Why choose a rugged mobile phone?

There are many situations where you might need a rugged mobile phone: working in construction, transport or logistics, or taking part in extreme sports… A rugged smartphone can quickly become indispensable! Why? Quite simply because it is designed differently to stand up to the most unpredictable conditions. This means, in particular: resistance to extreme temperatures, complete waterproofing (which varies depending on the model) and protection against drops and damage of all kinds. Some products can even be used in areas at risk of explosion (provided they are labelled ‘ATEX-certified’)!

IP rating: How should I interpret it?

To put it simply, the IP rating is literally a device’s protection rating. This designation is found on all rugged devices, and is always expressed as a two-digit number. What is the IP rating for? Quite simply, to measure a product’s resistance to solids and liquids! Let us explain:

• The first digit indicates protection against solids (such as dust)
• The second, quite logically, is the one that measures protection against liquids (water in particular)

The higher the number, the better the protection! Would you like to find out more about the IP rating? Take a look at our dedicated page

What is meant by ‘military standard’?

On the product specifications for rugged devices, you’ll often see the phrase ‘MIL-STD-XX compliant’. Although this might seem daunting at first glance, it’s actually a good thing! Why? Because this standard attests to the product’s resilience in the most challenging and demanding situations.
How is this certification awarded? The device undergoes a series of tests, the most common of which include drops onto steel surfaces and exposure to various conditions (water, dust, extreme temperatures, etc.). If the results are satisfactory, the smartphone is considered capable of withstanding any situation!

What features should I consider when choosing my rugged smartphone?

Choosing the right rugged smartphone can seem tricky, especially if it’s your first one. So, to make sure you make the right choice, we’ve listed the main criteria to consider, which you can tailor to your needs and preferences (as you’d expect):

• IP rating – In challenging environments, it’s a must-have! (And don’t forget: the higher the rating, the more durable the device)
• Gorilla Glass – A reinforced screen is always useful! What’s more, this one is chemically strengthened to withstand damage.
• Structure – An unbreakable case ensures your smartphone won’t get damaged the first time it falls or takes a knock!
• Network – To stay connected wherever you are, choose a 4G or 5G model!
• Camera – A camera is essential if you’re making video calls or scanning objects (the higher the resolution, the better the image quality will be)!