Technology
7 Best Rugged Phones under $150 2023

Best Rugged Phones
Best Rugged Phones / Tough mobile phones and smartphones will stay popular for a long time because many people want assurance that their devices won’t get damaged if they accidentally drop them on hard surfaces. For example, hunters and fishermen want phones that won’t be ruined if they fall into the water.
Our list of the best rugged phones and feature phones is based on expert and customer reviews.
To measure how well a phone or smartphone can handle these challenges, we use certain standards like the Ingress Protection Rating (IPxx) system, which rates a device’s resistance to solids and liquids, or the U.S. military standard MIL-STD 810G.
It’s quite obvious that protecting your phone from moisture and dust is important, so many manufacturers now focus on at least meeting the IP67 standard. Whether a Best Rugged Phone has this protection or not doesn’t significantly impact its appearance.
However, making a phone more durable against impacts often results in larger size, heavier weight, and less comfortable design. People accept these trade-offs because they need a rugged phone. Shock-resistant mobile phones are in a niche of their own, and we’re going to explore the best models that can handle falls while still being functional.
We invite you to check out these Best Rugged Phones that won’t let you down.
CUBOT Kingkong 9 Outdoor Unlocked Rugged Phone -$299.99
The CUBOT KINGKONG 9 smartphone boasts impressive specs, including 24GB of RAM and 256GB of storage for smooth performance and ample space for apps and media. It also has a huge 10600mAh battery with fast charging and the ability to charge other devices. The camera setup includes a 100MP main camera, 32MP front camera, 24MP night vision camera, and 5MP macro camera.
The phone features a 6.58-inch FHD+ display with a high 120Hz refresh rate. It runs on the latest Android 13 for enhanced security and features. Plus, it’s rugged, certified for durability, and comes with a two-year warranty. Just remember to restart the phone after inserting SIM or memory cards.
Ulefone Armor X6 Pro Unlocked Rugged Smartphone -$119.99
The Armor X6 Pro smartphone is built tough with high water and dust resistance (IP68/IP69K) and can survive 1.5-meter water immersion for 30 minutes, 1.5-meter drops, and even 24 hours submerged in 1 meter of concrete. It can withstand temperatures from -20°C to 55°C, making it suitable for various environments.
It has 8GB of RAM, 32GB of storage (expandable to 128GB with a TF card), and runs on Android 12 for a smarter and more efficient experience.
The phone features a 4000mAh battery and supports NFC Google Pay for convenient payments. It has a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, with an underwater camera mode for capturing moments while swimming.
The phone is dual-SIM and compatible with global 4G LTE networks, except for AT&T, Cricket, Sprint, and Verizon. Additional features include a Custom Key, Push-to-talk, Toolkit, Gloves Mode, and GPS support. The phone comes with a 1-year warranty and lifetime technical support.
Blackview Unlocked Waterproof Rugged Smartphone -$149.99
The Blackview BV5200 rugged cell phone is tough and suitable for outdoor workers, extreme sports enthusiasts, and teens who enjoy outdoor activities. It’s resistant to water, dust, and drops. You can use it in harsh conditions without worrying about damaging it.
It has 7GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, which you can expand to a massive 1TB with a memory card. This means you can download a lot of movies, music, photos, and videos for your outdoor adventures.
The phone has a good camera with various modes and fast autofocus. You can capture great moments quickly, like birds flying or fast-moving cars.
The battery is big, giving you long standby time and hours of calling, music, and video playback on a single charge. It also supports OTG, so you can charge other devices on the go.
The phone has a 6.1-inch HD+ display, which is great for watching videos and multitasking.
It has features like NFC for easy payments, face recognition for quick unlocking, a glove mode for outdoor use, and a customizable shortcut button for quick access to apps.
The phone runs on Android 12, which offers better privacy protection, customization, and performance. It also has a feature called “Nearby Share” for easy file and app sharing.
Please note that this phone works with various GSM network carriers but doesn’t work with AT&T and Cricket Wireless SIM cards. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and various network bands for connectivity.
DOOGEE S51 Unlocked Rugged Phone -20% off -$127.99
The Doogee S51 is a tough and rugged phone designed for people who need a durable device. It has a strong screen and protective casing, and it’s been tested to withstand tough conditions. This phone is great for outdoor lovers, workers, travelers, and adventurers.
It comes with a large 5180 mAh battery, which means it can last all day without needing a recharge. It’s also not too heavy, making it easy to carry around. Plus, it charges quickly with advanced technology.
The phone has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, which you can expand to a massive 512GB with a memory card. You won’t have to worry about running out of space.
The camera takes good pictures with its 12MP main camera and an 8MP front camera for selfies. You can capture all your special moments.
This rugged phone supports 4G and has features like NFC, OTG, FM, Bluetooth, and fast Wi-Fi. It works with various carriers, but you should check if it’s compatible with your carrier’s bands.
Doogee offers a 2-year warranty and a 30-day return policy, and they have a professional team ready to help you with any questions or issues.
FOSSiBOT F101 Unlocked Rugged Smartphone -$159.99
The FOSSIBOT F101 Rugged Smartphone has a big 10600mAh battery that lasts a long time, and it charges quickly with 18W fast charging. It can even share power with other devices in emergencies.
It comes with a speaker that’s very loud, up to 123dB, making sure you hear calls and notifications even in noisy places.
The phone has 7GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, and you can expand the RAM to 7GB and the storage to 128GB. It runs on the Android 12 operating system, which is secure and protects your data.
The camera takes good pictures with a 24MP main camera and an 8MP front camera. The screen is 5.45 inches and has vivid colors. It’s easy to use with one hand.
This phone is tough and waterproof (IP68/IP69K), so it can handle harsh environments and is great for workplaces. It’s also shockproof, so it can withstand impacts and vibrations.
You can use two SIM cards at the same time, and the phone supports face and fingerprint recognition for quick unlocking. FOSSIBOT offers a 30-day return policy, a two-year warranty, and long-term technical support.
UMIDIGI Unlocked Rugged Smartphone -$259.99
The UMIDIGI BISON GT2 smartphone comes with a large 6.5-inch FHD+ screen that provides a great visual experience with vivid colors and sharp images. It also features a powerful 64MP main camera, which takes impressive photos no matter what you’re shooting.
This phone is equipped with a substantial 6150mAh battery and supports 18W fast charging, ensuring you have ample power and quick recharging.
It runs on the latest Android 12 operating system and is powered by a MediaTek Helio G95 processor, offering strong performance and efficient power management. With 8GB of RAM and up to 128GB of internal storage, you can multitask smoothly, and you can expand storage with a 512GB TF card.
The UMIDIGI BISON GT2 has an internal FM radio antenna, so you can listen to FM radio without headphones or using mobile data. It also includes useful outdoor tools like a Bosch Altimeter, Barometer, and more for various adventures.
This rugged phone meets high durability standards, such as IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810G. It’s designed to withstand tough conditions, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. UMIDIGI offers a 12-month warranty and is ready to assist you with any questions about the phone.
DOOGEE Unlocked Waterproff Rugged Smartphone -$159.99
The DOOGEE S41 PRO is a rugged smartphone that can connect to 4G networks and is compatible with various carriers like T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and more. It supports different frequency bands for network connectivity.
This phone comes with 7GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, expandable with a micro SD card up to 128GB. It runs on the latest Android 12 operating system, ensuring smooth performance.
The DOOGEE S41 PRO features a large 6300mAh battery that lasts all day, making it ideal for outdoor activities and long work shifts. It can even be used as a power bank to charge other devices via an OTG cable, so you don’t need to carry a charger with you. It also supports NFC for Google Pay.
It’s a rugged phone, meaning it’s tough and can withstand harsh environments. It’s IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certified, making it waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof. It can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, and it has a sealed cover to keep out dust.
The phone comes with a 5.5-inch FHD+ INCELL display, offering a clear screen for your usage. The package includes the phone, a USB cable, charger, protective films, SIM card pin, wrist rope, and more.
It’s a reliable choice for those who need a durable and robust smartphone.
In my comprehensive evaluation, the Doogee V MAX emerges as the top choice for the best rugged smartphone. This device exhibits exceptional qualities, including waterproofing, dust resistance, drop protection, and the ability to function in extreme temperature conditions. Furthermore, it boasts an impressive camera setup and 5G connectivity support.
For those seeking a more premium option, the CAT S62 Pro, produced by the same brand renowned for construction equipment, stands out. It offers a superb thermal camera and a robust construction, catering to the needs of demanding users.
On the other hand, individuals looking for a rugged smartphone with great value should consider the Ulefone Power Armor 16 Pro. It combines an exceptionally loud speaker and a high-capacity battery within a resilient design, making it ideal for withstanding the challenges of demanding work environments.
Technology
Best Gaming Desks under 100

Best Gaming Desks under 100
Best Gaming Desks under 100 : If you spend a lot of time using your computer, especially for gaming but also for work or studying, getting a gaming desk might be a smart choice. However, with so many options available in the market, picking the right one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best gaming desks as of September 2023, making it easier for you to choose.
But what makes a gaming desk different from a regular one? Well, gaming desks are specifically designed for gamers, considering their needs and comfort. These desks focus on ergonomics, ensuring comfort during long gaming sessions. They often come with adjustable heights, allowing you to set it up to suit your posture and height. Additionally, they offer features like headphone stands and cup holders to keep your desk organized and tidy. Plus, they provide ample surface area to accommodate all your gaming gear and accessories.
In this guide to gaming desks, we’ll explore various types—from classic desks suitable for office work to ones with LED lights for gamers who love a stylish design. We’ll also cover corner gaming desks, perfect for setting up a gaming space in your bedroom. And if you’re on a budget, there are options for affordable gaming desks too.
How to choose the Best Gaming Desks under 100?
If you’re unsure where to begin when selecting a gaming desk, here are some essential features to consider. These features can prevent you from ending up with a desk that might not suit your needs. While gaming desks may seem like simple pieces of furniture to place your PC and other items, they often come with surprising and useful features. Hence, choosing the right one is crucial. Let’s take a look at the key features to consider before making a purchase. If you’d like more detailed information, we suggest reading our dedicated article on how to choose a gaming desk.
What does a gaming desk look like? | Ergonomics
Considering ergonomics is crucial, especially if you spend long hours at your PC for gaming or work purposes. Most gaming desks are designed to promote proper posture while working or gaming, especially when paired with good gaming chairs. If you experience back discomfort, it’s advisable to choose a desk with adjustable feet that allow you to set the height of the desk surface. Alternatively, desks with raised surfaces where you can place your screen at eye level can also help.
The gaming desks featured in this selection are spacious enough to accommodate two screens. However, if you have exceptionally large screens or simply prefer more space, it’s recommended to look for generously sized desks or consider corner desks. Additionally, the presence of shelves positioned above the worktop can be beneficial. These shelves provide convenient space to place devices like printers, scanners, or even the PC itself, freeing up more space on the desktop surface. This arrangement helps in keeping your workspace organized and efficient.
Media
Gaming desks shine in their ability to provide specialized stands and features. If you’re choosing a gaming desk for these reasons, make sure the product includes features like a hook for hanging headphones, a stand for stacking controllers, a hole for a microphone stand, or clips to manage wires from your PC and screen. The gaming desks we’ve selected offer comprehensive support for gamers, but they do have some differences.
For instance, if you prefer a setup with hidden cables, the Secretlab desk is an excellent choice. It not only hides wires effectively but also incorporates magnetic clips that secure the wiring to the top of the desk, keeping them neatly organized and out of sight. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a desk that’s suitable for both work and gaming, the TribeSigns desk is a classic option. It combines the functionality of a traditional desk with the needs of modern gamers.
In essence, before making a purchase, it’s crucial to understand your specific needs. If you’re solely creating a gaming station, focusing on features that facilitate cable management would be essential. However, if you’re looking for a workspace for both gaming and professional tasks, having the ability to easily and comfortably move devices should be a priority. Ultimately, take some time to envision how you’d use the gaming desk so that you can make the most informed decision before purchasing. This way, you’ll ensure that the desk meets your requirements and enhances your overall gaming or work experience.
What is a gaming desk made of?
If you’re an intense gamer who gets really heated up during play, opting for a carbon fiber desk over a wooden one might be a cooler choice, especially during the hot summer months. The gaming desks recommended in this guide are crafted from both wood and metal. Wooden desks offer an elegant look and can easily fit into neutral environments, such as a small study or living room, not necessarily a gamer’s bedroom. On the other hand, metal desks have a more intricate design and may not blend as seamlessly into a traditional living room setup. However, they provide better cooling properties and often feature grooves in the metal that allow for better ventilation, preventing heat buildup. Additionally, some metal desks come with a dedicated gaming mat, enhancing overall comfort during extended gaming sessions.
How big is a gaming desk?
When selecting a gaming desk, the space available in the room where you intend to place it is a crucial consideration. It might seem obvious, but it’s essential to assess not only the desk’s dimensions but also the space needed for the accompanying chair and your overall movement. It’s important to ensure that you have ample room to move around comfortably without feeling cramped. In our guide, we’ve included gaming desks suitable for various room sizes, including corner desks, to cater to different spatial constraints. Therefore, it’s vital to choose a desk that aligns well with the available space you have.
To figure out which gaming desk suits your space best, you can experiment with your existing furniture. Try moving around an old table or desk in your room to gauge how it fits. Test different positions – place it in a corner, under a window, or even in the living room. Sometimes, the most suitable solution is one you might not have initially considered. By experimenting and trying out various arrangements, you can discover the most optimal setup that fits well within your available space and enhances your gaming experience.
How much does a gaming desk cost?
Price is a critical factor in any purchase decision, including when buying a gaming desk. If you’re aiming for a new gaming desk but want to stick to a budget, around 120-130 euros can get you excellent products, like the ones recommended in this guide. These desks are crafted with durable materials that offer comfort and functionality. As you move up in price, around 150 euros or more, you’ll find professional-grade desks suitable for both gaming and work. These desks are designed for gamers, comparable to those used by eSports professionals, and are built to last for many years.
However, desks priced around 100 euros might save you money initially, but they may compromise on comfort and durability. They might not provide the same level of long-term satisfaction as higher-priced options.
Our recommendation, considering the relatively small price difference among various gaming desks, is to consider investing a little more. Opting for a slightly higher-priced desk can often be worthwhile in the long run. Since these desks are long-lasting products meant to serve you for several years, it’s better to spend a bit more upfront to avoid regretting your decision later. Ultimately, choosing a quality gaming desk that suits your needs and offers lasting comfort and durability is a more prudent investment for your gaming setup.
Technology
Best PS4 Controllers 2023

Best PS4 Controllers 2023
Best PS4 Controllers 2023: What could be a better companion for a gamer than a good controller? It’s true, engaging stories and stunning graphics in games are great, but without a reliable controller, the gaming experience might not be as enjoyable. That’s why it’s crucial to choose your gamepad carefully, ensuring it suits your gaming needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking the latest tech advancements or simply looking for an affordable option, you’ll find the best PS4 controllers listed here that cater to various needs.
Picking the right controller isn’t easy because there are different types available in the market. Some controllers have symmetrical or asymmetrical analog stick arrangements, while others are designed for competitive gaming or customized DualShocks aimed at fans of specific brands.
If you’re more interested in gaming on other platforms, no worries! We’ve also got you covered with articles dedicated to the best controllers for Xbox One and those suitable for mobile gaming. But without further ado, let’s delve into the details of the best PS4 controllers currently available in the market, covering various needs and preferences of gamers.
How to choose the best PS4 controller?
As we mentioned earlier, a controller is one of the most crucial peripherals for a gamer. Having a good controller is vital for fully enjoying video games. Throughout this article and in the upcoming paragraphs, you’ll discover various types of controllers available in the market. These controllers differ in their design, offering features like symmetrical or asymmetrical analog stick arrangements. There are also traditional and premium controllers that cater to the needs of demanding and competitive gamers. Stick with us as we explain all the details!
If you’re looking for more comprehensive information on how to select the perfect controller that suits your preferences, we encourage you to check out our dedicated article. It covers a broader range of factors to consider when choosing a controller that best fits your gaming style and preferences.
Analog Layout
A longstanding debate revolves around whether a symmetrical or asymmetrical stick arrangement on a controller is better. However, it’s challenging, and perhaps not entirely accurate, to declare one layout as definitively superior. The truth is, the preference between symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements largely depends on individual habits and comfort levels. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as what works best varies from person to person.
For instance, if you’re accustomed to playing on PlayStation, you’re likely familiar and comfortable with the symmetrical stick arrangement found in their controllers. Conversely, Xbox gamers might prefer the asymmetrical layout of their controllers. However, it’s also entirely possible to find a PlayStation player who dislikes the symmetrical stick layout or an Xbox player who prefers symmetrical arrangements, hence our recommendation of models with both layouts to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the “better” arrangement is subjective and based on personal preference and familiarity.
Ergonomics
Spending hours immersed in your favorite game, especially in competitive sessions, is quite normal. However, it’s common to feel tired after extended gaming sessions. Eventually, your hands may become fatigued, and the controller might start feeling slippery to hold. When facing lengthy gaming sessions, ensuring complete comfort with the controller becomes essential.
To achieve comfort, it’s crucial to choose a controller that offers the most comfortable thumbstick arrangement for you. Additionally, it should be suitable for your hand size, whether you have smaller or larger hands. It’s also beneficial to consider controllers with non-slip textures, particularly if you tend to have sweaty hands. Moreover, the weight and shape of the controller play a significant role in comfort.
For smaller hands, controllers like the classic DualShock 4 are often recommended for being practically perfect and very lightweight. On the other hand, longer or larger hands might find comfort in controllers with asymmetrical thumbsticks and a heavier weight. Ultimately, selecting a controller that best fits your hand size, grip preferences, and comfort level is crucial for enjoyable and extended gaming sessions.
Additional Features
Controllers exclusively designed for Sony consoles might not necessarily include all the features required by the most demanding gamers. For those who frequently engage in competitive gaming or aspire to become expert players, there are two solutions: transitioning to the PC with a mouse and keyboard or, if you prefer using a controller, opting for one with numerous additional functions.
Controllers with extra features such as fully mappable buttons and backside levers cater to the needs of competitive players. These controllers offer advantages like non-slip textures for better grip, customizable weight distribution, adjustable thumbsticks height, and additional buttons or levers on the back. Moreover, these advanced controllers allow complete button remapping, enabling players to customize button layouts according to specific games. These features enhance gameplay and provide a significant advantage, especially in competitive matches, as they offer more versatility and adaptability for different gaming scenarios.
How much does a PS4 controller cost?
The price plays a crucial role when selecting a controller, and it varies significantly based on the chosen product and its features. For those solely interested in playing video games without specific demands for competitive gaming or advanced comforts, the classic investment of around 60 to 70 euros is more than adequate. This budget will typically get you the traditional yet excellent DualShock 4 controller, the same model that comes bundled with the console.
However, there might be more demanding users among you who prioritize comfort, additional features, and competitive gaming. In these cases, the cost of the controller can easily exceed 130 euros or more. It’s essential to identify your target audience and the features that matter most to you. Determine whether you’re content with the basic functionalities provided by standard controllers or if you’re willing to invest more for added comfort, advanced features, or a competitive edge in gaming. Understanding your preferences and priorities will help you choose the controller that best fits your needs within your budget.
Share your thoughts regarding Best PS4 Controllers 2023 in our comments section.
Technology
Best Budget Gaming TV for PS5

Best Budget Gaming TV for PS5
Best Budget Gaming TV for PS5 : It’s a great time for big TV stores and TV manufacturers right now. With the release of PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and powerful new video cards, many people are either already upgrading their TVs or planning to do so soon.
In this article, we’ll not only give you a general idea of the important features to consider when buying a new TV but also talk about the best types of screens that can make your new gaming hardware perform at its best.
We’ve intentionally left out the 8K TV models in this article, but we’ll be working on a special guide for those who are interested in getting this type of TV in the future.
What is the difference between OLED and LCD? (OLED VS LCD)
OLED TVs are known for providing better picture quality than LCD TVs, especially with noticeably deeper black levels. While OLEDs used to have lower overall brightness, newer models have improved in this aspect as well. LCDs, on the other hand, are not as competitive for gaming anymore, although some still offer good image quality. If you’re looking for a TV specifically for your PS5, it’s recommended to choose an OLED or QLED TV for the best gaming experience.
HDMI 2.0 or 2.1?
Given that the consoles fully support the new HDMI 2.1 formats, our suggestion is to prioritize TVs with this feature, unless budget constraints require compromise. HDMI 2.1 enables you to experience 4K visuals at 120Hz with chroma 444, providing top-notch color quality. Additionally, other features like ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) significantly reduce input lag and on-screen tearing, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
ALLM (Automatic Low Latency Mode)
Automatic Low Latency Mode (ALLM) is a feature that enables your TV to detect when you’re playing video games and then automatically switches to a specialized gaming mode. This mode is optimized for gaming, reducing the delay (known as latency) between when you input a command and when it appears on the screen. Essentially, ALLM helps minimize the delay in displaying your actions during gaming, providing a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is a technology that dynamically adjusts the refresh rate of your TV to match the frame rate outputted by the video source in real-time. This is particularly important because the frame rates of games on consoles and PCs can vary frequently. If your TV has a fixed refresh rate, like 60 Hz, it might cause a visual issue called tearing when the frame rates fluctuate.
VRR helps prevent this problem by ensuring a smooth and consistent image without any visual disruptions or tearing, which is especially crucial for a seamless gaming experience, especially when using a PS5 or playing games with variable frame rates.
Input lag and HDR
Once you’ve settled on the HDMI format, it’s important to choose a panel with low input lag, which fortunately is quite low on most TVs nowadays, and supports the most common HDR (High Dynamic Range) formats. The most widely used HDR format in gaming is HDR10. In addition, there’s Dolby Vision, which is still in the experimental phase and is exclusively related to Xbox.
However, it’s essential to note that the HDR experience in gaming currently faces some challenges. There isn’t seamless collaboration between screens, consoles, and software, which can lead to inconsistencies. To address these issues, HGIG (HDR Gaming Interest Group) was established a few years ago. It’s a collaboration between major TV manufacturers aimed at solving these problems. With HGIG, devices can communicate effectively, reducing the need for manual HDR calibration for each individual video game, thus ensuring a better HDR gaming experience.
HGiG (HDR Gaming Interest Group)
In addition to HDR, considering support for HGiG (HDR Gaming Interest Group) is crucial. HGiG is an association comprising console manufacturers like Sony and Microsoft, along with TV manufacturers and game developers. Their goal is to ensure that PC and console games can automatically identify the display and optimize its settings for delivering the highest image quality possible.
However, it’s important to note that not all games support HGiG. Therefore, users might need to manually adjust settings according to their preferences if their chosen game doesn’t automatically optimize for HGiG-supported displays.
Minimal audio and design
We understand that paying attention to audio might seem less important, especially with the trend of pairing TVs with dedicated audio systems like soundbars. However, if you’re not planning to invest in a separate soundbar, Sony TVs might be a good choice. Sony TVs have a reputation for delivering decent sound quality, supporting various formats including DD (Dolby Digital) and Dolby Atmos.
Regarding design, opting for a super minimalistic design is ideal. This approach allows the TV to blend in seamlessly and keeps the focus on showcasing your PlayStation 5 without any distractions.
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