhero powers in a rugged smartphone 

Who should look elsewhere: If you are bothered by carrying a proprietary charger, this isn't the phone for you. It uses a specialized 4-pin charging dock, which could be troublesome.

AGM Glory G1S specs: Display: 6.53 inches (2,160 x 1,080-pixel resolution), LCD | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G | RAM: 8GB | Internal Storage: 128GB with microSD slot | Rear cameras: 48MP main, 20MP infrared night vision, 2MP macro | Front camera: 16MP | Battery: 5500 mAh | Weight: 315g

• Specialized features for niche professionals
• IR and thermal cameras
• Water and shock resistant
• 3.5mm AUX and USB-C connections

• Proprietary 4-pin charging dock
• USB-C port may be too deep for some cables
• Incompatible with some US cell networks and apps

 The Glory G1S also has some pretty awesome and highly specialized features for users who need them: a built-in laser pointer, which comes in handy for presentations, work-site inspections, and survey projects. It also has a 20MP night vision camera that uses both infrared and thermal imaging to help you capture clear images and a host of important information. It also has a 2MP macro lens for close-up photography and a 16MP front camera for video calls and selfies.  

Why we like it: ZDNET's Matthew Miller was able to check out the AGM Glory G1S for himself, and while he loved the specialized features, he did note that the USB-C charging port may be too deep for some cables to properly connect with and that the 4-pin charging dock means you're stuck with a proprietary system; which can prove a nuisance in a sea of civilian iPhones and Android smartphones that use Lightning or USB-C cables or wireless charging pads. 

Who is it for: The AGM Glory G1S is designed for just about any edge case -- pun intended -- you might need to put it through. The ruggedized phone chassis is IP68 and IP69K certified for water, dust, and shock/drop resistance, protecting your phone from up to a 4-foot drop and from being submerged in up to five feet of water for 30 minutes. 

Read the review: AGM Glory G1S review: Superhero powers in a rugged smartphone 

Who should look elsewhere: If you are bothered by carrying a proprietary charger, this isn't the phone for you. It uses a specialized 4-pin charging dock, which could be troublesome.

AGM Glory G1S specs: Display: 6.53 inches (2,160 x 1,080-pixel resolution), LCD | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G | RAM: 8GB | Internal Storage: 128GB with microSD slot | Rear cameras: 48MP main, 20MP infrared night vision, 2MP macro | Front camera: 16MP | Battery: 5500 mAh | Weight: 315g

The OnePlus 15 might not be a "rugged phone" in the traditional sense, but its industry-leading durability and big battery make it a welcome addition to this list.

Why we like it: The OnePlus 15 is one of the most well-rounded flagship experiences we've tested. You get a large 6.8-inch 165Hz AMOLED display, a huge 7,300mAh battery with superfast 80W fast charging, a triple camera setup with a competent 50MP main lens, the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and more. For a starting price of $899, it is more expensive than all other models on this list, but it is worth the asking price. 

In terms of durability, the OnePlus 15 is IP68, IP69, and IP69K rated for protection against dust, water submersion, high-pressure, high-temperature water jets, and changes in humidity. So, leaving the device in a washer and dryer, or even dropping it in a pot of boiling soup, won't damage it. Moreover, its 7,300mAh battery will last you an entire day with ease, even on heavy use.

Review: OnePlus 15

Who it's for: The OnePlus 15 typically starts at $899, which is more expensive than the other rugged phones but cheaper than its closest flagship phone rivals. The price point alone makes it worthy of recommending to consumers seeking a flagship phone experience with exceptional durability without needing to spend $1,000 or more. You get the best processor on phone, fastest charging speeds on the US market, and a versatile camera setup.

Who should look elsewhere: While the OnePlus 15 hits almost every mark from our testing, it is not rated for drops and falls. If you are an adventurer, it is better to opt for a rugged phone with military-grade protection. 

OnePlus 15 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Display size: 6.8 inches | Storage options: 256GB/512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide, and 50MP telephoto | Front camera: 32MP | Battery: 7,300mAh

• IP69 rating for added durability
• Best screen in a phone on this list
• Powerful performance
• Excellent battery life

• Not the best drop resistance

The OnePlus 15 might not be a "rugged phone" in the traditional sense, but its industry-leading durability and big battery make it a welcome addition to this list.

Why we like it: The OnePlus 15 is one of the most well-rounded flagship experiences we've tested. You get a large 6.8-inch 165Hz AMOLED display, a huge 7,300mAh battery with superfast 80W fast charging, a triple camera setup with a competent 50MP main lens, the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and more. For a starting price of $899, it is more expensive than all other models on this list, but it is worth the asking price. 

In terms of durability, the OnePlus 15 is IP68, IP69, and IP69K rated for protection against dust, water submersion, high-pressure, high-temperature water jets, and changes in humidity. So, leaving the device in a washer and dryer, or even dropping it in a pot of boiling soup, won't damage it. Moreover, its 7,300mAh battery will last you an entire day with ease, even on heavy use.

Review: OnePlus 15

Who it's for: The OnePlus 15 typically starts at $899, which is more expensive than the other rugged phones but cheaper than its closest flagship phone rivals. The price point alone makes it worthy of recommending to consumers seeking a flagship phone experience with exceptional durability without needing to spend $1,000 or more. You get the best processor on phone, fastest charging speeds on the US market, and a versatile camera setup.

Who should look elsewhere: While the OnePlus 15 hits almost every mark from our testing, it is not rated for drops and falls. If you are an adventurer, it is better to opt for a rugged phone with military-grade protection. 

OnePlus 15 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Display size: 6.8 inches | Storage options: 256GB/512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide, and 50MP telephoto | Front camera: 32MP | Battery: 7,300mAh

If you want a mainstream foldable phone with the best IP rating for dust and water resistance, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is your best bet. It's currently priced at $1,400.

Why we like it: While the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is my favorite foldable phone of 2025, Google took the lead with Pixel 10 Pro Fold to design the most durable folding phone yet. It is IP68 rated for dust and water resistance. In comparison, the Samsung foldable has an IP48 rating, which isn't a proper dust-resistant rating. The "6" in IP68 ensures that small dust particles like pocket lint won't penetrate Pixel 10 Pro Fold's hinge and damage its motherboard.

Also: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

While this Google foldable doesn't match its Pixel Pro sibling spec-for-spec, it makes up for the "inferior" camera system in long exposure shots and selfies, thanks to its self-standing nature. I like the user-friendly UI and some AI features like Magic Cue, which automatically populates information based on screen context, such as flight information when calling an airline. 

Who it's for: The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the ideal choice for foldable phone enthusiasts who want a durable phone. As a bonus, you also get Google's cleaner approach to software and regular updates.

Who should look elsewhere: While the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the latest foldable phone on the market, it's not the best pick for a rugged phone. If you are an adventurer, it is better to opt for another phone on this list.

Google Pixel 10 Fold tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G5 | Display sizes: 6.3-inch exterior and 8-inch interior | RAM/Storage: 16GB with 256GB or 512GB | Battery: 5,015mAh | Camera: 48MP wide, 10.8MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10MP front

• IP68 rated for dust and water resistance
• Clean user interface
• Some handy AI features
• Regular Pixel updates

• Not the most durable phone on this list

If you want a mainstream foldable phone with the best IP rating for dust and water resistance, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is your best bet. It's currently priced at $1,400.

Why we like it: While the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is my favorite foldable phone of 2025, Google took the lead with Pixel 10 Pro Fold to design the most durable folding phone yet. It is IP68 rated for dust and water resistance. In comparison, the Samsung foldable has an IP48 rating, which isn't a proper dust-resistant rating. The "6" in IP68 ensures that small dust particles like pocket lint won't penetrate Pixel 10 Pro Fold's hinge and damage its motherboard.

Also: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

While this Google foldable doesn't match its Pixel Pro sibling spec-for-spec, it makes up for the "inferior" camera system in long exposure shots and selfies, thanks to its self-standing nature. I like the user-friendly UI and some AI features like Magic Cue, which automatically populates information based on screen context, such as flight information when calling an airline. 

Who it's for: The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the ideal choice for foldable phone enthusiasts who want a durable phone. As a bonus, you also get Google's cleaner approach to software and regular updates.

Who should look elsewhere: While the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the latest foldable phone on the market, it's not the best pick for a rugged phone. If you are an adventurer, it is better to opt for another phone on this list.

Google Pixel 10 Fold tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G5 | Display sizes: 6.3-inch exterior and 8-inch interior | RAM/Storage: 16GB with 256GB or 512GB | Battery: 5,015mAh | Camera: 48MP wide, 10.8MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10MP front

What is the best rugged phone?

Our choice for the best rugged phone is the Oukitel WP210 for its incredibly impressive all-around feature set for an unbeatable value. The sub-$400 smartphone offers a solid performance, an 108MP main camera, 8,800mAh battery, and many more features without feeling uncomfortable in the hand.

Which rugged phone is right for you?

All of these phones are powered by Android OS, so there's no choice on the operating system. If you are reading this list, you are probably interested in a rugged phone that can survive drops and water damage when you're working outside.

The first thing to look for is a unique element that may be specific to your work. For example, do you need a FLIR thermal imaging camera, a night vision camera, a large capacity battery that can be used to charge other devices, or a phone with a removable battery? Check out the unique features and see if any apply to your needs.

The next thing is to check the price, since these rugged phones range from $220 to $1,400.

Factors to consider when choosing a rugged phone

To determine the best rugged phone for your needs, you should consider the following: 

• Price: The price range can vary wildly for these rugged phones with major brands charging a premium price for rugged features while minor brands offer rugged phones at very low prices. Rugged phones are great for your disaster recovery kit with long battery life and features that ensure the phone will handle any extreme conditions.
  
• Size: Most of these rugged phones are large and heavy compared to standard smartphones. Sleeker models tend to be more expensive, but that is a trade-off you need to make as you choose the best one for you.
  
• Uses: All of these rugged phones are built to survive the elements, but some have very special features. For example, the Cat S62 Pro provides a thermal imaging camera that is perfect for some trades. Identify your needs before you dive into the option that fits you.

How did we choose these rugged phones?

To determine our picks for the best rugged phones, we did weeks-long real-world testing and research, and consulted colleagues who have hands-on experience with the phones. We considered the following aspects when creating this list: 

• Durability: Perhaps the most important element of a rugged phone is its design and durability under harsh condi