What is a mobile terminal, and how do you choose one?
A mobile terminal should streamline work from the very first scan and operate reliably throughout the entire shift. To choose the right model, it’s not enough to just compare specifications—you need to consider your team’s workflow, operating conditions, and the systems the device will be integrated with. In this article, we explain how a mobile terminal works, how the available models differ, and what specifications to look for before choosing equipment for your business.
What is a mobile terminal?
A mobile terminal is a portable computer with a built-in barcode scanner, used to collect, process, and transmit data in real time. It combines the functions of a scanner, data collector, and communication device, integrating with WMS, ERP, and CRM systems. It’s ideal for warehouses, logistics, retail, and courier services.
Where are mobile terminals used?
- Warehousing and logistics – receiving, order picking, inventory, and shipment control.
- Retail – checking prices and inventory levels, and restocking shelves.
- Courier and transportation services – identifying shipments and confirming operations in the field.
- Manufacturing – tracking materials, components, and completed operations.
- Public transportation – ticket sales and verification, as well as handling processes requiring mobile access to data.
How does a mobile terminal differ from an industrial terminal and a tablet?
A mobile terminal is a handheld computer designed for use on the go, typically equipped with an integrated 1D/2D barcode scanner. An industrial terminal is a broader category of devices designed for use in demanding conditions, including, among others, mobile, panel-mounted, and vehicle-mounted terminals.
In turn, industrial tablet typically has a larger touchscreen and is better suited for documentation, forms, or complex applications, while a mobile terminal is designed for fast scanning and handling operational processes.
Check out: How to Choose an Industrial Terminal? Types, Features, and Applications
How Does a Mobile Terminal Work?
A mobile terminal combines a scanner, a computer, and communication modules into a single device. The 1D/2D scanner reads the code, the processor processes the data, and the communication module transmits the result to the company’s application or system. Depending on the model, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 4G/5G are available.
An operator can scan a product and immediately see its location, inventory status, and task instructions on the screen. The data can be sent to an application that integrates with WMS, ERP, or CRM. There are many possibilities, and the method of integration depends on the specific system and application.
With a mobile terminal, your team can effectively reduce the need to manually enter product data into a computer and the number of operations performed outside the system. Combined with MDM solutions, this significantly improves work efficiency.
Selected models can also support contactless payments. For example, the Bluebird S20 features NFC with support for contactless payments. A properly configured device can combine operational tasks with transaction processing. However, not every mobile terminal is automatically a payment terminal—and not every one needs to be. It all depends on your business’s needs.
What are the different types of mobile terminals?
The main differences relate to how they’re used, their durability, and operating conditions. The most common types are:
- handheld models with a pistol grip—convenient for a large number of consecutive scans;
- smartphone-style models—slimmer and lighter, useful for customer service and field work;
- models with a physical keyboard—useful for frequently entering numbers and quantities;
- fully touchscreen – they take up less space and work well with apps designed for touchscreens;
- rugged – designed for heavy-duty use, with enhanced resistance to dust, water, and drops.
Individual features can be combined—a rugged terminal can be equipped with both a touchscreen and a physical keyboard or a pistol grip.
There are also wearable devices. The M3 Mobile WD10 is worn on the wrist, allowing the operator to have the screen at their fingertips and perform tasks without holding it in their hand. This solution makes sense in situations where an employee frequently handles goods with both hands.
What should you look for when choosing a mobile terminal?
Dust, water, and drop resistance
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating specifies the enclosure’s protection against dust and water ingress. Both this rating and drop resistance should correspond to the actual operating conditions. In typical warehouse applications, devices with an IP65 or IP67 rating are often considered; however, the level of protection must be tailored to the equipment’s intended location. Indoor warehouses, cold storage facilities, transportation, and outdoor operations place different demands on the devices.
Scanner and Reading Range
For standard warehouse operations, you typically need 1D and 2D scanning. 2D codes, such as QR codes, can store more information than traditional barcodes. If the operator scans labels from a greater distance, choose a model with the appropriate range.
Operating System and Integration
With business hardware, it’s not just the software version that matters, but also the ability to manage the device later on. Check compatibility with WMS/ERP/CRM applications, required system services, the expected update cycle, and integration with MDM/EMM.
Performance and Memory
Check the requirements of the applications you use, the amount of RAM, and the capacity of the built-in storage. An underpowered configuration can slow down software performance, data synchronization, and task switching. On the other hand, specifications that significantly exceed the process’s needs may unnecessarily increase the device’s cost.
Connectivity
In a warehouse with stable network coverage, a Wi-Fi-enabled terminal may suffice. In transportation, field sales, and courier services, 4G or 5G connectivity may be required. Bluetooth, on the other hand, enables integration with devices such as mobile printers and additional scanners.
Battery and Hot-Swap
If the terminal is in use for an entire shift, battery capacity alone won’t be enough. For shift work, check whether the model supports hot-swap—the ability to replace the battery without turning off the device. This feature helps minimize downtime caused by charging.
Ergonomics and weight
The terminal should remain comfortable to use even after several hours of work. When performing hundreds of scans, the weight, balance, position of the scan button, and grip all matter. If an employee frequently enters data, a physical keyboard may be more practical than a larger touchscreen.
Which mobile terminal should you choose for a specific application?
For warehouse use, choose a model with a rugged housing, a 2D scanner, and a battery life suited to the length of your shifts. Among the models designed for such applications, you’ll find, among others, the M3 Mobile SM20.
The Bluebird EF550R offers IP65/IP68 protection, and its standard version can withstand repeated drops from 1.5 m. The Ultra Rugged variant can withstand drops from heights of up to 2.4 m, making this model suitable for more demanding conditions.
If you need both hands free during order picking, consider a wrist-worn terminal. The M3 Mobile WD10 was designed for this type of use and works well in situations where the operator would otherwise have to set down a traditional terminal frequently to reach for the next item.
How should you define your requirements before choosing a mobile terminal?
Before comparing models, identify the most important process requirements: number of scans, work location, shift length, access to charging, barcode types, and the applications used.
- Choose a rugged model if the device is exposed to drops, dust, water, or extreme temperatures.
- Choose 4G/5G if employees need to transfer data outside the range of the company’s Wi-Fi.
- Choose “hot-swap” if charging during a shift would cause downtime.
- Choose a device compatible with Android Enterprise and your MDM system if you’re planning a larger fleet and want to minimize manual configuration.
If you’re already familiar with the process but aren’t sure which option is right for you, you can compare mobile terminals from Antumo yourself or consult with our team about the configuration. We’ll help you make the right choice so that the terminal supports your company’s growth and truly lightens your employees’ workload.
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