Rugged mobile devices are indispensable tools for businesses that need to record, track, and share information. They are extremely durable to withstand the harsh working conditions, both indoors and outdoors. But that doesn’t mean their technical specifications have to suffer. A company looking for the best rugged mobile computing solution on the market has plenty of options, but not all devices are built equal.
Here are our top picks for the best rugged mobile computing solutions in 2022.
1. CAT S62 Pro
The continuation of the fabled CAT S60 and S61 models has all the bells and whistles you’ll need in the workplace and is an exceptionally rugged mobile computing solution.
Operating System
To the surprise of no one, the CAT uses Android 10. We’ve already covered the OS’s benefits, so there’s little else to say about its versatility. However, the manufacturer is planning an upgrade to the newer Android 11 for additional features.
Processing Power
The CAT S62 Pro uses a Snapdragon 660 octa-core chipset. It has four cores with 2.2GHz frequency and four with 1.8GHz, but that doesn’t slow it down. It has two memory channels for improved fetching speed and data processing power, and can utilize more RAM than older models. The integrated graphics are also extremely good for their age.
The CPU suffers a bit from the performance-to-power ratio, using more power and draining the battery faster than similar devices. However, its benchmarks are extremely favorable and allow it to run multiple demanding programs without an issue.
Display and Other Physical Characteristics
This phone boasts a sizeable 5.7” display with an enhanced 2160×1080 resolution for an effective 2:1 aspect ratio. The size of the screen might be a bit too small for some users, but the resolution offers extreme details and excellent low-light performance. The Gorilla Glass 6 makes this one of the sturdiest smartphones in existence.
Adding to its survivability is its IP68 and IP69 rating that suggest extremely waterproofing. The phone also has a glove-safe mode, which sometimes doesn’t work best. In combination with no physical buttons on the screen, some users might struggle in harsher environments.
The device has a 12MP main camera with an integrated FLIP Lepton 3.5 thermal camera for optimal operations. The front camera has an impressive 8MP to further cement its spot on the top list.
The S62 Pro has a rubber-coated finish for durability and grip, but doesn’t look as rugged as other flagship devices.
Battery
Where S62 could use improvement is the battery. The 4000mAh battery, while solid, offers a few shifts’ work at best at medium to high load. The battery can’t be removed from the phone, which means that malfunctions require professional assistance.
Memory
The CAT can utilize 6GB of RAM memory courtesy of the 660 chipset, and has 128GB of internal memory to allow users more scope when storing larger files. It has a dedicated microSD slot that can hold an additional 256GB of memory if desired.
Connectivity
The phone works on a 4G LTE network, has 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity and a solid Wi-Fi connector to ensure networking outdoors.
2. Sonim RS80
This high-powered, tablet-sized mobile device is one of the best rugged mobile computing devices available on the market, and for good reason.
Operating System
The RS80 runs on Android 10, one of the newest versions of this mobile operating system, with plenty of security features, improvements, and user control. Android 10 is exceptionally versatile and user-friendly, with a bevy of settings clients can adjust according to their needs. There are only a few rugged phones running on the newer Android 11, so consider this one of the best Android options out there.
Processing Power
The Sonim RS80 features an ultra-fast octa-core chipset clocking in at 2.2Ghz. The Qualcomm Snapdragon purring inside this tablet will run several demanding processes simultaneously and deliver a crisp user experience without lag or stuttering.
Display and Other Physical Characteristics
The RS80 has an eight-inch Gorilla Glass 3 display with a 1920×1200 Full HD resolution. This isn’t the best resolution available on the market, with plenty of devices putting more pixels for the money. However, the Full HD screen will work just fine for a majority of tasks, and users will hardly notice the difference. The significant part here is the size of the screen. Though larger than an average handheld device, it allows for more versatility and project overviews in the allotted space. And it’s quite a bit slimmer and more lightweight than most rugged tablets on the market.
The tablet was designed to function in downright hostile work environments, with extremely high impact resistance, glare reduction, and anti-fingerprint coating to keep it clean. The touchscreen can also respond to gloved or wet fingers. In addition, the RS80 also is resistant to water and even harsh chemical agents such as alcohol or bleach.
The tablet has a 13MP back and 5MP front camera, which is a decent feature that may be helpful in some professional settings.
Battery
This model presents an exemplar 8200mAh removable battery with a USB-C quick charge port. The battery capacity allows the tablet to serve over multiple shifts (depending on how many demanding programs you run). The removable battery makes the device easier to troubleshoot for issues and repair, considering batteries are one of the most common parts that fail.
Memory
With 4GB of RAM installed on the device and 64GB ROM to use as a data and file storage, the RS80 should have no problems keeping up with a heavy workload. If users need more, they can add a 256GB SD card to get more mileage out of this incredible device.
Connectivity
The tablet connects via a 4G LTE network and has state-of-the-art Wi-Fi connectivity to ensure seamless operations both inside and outside the office.
The tablet also has an in-built 1D/2D scanner, which the manufacturer makes full use of with custom management software (SonimWare). It also allows users to control their devices remotely and enhance the scanning capabilities.
3. Sonim RS60
Next up on the list is the slightly smaller cousin to the RS80. The Sonim RS60 has all the features of the RS80 in a compact rugged mobile computing handheld for higher value.
Operating System
The Android 10 is among the best mobile OS on the market, and users will get plenty of mileage out of their device. There is currently no information on whether the manufacturer will release an update to Android 11.
Processing Power
The RS60 uses the same processor as the RS80. The 2.2Ghz octa-core Snapdragon chipset will take care of demanding programs without a hitch, and is one of the most stable mobile CPUs.
Display and Other Physical Characteristics
The RS60 has a 6.0” Gorilla Glass 3 display. Though smaller than the RS80, the 1920×1200 resolution display is still quite generously sized for a handheld device. The manufacturing is superb, and the glass is impact resistant and perfect for high-octane professions.
The RS60’s screen has anti-fingerprint and anti-glare coatings, and the touchscreen can respond to users with gloves on their hands for better usability. This allows the RS60 to be used in workplaces without interruptions and in harsh weather conditions. Like the RS80, the RS60 can also withstand submersion in water and harsh chemicals which makes the device easy to disinfect.
There are also two cameras on the device: a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front-facing one.
Battery
The 8000 mAh removable quick-charge battery combined with a relatively small screen and only Full HD resolution allows this phone to last throughout multiple shifts even on a higher load. Users that need their mobile computer 24/7 will get extreme mileage from this nifty device.
Memory
The RS60 similarly comes with 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM, which offers plenty of data storage. Users effectively have 45GB available for personal files, but can expand this memory with a 256GB SD card.
Connectivity
This model boasts some of the best connectivity options available for commercial applications. The combination of high-speed 4G LTE and multiple GSM and WCDMA bands alongside a robust Wi-Fi connector allows the phone to remain operational even far outdoors.
The device comes with an in-built 1D/2D scanner, pre-installed with their custom SonimWare user interface and additional scanning features.
It is also Push-to-Talk ready and can connect to other similar devices in the vicinity with only a few taps.
4. Panasonic TOUGHBOOK FZ-T1
This rugged smartphone (contrary to what the name suggests) makes short work of any demanding tasks and has plenty of features to go around. It was primarily designed with industrial workers in mind, with a focus on simplicity and features over raw power and specifications.
Operating System
The Panasonic uses Android 9, which is already somewhat obsolete but won’t interfere with daily operations. Updates to newer versions are not planned, so beware if you need some apps that have stringent OS requirements.
Processing Power
The T1 uses a high-powered quad-core Snapdragon chipset with a 1.1Ghz frequency. Although it might seem small, it packs a punch and takes care of demanding programs without any issues. The CPU is a bit on the older side, but will work in most industrial settings that don’t require stellar graphics to function and focus on a single task at a time.
The CPU performance focuses on industry work and data management, so don’t expect to play any games on this phone.
Display and Other Physical Characteristics
Panasonic didn’t pull any punches with the outer shell and display ruggedness. Although the display is on the small side at only 5” with 1280×720 resolution, the manufacturing quality more than makes up for it. The device is almost waterproof and will withstand depths of 5 feet for 30 minutes. It can operate between -4F and 122F, making it highly versatile and excellent for indoor and outdoor use. The ruggedness is where Panasonic focused most, making a phone that works in factory and industrial settings and can survive hostile conditions.
Battery
The 3200mAh battery inside the phone will work for 12-16 hours at higher loads, considering the lower screen size and entry-level CPU.
Memory
The phone holds only 2GB of RAM and 16GB of disk space to store files and data. A microSD slot will accept only up to 64GBs of additional storage, making this a somewhat limited phone if you want to handle extremely large files offline.
Connectivity
Unlike other rugged smartphones, the T1 has a 1D/2D scanner with an optional pistol-trigger grip, which is what puts it on our top list. It also has 4G LTE capability and all the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections users are used to in modern devices.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a new line of rugged mobile computing devices to outfit the working crew during difficult shifts, look no further than these smartphones and tablets. Although each device has its benefits, the CAT S62 Pro is the best options on the market and has an extremely low price point compared to their system specifications.
Talk to an Expert
To discover which mobile computing solution is best for your business, contact an Energy Electronics sales rep for a tailored recommendation and to receive a bulk quote.