How to choose an industrial tablet for logistics work? 7 key parameters
In the warehouse, one thing counts: the device has to work whenever it is needed. That's why choosing an industrial tablet is not just a "what screen and what system" decision, but an evaluation of whether the model can withstand the pace of work, environmental conditions and process requirements. A good tablet means fewer errors, faster operations and less downtime for the entire team.
We have prepared a list of seven parameters that realistically affect the quality of work in logistics. With these, it will be easier for you to assess whether a device will work well in your warehouse - whether you are choosing equipment for picking, receiving, shipping, quality control or the work of managers.
The following parameters will help you assess whether a device will work well in your warehouse - whether you are choosing equipment for picking, receiving, shipping, quality control or the work of managers.
1. Resistance and IP standards
In warehouses, equipment falls, works in dust, moisture and temperature changes. That is why two issues are so important:
- IP rating (e.g. IP65 or IP67) – defines resistance to dust and water.
- Drop resistance – usually specified as a drop test onto concrete from a height of 1.2–1.8 m.
In practice, this means fewer failures and no downtime when a device falls from a cart or slips out of a worker’s hands during fast picking operations.
2. Display – brightness, durability, and sunlight readability
In logistics, the screen must be readable in all conditions: on loading docks, outdoors, in cold storage, or in dark warehouse zones.
What should you look for?
- minimum brightness of 500–700 nits,
- protection with tempered glass or Gorilla Glass,
- glove support,
- sunlight-readable mode.
A screen that is too dim leads to slower work, scanning errors, and the need to shield it with a hand – which directly slows down processes.
3. Performance and operating system – Android or Windows?
This is one of the most important decisions, as it affects integration with WMS systems and the applications your team uses.
Android – most commonly chosen in logistics because it:
- is fast,
- enables easy device fleet management,
- works well with warehouse applications,
- offers a wide range of rugged device models.
Windows – mainly chosen for processes where the tablet replaces a PC or when the company uses applications developed specifically for Windows.
Performance matters when the device handles heavy applications, warehouse maps, large data sets, or real-time scanning. An underpowered processor results in lag, errors, and team frustration.
4. Connectivity modules: Wi-Fi 6, LTE, Bluetooth, NFC
In a warehouse, a tablet is only as good as the network it connects to. If the signal drops on loading docks, between racks, or in receiving areas, workflow efficiency drops significantly.
Key modules include:
- Wi-Fi 6 – higher throughput and better stability in high-traffic environments,
- LTE/5G – for use outside the warehouse or in large open areas,
- Bluetooth (5.0/5.1) – for mobile printers and scanners,
- NFC – useful for logins, authorizations, and employee identification.
- A good industrial tablet maintains a stable connection even in challenging conditions and integrates seamlessly with other devices.
5. Barcode scanning capabilities
In logistics, a tablet is not just a screen – it often replaces or works alongside a handheld terminal. That’s why scanning performance is critical.
There are three options:
- Camera-based scanning – the cheapest option, but slower and less precise.
- Built-in scanner module – the fastest and most professional solution (e.g. in selected Chainway models).
- External Bluetooth scanner – a flexible option when the tablet is mounted on a cart or wall.
The difference between a camera and a laser / 1D / 2D scanner is huge – especially in picking operations, where scans per hour matter.
6. Battery life and hot-swap capability
Being able to replace the battery without shutting down the device (hot swap) is one of the features that truly reduces downtime.
A well-chosen industrial tablet should offer:
- 8–10 hours of operation on a single battery,
- battery replacement during a shift,
- fast chargers or docking stations,
- battery status information within the system.
In 24/7 warehouses, this is an absolute must-have – devices stay in circulation, and employees don’t have to wait for charging.
7. Mounting, ergonomics, and accessories
Last but crucial. Even the best tablet won’t perform well if it’s uncomfortable to use.
In practice, what matters is:
- vehicle mounts (metal or polycarbonate),
- docking stations for supervisors and machine operators,
- hand straps and grips for mobile work,
- protective cases that improve durability and grip.
Many rugged models support a wide range of accessories, making it easier to tailor the device to a specific process.
Which industrial tablets are worth considering?
Examples of devices that meet the above criteria
When choosing an industrial tablet, it’s worth checking upfront whether it meets all the key parameters described above: IP rating, screen brightness, stable connectivity, scanning capabilities, and long battery life. There are many models on the market, but in practice, devices designed from the ground up as rugged hardware perform best – built specifically for logistics, manufacturing, and field services.
The most commonly chosen series include:
Bluebird T10 and T30
Modern enterprise-grade tablets well suited for operational logistics. They offer stable connectivity, high performance, and durable construction resistant to drops and harsh environments. A solid choice for picking teams and shift managers.
RuggON LUNA 3
A compact 8-inch rugged tablet with high mechanical resistance (IP65, MIL-STD). Performs well in fieldwork, on loading docks, and in changing temperatures. Ideal where mobility and long battery life matter.
RuggON PX501 / SOL PA501
Tablets designed for the most demanding processes. They offer high screen brightness, multiple mounting options, modular expansion, and strong computing performance. A solution for companies that need a device capable of replacing a laptop in industrial environments.
Winmate – M101, M116, M133, M140, M156 series
Winmate offers a broad family of tablets available in both Android and Windows versions.
Depending on the series, they provide:
- MIL-STD and IP65–IP67 ratings,
- high-brightness, sunlight-readable displays,
- mounting options for vehicles and machines,
- optional 1D/2D barcode scanning modules,
- compact or full-size versions for managers and operators.
Thanks to the wide selection, devices can be easily matched to specific processes: picking, quality control, inspections, field workforce supervision, or WMS operation.
The tablet should fit the process – not the other way around
A good industrial tablet doesn’t have to be the most expensive one – it has to be the right one for real working conditions. Logistics is demanding: high pace, large volumes of operations, and constant work in changing environments. That’s why selection should focus on seven key parameters: durability, display quality, performance, connectivity, scanning, battery, and ergonomics.
If you want to test selected models from the Antumo portfolio or see how they perform in your warehouse, we can arrange a presentation and advise on the configuration best suited to your process.
Have questions? We’ll be happy to help.
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