This Handset Was Just Named the Least Durable Smartphone of 2024
Zack Nelson of the popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything has announced his least and most durable phones of 2024, after a year of subjecting numerous smartphones to rigorous durability tests.
Least Durable: Huawei Mate XT
The triple-folding Huawei Mate XT was named the least durable smartphone of 2024. Nelson explained that the soft center screen is exposed when the phone is closed, making it susceptible to scratches and damage from dust and debris. He likened carrying the Mate XT to "walking around with a raw egg in your pocket". Despite acknowledging its cool design, Nelson concluded it is not a durable phone.
During the original bend test video, the Mate XT even includes sensors that vibrate if bent in the wrong way, an interesting feature but, ultimately, not one that prevented the phone from breaking. Nelson commented, “This is the first phone to beg for its life during the bend test,” before the left screen was snapped.
Most Durable: Armor 24
The most durable smartphone of 2024 is the Armor 24, an exceptionally rugged device that Nelson said "has enough built-in protection to survive a steamroller.” The Armor 24 is incredibly sturdy and survived the bend test with no issue.
Most Repairable: HMD Skyline
On the flip side, the HMD Skyline was named the most repairable phone of 2024. Unlike the Pixel 9 series, which is also very repairable, the Skyline is far easier for owners to open, requiring minimal tools. Repairing the Skyline is so easy that doing so will not invalidate its warranty.
Other Awards
Other awards from JerryRigEverything include:
- Most Innovative Smartphone: RedMagic 10 Pro, for its futuristic design, RGB cooling, and punch-hole-free display.
- Runners-up (Most Durable): (See video for details.)
- Runners-up (Most Repairable): Pixel 9 series, noted for a partnership with iFixit that makes spare parts readily available.
You can watch Zack Nelson's video at the top of the page for more details and additional award winners.
