How to Choose the Right Rugged Tablet

Updated February 2/19/2025

It's crucial to do all the research you can before purchasing a computer. Determining what you need based on where you work and the programs you need to run will help you decide whether to buy a desktop, a laptop, or a tablet.

Now, if you need something more portable, like a tablet or laptop, consider whether you need a consumer-grade computer or a rugged, more durable computer. We're focusing on rugged computers because there are many options when it comes to selecting one. There are fully rugged laptops, semi-rugged laptops, fully rugged tablets, and even convertible rugged computer options.

If you're considering going with a rugged tablet, you're in the right place! There are a lot of key factors to consider when selecting a work tablet. Now that you know you're looking for a tablet,  that raises another question: what kind of rugged tablet would benefit you? This guide shows you what to consider before purchasing a military-grade tablet.

Not looking for a tablet? Check out our blog on Affordable Laptops for Professionals.

Big Things To Consider

When shopping for a work computer, remember that tablets are not as upgradeable as laptops. Since tablets are designed to be smaller and more compact, manufacturers do not focus on upgradability after production. With this in mind, make sure that you have the minimum specifications you need for a computer before you start shopping.

Once you have that, you need to consider a handful of other aspects, including size, weight, processing, keyboard, and battery specifications.

Size And Weight

You may want a smaller device depending on what you're doing and your preference. A smaller device would be better because it's lighter and fits tighter spaces. On the other side of the coin, the screen may be too small, inputting data would be more challenging on a touchscreen keyboard, and selecting the correct options can be difficult if any of the programs you use don't "play nice" with this device.

The other factor to consider is weight. Carrying a heavy computer all day while trying to work can be tiring. You should ask yourself if you prefer to hold a 3lb or 4lb tablet rather than a 5lb to 6lb tablet.

These two things typically go hand-in-hand. You usually have to give up on the bigger screen to have a lighter tablet. Check all the specs before purchasing one and ensure you get the best screen size-to-weight ratio that suits your needs.

Rugged Tablet Attachments

You can add some accessories to tablets to make them easier to use. One example is by adding a hand strap. A hand strap makes it much easier to carry around. Using the strap makes it less likely to drop and easier to use while walking around. A few of our Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G1 models come with one installed or have the option to add one. We even have a few that come with a strap, and a handle and shoulder strap are included!

Another form of attachment on rugged tablets is upgrade slots. One prime example is on some of our Rugged Dell Latitude tablets. On the back of these tablets is a slot where you can add modules. One adds USB and RJ45 ports, another a card reader, and a couple of other options that add functionality to the tablet.

Processing Specifications

When shopping for a computer, the best way to think about the processor is the newest one you get. The longer the computer will last you before you need to upgrade it, for performance, that is. If you get an 8th-generation processor, expect to upgrade it in 2-3 years. Get a 13th generation, and the computer will last at least 5 years. We advise you to make this decision based on your current budget.

How Much Storage Do You Need For A Rugged Tablet?

The storage is an interesting one. First, we recommend that you get an SSD to help your computer boot faster and run the operating system smoothly. After that, the amount of space you need is entirely up to you.

You can always upgrade the storage drive later if necessary. However, you will have to reinstall your preferred operating system on the new drive. The drivers are hard to locate on some of our rugged computers, and we typically have to use a bypass to install Windows 11 on our computers. That said, we advise you to get a storage drive big enough that you won't have to worry about upgrading later.

How Much Memory Do You Need?

Memory is one of the most important considerations before purchasing a rugged tablet. Most of them have the RAM soldered on the motherboard. With it soldered on, upgrading the memory is unadvisable. We advise anyone shopping for a used or refurbished tablet to find one that came from the factory and has the amount of RAM you need already installed.

The only outlier from the tablets on our website is the Getac K120. It's the only tablet base we currently have with upgradeable memory.

Would A Keyboard Be Beneficial?

A keyboard on a tablet? When shopping for a tablet, you think you have to give up the keyboard. That's not the case. Some options came with a detachable keyboard. The Panasonic Toughbook CF-33 and the Getac K120 are a couple of options. Another option that you have is a laptop with a rotating screen. The Panasonic Toughbook CF-19 and the Getac V110 are two examples. These typically become heavier because you cannot remove the tablet like on the CF-33.

Another way to get a keyboard on a rugged tablet is to use a desktop dock or port replicator. When you return to the office, you could set up a dock for your tablet at your desk. You can set up any USB keyboard, mouse, or monitor. This is the perfect setup for anyone who walks around a warehouse or store with a desk to return to. It is the optimal setup for data input and mobility.

Battery Life And Battery Size

Some options, like the CF-33, have an extended battery option. The back of the tablet has a bigger casing to support the bigger batteries.

Rugged tablets can also have a hot-swappable battery too. A hot-swappable battery is the ability to remove a low battery from the tablet and install a full battery in its place without the computer shutting down.

For some instances, batteries won't be an issue. If you plan on having your rugged tablet plugged in all the time or having quick access to a power adapter, the battery's longevity shouldn't be a big concern.

What Ports/Connections Do You Need?

Do you need a serial port or a fingerprint reader? Knowing what interfaces you'll need will help you decide which rugged tablet is right for you.

Most of these decisions can be made right on the product pages for our rugged tablets. The options list on the right has all the upgrades available for that unit. These options can include vehicle adapters, vehicle docks, and hand straps. The pricing is included in the upgrade option list, so you can gauge what you need while keeping your budget in mind!

Should I Buy A New Or Refurbished Rugged Tablet?

The age-old debate about new vs. used (refurbished) computers depends on how much you have to spend on a computer. If you don't need the latest and greatest technology, a refurbished rugged tablet would save you a ton and do the same job as a new one. By shopping refreshed, you can save hundreds of dollars.

Selection Assistance Form

Our selection assistance system asks you questions about your needs and work environments, and our expert technicians will point you in the right direction. Let our expert technicians help you pick the perfect rugged tablet for your needs!