While rugged cases once served a clear purpose, they may no longer be the best choice for most users. Smartphones are becoming more durable with each passing year as manufacturers invest in better designs and stronger materials. So here’s why rugged cases don’t make sense anymore.
1. Modern Smartphones Are Built to Last
Smartphone makers are using tougher and premium materials on their new smartphones, especially the higher end models. Buyers typically buy rugged cases for smartphones that they’ve spent a lot on. However, these devices feature Corning’s Gorilla Glass technology, ceramic shield, and metallic frames like aluminum or even titanium.
There are even waterproof covers being sold, but most flagships arrive with an IP68 rating that confirms a dust tight design, serving being submerged under up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. So adding a bulky rugged case is just overkill and takes the appeal away from a well-designed smartphone.
2. Bulky Cases Are Inconvenient
Putting on a rugged case can lead to the smartphone becoming almost twice as thick. It also makes the device heftier as well. Premium phones can weigh over 200 grams, so these extra durable cases just make them as heavy as a brick (not literally). Flagship smartphones are built with sleek bodies and extreme precision, and a bulky case just ruins all of its appeal. People go for these cases to keep their smartphones as good as new, but what’s the point of owning such a device if you never get to enjoy it. Some would argue that it helps retain the resale value, although not a lot of people avail such deals.
3. When Rugged Case Actually Make Sense
While rugged cases don’t make sense for everyone, they are ideal for people who work in rough environments or those who frequently take their phones on rugged outdoor adventures. In these situations, the added protection may be worth the trade-offs. But for most users, a standard case with basic drop protection offers more than enough safety for everyday use. We can even consider people with butter fingers to be fair. If you’re one of those who constantly drop their phones, you might as well get the extra protection.
4. Conclusion
Unless you work in tough environments or are struggling with large phones, a rugged case might not be necessary for you. Modern smartphones are built to last and a simple slimmer case might help you save on those annoying dents and scratches. You can save yourself from a bulky armored phone and just choose a simple lighter case that doesn’t take away from the phone’s sleek design. If you want to read more hot takes, click here to check out why flip phones are better than iPhones.
