Samsung Galaxy S5 Active

“The Samsung Galaxy S5 Active is everything we expected it to be and more. In terms of functionality and feature set, the handset is almost every bit as capable as the SM-G900 with the added benefit of higher durability and improved grip. The aforementioned two could very well make the model the pick in the Galaxy S5 range.The traditional strengths of the Samsung Galaxy S family are all here. The handset totes beefy hardware, a gorgeous Super AMOLED display, the TouchWiz UI with all its goodies, and one of the best cameras available on a mobile device. The option of designating a camera button via the shortcut key makes the setup even more attractive.The added layer of ruggedness is really useful and executed without adding too much bulk to the device's waistline. Like we already mentioned, it makes the handset one of the few high-end devices out there which can be carried around without a protective case.”

“The Galaxy S5 Active makes no real compromises to earn its more adventurous designation. I don't care for fingerprint scanners, and I think the Active key will be genuinely more useful for the majority of people. Otherwise, it offers the exact same experience as the standard GS5. I personally prefer the S5 Active's design, and the added weight makes it feel like a more premium device in my hands. Either would make a fine choice, but if you're a klutz or adrenaline junkie, the Active should jump to the top of your list. It shares our Editors' Choice award with its otherwise identical, non-Active sibling on AT&T.”

“The Galaxy S5 Active occupies a weird in-between place. As far as durable phones go, its reinforced corners rate better than average -- the S5 Active was ding-free after a few drops and after I wedged it into some rough tree branches -- but its slippery backing and lack of grippy material are a letdown in the ruggedness department.As a phone for sports-minded folks, the convenience key that calls up the compass, barometer, and shortcuts to other apps is useful, but not essential. Since you can quickly reassign the button to open any app, it's good for everyone, and certainly not limited to people with active lifestyles.At the end of the day, the S5 Active gives you a few extra benefits without trading away power and performance. For AT&T customers, the fact that it costs the same as the Galaxy S5 boils this decision down to the handset's physical appearance rather than to its capabilities, which are top notch any way you look at it.”

“The Galaxy S5 Active is a smartphone that has a much better chance of surviving the length of that two-year contract than your typical handset. Plus, you get all the best goodies the regular S5 has to offer, including its bright and rich full HD screen, long battery life and feature-rich camera. The louder speaker than the S5 is another plus. We're not fans of the extra bulk versus the regular S5--and the microUSB port flap is still annoying--but overall the Active is a smart choice for those who don't want to bother with a case.”