SquareTrade: iPad mini tops list of most fragile devices

SquareTrade, a third-party analysis agency in Europe, conducted a test on the fragility and durability of some handheld devices. They tested a number of smart devices by dropping them. The conclusion was unexpected: iPad Mini took the top spot as the most fragile device, becoming the most fragile product in the experiment.

Samsung Galaxy S4 ranked second and iPad Air ranked third in the fragile rankings. The list was dominated by Apple and Samsung handheld devices, with Google's Nexus 7.1 and 7.2 ranked sixth and ninth respectively, and Moto X ranked last.

The study used two methods of testing, including dropping the devices on concrete and submerging them in water. Other factors, including the design and construction of the device, its weight and the chance of it slipping from your hand, were also taken into account to give each device a fragility score.

“More and more investment is being directed towards technology, so this survey is designed to ensure we are getting value for money,” said Kevin Gillan, General Manager of SquareTrade Europe. “By testing devices in real-life scenarios, we hope to help people make more informed decisions and perhaps buy accident insurance for their devices.”

Here is a list of the top 10 most fragile devices:

1. iPad Mini – 7.5

2. Samsung Galaxy S4 – 7

3. iPad Air – 6.5

4. Samsung Galaxy S3 – 6.5

5. iPhone 5C – 6

6. Nexus 7.1 – 6

7. Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 – 5.5

8. iPhone 5S – 5.5

9. Nexus 7.2 – 5

10. Moto X – 4.5