https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiiVDrITM_k
During the first episode of our YouTube channel, the Rugged Rundown, Bob compared the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20, CF-19, and the Toughpad FZ G1. In his review, he compares some of the best features of these rugged computers and areas where they fall short.
Toughbook 20 Compared to the CF-19
The CF 20 rugged laptop was designed to replace the Toughbook CF 19. Instead of having a screen that swivels like the CF-19, you have the CF-20 with its detachable keyboard. A noteworthy feature is that they added programmable buttons, allowing you to choose the button’s functionality. These programmable buttons can open various programs and apps, including the Panasonic Dashboard and PC Information Viewer.
What Makes the Panasonic Toughbook CF-19 Different?
One of the standout features of the Toughbook CF-19 out of these three computers is that it is the only one that has upgradable RAM. The FZ-G1 and the CF-20 do not have any replaceable memory slots, so purchasing one of these Toughbooks and Toughpads with the amount of RAM you will require for your applications is essential. Not only that, but the CF-19 has been around for years and has proven itself to be a reliable workhorse in the field.
What Makes the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 Different?
The CF-20 is the only computer in this comparison that comes standard with a backlit chiclet keyboard. The CF-19 would have come with a standard keyboard unless you opt for the backlit chiclet keyboard upgrade. With the keyboard attached, the Toughbook CF 20 is still the slimmest choice on this list.
The biggest downside to the CF-20 is that the RAM is not upgradable, so what comes in the unit from the factory is what you have. This is because the RAM is soldered onto the system board. So, we typically recommend that if you prefer one of these hybrid laptops, you should find one with adequate RAM to fit your needs.
Similarities
These two laptops have quite a bit in common. These two hybrid laptops have similar screen sizes, and both contain webcams. The only difference in the screen between the CF-19 and CF-20 is that the CF-20 has a 10.1-inch widescreen display compared to the standard 10-inch screen on the CF-19.
Another quality they share is that they both can run Windows 10 seamlessly, and some later generations can even run Windows 11!
Both laptops are fully rugged, rated for MIL-STD-810G, and have an Ingress Protection rating of IP65.
Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G1 Key Attributes
Of the three computers, the FZ-G1 is the only one that does not have a keyboard included. In the video, we used the FZ-G1 with the 3rd party iKey keyboard.
Like the CF-19 and CF-20, the FZ-G1 can run Windows 10 perfectly, and the later generations can even handle Windows 11.
Different Dock Requirements
Each of the rugged laptops and tablets discussed requires different docking stations. None of the docking stations is cross-compatible with these computers or their predecessors. If you upgrade to one of these computers, you must also upgrade your docking stations. Port replicators or anything else that uses the docking port may also need to be replaced.
Need Help Choosing? We Can Help!
All of these Panasonic computers mentioned make great rugged laptops. If you need help selecting the best computer for you and your planned usage, fill out our selection assistance form.