10 Best Waterproof Phones for Outdoor Use in 2025
If you spend a lot of time outdoors — hiking, kayaking, camping, or working in unpredictable environments — your phone needs to survive more than just the occasional drop. It needs to withstand rain, dust, mud, and maybe even a dunk in the river. That’s where a waterproof phone becomes more than a luxury — it’s a necessity.
In 2025, the market is full of smartphones claiming to be rugged or water-resistant. But not all waterproof phones are created equal. Some offer basic splash resistance, while others can survive submersion, extreme temperatures, and drops onto concrete. Whether you’re an adventure traveler, a construction worker, or just someone with a habit of spilling drinks, choosing the right waterproof device can save you a lot of frustration and money.
This guide highlights the 10 best waterproof phones for outdoor use in 2025, selected for their durability, IP ratings (like IP68 or IP69K), build quality, and additional outdoor-friendly features such as thermal imaging, long battery life, and rugged design. We’ve included both premium flagship models and budget-friendly rugged phones — so whether you’re looking for a powerful camera phone that can handle the wild, or just a tough companion for your weekend hikes, there’s something here for you.
Each waterproof phone listed below has been evaluated for real-world use, including its ability to withstand water exposure, outdoor environments, and accidental drops. From the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra to the Ulefone Power Armor 19T, these phones are not just about surviving the elements — they’re built to thrive in them.
Let’s dive into the ultimate list of the most durable and waterproof phones you can buy in 2025.
Best Waterproof Phone for Outdoor in 2025
Here’s our top 10 list of waterproof phones built for adventure:
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
IP Rating: IP68
Price: ~$1,299
Why it’s great:
Samsung’s flagship is not only sleek and stylish but also incredibly tough. It can handle being submerged in water, survive rough drops, and still take stunning photos in any environment. The camera system is among the best in the world, and its battery easily lasts a full day of hiking or shooting content in the wild.
2. iPhone 15 Pro Max
IP Rating: IP68
Price: ~$1,199
Why it’s great:
Apple’s top-tier phone is known for its performance and polished design, but it’s also impressively durable. It’s rated to survive water up to 6 meters deep for 30 minutes. Great for photographers and videographers on the move, especially with its ProMotion display and powerful A18 chip.
3. Google Pixel 8 Pro
IP Rating: IP68
Price: ~$999
Why it’s great:
Perfect for those who want a clean Android experience with robust water protection. The Pixel 8 Pro comes with top-notch AI features, smart photography modes, and a highly responsive design. It’s built to resist rain, spills, and dusty trails without skipping a beat.
4. CAT S75
IP Rating: IP68, IP69K + MIL-STD-810H
Price: ~$599
Why it’s great:
If you need something that can survive drops, water jets, and extreme weather, this is it. The CAT S75 isn’t pretty, but it’s designed for construction sites, survivalists, and adventurers who need a phone that just won’t quit—plus, it has satellite connectivity for off-grid communication
5. Doogee S100 Pro
IP Rating: IP68/IP69K/MIL-STD-810G
Price: ~$349
Why it’s great:
An affordable beast built to withstand nature’s worst. The Doogee S100 Pro features a huge 10800mAh battery, thermal imaging camera, and ultra-rugged frame. It’s perfect for long trips into the wilderness or job sites where fragile phones wouldn’t last a day.
6. OnePlus 13
IP Rating: IP68
Price: ~$799
Why it’s great:
A great blend of style and durability, the OnePlus 13 delivers fast charging, a bright AMOLED screen, and IP68 protection. It’s ideal for travelers and content creators who need both performance and peace of mind when it comes to water or dust exposure.
7. Sony Xperia 1 VI
IP Rating: IP65/IP68
Price: ~$1,199
Why it’s great:
The Xperia 1 VI is a dream for creators. It combines a professional-grade camera system with waterproof protection and a 4K OLED display. You can shoot cinematic footage at the beach or in the rain without worrying about damage.
8. Motorola Defy 2
IP Rating: IP68 + MIL-STD-810H
Price: ~$499
Why it’s great:
Durability meets affordability in the Defy 2. This phone is water-, dust-, and drop-resistant, making it a smart pick for fieldwork, construction, or active users who are always on the go. Battery life is solid, and the design is surprisingly comfortable for a rugged phone.
9. Ulefone Power Armor 19T
IP Rating: IP68/IP69K
Price: ~$389
Why it’s great:
This is the phone for explorers and engineers. It comes with a FLIR thermal camera, a massive 9600mAh battery, and high-level water and dust resistance. Built to survive where others fail—underground, underwater, and under pressure.
10. Fairphone 5
IP Rating: IP55
Price: ~$699
Why it’s great:
Fairphone 5 is all about sustainability and repairability. While it’s not as waterproof as others on this list, its IP55 rating offers solid protection against splashes and light rain. Ideal for eco-conscious users who want a responsible choice that still performs well.
Table Comparison
| Phone | IP Rating | Battery | Display | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | IP68 | 5000 mAh (~1.5 days) | 6.8″ QHD+ AMOLED | TBD | $1299+ (est.) |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | IP68 | 4422 mAh (~1 day) | 6.7″ Super Retina XDR | 221g | $1199+ |
| Google Pixel 8 Pro | IP68 | 5050 mAh (~1 day) | 6.7″ LTPO OLED | 213g | $999 |
| CAT S75 | IP68 / IP69K / MIL-STD-810H | 5000 mAh (~1.5 days) | 6.6″ FHD+ LCD | 268g | $600–$650 |
| Doogee S100 Pro | IP68 / IP69K / MIL-STD-810H | 10800 mAh (~3 days) | 6.58″ FHD+ | 413g | $350–$450 |
| OnePlus 13 | IP68 (expected) | TBD (~1.5–2 days est.) | 6.82″ AMOLED (est.) | TBD | $899+ (est.) |
| Sony Xperia 1 VI | IP65/IP68 | 5000 mAh (~1 day) | 6.5″ 4K OLED | TBD | $1399 |
| Motorola Defy 2 | IP68 / IP69K / MIL-STD-810H | 5000 mAh (~1.5 days) | 6.6″ FHD+ LCD | 268g | $599 |
| Ulefone Power Armor 19T | IP68 / IP69K / MIL-STD-810H | 9600 mAh (~2–3 days) | 6.58″ FHD+ LCD | 409g | $350–$400 |
| Fairphone 5 | IP55 | 4200 mAh (removable) | 6.46″ OLED | 212g | $699 |
✅ Final Thoughts
From high-end flagships to rugged tools of survival, 2025 has a waterproof phone for everyone. Don’t forget to check the IP rating, drop resistance, and battery capacity when making your pick—especially if your adventures often take you off the beaten path.
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🙋♀️FAQ
1. What makes a phone waterproof?
A phone is considered waterproof if it has an IP rating of IP67 or higher, meaning it can resist water immersion for a certain depth and duration. Most waterproof phones in 2025 come with IP68 certification.
2. Can I use a waterproof phone underwater for photography?
Yes, but it depends on the phone. While many waterproof phones allow shallow underwater use, it’s best to use them for quick snaps. Extended use or saltwater exposure might still cause damage unless the phone is specifically rated for such use.
3. Are waterproof phones also dustproof and drop-resistant?
Most waterproof phones with IP68 are also dust-resistant, but not all are rugged or drop-resistant. Look for MIL-STD-810H or Gorilla Glass protection for added durability.
4. Which waterproof phone has the best battery life in 2025?
Phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Ulefone Power Armor 19 stand out with massive batteries that can last over a day even with heavy outdoor use.
5. Do I need a waterproof phone if I use a case?
A rugged waterproof case can help, but it’s not a full replacement for built-in water resistance. Phones with native waterproofing offer better peace of mind for hiking, kayaking, and wet environments.