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Samsung Rugby Pro is one tough Android (pictures)

The Samsung Rugby Pro's more rugged chassis and push-to-talk make it one of the smartest tough phones I've met.

Jessica Dolcourt
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Jessica Dolcourt
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Rugged Samsung Rugby Pro

In the hierarchy of durable phones, the Samsung Rugby Pro is rugged light. What it lacks in thick, rubbery armor, it makes up for with push-to-talk and the most advanced Android capabilities I've seen on a phone of this type.
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Flaps

Flaps like this headset jack cover snap into place to keep out dirt and water.
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Almost flush

The styled sides are fairly flush with the phone's screen, not recessed. On the plus side, the display is easier to read. On the downside, it's also easier to break.
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More buttons

The physical buttons are easier to press with gloves, but you'll still have to remove them to touch the screen.
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Lock and key

You can use a coin to secure the Rugby Pro's back panel.
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Side armor

I like the raised, grippy buttons on the Rugby Pro's spine, and that convenience key above the volume rocker can trigger any app, including push-to-talk.
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Camera

The 5-megapixel camera and flash are actually really good, a surprise for a rugged phone, where a good shooter usually takes the back seat.
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Oops

I may have thrown the phone a little harder than I intended on a carpeted surface (not the concrete pictured), but the back panel immediately popped up. Make sure you screw that down well.

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