Gone are the days when all rugged phones had to offer was durability. Nowadays, most of these phones have the same features as regular smartphones with added strength and resistance. If you’re a Verizon fan or have used this network carrier, you naturally want a phone that works with this provider.
Take a look at our selection of the top 10 rugged phones for Verizon.
Top 10 Rugged Phones for Verizon
CAT S62 Pro
This phone is ideal for anyone looking for a perfect blend of ruggedness and appearance. When you first look at CAT S62 Pro, you see an elegant and stylish phone that looks like most regular smartphones.
The phone carries IP68 and IP69 ratings, confirming its resistance to dust, solids, and liquids. Since these are the highest ratings, you can be sure the phone will remain undamaged even when exposed to rough conditions. CAT S62 Pro is designed according to the MIL-SPEC 810H standards that ensure protection against dust, shocks, extreme temperatures, and vibrations.
Besides the impressive IP ratings, this phone has other amazing features, and one of them is the professional-grade FLIR thermal camera. The camera can detect sources of leaks and draughts, spot electrical shortages, determine temperatures, and much more, making this phone an invaluable tool for many industries.
Considering everything this phone offers, its price is more than affordable.
Pros:
- High-quality thermal camera
- Highest IP ratings
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Slower performance when multitasking
Rating: 4.8/5
CAT S42 H+
If you’re looking for a rugged phone with exceptional features and unique antimicrobial protection, CAT S42 H+ is the right choice. This phone features a rubberized case that protects it from damage and provides an easy grip.
Like other CAT phones, this one features impressive IP ratings that prove the device’s resistance to elements. It can withstand category IV vibrations, temperatures ranging from -22 to 167 degrees Fahrenheit, up to six-foot drops, and much more. When the phone gets dirty, you can simply wash it with water and soap. Thanks to seals for internal ports, the water can’t damage the phone’s inside.
The most impressive feature of this phone is its antimicrobial protection. CAT S42 H+ features a silver-ion plating that prevents bacteria development. This technology doesn’t fade over time and can’t be destroyed with washing. CAT tested the phone according to the ISO22196 standard, confirming its antibacterial properties.
CATS42 H+ features a customizable button on the side. You can use it as a push-to-talk button or press it to access different apps.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Rubberized case
- Antimicrobial properties
Cons:
- No 5G
Rating: 4.5/5
CAT S22
Don’t let the looks deceive you; the CAT S22 is much more than a regular flip phone. The phone features IP68 and MIL-SPEC 810H, which prove its resistance, durability, and ruggedness. This means you can drop the phone, sink it in water or wash it with the harshest chemicals without being afraid of damage. CAT S22 is impact-resistant up to six feet, resistant to vibrations, rapid temperature changes, high pressure, salt, humidity, and numerous other elements.
The phone is powered by Android 11 and has impressive specifications. It features push-to-talk technology, a large screen with Corning Gorilla Glass 5, and powerful speakers, especially useful in load environments. Many users will appreciate the large, user-friendly buttons that can come in handy for touch typing.
CAT S22 has two cameras: the front-facing one is two megapixels, and the main one is five megapixels.
Keep in mind that the phone was branded for T-Mobile, but you can use it for other networks, including Verizon.
Pros:
- Two cameras
- Loudspeakers
- IP68 and MIL-SPEC 810H ratings
Cons:
- Weaker battery
Rating: 4.3/5
Sonim RS60
Sonim RS60 is much more than a rugged phone; it’s a mobile computer that eases communication, streamlines your workflow, and enhances productivity.
Sonim manufactured this phone for anyone who wants superior durability and ruggedness combined with functionality. The device is resistant to drops and impacts and can survive falls up to six and a half feet on concrete with no protective case. It’s waterproof, can handle temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and repels dust and other particles. You can even run over the phone with a truck with no consequences. Whenever you need to clean it, you can use whatever cleaning products you want because the device is resistant to numerous harsh chemicals.
The phone’s ruggedness is indisputable, so let’s discuss other features. Sonim RS60 has a built-in high-speed barcode scanner that enables users to collect data quickly and effortlessly. Moreover, it features the SonimWare suite with numerous software tools that can increase productivity and efficiency.
You can tailor the phone to match your preferences with customizable buttons on the sides. Sonim RS60 also lets you take high-quality photos thanks to the 5 MP front camera and 13 MP rear camera with autofocus.
Pros:
- Barcode scanner
- Two cameras
- SonimWare suite
Cons:
- Expensive
Rating: 4.3/5
DuraForce Pro 2
If you want a rugged phone with an incredible camera, look no further than DuraForce Pro 2. The IP68 rating proves this phone’s resistance to liquid and solid particles. Moreover, the phone is crafted with MIL-STD-810G in mind. This standard confirms that the phone has passed numerous rigorous tests that simulate environmental conditions like high temperature, vibrations, shock, etc.
DuraForce Pro 2 has an advanced echo and noise cancellation system that cancels out the background noise while you’re talking. Plus, the system features four microphones that capture the sound perfectly. Thanks to this addition, you’ll have no difficulty communicating with your coworkers using the walkie-talkie function. Another impressive feature of this phone is its wide-view 4K rear-facing camera that allows you to take high-quality photos.
The phone has customizable keys and can be used even with gloves on.
Pros:
- IP68 and MIL-STD-810G
- Echo and noise cancellation system
- 13 MP 4K camera with a 135-degree view
Cons:
- Weaker battery
Rating: 4.4/5
Sonim XP8
Sonim XP8 is a true representative of a modern rugged phone. The phone is resistant to water, dust, impacts, drops, and shocks. It features a five-inch display that offers the same functionality even when gloves are on, or your fingers are wet.
One-touch push-to-talk buttons provide reliable and instant communication with your coworkers. Thanks to 100 dB+ speakers, you’ll have no difficulty hearing audio coming out of the phone even in the loudest environments. The impressive 4,900 mAh battery guarantees all-day power even with heavy usage.
This phone features two cameras: the 12 MP rear camera with flash and the 8 MP front camera that enable you to take high-quality photos even when it’s dark.
Pros:
- Highly resistant
- 100 dB+ speakers
- Exceptional battery
Cons:
- Bulky construction
Rating: 4.3/5
Kyocera DuraXV Plus
If you’re a fan of flip phones and need a device with basic functions, this one is an excellent option. The phone offers quality, ruggedness, and convenience. It has impressive IP ratings and complies with the MIL-STD 810G standard that confirms its resistance to water, dust, impacts, high and low temperatures, and vibrations.
In terms of design, this phone offers more than ruggedness. It features push-to-talk, enabling you to take advantage of the walkie-talkie function. This makes communication on construction sites and engineering plants much easier.
You get 512 MB of storage, but the phone has a microSD card slot that enables you to expand the storage up to 32 GB.
The phone is perfect for any loud environment, and here’s why. It features Kyocera’s Smart Sonic Receiver technology that can turn sound into vibrations that go directly to your eardrum. Thanks to this, you can stay in touch with your coworkers even when wearing heavy-duty ear protection.
Pros:
- Rugged and resistant
- Push-to-talk
- Smart Sonic Receiver technology
Cons:
- Lower-quality camera
Rating: 4.2/5
Sonim XP3
Sonim XP3 is yet another rugged flip phone with impressive features. Since it’s built to withstand the harshest conditions, you can submerge it in water, drop it, bang it, and even wash it with harsh chemicals. One of the advantages of this phone is its simplicity. The tactile buttons are large and user-friendly, so you can easily type your message even when you’re in a rush.
The phone features powerful speakers, noise cancellation, and push-to-talk, which significantly eases communication in construction sites and other loud environments.
Compared to other rugged phones, Sonim XP3 is lightweight and compact, so you’ll have no trouble fitting it into your pocket.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Large tactile buttons
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Poor battery
Rating: 4.2/5
Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro
Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro is an excellent choice for everyone that wants ruggedness tucked into a standard-looking device. The phone comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Plus, it’s rated MIL-STD-810G for protection against shocks, vibrations, impacts, temperature changes, humidity, etc.
Samsung GalaxyXCover Pro has a high-quality 6.3-inch display with excellent contrast and sharpness. Although the 4,050 mAh battery may seem small for a display of this size, it performs surprisingly well. Plus, the battery is removable, so you can buy a replacement whenever its performance declines.
The phone features rear and front cameras with numerous additional options.
Pros:
- Modern and rugged
- High-quality display
- Excellent cameras
Cons:
- Slower loading times when multitasking
Rating: 4.1/5
Samsung Galaxy S9
Although this isn’t a typical rugged phone, Samsung Galaxy S9 deserved its place on the list. It combines the functionality of a modern smartphone with durability and strength. This phone has an IP68 rating that proves its resistance to water and dust.
The sleek, modern design and exceptional features make this model very appealing. It has high-quality cameras, an infinity display, facial recognition, and a long-lasting battery.
Although this isn’t a phone you can take to construction sites and smash on the floor without damaging it, Samsung Galaxy S9 offers enhanced resistance and amazing features.
Pros:
- Impressive features
- IP68 rating
- Stylish
Cons:
- Higher price
Rating: 3.9/5
Why Buying Unlocked Phones Is the Best Option
Buying phones that aren’t tied to a specific carrier has numerous benefits. First of all, it gives you the freedom to choose the best plan for your needs. If you’re not satisfied with a carrier, you can try out a new one. Or, you can even use your phone without a carrier.
Another benefit is that you can choose from hundreds of devices. Since you’re not limited to a specific carrier, you have access to almost an endless pool of options, enabling you to get the best deals. Unlike their locked counterparts, unlocked devices don’t come with carrier bloatware apps.
Moreover, unlocked phones are excellent for traveling internationally. If you’re going overseas with an unlocked phone, you can simply buy a local SIM card and pay the same rates as locals.
What Is a Rugged Durable Verizon Phone?
Rugged phones are specific devices designed to withstand exposure to different elements and harsh conditions. They are characterized by resistance to vibrations, shocks, high temperatures, impacts, dust, water, etc. Due to their high quality and durable construction, these phones are excellent for those that work outside, engage in extreme sports, or simply want a phone that won’t break after being dropped.
Nowadays, the line between regular smartphones and rugged phones is getting blurred. Modern phones offer strength, resistance, and impressive features. Numerous such devices are compatible with Verizon. However, your choice depends on what you’re looking for in a phone.
Talk to a Rugged Phone Expert
With numerous options on the market, choosing a rugged phone can be overwhelming because there are many factors to consider. Besides the budget, you need to think about what you want in a phone. Each model we’ve discussed here has features that make it unique.
Since this isn’t an easy decision, we recommend talking to a rugged phone expert. The Energy Electronics team has years of experience in the rugged phone world and can help you choose a model that matches your preferences.
Don’t hesitate to visit our website, fill out the contact form, and we’ll reach out to you as soon as possible to discuss your needs.
