
Outdoor smartphones are becoming increasingly popular – and for good reason. They are robust, durable and designed for extreme conditions. But what should you look out for when buying one? This buying guide clarifies the most important questions. Looking for the best outdoor smartphone for your next adventure? Then we may have found the right model for you.
Best outdoor smartphone: the prices
The prices for outdoor smartphones vary greatly and depend on the features and brand name. A rough classification:
- Entry-level class (150-300 euros): These devices offer basic protection and simple functions.
- Mid-range (300-600 euros): Better workmanship, larger batteries and more powerful hardware.
- High-end models (from 600 euros): Outstanding robustness, top hardware and often additional features such as thermal imaging cameras or specialized sensors.
Best outdoor smartphone: Well-known brands
Outdoor smartphones are specially designed for use in extreme conditions and are very popular with adventurers, craftsmen and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best-known and most popular brands:
CAT (Caterpillar)
The CAT brand is known for its robust construction machinery, but has also developed outdoor smartphones that are extremely durable and robust. Their devices are waterproof, shockproof and equipped with innovative functions such as thermal imaging cameras.
Samsung
With its “XCover” series, Samsung offers outdoor models that combine the manufacturer’s reliability and technology with a robust design. These devices offer a good mix of performance, durability and versatile features.
Blackview
Blackview is a specialist in rugged smartphones and offers models that meet high military standards. The devices are characterized by powerful batteries, IP68 certification and affordability, which makes them particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Ulefone
Ulefone is known for its “Armor” series, which combines extremely robust housings with a large battery and useful outdoor tools such as barometers and a compass. These smartphones are aimed specifically at adventurers and craftsmen.
DOOGEE
DOOGEE also specializes in rugged smartphones and offers affordable devices with a robust design and long battery life. Many models come with additional features such as night vision cameras or laser rangefinders.
AGM
AGM combines modern design with military robustness. The brand is known for powerful speakers in its devices and for models that function reliably even in extreme temperatures.
Oukitel
Oukitel focuses on long-lasting batteries and robust construction. The devices in the “WP” series in particular offer enormous battery capacities and are ideal for longer outdoor adventures without regular charging options.
Hotwav
Hotwav offers affordable, robust smartphones with a good price-performance ratio. The devices are shockproof, waterproof and often equipped with powerful batteries, making them a popular choice for first-time outdoor users.
Best outdoor smartphone: Our purchase recommendations
Gigaset GX6
The Gigaset GX6 (Review, € 453.00 *) is an all-round successful outdoor smartphone that also looks really stylish. The manufacturer from Germany has succeeded in combining robustness with a design suitable for everyday use and delivers technical features that leave little to be desired. The long-lasting and replaceable battery deserves special praise, while the system performance is up to even the most demanding tasks.
The SoC only lacks power in current games, but that’s not the smartphone’s core competence. The GX6 also sets positive accents in another weak point of many outdoor smartphones, namely the camera, and scores with convincing quality for photos and videos.
Only the LCD display is a little weak in terms of color reproduction and contrast, but then there are also two SIM card slots plus additional space for a microSD card, 5G, Wi-Fi 6 and much more. Anyone looking for a robust and high-quality outdoor smartphone and who has no problem with a bulky and heavy device will definitely get their money’s worth with the Gigaset GX6.
Blackview N6000
The Blackview N6000 (Price not available *) is a compact and robust smartphone that is characterized by its handy size and powerful features. With a 4.3-inch QHD+ display (540 × 1200 pixels) and a weight of just 208 g, it fits comfortably in the hand and fits easily into any pocket. The N6000 is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 octa-core processor, manufactured using the 6 nm process, which ensures smooth performance. The processor is supported by 8 GB of RAM, expandable by a further 8 GB, as well as 256 GB of internal memory, which offers sufficient space for apps and media.
For photography enthusiasts, the device offers a 48 MP main camera with a Samsung ISOCELL GM2 sensor, which enables solid shots even in low light conditions. The 16 MP front camera is ideal for selfies and video calls. The N6000 is IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certified, making it water, dust and shock resistant and able to withstand even extreme conditions. The 3,880 mAh battery with solid-state technology offers a standby time of up to 18 days and supports 18W fast charging.
In addition, the smartphone has multifunctional NFC, dual SIM support and runs on DokeOS 3.1 based on Android 13, which ensures a user-friendly interface and up-to-date security features. Overall, the Blackview N6000 is aimed at users who are looking for a compact, yet powerful and durable smartphone for everyday use and outdoor activities.
Oukitel WP21 Ultra
The Oukitel WP21 Ultra (€ 426.88 *) is a rugged smartphone designed for use in extreme conditions. It has a 6.78-inch FHD+ display with a resolution of 1080 × 2460 pixels and a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which ensures a smooth display. The WP21 Ultra is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 octa-core processor with a maximum clock speed of 2.2 GHz, supported by 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal memory, which can be expanded using a microSDXC card.
For photography and special applications, the smartphone is equipped with a 64 MP main camera (f/1.9), a 20 MP night vision camera with three infrared lights and a 5 MP thermal imaging camera. The front camera offers a resolution of 20 MP. An outstanding feature of the WP21 Ultra is the powerful 9,800 mAh battery, which supports 66 W fast charging and thus ensures a long operating time.
The device is IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certified, which means that it is dust and waterproof and can withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters. Android 13 is used as the operating system. With these specifications, the Oukitel WP21 Ultra is aimed at users who need a powerful and durable smartphone for demanding environments.
Cat S75
The Cat S75 (€ 350.50 *) is a rugged smartphone designed for use in demanding environments. It features a 6.6-inch FHD+ display with a resolution of 1080 × 2408 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for increased scratch and shatter resistance. The device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 930 octa-core processor, supported by 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal memory, which can be expanded using a microSDXC card.
For photography enthusiasts, the Cat S75 offers a 50 MP main camera, complemented by an 8 MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 2 MP macro camera. The 8 MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls. An outstanding feature of the Cat S75 is its robustness: it is IP68/IP69K certified, which means it is dust and waterproof and can withstand drops from a height of up to 1.8 meters. It also meets the military standard MIL-STD-810H, which guarantees resistance under extreme conditions.
The 5,000 mAh battery supports 15 W fast charging and therefore provides sufficient power for everyday use. Android 12 is used as the operating system, which ensures a user-friendly interface and up-to-date security features. Overall, the Cat S75 is aimed at users who need a reliable and robust smartphone for use in challenging environments.
Samsung Galaxy xCover7
The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 (€ 265.00 *) is a robust smartphone that has been specially developed for use in demanding environments. It features a 6.6-inch FHD+ display with Gorilla Glass Victus+ for increased scratch resistance and improved drop resistance. Powered by an octa-core processor and equipped with 6 GB of RAM, the XCover7 offers powerful performance for a wide range of tasks. The internal memory of 128 GB can be expanded by up to 1 TB using a microSD card, ensuring sufficient space for data and applications.
With 5G connectivity, the device enables fast data transfers so that important information can be easily accessed on the go. The XCover7 meets MIL-STD-810H standards and is IP68 certified, which means it is protected against dust and water and can withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters. The high touchscreen sensitivity allows operation even with gloves or in wet conditions, which is particularly advantageous in industrial or outdoor environments.
The replaceable 4,050 mAh battery ensures a long operating time and can be changed quickly if necessary to minimize downtime. The device also supports 15W fast charging and is compatible with POGO chargers. For added productivity, the XCover button can be individually configured to quickly launch frequently used applications or functions. With Samsung Knox, the device also offers a high level of security for sensitive data. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is a reliable choice for anyone who needs a durable smartphone with modern features and strong performance.
AGM H Max
The AGM H Max (Review, € 199.00 *) is not a universal smartphone and definitely not interesting for all users. Who should take a look at the AGM H Max? All those for whom a smartphone that offers solid performance and in return scores with a long battery life and robustness is already sufficient.
For bikers and hikers who want to be reachable and may need navigation, but where occasional falls or rain are inevitable. As a work phone with an affordable price and high robustness, but without the need to be able to play games. The robustness and battery life of this device are really very good, as is the dual SIM function with simultaneous use of a micro SD.
Otherwise, however, this smartphone is not at a high performance level. So where the main focus is not on general performance but outdoor robustness, the screen brightness limits the smartphone during the day outdoors and at night the weak light is a shortcoming. However, the really low price should not be ignored when considering the points of criticism.
AGM X6
The AGM X6 (Review, € 299.99 *) is a solid outdoor smartphone that impresses with its compact design and stylish transparent back. Its strengths include dual SIM support, expandable memory via microSD, 8 GB RAM, 5G capability and an up-to-date, almost unchanged Android 14 without superfluous apps. The device scores particularly well with its long battery life, a precise fingerprint sensor and reliable facial recognition.
The performance of the Unisoc Tanggula T750 processor is also solid. While it is ideal for simple applications, it reaches its limits when it comes to demanding tasks. The 50 MP camera only delivers mediocre results, with some blurred and pale images. It also lacks an image stabilizer, which makes videos more difficult. The IPS display impresses with good resolution, color fidelity and viewing angle stability, but weakens in terms of brightness and the refresh rate of just 60 Hz.
The AGM X6’s resistance to shocks, dust and water in accordance with MIL-STD-810H, IP68 and IP69K sets it apart from many of its competitors. The temperature sensor is a nice extra, but not a unique selling point. Overall, the device offers a good overall package at a fair price. However, due to its average performance and camera quality, it has to contend with strong competition.
Blackview BL9000 Pro
The Blackview BL9000 Pro (€ 549.99 *) is a rugged 5G smartphone that has been specially developed for use in extreme conditions. It has a 6.78-inch FHD+ display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which ensures a smooth display. The device is powered by the powerful Dimensity 8020 6nm processor, supported by 12 GB of RAM and a generous 512 GB of internal memory. This ensures smooth performance and plenty of space for apps, photos and videos.
An outstanding feature of the BL9000 Pro is the integrated thermal imaging camera, which offers a wide range of applications, for example in the construction industry or for outdoor activities. In addition, it has a 50 MP main camera and another 50 MP camera, which enable high-quality images. The 8800 mAh battery provides an impressive battery life, and thanks to the 120W fast charging function, the device is ready for use again in a short time. With Android 14 as the operating system, the smartphone offers the latest functions and security updates.
The rugged design of the BL9000 Pro is IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certified, making it protected against water, dust and shock. This makes it the ideal companion for demanding environments and adventures. Overall, the Blackview BL9000 Pro combines powerful hardware with rugged design and innovative features, making it an excellent choice for users looking for a reliable and versatile outdoor smartphone.
AGM H6
For a really fair price, the AGM H6 (Review, € 259.00 *) puts together a decent overall package for price-conscious users. The outdoor smartphone scores points with its robust and impeccable build quality, clean Android 13 and good features.
The jump to a refresh rate of 90 Hertz for the display also suits the device well and the speakers offer a decent sound with a convincing volume. The image quality of the camera, on the other hand, is unfortunately not more than satisfactory. The display resolution and color reproduction also failed to impress us in the test.
The 3.5 mm jack input, the good battery life and the expandable system memory speak in favor of the AGM H6. It is difficult to make a clear recommendation here. Nevertheless, you should keep an eye on the device when it is reduced in price.
Nokia XR21
The Nokia XR21 (€ 469.50 *) is a rugged smartphone designed for use in demanding conditions. Made of durable materials and an inner frame of 100% recycled aluminum, it meets the military standard MIL-STD-810H and IP69K protection class, making it particularly resistant to dust, water and drops. The device has a 6.49-inch display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which ensures smooth scrolling and a pleasant user experience. The dual loudspeakers with OZO Playback technology ensure impressive sound.
The 64-megapixel AI camera enables high-quality shots in different lighting conditions. The new Flash Shot mode helps to capture moving subjects such as pets or children in sharp focus. The camera protection is made of scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass DX+, which lets 98% of light through. With a long-lasting battery that lasts up to two days without recharging, the Nokia XR21 is a reliable companion on the go. It also offers four years of monthly security updates and three years of Android OS upgrades, ensuring the device is secure and up-to-date.
For added convenience, the smartphone can also be operated with wet hands or gloves. The quick access keys allow you to launch your favorite functions directly. With a three-year manufacturer’s warranty and a one-year warranty for free screen replacement, the Nokia XR21 offers a high level of reliability and durability. Overall, the Nokia XR21 is a versatile and robust smartphone that is particularly suitable for users looking for a durable device with modern technical features.
Hotwav Cyber 15
The Hotwav Cyber 15 (€ 299.99 *) is a rugged smartphone designed for extreme conditions. With its IP68/IP69K certification, it is waterproof, dustproof and shockproof – ideal for use in outdoor environments.
Equipped with a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G processor and 6 GB RAM, it offers smooth performance and fast 5G connectivity. The 128 GB internal memory offers plenty of space for data and apps. The 48 MP main camera also enables razor-sharp photos and videos.
The long-lasting 5,000 mAh battery ensures that the smartphone remains ready for use all day long, even under extreme conditions. The 6.78-inch Full HD+ display ensures a clear display, even in direct sunlight. This smartphone is the perfect choice for users who need a reliable device for demanding activities, whether at work or on an outdoor adventure.
AGM G2 Guardian
Even at first glance, the AGM G2 Guardian (Review, Price not available *) makes it clear that it is a true outdoor smartphone. This is mainly due to its robust design, which in turn makes it quite heavy. But unlike many other representatives in this segment, the G2 Guardian also comes with great technical features.
A powerful processor meets a solid display that can even boast 120 Hz. However, the highlights of the device are on the back. Firstly, there is the integrated speaker, which is not only loud, but also has a good sound to offer.
Secondly, in addition to the rather moderately good lenses of the triple camera, there is a genuine thermal imaging camera. This unique selling point, which should delight outdoor enthusiasts in particular, is probably also the reason for the comparatively high price of the smartphone. Together with the powerful flashlight, this is the Swiss army knife of smartphones.
What makes an outdoor smartphone stand out?
Outdoor smartphones are specially designed for use in demanding environments. They are characterized by their robustness and resistance to water, dust, shocks and extreme temperatures. In contrast to conventional smartphones, outdoor devices often have a particularly reinforced housing and additional protective functions such as:
- Shock resistance: Can withstand falls from great heights.
- Water resistance: Can be immersed in water without being damaged.
- Dust resistance: Protected against the ingress of sand and dirt.
- Extended battery life: For use in areas without access to power sources.
Such devices are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, craftsmen or anyone who needs a particularly long-lasting smartphone.
Best outdoor smartphone: important features
When choosing an outdoor smartphone, you should pay attention to the following features:
Robustness
The most important feature of an outdoor cell phone is its robustness. Look for a housing made of high-quality materials such as aluminum or reinforced plastic. Additional rubber coatings offer protection against scratches and knocks. Protective caps or other seals prevent water or dirt from penetrating and causing damage.
Display
The display should be made of scratch-resistant glass, ideally Gorilla Glass. Brightness is also crucial: a bright display is easy to read even in direct sunlight.
Battery life
A large battery is a must. Many outdoor smartphones offer capacities of 5000 mAh or more, which means they can be used for several days.
Additional sensors
Outdoor cell phones often have special sensors such as:
- Barometer
- compass
- GPS with increased accuracy
These are particularly useful for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Camera
If you want to take photos while out and about, make sure you have a good camera. This is important:
- High megapixel count
- Good light sensitivity
- Functions such as night mode and image stabilization
- For more expensive models: Thermal imaging camera
Best outdoor smartphone: Which purchase criteria
When buying an outdoor smartphone, there are a few key points that you should consider:
Protection classes
You should check which protection classes the device meets. IP certifications (e.g. IP68) and military standards (e.g. MIL-STD-810G) provide information about the device’s resistance.
Performance
Outdoor devices should also be equipped with a powerful processor and sufficient RAM. A minimum of 4 GB RAM and a reasonably modern processor ensure smooth performance. More important than the performance of the processor, however, is its energy efficiency. This extends the battery life.
Operating system and updates
Make sure that the smartphone is supplied with an up-to-date operating system and receives regular software and security updates.
Weight and ergonomics
Outdoor cell phones are often heavier than conventional models. You should therefore check whether the weight and size are acceptable for you.
Additional functions
Some models offer useful extras such as
- SOS emergency call function
- Integrated walkie-talkie
- Dual SIM
- Satellite phone
Best outdoor smartphone: Important certifications
IP certification
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates how well a device is protected against the ingress of water and dust. Common IP standards in ascending order:
- IP67: Protection against dust and temporary immersion in water.
- IP68: Protection against dust and permanent immersion in water.
- IP69: Protection against dust, protection against immersion in water and protection against high-pressure water jets
- IP69K: Protection against dust, protection against immersion in water and protection against high-pressure water jets (including hot water).
MIL-STD-810
This US military standard defines tests that a device must pass, e.g:
- Resistance to vibrations
- Protection against extreme temperatures
- Resistance to mechanical damage
- A device with these standards is suitable for the most demanding conditions.
Best outdoor smartphone: frequently asked questions
Are outdoor smartphones slower than normal smartphones?
Not in principle. Many outdoor phones now offer comparable performance to mid-range smartphones. However, there are still significant differences, particularly in terms of design and robustness.
Can I also use an outdoor cell phone in everyday life?
Absolutely. Many models offer modern features that make them suitable for everyday use, such as large displays and solid cameras. However, you should bear in mind that they are often quite heavy and sometimes have very thick casings.
How long do outdoor smartphones last?
The lifespan depends on use. Due to their robust design, they often outlast conventional smartphones.
Best outdoor smartphone: Conclusion
An outdoor smartphone is the ideal choice for anyone who values robustness and durability. Whether hiking, on the construction site or in everyday life – these devices offer a reliable companion. We hope that our buying tips and recommendations will help you find the right smartphone for your next outdoor trip.