Ulefone, a brand that has built its reputation around rugged mobile devices, has officially introduced a brand-new smartphone series called RugKing. Designed to deliver durability, practicality, and affordability in one package, the RugKing line debuts with its first model carrying the same name. Targeted at users who demand toughness without breaking the bank, this device brings a combination of military-grade protection, modern hardware, and clever accessories support—all at a budget-friendly price.
The developers claim that the smartphone will survive a fall from a height of up to 2 meters and immersion to a depth of up to 2 meters for 30 minutes.
Military-Grade Durability
The Ulefone RugKing has been engineered to withstand extreme environments. It complies with MIL-STD-810H, IP68, and IP69K certifications, ensuring resilience against drops, dust, and water. According to the company, the device can survive:
-
A fall from up to 2 meters without serious damage.
-
Submersion in water at a depth of up to 2 meters for 30 minutes.
-
Resistance to dust, dirt, and high-pressure water jets.
This makes the RugKing an excellent choice for outdoor workers, adventure seekers, or anyone who needs a phone that can take serious abuse.
Display and Performance
Despite its rugged nature, Ulefone has not compromised much on usability. The RugKing features a 5.99-inch IPS display with HD+ resolution and a peak brightness of 910 nits, making it readable even under bright sunlight—ideal for use in outdoor conditions.
Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by the Unisoc T7255 processor. This octa-core chip runs at 2.0 GHz and is paired with Mali-G57 graphics, offering a balance between energy efficiency and performance for everyday tasks, streaming, and light gaming.
Another feature of the RugKing smartphone is the presence of a uSmart 2.0 connector, which allows you to connect some Ulefone accessories to the mobile device.
Memory and Storage
The RugKing provides plenty of room for apps, photos, and files thanks to:
-
8 GB LPDDR4X RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking.
-
256 GB of internal storage (UFS 2.2), offering faster read/write speeds compared to standard eMMC memory.
For users who need additional storage, the phone also supports expansion via microSD.
Battery Built for Endurance
One of the standout features of the RugKing is its massive 9600mAh battery. Ulefone promises extended use times, making the phone suitable for camping trips, long workdays in the field, or emergencies where charging options are limited. The battery supports 18W fast charging, ensuring that despite its size, topping it up won’t be unbearably slow.
Camera Setup
Photography isn’t forgotten on this rugged device. The RugKing is equipped with:
-
50 MP main rear camera for high-resolution shots.
-
2 MP macro sensor for close-up detail photography.
-
8 MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
While this setup isn’t meant to compete with flagship camera systems, it provides reliable performance for everyday use.
Rugged Extras: uSmart 2.0 and Loud Speaker
A key addition to this smartphone is the uSmart 2.0 connector, a proprietary port that lets users attach compatible Ulefone accessories. These include professional tools such as endoscopes, night vision cameras, or specialized sensors—making the RugKing more than just a phone, but a versatile tool for professionals.
Another standout feature is the powerful speaker capable of reaching up to 126 dB. That’s louder than a jackhammer and ensures you’ll hear alerts, music, or calls even in the noisiest environments.
Software and Pricing
The RugKing runs on Android 15, providing the latest Google features, security updates, and performance improvements out of the box.
As for pricing, Ulefone continues its tradition of affordability:
-
Standard retail price: $210.
-
Early-bird launch price: $149.99 (for the first week).
At this price point, the RugKing undercuts most rugged smartphones while still delivering military-grade durability and impressive hardware.
Final Thoughts
The Ulefone RugKing is shaping up to be a strong contender in the rugged smartphone market. With its durable build, huge battery, expandable storage, and unique uSmart 2.0 connector, it offers practical value at a budget price. Whether you’re a construction worker, outdoor enthusiast, or someone prone to dropping their phone, the RugKing provides peace of mind and functionality without emptying your wallet.
