As a business professional, you’re likely no stranger to the importance of having the right smartphone by your side. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the one that best fits your needs. You’re looking for a device that can keep up with your demanding schedule, from marathon meetings to endless emails. You need a phone that’s not just reliable, but also powerful, secure, and feature-rich. But which one makes the cut? From rugged smartphones to sleek flagships, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 11 devices that will take your productivity to the next level.
1. OUKITEL WP35 Rugged Smartphone 5G
OUKITEL WP35 Rugged Smartphone 5G - 24GB+256GB/TF 2TB Android 14 Rugged Phone, 11000mAh Large Battery, 6.6" FHD+ Corning Screen, Dual Sim Cell Phone, 64MP+32MP Camera, NFC/OTG/BT5.2/T-Mobile, Grey
When you’re looking for a smartphone that can keep up with your demanding business needs, the OUKITEL WP35 Rugged Smartphone 5G stands out with its massive 11000mAh battery, offering up to 50 days of standby time and 15 hours of video playback. This rugged phone can withstand harsh environments, making it perfect for outdoor workers, construction workers, and cyclists. With a 6.6-inch FHD+ Corning screen and a 64MP main camera, you can capture clear photos and videos on the go. The phone also features NFC, OTG, and facial recognition, providing convenience and flexibility. Additionally, it supports 5G network and has a memory expansion technology that adds 16GB of virtual memory to the existing 8GB RAM.
Best For: Outdoor workers, construction workers, cyclists, and those who need a rugged smartphone that can keep up with their demanding business needs.
Pros:
- The phone has a massive 11000mAh battery that offers up to 50 days of standby time and 15 hours of video playback.
- It features a 6.6-inch FHD+ Corning screen and a 64MP main camera that can capture clear photos and videos.
- The phone supports 5G network and has a memory expansion technology that adds 16GB of virtual memory to the existing 8GB RAM.
Cons:
- Some users report issues with the phone’s compatibility with certain networks, such as T-Mobile.
- The phone’s size and weight may be a concern for some users.
- The screen visibility in sunlight may be an issue for some users.
2. Motorola Think Phone, 8/256GB, 50MP Camera
Motorola Think Phone | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Volcanic Gray, 6.6 inches
$399.99 in stock
For business users needing a reliable and secure smartphone, the Motorola Think Phone, 8/256GB, 50MP Camera is an excellent choice. This Android 13.0 device features a 6.6-inch FHD+ display, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage. With a 50MP rear camera and fast charging support, you’ll be equipped to handle your daily business tasks efficiently.
The Motorola Think Phone also prioritizes security, boasting Moto KeySafe, PINs, passwords, and cryptographic keys isolated from other device data. Its impact-resistant Gorilla Glass Victus display protection, MIL STD 810H-tested, and IP68-certified durability ensure it can withstand rough handling. Additionally, the ThinkShield for mobile feature provides AI-based defense systems and government-grade certifications, making this smartphone a solid choice for business professionals.
Best For: Business users needing a reliable, secure, and efficient smartphone to handle their daily tasks.
Pros:
- 6.6-inch FHD+ display and fast charging support for efficient daily use
- Prioritizes security with Moto KeySafe, PINs, passwords, and cryptographic keys isolated from other device data
- Durable design with impact-resistant Gorilla Glass Victus display protection, MIL STD 810H-tested, and IP68-certified
Cons:
- No expandable storage option
- No headphone jack available
- Device can get warm during use
3. TracFone Moto g Pure Smartphone
TracFone Moto g Pure (2021), 32GB, Blue - Prepaid Smartphone (Locked/Renewed)
If you’re a business user who prioritizes long battery life and affordability, the TracFone Moto g Pure Smartphone is worth considering. This device is locked to Tracfone and is compatible with their plans, including Unlimited Talk & Text Plus Unlimited Carryover Data. You’ll enjoy up to two days of battery life, a 6.5″ Max Vision HD+ display, and a dual camera system with a 13MP camera and depth sensor. The phone also features an octa-core processor with HyperEngine, a fingerprint reader for secure unlocking, and a water-repellent design. While it’s not suitable for gaming or heavy web browsing, and has some limitations such as slow performance after updating to Android 12, it’s a good option for basic business use.
Best For: Business users who prioritize long battery life and affordability for basic tasks.
Pros:
- Up to two days of battery life, making it suitable for users who need a device that can last throughout the workday and beyond.
- A 6.5″ Max Vision HD+ display, providing a clear and spacious screen for viewing and interacting with content.
- A fingerprint reader for secure unlocking, offering an additional layer of security for business users.
Cons:
- Slow performance after updating to Android 12, which may hinder productivity and user experience.
- Not suitable for gaming or heavy web browsing, limiting its use for more resource-intensive tasks.
- Limited camera capabilities, including no night vision, which may be a drawback for users who require high-quality camera performance.
4. Google Pixel 6a Android Phone
Google Pixel 6a - 5G Android Phone - Unlocked Smartphone with 12 Megapixel Camera and 24-Hour Battery - Sage
One key feature that makes the Google Pixel 6a Android Phone an excellent choice for business users is its camera capabilities. You’ll appreciate the 12-megapixel camera with Magic Eraser, Motion Mode, and Portrait Mode – perfect for capturing high-quality images on the go. The phone’s Google Tensor chip ensures fast performance and security. With an IP67 dust and water protection rating, you don’t have to worry about accidental drops or spills. The phone also boasts up to 72-hour battery life with Extreme Battery Saver. Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas provides enhanced quality and connection. Additionally, you can take advantage of Live Translate in up to 55 languages. Overall, the Google Pixel 6a is a solid choice for business professionals who value camera capabilities and performance.
Best For: Business professionals who value high-quality camera capabilities, fast performance, and long battery life in a secure and reliable smartphone.
Pros:
- The Google Pixel 6a offers an excellent camera experience with a 12-megapixel camera, Magic Eraser, Motion Mode, and Portrait Mode.
- The phone’s Google Tensor chip provides fast performance and security, while the IP67 dust and water protection rating ensures durability.
- The phone boasts up to 72-hour battery life with Extreme Battery Saver, making it suitable for heavy use.
Cons:
- Some users have reported concerns about the front/display fingerprint sensor.
- The phone may be prone to overheating, which can impact performance.
- Charging time can be slow, particularly without the Google 30W USB-C or Google 18W USB-C Charger.
5. Blackview Rugged Smartphone BV4800
Blackview Rugged Smartphone Unlocked, 2024 BV4800 Rugged Phone, Android 13 Smartphone, 6GB+64GB/SD 2TB, 5180mAh, 6.56'' HD+, IP69K Waterproof Mobile Phone, NFC, Fingerprint ID, 3 Card Slots, T-mobile
When you need a smartphone that can withstand the rigors of your workday, look no further than the Blackview Rugged Smartphone BV4800. This phone is designed to take a beating, with IP68/IP69K waterproof certification and MIL-STD-810H drop-proof durability. The 6.56-inch screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass and can withstand drops of up to 5m. With a 5180mAh battery and OTG function, you’ll have all-day power. The phone also features a 13MP main camera, NFC, fingerprint ID, and 3 card slots. Running on Android 13 with Doke OS 4.0 integration, the BV4800 provides a fast and responsive performance. It’s an ideal choice for business professionals who work in harsh environments.
Best For: Business professionals who work in harsh environments and need a smartphone that can withstand rough handling and extreme conditions.
Pros:
- The Blackview Rugged Smartphone BV4800 offers exceptional durability with IP68/IP69K waterproof certification and MIL-STD-810H drop-proof durability.
- It features a long-lasting 5180mAh battery with OTG function, providing all-day power and the ability to charge other devices.
- The phone has a high-quality camera system with a 13MP main camera and advanced camera algorithms, making it ideal for capturing high-quality photos in various environments.
Cons:
- The phone is not compatible with CDMA carriers, limiting its use for some users.
- It has a relatively low screen resolution of 720*1612 pixels, which may not be suitable for users who require high-definition displays.
- The phone’s processor speed of 2.0GHz may not be sufficient for demanding tasks and heavy usage.
6. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | 2021 | 2-Day Battery | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 48MP Camera | Cosmic Emerald
The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G stands out as a top choice for professionals seeking a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed smartphone for business use. With a large 6.8″ Max Vision Full HD+ Display and a built-in stylus, you’ll have precise navigation and creativity at your fingertips. The phone’s performance is fast, thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G processor, and it has a long-lasting 5000mAh battery that can last up to 2 days. The 48MP Quad Camera System is also a highlight, with 4x low-light sensitivity and 128GB of storage that can be expanded up to 1TB via microSD card. This combination of features makes the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G an excellent option for business professionals.
Best For: Business professionals who require a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed smartphone with advanced camera capabilities and precise navigation options.
Pros:
- Fast performance with 5G speed using the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G processor
- 48MP Quad Camera System with 4x low-light sensitivity and expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD card
- Long-lasting 5000mAh battery that can last up to 2 days and comes with fast charging capabilities
Cons:
- Some users experience issues with signal reception in remote locations
- Users find the screen resolution to be low-end, but still readable
- No details on water or dust resistance, which might be a concern for some users
7. Samsung Galaxy Note 8, 64GB, Midnight Black – For AT&T (Renewed)
Samsung Galaxy Note 8, 64GB, Midnight Black - For AT&T (Renewed)
If you’re looking for a powerful smartphone with advanced camera capabilities, consider the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, 64GB, Midnight Black – For AT&T (Renewed). This phone features a dual-camera setup with real 2x zoom and background blur effects, perfect for business professionals who need to capture high-quality images on the go. The 6.3-inch display has an 18.5:9 aspect ratio, providing ample space for multitasking and productivity. The S-Pen comes with more precise and useful features, making it ideal for taking notes and signing documents.
As a renewed product, this phone has been inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage and like-new functionality. It’s also been tested for battery health, with a minimum capacity of 80%. The charger and charging cable are included, although the charger may be generic. Overall, this phone is a great option for business professionals who want a powerful and feature-rich device without the high cost of a new phone.
Best For: Business professionals who need a powerful smartphone with advanced camera capabilities and a feature-rich device for productivity without the high cost of a new phone.
Pros:
- Dual-camera setup with real 2x zoom and background blur effects for high-quality images
- S-Pen with more precise and useful features for taking notes and signing documents
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage and like-new functionality
Cons:
- Locked to AT&T, limiting carrier options
- No headphones or SIM card included
- Minor issues reported by some reviewers, such as the fingerprint scanner location or charger quality
8. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Smartphone
SAMSUNG Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone 128GB US Version Smartphone Pro-Grade Camera 8K Video 108MP High Res, Phantom Silver
$699.98 in stock
High-performance professionals seeking top-notch camera capabilities in their business smartphone can’t go wrong with the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Smartphone. This device boasts a 108MP high-resolution camera that captures crystal-clear still shots whether it’s day or night. With its 100X Space Zoom, taking photos and videos like a pro has never been easier. You can also create share-ready videos and GIFs with multi-cam recording and automatic, professional-style effects.
You’ll love the smartphone’s striking new design, curved display, and vibrant 1440p, 120Hz display. The battery life is impressive, with up to two days of endurance. The phone’s fast processor and intelligent software ensure seamless performance. With 5G connectivity, you’ll enjoy next-generation connectivity for all your business needs. Whether you’re taking high-quality photos or streaming videos, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Smartphone is an excellent choice.
Best For: High-performance professionals seeking top-notch camera capabilities in their business smartphone.
Pros:
- Boasts a 108MP high-resolution camera with 100X Space Zoom, capturing crystal-clear still shots and videos.
- Offers impressive battery life with up to two days of endurance, fast processor, and intelligent software for seamless performance.
- Features a striking new design, curved display, and vibrant 1440p, 120Hz display.
Cons:
- No charging brick is included with the device.
- The phone’s size and weight may not be suitable for all users.
- The high price point may be a deterrent for some professionals.
9. SAMSUNG Galaxy S22 256 GB Pink Gold
SAMSUNG Galaxy S22 256 GB Pink Gold
As a business professional looking for a reliable smartphone, you’ll appreciate the SAMSUNG Galaxy S22 256 GB Pink Gold, particularly its exceptional video recording capabilities, featuring 8K SUPER STEADY VIDEO. This feature allows you to capture stunning, high-resolution videos that are perfect for presentations, meetings, and marketing materials. The phone also features NIGHTOGRAPHY plus PORTAIT MODE, which enables you to capture crystal-clear, bright pics and videos even in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 50MP PHOTO RESOLUTION and BRIGHT DISPLAY with Vision Booster ensure that your photos and videos are vivid and detailed. With its premium design and craftsmanship, this phone is a great choice for business professionals who want a reliable and high-quality device.
Best For: Business professionals who require a reliable and high-quality smartphone for presentations, meetings, and marketing materials.
Pros:
- Exceptional video recording capabilities with 8K SUPER STEADY VIDEO and NIGHTOGRAPHY plus PORTAIT MODE for high-quality videos in various conditions.
- Vivid and detailed photos and videos with 50MP PHOTO RESOLUTION and BRIGHT DISPLAY with Vision Booster.
- Intelligent battery with 25W Super-Fast Charging for all-day power and efficient charging.
Cons:
- Design flaws, such as camera location, making cases prone to breaking.
- No 3.5mm jack and no removable battery, limiting user flexibility.
- Bloatware and difficulty in turning off notifications, potentially affecting user experience.
10. BlackBerry Passport – Factory Unlocked Smartphone – White (U.S. Warranty)
BlackBerry Passport - Factory Unlocked Smartphone - White (U.S. Warranty)
The BlackBerry Passport’s unique square touchscreen display is an absolute game-changer for business users who need to view and edit large format documents on the go. You’ll appreciate the phone’s solid build quality and premium feel, along with its genius capacitive sensing touch feature that makes scrolling through web pages a breeze. With 32GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 128GB, you’ll have ample space for your files. You’ll also enjoy seamless multi-tasking and a battery life that lasts up to 25 hours of mixed use. The phone’s 13-megapixel camera is on par with an iPhone, and its compatibility with GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile makes it a great choice for business professionals.
Best For: Business professionals who need to view and edit large format documents on the go, as well as those who value a solid build quality, premium feel, and seamless multi-tasking.
Pros:
- Unique square touchscreen display ideal for viewing large format documents
- Ample storage space with 32GB of internal storage and expandable up to 128GB via a microSD card
- Long-lasting battery life of up to 25 hours of mixed use
Cons:
- Limited app selection compared to other smartphones, with some apps requiring a Google account to function
- No removable battery, which may be a drawback for some users
- Some users may find the device too large or bulky due to its square shape
11. BlackBerry KEY2 4G LTE Android Smartphone
BlackBerry KEY2 Silver Unlocked Android Smartphone (AT&T/T-Mobile) 4G LTE, 64GB
For business users who need a reliable and secure device, the BlackBerry KEY2 4G LTE Android Smartphone stands out with its innovative keyboard and robust security features. You’ll love the redesigned smart keyboard, which includes a speed key, touch navigation, and customizable shortcuts. The keyboard is also a trackpad, and the spacebar doubles as a fingerprint sensor. With Android 8.1 Oreo and access to over a million apps, you’ll stay productive on the go. The battery life is impressive, with up to 10:30 of screen on time while watching HD video, and the phone can last 2-3 days with regular use. The 12MP + 12MP dual rear camera and 8MP front camera are decent, but the real standout is the phone’s security features, including DTEK by BlackBerry security monitoring.
Best For: Business users who require a secure and reliable device with a physical keyboard for enhanced productivity and security features.
Pros:
- The redesigned smart keyboard provides an excellent typing experience and features a speed key, touch navigation, and customizable shortcuts.
- The phone’s battery life is impressive, with up to 10:30 of screen on time while watching HD video and lasting 2-3 days with regular use.
- The device offers robust security features, including DTEK by BlackBerry security monitoring, making it ideal for users who prioritize data protection.
Cons:
- The camera performance is only average, especially considering the phone’s 2018 release.
- The screen display could be better, with some users finding it lacking compared to other smartphones.
- There are visible gaps in the piece that covers the keyboard, which may be aesthetically unappealing to some users.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Smartphones for Business Professionals
When choosing a smartphone for business, you should consider several key factors that impact its performance, functionality, and security. You’ll want a device that meets your needs for productivity, communication, and data storage, making factors like screen size, processor speed, and operating system security crucial. By evaluating these essential elements, including camera and video capabilities, storage options, and more, you can find the best smartphone for your business requirements.
Screen Size and Type
You likely spend a significant amount of time interacting with your smartphone’s screen, so choosing the right size and type is crucial for business productivity. When it comes to screen size, you’ll want to consider your specific needs – larger screens (around 5.5-6.5 inches) are ideal for multitasking, viewing documents, and browsing the internet, while compact screens (around 4-5 inches) are better suited for one-handed use.
A high-resolution display (at least Full HD, 1080p) is also essential for crisp text and detailed visuals. However, keep in mind that higher resolutions may consume more battery power. The type of touchscreen display you choose can also impact responsiveness and accuracy, with capacitive displays generally being more user-friendly. Additionally, display materials like IPS, OLED, or LCD can affect color accuracy, contrast, and overall visual quality – OLED is often considered the top choice for business use. Look for screens with Corning Gorilla glass protection or similar technology for added durability, and opt for a higher pixel density (above 400 PPI) for sharper text and images.
Processor and RAM
A smartphone’s screen is just the beginning; its processor and RAM are the backbone of its performance. When choosing a smartphone for business, you’ll want to consider a device with a fast processor and sufficient RAM to handle demanding tasks and multitasking. A minimum of 4GB RAM is recommended, but 6GB or more is ideal for heavy users who need to run multiple resource-intensive apps simultaneously. The type of processor also matters, with Qualcomm Snapdragon and Apple A-series processors being popular choices for their performance and power efficiency.
For heavy business use, a quad-core or octa-core processor provides better performance and efficiency compared to single-core or dual-core processors. Additionally, the processor speed, measured in GHz, affects performance, with higher speeds resulting in faster task completion and responsiveness. If you plan to use your smartphone for resource-intensive tasks like video editing or graphics design, you’ll require a more powerful processor with higher clock speeds. A combination of at least 6GB of RAM and a processor speed of 2.0 GHz or higher can handle demanding tasks and ensure seamless performance.
Storage and Expandability
Considering the processor and RAM requirements are met, the storage capacity and expandability of a smartphone are key factors to evaluate for business professionals. You’ll want a device with ample internal storage to accommodate large files, such as documents and multimedia presentations. A minimum of 64GB is recommended, but more storage is always better. Expandable storage options like microSD card slots can provide additional storage space, but check compatibility and maximum capacity limits.
Cloud storage integration is also essential for seamless file access and sharing across multiple devices and platforms. Look for smartphones with built-in cloud storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive. The type of storage, such as UFS or eMMC, can impact performance, with UFS being generally faster. Additionally, consider the phone’s ability to connect to external storage devices, such as USB drives or external hard drives, for easy data transfer. USB-C ports or other fast transfer methods can facilitate quick data transfer to and from external storage devices or computers. With these factors in mind, you can choose a smartphone that meets your business needs.
Operating System Security
Two of the most critical factors in choosing a smartphone for business use are the operating system’s security features and the manufacturer’s commitment to providing timely software updates and security patches. You’ll likely be deciding between Android and iOS, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. iOS is often considered more secure due to its closed ecosystem and strict app review process, but Android’s open-source nature and older operating system versions make it more vulnerable to security threats.
When evaluating operating system security, look for robust security features, such as regular updates and patches, to protect against malware and other threats. Data encryption is also crucial, as it scrambles sensitive information to prevent unauthorized access. A secure boot process ensures that the device boots up with authorized software, preventing malware from loading during startup.
Consider operating systems with built-in security monitoring, like DTEK by BlackBerry, for an additional layer of protection. Ultimately, choose an operating system with a strong track record of security, such as those certified by government agencies or independent testing organizations. By prioritizing operating system security, you’ll better protect your business data and prevent cyber attacks.
Camera and Video
When choosing a smartphone for business use, the quality of the camera and video capabilities is crucial, as it enables you to capture high-quality images and videos that can be used for various purposes, such as marketing, training, or documentation. A high-quality camera with features such as optical zoom, image stabilization, and advanced low-light capabilities is essential for business professionals who need to capture clear and detailed images or videos.
A camera with a high megapixel count, such as 12-16MP, can provide more detailed and crisp images, making it ideal for business professionals who need to capture high-quality images. 4K video recording is also a must-have feature for business professionals who need to create high-quality video content, such as product demos or training videos. Additionally, a front-facing camera with a high resolution, such as 8-12MP, is important for business professionals who participate in video conferencing or need to take high-quality selfies for social media or marketing purposes. Features like HDR, portrait mode, and advanced editing software can also enhance the overall camera experience and provide you with more creative control.
Battery Life and Charging
With a high-quality camera, you’re well-equipped to capture stunning visuals for business purposes, but a smartphone’s battery life and charging capabilities play a significant role in ensuring you can use those features without interruptions. A battery life of at least 12 hours is recommended for business professionals who are always on the go. Look for a battery with a capacity of at least 3000mAh, which can provide a full day of moderate to heavy use. Fast charging capabilities are also essential, allowing you to quickly top up your battery during meetings or in between appointments.
Some smartphones offer power-saving features like low-power mode or ultra-power-saving mode that can extend battery life. Wireless charging can also be a convenient feature, allowing you to charge your device quickly and easily without cables. When choosing a smartphone for business use, consider one with efficient battery life that can last a day and a half with heavy use or 2-3 days with regular use. A long-lasting battery can reduce downtime, increase device reliability, and impact productivity, making it an essential factor to consider.
Durability and Build Quality
A business professional’s smartphone is more than just a communication tool; it’s a vital device that can significantly impact productivity. When choosing a smartphone for business, you should consider its durability and build quality. A phone that can withstand regular wear and tear is essential, with features like scratch-resistant screens, waterproofing, and durable materials like metal or Gorilla Glass.
You’ll also want a phone with a solid construction that can withstand drops and bumps, and a design that allows for easy handling and use. A textured or non-slip back can provide a secure grip, reducing the likelihood of the phone slipping out of your hand. Impact-resistant frames and screens can help protect the phone from damage caused by drops or other impacts. Look for phones with IP68 or IP69K ratings, which indicate that they can withstand exposure to dust and water. A durable frame made from high-quality materials like aluminum alloy or Corning Gorilla glass is also crucial for withstanding the rigors of daily business use.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Most business professionals rely heavily on their smartphones to stay connected and productive on-the-go. When choosing a smartphone for business use, consider the type of network connectivity required, such as 4G LTE or 5G, and ensure the device is compatible with your company’s network provider. You’ll also want to check the device’s compatibility with your company’s existing infrastructure, including Wi-Fi networks, email servers, and other systems.
Ensure the device supports the necessary protocols for secure communication, such as SSL/TLS and VPN. Additionally, consider the device’s ability to connect to other devices and peripherals, such as printers, scanners, and projectors. Look for devices that support dual SIM or eSIM functionality, which can be useful for managing multiple phone numbers or networks. You’ll also want to ensure the device supports a wide range of connectivity options, including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Compatibility with various email clients, productivity software, and cloud storage services like Dropbox and Box is also essential. By considering these factors, you can find a smartphone that meets your business needs.
Conclusion
You’ve just reviewed the top smartphones for business professionals in 2024, but choosing the right one isn’t over yet. Consider key factors such as durability, performance, and advanced security features to ensure your phone meets your business needs. Look for massive batteries, high-quality cameras, and streamlined communication options. By prioritizing these factors, you’ll find a smartphone that boosts your productivity and takes your business to the next level.
