Rugged gadgets on a budget

Majority of the modern day gadgets which may look sufficient in every way are often not made for rugged use. The use of metal and good quality plastic can lend solidity but they do not protect against water, dust and accidental drops.

With Holi a few days away, your gadgets’ durability is likely to be tested again. In case you are planning on buying a new phone, camera, smart band, or headphone, you can consider these for their ruggedness and affordable price tag.

Nikon Coolpix W100

₹7,300

The Coolpix W100 is a compact point and shoot camera with a shock and weather proof exterior which allows it to withstand drops from a height of 1.5 metres and extreme cold up to -10 degree celsius. It is also waterproof up to 10 metres. The camera comes with a 13-megapixel CMOS sensor, offers 3x optical zoom, a 2.7-inch non-reflective LCD display and can record videos in 1,920x1,080p.

Fitbit Flex 2 comes with interchangeable bands which also happen to be water-proof up to 50 metres.

Fitbit Flex 2

₹5,999

Fitbit’s new fitness tracker Flex 2 comes with interchangeable bands which also happen to be water-proof up to 50 metres. This means you don’t have to remove the band before going for a swim or washing hands. It doesn’t have a display of its own, but provides detailed information regarding calories burned, number of steps walked, active minutes and quality of sleep on the Fitbit mobile app. When connected to a device it provides call and text notification through light indicators built on the top of the band.

Moto M offers premium metal body capable of handling water splashes or a light drizzle comfortably.

Moto M

₹15,999

Moto M belongs to a new series of smartphones between the affordable G series and the mid range X and Z series.The phone offers premium metal body capable of handling water splashes or a light drizzle comfortably. It comes with IP67 certification which is still a rarity in smartphones selling at this price point. It runs the latest Android with stock UI, is powered by MediaTek’s Helio P15 octa-core processor with 3GB RAM and offers 32GB internal storage.

Sony MDR-XB80BS is ideal for fitness enthusiasts who like to listen to music while running or cycling.

Sony MDR-XB80BS headphone

₹9,600

Sony MDR-XB80BS is a wireless in-ear headphone which works with any smartphone, Apple iPod or music player that supports Bluetooth 4.1 or higher. It carries the IPX5 certification which means you can wash it after your exercise to keep it clean and free from sweat and dust. It has a built in battery that can last up to 7 hours on 60 minutes of charge. It weighs just 27g and has this hook style adjuster to keep the earphone firm on your ear when you are running. It is ideal for fitness enthusiasts who like to listen to music while running or cycling.

Creative Muvo 2 speaker’s prime attraction is the water and dust repellent finish which makes it usable in wet weather or a dusty road trip.

Creative Muvo 2 speaker

₹8,999

Muvo 2 is a compact wireless speaker for users on the move. You can connect it with any smartphone or music player over Bluetooth. It also has a MicroSD Card slot which means you can play directly from the speaker. Its prime attraction is the water and dust repellent finish which makes it usable in wet weather or a dusty road trip. It has a built-in battery that can last up to 10 hours.

Amkette Xcite Pro keyboard’s UV coated spill-resistant keys can not only withstand splashes but will also prevent wear and tear of key letters.

Amkette Xcite Pro keyboard

₹449

Most desktop keyboards are damaged due to accidental spilling over of coffee or water. This wired keyboard by Amkette can take care of that with its UV coated spill-resistant keys which can not only withstand splashes but will also prevent wear and tear of key letters. It is a full-fledged keyboard and has all the relevant keys along with a bunch of highlighted multimedia and internet access keys. It comes with 1 year warranty.