Sonim XP7 review: An all-weather workhorse

Rugged devices occupy a curious niche, generally falling into one of two categories. You have your consumer-klutz grade approach, which takes a "normal" phone and tacks on a bit of added durability to weather splashes and falls -- consider the Samsung Galaxy S5 Active . And then there are behemoths like the Sonim XP7, a tool purpose built for survival.

The Sonim XP7 stands up to the elements without sacrificing performance, but you'll need to decide if its durability is worth its premium price.

The Sonim XP7 will take just about anything you can dish out. It has stellar battery life, a versatile display and useful connectivity features for workers who brave the elements.

The phone's premium price and bulky chassis will make it a tough sell for those with more modest needs.

Sonim XP7 (Unlocked) Review

We had some electricians in our office last week, rewiring some benches in the PC Labs. One of them had an old Casio flip phone attached to his belt. Why don't you have a smartphone? I asked. Because he hasn't been able to find one that can stand to be banged against HVAC pipes all day, he said. The Editors' Choice Sonim XP7 is the phone he needs. It isn't just rugged; it comes with a three-year, no-questions-asked manufacturer's warranty. That sets Sonim phones apart from competitors like the Kyocera Brigadier ($399.99 at Verizon) , our top pick for rugged smartphones on Verizon Wireless. The Sonim XP7 was just launched in the U.S., unlocked for $579 via Indiegogo in a package that includes a waterproof Bluetooth headset and a $19 prepaid SIM card. (Don't worry, it's not crowdfunded; Sonim is just using Indiegogo as an e-commerce platform.) It's also currently available from two of Canada's national providers, Bell and Telus, at $199 with a two-year contract; it will be coming t...

The Sonim XP7 is the toughest ruggedized smartphone we've seen yet.

Really tough; Amazing battery life; Incredibly loud speakerphone

Cameras aren't great; Earpiece should be louder, considering its intended use in construction and related fields