The new Samsung Galaxy S6 Active is a beefier, more rugged version of the Samsung Galaxy S6. Unlike the regular S6, the S6 Active can be submerged in up to a meter of water for up to 30 minutes. It’s also shockproof, standing up to a drop from four feet quite easily. However, even the most rugged phone can benefit from a protective S6 Active case and some thoughtfully curated accessories. If you want to get the most out of your new phone, here are five must-have accessories.
1. BlueAnt Pump Wireless HD Sportbuds
(BlueAnt)
It just makes sense to use waterproof earbuds with a waterproof smartphone like the S6 Active. These waterproof earbuds fit securely, play for up to eight hours, and take about two hours to recharge fully. They are only under warranty for 12 months, but the use of Teflon and Kevlar materials will give you great peace of mind, even after that warranty period ends.
Price: $49.99 (62 percent off MSRP)
Buy the BlueAnt Pump Wireless HD Sportbuds here.
2. SanDisk Connect 32GB Wireless Flash Drive For Smartphones & Tablets
(Sandisk)
While the S6 and S6 Edge have extended storage options up to 128GB, the S6 Active is only available in a 32GB option. And to add insult to injury, there’s no microSD slot for expansion. If you need additional storage, one accessory you should invest in is a wireless flash drive. This cool accessory from Sandisk makes it possible to store, share, or stream any files or documents across all your smartphones, tablets and computers. 16GB and 64GB versions are also available.
Price: $39.99 (51 percent off MSRP)
Buy the SanDisk Connect 32GB Wireless Flash Drive For Smartphones And Tablets here.
3. Samsung Universal USB Extended Battery (9000mAh)
(Samsung)
The S6 Active’s battery is significantly larger than the battery inside the S6. The S6 Active boasts a 3,500mAh battery, much nicer than the wimpy 2,550mAh option in the regular S6. However, even that large battery may not be enough for people who are constantly playing games or running GPS-intensive apps. Samsung’s own external battery pack offers 9000mAh of juice, and it can also be used to recharge tablets. Want a smaller, more portable battery pack? Check out our piece on the best portable battery packs.
Price: $69.99 (56 percent off MSRP)
Buy the Samsung Universal USB Extended Battery here.
4. Samsung Mini Wireless Charging Pad
(Samsung)
When shopping for an accessory for your Samsung phone, it often makes sense to buy an accessory that’s also made by Samsung. Like the regular S6 and S6 Edge, the S6 Active supports wireless charing. This mini wireless charging pad comes with a one-year warranty. It operates under the Qi/WPC standard, but is smaller than many other Qi chargers out there. A built-in LED indicator lets you know if your device is incorrectly aligned on the charging pad. This model also comes with a spare two amp wall charger. If this model isn’t quite right for your needs, check out our guide to the best wireless charging pads.
Price: $36.47 (27 percent off MSRP)
Buy the Samsung Mini Wireless Charging Pad here.
5. Outdoor Tech OT4200 Big Turtle Shell Ultra Load Rugged Bluetooth 4.0 Wireless Boombox & Powerbank
(Outdoor Tech)
A lot of outdoorsy people prefer the “Active” Samsung Galaxy S phones to their regular Galaxy S counterparts. The Active line is waterproof, shockproof, and better suited to extended periods of outdoor recreation. A rugged wireless speaker is a natural choice for anyone who wants to play music from their phone while camping or relaxing at the beach. Outdoor Tech’s “Big Turtle Shell” sounds loud, looks cool, lasts for 16 hours on a single charge, and has a built-in mic. It’s also water-resistant, boasting a IPX5 rating. If you want a less expensive option, check out our guide to the best waterproof Bluetooth speakers.
Price: $199.95
Buy the Outdoor Tech OT4200 Big Turtle Shell Ultra Load Rugged Bluetooth 4.0 Wireless Boombox & Powerbank here.