Smartphones have evolved to become an essential part of daily life, and for those who lead active, adventurous, or demanding lifestyles, having a durable and waterproof phone is a must. Fortunately, many manufacturers have developed rugged smartphones designed to withstand tough conditions, including exposure to water, dust, and drops. These phones are not only functional but also packed with features to ensure you stay connected, no matter where you are. As a bonus, these rugged smartphones frequently go on sale, offering great value for those looking for a device that can handle it all. Here’s a look at some of the top waterproof and rugged smartphones that are often available at discounted prices.
1. Samsung Galaxy XCover 6
The Samsung Galaxy XCover 6 is designed for those who need a reliable smartphone in extreme conditions. With a tough exterior and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, this phone can handle being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. Its MIL-STD-810G military standard certification makes it resistant to drops and shocks, ensuring it can withstand harsh environments. Whether you’re working in construction, hiking, or just want a phone that won’t break, the XCover 6 is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- 6.6-inch display
- 50 MP rear camera
- 5,000mAh battery for long-lasting power
- MIL-STD-810G military standard compliance
Sale Opportunity: Samsung often offers great deals during promotional periods like Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day, and back-to-school events.
2. CAT Phones S62 Pro
Known for making rugged devices, CAT Phones is a leader in the durable smartphone market. The CAT S62 Pro is one of their flagship models, featuring an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, as well as MIL-STD-810H military-grade toughness. This phone has a thermal camera that is perfect for people who need to check for heat variations on the go, whether it’s for work or play. The S62 Pro is designed to survive harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and heavy rain.
Key Features:
- 5.7-inch FHD+ display
- 12 MP rear camera with thermal imaging
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor
- 128GB internal storage
Sale Opportunity: CAT Phones often offer seasonal discounts, and the S62 Pro is usually available at reduced prices during events like Cyber Monday and Amazon’s Summer Sale.
3. Motorola Defy 2021
Motorola’s Defy 2021 offers an incredibly rugged design that is perfect for those who are often exposed to the elements. With an IP68 rating, the Defy is waterproof and dustproof, and it is also built to survive drops from up to 1.8 meters. This smartphone has a 48 MP camera, a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery, and a 6.5-inch HD+ display, making it a reliable choice for those who need performance alongside durability.
Key Features:
- 48 MP main camera
- 6.5-inch display
- 5,000mAh battery with 20W fast charging
- MIL-STD-810G military standard compliance
Sale Opportunity: Keep an eye out for Motorola’s promotions on their website, where the Defy model is often included in discounted deals during seasonal sales.
4. Samsung Galaxy Active 2
If you’re a fan of Samsung and prefer something smaller and more lightweight but still rugged, the Samsung Galaxy Active 2 might be the perfect fit. This smartphone is IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, and its compact design makes it ideal for those who want durability without the bulk. It’s designed for active lifestyles and includes features like fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and built-in GPS.
Key Features:
- 4.5-inch Super AMOLED display
- IP68 water and dust resistant
- Built-in GPS and fitness features
- MIL-STD-810G military standard
Sale Opportunity: Samsung’s smaller devices like the Galaxy Active 2 typically see price drops during major online sales like Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day.
5. Ulefone Armor 9
The Ulefone Armor 9 is an excellent option for individuals who need a phone that can handle harsh environments. It comes with an IP68/IP69K water and dustproof rating, and it also has MIL-STD-810G certification for military-grade durability. This phone goes above and beyond by offering a built-in endoscope camera, ideal for professionals who work in industries like construction or engineering, where inspecting hard-to-reach places is necessary.
Key Features:
- 6.3-inch FHD+ display
- 64 MP main camera
- Built-in endoscope camera
- 6,600mAh battery with 18W fast charging
Sale Opportunity: Ulefone frequently runs sales on their official website and through online retailers, often offering large discounts during events like 11.11 and Cyber Monday.
6. Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2
The Kyocera DuraForce Pro 2 is built tough to survive extreme conditions, including submersion in water and exposure to harsh temperatures. Its rugged design is paired with an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, as well as military-standard durability. It’s an excellent option for anyone working in industries like construction, emergency services, or outdoor adventures.
Key Features:
- 5-inch Full HD display with a scratch-resistant Sapphire Shield
- 13 MP rear camera with 4K video recording
- MIL-STD-810G and IP68 ratings
- 3,240mAh battery for long-lasting use
Sale Opportunity: Kyocera’s DuraForce Pro 2 is often available on sale through retail partners like Verizon, and discounts are frequently offered during major sale events.
7. Blackview BV9900 Pro
The Blackview BV9900 Pro is one of the most rugged smartphones available, with an IP68/IP69K rating for water and dust resistance, and it is also MIL-STD-810G compliant. The phone features a 48 MP camera and boasts impressive thermal imaging capabilities, making it a standout choice for those in industries such as construction or outdoor exploration.
Key Features:
- 48 MP camera with thermal imaging
- 5.84-inch FHD+ display
- 6GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 4,380mAh battery with fast charging
Sale Opportunity: Blackview often offers competitive discounts on rugged phones like the BV9900 Pro during special sales events, especially on e-commerce platforms such as AliExpress and Amazon.
Conclusion
Waterproof and rugged smartphones are the ideal choice for those with an active lifestyle or who work in challenging environments. Whether you’re looking for a phone that can withstand a rainstorm, a drop from a height, or being submerged in water, these devices deliver durability and performance. With regular sales and discounts, these phones offer excellent value for money. Keep an eye on seasonal sales like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday to score the best deals on rugged smartphones that will withstand whatever life throws at them.
