A rugged smartphone is a specific type of toughened smartphone which is designed to be completely sealed within a durable housing to protect it against damage from water, shock, dust, and vibration. Rugged smartphones are designed to survive extreme weather and temperatures, accidental damage, and rough handling; making them ideal for working outdoors, or in harsh environments, along with use during extreme sports, such as sailing, rock climbing, etc. Most rugged smartphones have been tested to tough IP68 standards.

However, not all waterproof smartphones will be ruggedised.

There are three general types of rugged phone:

The following IP code ratings for ingress protection (IP), as defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard 60529 (equivalent to European standard EN 60529), are typically used for certifying various toughened and ruggedised smartphones.

IP54 — Solid particle (dust) protection level 5 (protection from harmful dust) and liquid ingress (waterproof) protection level 4 (protection from splashing water from any direction).[1]

IP56 — Solid particle (dust) protection level 5 (protection from harmful dust) and liquid ingress (waterproof) protection level 6 (protection from high pressure water jets).

IP57 — Solid particle (dust) protection level 5 (protection from harmful dust) and liquid ingress (waterproof) protection level 7 (protection from full immersion at depths between 15 centimetres (5.9 inches) and 1 metre (3 feet 3 inches)).

IP67 — Solid particle (dust) protection level 6 (protection from all dust) and liquid ingress (waterproof) protection level 7 (protection from full immersion at depths between 15 centimetres (5.9 inches) and 1 metre (3 feet 3 inches)).