Kyocera Hydro Elite Pro Reviews

The Kyocera Hydro Elite is a solid midrange Android smartphone for Verizon that combines a sharp display and a waterproof build, but falters when it comes to call quality.

As one of two waterproof phones on Verizon (the other one being the Casio G'zOne Commando 4G LTE), the Elite won't let you down if you drop it in a pool or the kitchen sink. But there are some important factors to consider. The Commando 4G LTE is free under contract, and at the sake of looking way less attractive, it has a more rugged build. This means that if you fear more than just water, the handset will be able to sustain more damage when it gets dropped down the stairs and the like. In addition, Verizon also carries better on-contract phones, though they aren't water-resistant. For instance, the HTC Droid DNA, which is also $49.99, has a fast quad-core processor, and a bigger, sharper screen. Likewise, the Motorola Droid Mini boasts a newer version of Android and a better 10-megapixel camera, though you'll need to cough up $100 for it. However, if you still desire a reliable water resistant device, and you don't need as much protection as the Commando 4G LTE provides, get the Elite. It has a slimmer design that an average person would hardly recognize it as a waterproof phone. Furthermore, at $49.99 on contract, you can still purchase this midrange handset without breaking the bank.

When it comes right down to it, the Kyocera Hydro Elite is your basic mid-range Android smartphone that happens to be splash and waterproof – up to a limit. It’s designed for people that want this added layer of protection, but without stepping up the full ruggedness of the Casio G’zOne Commando 4G LTE. We like the Hydro Elite’s overall simplistic design, 4.3” 720p display, and that it’s running pretty close to stock Android Jelly Bean, though the disappointing camera and lacking call quality are holding it back. The $50 on-contact price for the Hydro Elite is reasonable, though right now the G’zOne Commando is free with contract, which makes it a better buy if you want the extra durability.