Newest iPhones and Samsungs pass durability tests
If you're spending hundreds or even thousand dollars on a new smartphone, you want one that can handle that can handle serious wear and tear.
Here's a look at which phones got top marks in Consumer Reports durability testing.
When the iPhone 15 Pro Max was released, rumors immediately started swirling online that it was easy to break, but Consumer Reports put it to the test and debunked those claims.
“We fact checked those complaints, and in our updated bend test and standard drop test, we found no structural issues with the 15 Pro Max,” said Nicholas De Leon, Consumer Reports tech editor.
Consumer Reports drop-tests all phones using a tumbler lined with stone to simulate a waist-high fall onto concrete. All of the iPhone 15 models passed.
Phones are also tested for water resistance, and folding phones are opened and closed 30,000 times to see how they hold up!
The iPhone 14 and 15 and the Samsung Galaxy S22 and S23 – the most recent versions of the most popular brands – got top marks with all of them acing their durability tests.
Still, De Leon suggests, “Well with phones costing more than $1,000, it may make sense to get a case or a screen protector to protect your investment.”
Getting a great case doesn't have to cost a lot. Just look for these features:
- a raised edge around the screen to protect the glass from a face-down fall
- raised edges around the rear camera
- padded corners
- and textured grip so it's easier to hold on to.
Finally, remember that "military grade" may just be a marketing ploy for some cases. Cases from OtterBox, LifeProof and Speck also offer warranties for an added layer of protection.
