My outside job requires that my phone is tough, and Samsung do several with hardened, shower-resistant cases.
If you do a lot of driving, you need Bluetooth or a car kit.
If you do a LOT of texting, one that connects to the computer and allows you to use the computer keyboard may spare you from RSI.

I use a phone until it is no use, and both my Motorola and my Nokia had eventual trouble with the speaker, sounding 'tinny' in my ear. The Motorola flip hinge spring also gave trouble. Never used them on speakerphone, either.