Construction sites are tough on phones. Dust, drops, and bad weather are common, and regular smartphones often don’t last long. That’s why many workers choose rugged phones. These phones are built to handle harsh conditions, keeping you connected and ready to work.
Rugged phones are made to last. They have tough cases, shatterproof screens, and batteries that go all day. They’re not just for calls—they help you get through your workday without worrying about damage.
Picking the right rugged phone can make your job easier. Many also work with time tracking apps, helping you keep track of your hours. Check out our list of the six best rugged phones for construction workers in 2024.
The Definitive List:
Bonus: How to Track Time on Your Rugged Mobile Phone
Doogee V Max Plus
Kicking off our selection is the Doogee V Max Plus, which stands out for its battery life. With a 22,000mAh battery, it provides up to 1,540 hours on standby. This capability makes it ideal for long work shifts where charging may not be always available.
Also, for construction workers who need to document site progress or conditions, the phone’s camera setup includes a 200MP main camera, a 20MP night vision camera for low-light environments, and an 8MP camera for capturing finer details.
Furthermore, the phone offers 512GB of built-in storage, with the option to expand up to 2TB. This storage capacity can easily handle large files such as blueprints, images, and other project data. However, weighing in at 541 grams, the phone’s bulkier design might pose a challenge for workers who need to carry it frequently during their tasks.
What Users Like
- Exceptional battery life
- Impressive camera configuration
- Large storage capacity
What Users Don’t Like
- Heavy and bulky design
Kyocera DuraForce Pro 3
Following closely is the Kyocera DuraForce Pro 3, which has a 5.38-inch OLED display that remains clear in bright sunlight or wet conditions. The screen can also be used with gloves, which is practical for outdoor and construction environments. The phone includes a removable 4,270mAh battery, allowing workers to swap batteries during long shifts, and supports wireless charging for quick top-ups.
The phone has three programmable buttons that allow workers to access frequently used apps quickly. Its 100dB+ stereo speakers are designed to be heard in loud environments, and the side fingerprint sensor adds another layer of security.
For documenting work, the Kyocera DuraForce Pro 3 comes with a 64MP main camera, a 16MP wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro camera. Dual LED flashlights support these cameras for night or low-light conditions. The phone also includes special camera modes like action overlay and underwater use.
It’s important to note that the Kyocera DuraForce Pro 3 is Verizon-exclusive for 60 days and supports only U.S. 5G frequencies.
What Users Like
- Usable with gloves and in wet conditions
- Solid overall performance
- Removable battery
What Users Don’t Like
- Carrier-limited initially
- Not for global use
AGM H6
Another noteworthy option is the AGM H6, which includes a 6.56-inch display and a three-card slot that allows dual SIMs and a TransFlash (TF) card for extra storage. This feature could be useful for workers needing both work and personal contacts on one phone.
In terms of performance, the phone runs on a Unisoc T606 processor with a 4,900mAh battery, which covers the basic daily tasks. Additionally, the rear 50MP main camera and 2MP macro lens offer basic photography options for capturing site updates or smaller details. This phone’s slim design makes it a more portable option for workers who frequently move around while still being built to withstand outdoor conditions.
What Users Like
- Slim design
- Affordable price point under $300
- Dual SIM plus storage
What Users Don’t Like
- Limited camera capabilities
FOSSiBOT F105
Adding to the lineup, the FOSSiBOT F105, released in mid-July 2024, comes with a 10,300mAh battery, lasting up to 19 days on a single charge. Its large 6.745-inch HD+ display delivers sharp and vivid images. Additionally, the F105 offers enhanced security with biometric options, including fingerprint and face unlock, ensuring quick and secure access under all conditions.
In terms of memory, the phone offers 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM, with options to expand to 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. Further, the dual SIM functionality provides flexibility for workers who need to manage both personal and work contacts, or alternatively, a TF (TransFlash) card can be used for extra storage when needed.
One feature particularly beneficial for construction workers is its reverse charging and OTG (On-The-Go) functionality, which allows the phone to act as a power source for other devices. The phone is available in Eurasian and Global versions, making it functional in various regions and useful for international projects.
What Users Like
- Reverse charging
- Biometric security
- Extended battery life
What Users Don’t Like
- Newly released (long-term reliability untested due to recent launch)
Blackview BV9300 Pro
Fifth on our list, the Blackview BV9300 Pro stands out with features that cater specifically to on-site workers. It features a 6.7-inch primary display and a secondary screen that allows quick access to essential tools like the compass and weather updates without unlocking the phone—a handy feature when wearing gloves. The phone weighs 520g, which contributes to its rugged design but may feel heavy for some users.
One of the device’s most notable characteristics is its massive 15,080mAh battery. Also, its reverse charging capability enables it to act as a power source for smaller devices such as headsets or other phones.
Performance-wise, it comes equipped with 12GB of RAM and expandable storage of up to 1TB. The phone includes a suite of useful tools such as a height measurement app, compass, and sound meter, aiding various on-site tasks. For low-light conditions like basements, tunnels, or night shifts, the built-in 100-lumen flashlight can be particularly helpful.
What Users Like
- Large battery capacity
- Built-in tools useful for on-site work
- Bright 100-lumen flashlight
What Users Don’t Like
- Heavier than other models
Cat S75
The last phone on our list is the Cat S75. At 268 grams, it is lighter than many rugged phones, which can be convenient for construction workers who need to carry it throughout the day. The phone includes a 5,000mAh battery, providing power for a typical work shift.
The Cat S75 has a hybrid SIM tray on the right side. It accommodates either two Nano SIM cards for managing two phone numbers simultaneously or one Nano SIM card and a microSDXC memory card for expandable storage. The phone does not support eSIM technology, which limits flexibility in managing SIM cards and storage options.
It includes a triple rear camera setup: a 50MP main camera, an 8MP wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The front camera features an 8MP Samsung ISOCELL 4H7 sensor. However, the camera configuration may be disappointing to some users because the maximum video resolution is limited to 1080p, despite the sensor’s capability to capture 4K video.
For connectivity, the phone supports 5G networks and offers satellite communication via geostationary satellites. This satellite communication feature is helpful for those who work in areas without cell service, enabling messaging and basic communication where traditional networks are unavailable.
What Users Like
- Slim and lightweight design
- Dual SIM card slot
- Satellite messaging without cell service
What Users Don’t Like
- Limited to only 1080p videos
- Lack of eSIM
Bonus: How to Track Time on Your Rugged Mobile Phone
Tracking time on a construction site is important for managing labor and staying on schedule. Most rugged phones can run advanced time tracking apps that offer features like GPS tracking and geofencing.
GPS tracking allows you to monitor where employees are when they clock in and out, ensuring precise logging of work hours. Geofencing adds an extra layer of control by restricting time entries to specific, authorized locations—preventing clock-ins from outside predefined job site boundaries. Using these apps on rugged phones ensures precise time tracking and better control over labor costs on demanding job sites.
