10 Best Tough Phones 2025 in the UK

The Nokia G42 5G stands out in the tough-phone category for its robust design and practical features. With a strong 3-day battery life, it promises to keep you connected for extended periods without frequent charging—a crucial advantage for users who are often on the move or in remote areas. The phone's 5G connectivity, powered by the Snapdragon 480 Plus, ensures fast internet speeds, suitable for streaming and browsing on the go. A 50 MP AI triple-rear camera setup offers good quality photos, making it handy for capturing images in various lighting conditions, though it might not rival flagship models in detail and dynamic range.

In terms of durability, its QuickFix repairability is a significant plus. The ability to replace components like screens and batteries yourself offers long-term usability and cost-efficiency. However, the phone's display resolution at 720 x 1612 is lower than some might expect, potentially affecting the clarity and sharpness of images and text. While Android 13 ensures modern software support, the 6GB RAM and 1.8 GHz processor might limit performance for heavy multitasking or gaming.

The inclusion of OZO 3D audio capture adds an extra dimension to video recordings, enhancing the multimedia experience. As a dual SIM phone, it provides flexibility for users who need to manage multiple numbers or travel internationally. While it is unlocked for all carriers, potential buyers should check delivery availability, especially if outside the mainland UK.

The Nokia G42 5G is a solid choice for those seeking a durable and repair-friendly smartphone with reliable battery life and decent connectivity. Those prioritizing high-definition displays and top-tier performance might need to look elsewhere.

The Ulefone Armor 27T Pro 5G is a robust choice for those needing a durable smartphone. Its standout feature is its ruggedness, with IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certifications, ensuring it withstands water, dust, and harsh environments—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and workers in challenging conditions. The device’s 10600mAh battery offers impressive longevity, further complemented by 33W fast charging and wireless charging options, making it reliable for extended use without frequent recharges.

The 6.78-inch FullView Display with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus is another plus, providing a clear, vibrant experience protected against drops and scratches. Its 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, whether you're gaming or streaming videos. While the display is robust, the resolution is moderately high at 1080 x 2460, which is satisfactory but not exceptional for this price range.

Camera quality is also commendable, featuring a 50MP main camera and a 64MP night vision capability, great for capturing clear images even in low-light conditions. The thermal imaging feature adds unique functionality for specific professional or personal uses, though it may not appeal to every user. For connectivity, the phone supports 5G and various carriers, ensuring fast and versatile network access. It includes a dual SIM feature and a 3-card slot, providing flexibility for users who need multiple lines or additional storage. The internal storage of 256GB is ample, and it can be expanded up to 2TB, which is beneficial for users who store extensive media or data.

Running on Android 14 with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, it offers a smooth and modern user experience with access to Google services. The Ulefone Armor 27T Pro is well-suited for individuals seeking durability and battery reliability with decent display and camera features, though its premium features like thermal imaging may not be necessary for everyone.

The Caterpillar CAT S62 Pro is a robust smartphone designed for durability and functionality in challenging environments. Its standout feature is the professional-grade thermal imaging with the FLIR Lepton 3.5 sensor, making it suitable for professionals needing precise thermal measurements. The phone is ultra-rugged, with IP68 and Mil-Spec 810H ratings, ensuring resistance to dust, drops, and harsh conditions, which is excellent for those frequently working outdoors or in industrial settings.

The phone offers a decent battery life with its included Lithium Polymer battery, although specifics are not detailed, users can reasonably expect longevity common in rugged devices. It runs on Android 10, providing a stable and familiar operating system, though not the latest version, which may limit access to newer features or updates. The display is a compact 5.7 inches with a 120 Hz refresh rate and 1920 x 1080 resolution, delivering clear visuals but perhaps not the most vibrant given the rugged nature of the device.

Connectivity is standard with dual SIM capabilities, suitable for users needing multiple network access. The Snapdragon processor ensures smooth performance for most applications, complemented by 6GB RAM and a sizeable 128GB storage, expandable via microSD. This tough-phone is ideal for users prioritizing durability and specialized features like thermal imaging over cutting-edge camera or display technology. While potentially limiting in terms of operating system updates, its ruggedness and functionality make it a strong contender in environments demanding resilience.