Summary

The difference between a rugged phone and a normal phone is that a rugged phone can withstands a 1.5m drop without getting damaged and is protected against destruction if immersed in water. Normal phones can only get this level of protection through additional accessories.

Rugged Phones

One of the biggest credentials for rugged phones are that they comply to Millitary Standard 810-G, which basiclly comes down to the fact that they should be able to withstand a 1.5m drop without damage and should be protected against water immersion.

Rugged phones also have another brilliant resilience, dual sims! Most smart phones only have a single sim slot, which restricts you in using different network carriers and increases your risk of being offline.

Normal Phones 

Normal smartphones require extra screen protectors and covers to ensure they dont break. But more than often this is not enough, and will result in your phone needing a screen replacement. Rugged phones do not need any covers, as they are already robust and have Gorilla Glass 5 or 6, which is much tougher and stronger and able to withstand drops. 

CONCLUSION

If you are tired of breaking your phone, and end up spending a big ton of money on protective cases, screen protectors and eventully screen replacements, think of buying a rugged device next time you are in the market to buy a phone.