Kyocera Hydro EDGE Pro Reviews

The Kyocera Hydro Edge knows what it is and, more importantly, doesn't try to be more than that. Anyone seeking a high-powered phone should immediately look elsewhere. The device's sole appeal is that it is small and cheap (financially speaking). At only $109.99 full price, the Hydro Edge offers a low-cost entry-level phone for use on a network that doesn't cost much money. Available on Boost or Sprint, the Kyocera Hydro Edge can be just enough phone without costing too much. It has serious limitations in storage and computing power that may cause an experienced smartphone buyer to be displeased. However, if you need a phone to just be a phone and have solid call quality, it's worth considering. If you need a phone to go on the web and you can tolerate it being slow, this is worth a shot. Anyone needing more than an entry-level phone that provides just the basics with some added waterproof safety should back away from this phone.

Sure, it might be cool that the Kyocera Hydro Edge is dustproof and water resistant, but there are surely many compromises that make it a tough sell for those individuals that simply want to get stuff done in the end. From its sluggish performance to its dated hardware specs, it doesn’t particularly stand above other Android smartphones in the entry-level segment – then again, its free on-contract price point is tough to overlook. Unless you absolutely need a smartphone that’ll survive a full submersion, we recommend checking out some other basic options out there that deliver a more meaningful experience. Plus, you can still get that waterproof aspect by picking up certain cases.

The Kyocera Hydro Edge is a decent Android smartphone for Boost Mobile customers, but aside from its rugged and waterproof design, it's merely average.

Whether you're purchasing the Kyocera Hydro Edge on contract or off, you're getting a good deal either way. With that price, you'll get the Edge's waterproof capabilities, so you can breathe a little easier the next time you're at a large body of water or drop your phone in the sink. But if having a waterproof handset isn't a huge deal for you, spend a little bit more for a faster, more powerful device. Sprint's LG Optimus F3, for example, has a better processor and 4G LTE. As for Boost customers, the LG Mach ships with an older version of Android, but it too has 4G and a faster CPU as well. True, you'll be paying $10 and $30 more, respectively, but given the Edge's 3G speeds and unimpressive call quality, you'll be glad you spent the extra money.

The Kyocera Hydro Edge is a budget Android smartphone with one really nice high-end feature: water and dust resistance. Unlike the Torque, it’s not meant for the ultimate mountain adventurer. It’s for people who want use their phone in the rain or at the beach. Accidents happen – at least with this device a drop in the toilet won’t mean having to replace it or worrying that washing it off will do more damage. That aside, the Hydro Edge has a number of drawbacks from the mediocre display to the sub-par camera. The relatively low price balances some of that out. Still, this phone is made for people with basic needs and a small budget. Whether you pay $150 on Boost or $20 on contact with Sprint, you’re getting a seriously dialed-down experience. The Hydro Edge is one of the better deals on Boost Mobile. If you’re going to do the contract thing with a bigger carrier, there are better options. The Kyocera Torque (Free) on Sprint is one. The Samsung Galaxy Express ($1) on AT&T is another.