Looking for a serious, rugged smartphone? Take a look at the Samsung Rugby Smart. Apart from sporting a more mainstream look than most rugged handsets, it actually runs a smart OS in the form of Android 2.3 Gingerbread. That alone makes it an interesting option among the half a dozen or so other rugged phone alternatives. And if you’re an AT&T subscriber, it’s one of your best smart and rugged options.
With the Android operating system, you can use it not only as a phone but also as a highly advanced mobile computer. And the fact that it can take its fair share of use and abuse is a huge plus. Some reviewers have even gone so far as to say that it is the best option in its class.
Problems arise with the Rugby Smart when it comes to battery life and speed during performance. Most of the complaints against it are about occasional sluggishness during use. This shouldn’t be surprising since the Rugby Smart isn’t exactly fitted with high-end hardware components. Its battery is also a bit disappointing as it only offers 3 hours of talk time in 3G. And when it comes to standby time, it lasts a little better than 10 days.
This phone might be a good pick for AT&T subscribers who are trying to find a well-balanced rugged smartphone. It specs are hardly impressive, but with an attractive price tag and durable exterior, it’s definitely an attractive choice for the right buyer.
Need to Know: Samsung Rugby Smart
1. Android 2.3 Gingerbread is the default OS. (The Good)
2. Good build quality for professionals who need a rugged phone for work. (The Good)
3. Relatively short battery life. (The Bad)
4. Not as rugged or as smart as other phones available on the market. (The Bad)
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Todd Haselton , TechnoBuffaloI’m the kind of gadget geek that always wants a gadget that I don’t really ever, ever need. I have a solar powered atomic watch that I never wear, for example, but I keep it around in case a Zombie apocalypse does indeed occur. So when I heard about the Rugby Smart I thought to myself, awesome, an A...
- Terrence O'Brien, EngadgetWell, this is a pretty easy decision to make, really. Are you on AT&T? Do you cherish the ability to give your phone a beating over laying claim to top-shelf specs? Then pretty much your only option is the Rugby Smart. Even if you're free to pick whichever carrier you please, this is still probably...
- Sydney Myers, PhonedogThe Rugby Smart may not be the tough, work-horse phone that Samsung says it is, but it's durable enough to handle some drops and water spills. If you need an extra-durable phone, I would look elsewhere. But if you simply have a hectic life and you are a little rough on your phone, the Rugby Smart is...
- Eric M. Zeman, Phone ScoopThe Rugby Smart is a neat little smartphone from Samsung. It's not a fully ruggedized tank, but it's tough enough to endure the daily trials and tribulations of an active lifestyle that might wreak havoc on lesser smartphones.About the only bad thing I can say about it is the fuzzy-sounding voice ca...
- Michael Crider, Android CommunityFor $99.99 on an AT&T contract, you’ve got a few options. If you want 4G LTE, the HTC Vivid is an excellent choice. Those who need more power can opt for the Motorola Atrix 2, and those who want a big, beautiful screen can choose Samsung’s own Galaxy S II. But for someone who wants a small and relat...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the Samsung Rugby Smart user manual here.
Samsung backs up the Rugby Smart with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Rugby Smart has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Samsung support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Samsung's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
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