Best tablets for business on the go
Many of today’s best business tablets boast functionalities and a processing power that rivals standalone laptops. Including a tablet into your workflow can allow you to stay productive while on the go. Given that tablets are smaller and slimmer than laptops, you can effectively reduce the weight of your gear bag.
With the right tablet, an employee takes their office into the outside world, turning their living room sofa or a table in a coffee shop into a virtual desk.
What to consider before buying a business tablet
The challenge most users face lies in choosing the tablet best suited to their needs. With many platforms and even more manufacturers from which to choose, it is difficult to know which one is the best for you. You’ll want to make sure the device you opt for can support the many different business demands and apps seamlessly. And if you do your due diligence, you can get a device that meets your needs without having to spend way over the top.
You’ll need to consider a number of factors;
Operating system
You can choose from among Windows, iOS, or Android platforms. The operating system of a tablet goes a long way in determining its capabilities and functionalities. Apple’s tablets use iOS with the current version being IOS 10. Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 uses Windows 10, as do other Windows-based tablets. The latest Android operating system is version 7, also called Nougat. Apple and Google app stores by far offer more business app choices than both Windows and Amazon’s Fire OS.
Portability
To be able to smoothly work on the go, portability is a priority. Tablets with 8-inch or smaller displays mostly weigh well under a pound and boast a better the battery life. Tablets are designed to be used on the move and so it is no good if the battery runs out halfway through a day out of the office.
Screen size
Typical sizes are 7 and 10 inches, though tablets in sizes in between are also available. There are also larger models, in the 12-inch range. While smaller lighter devices are easier to hold with one hand, tablets with a large screen are better for typing.
Ports
Storage in many tablets can be expanded using a memory card, and a few can read USB flash drives. However, not all devices have a memory-card slot or USB port, and if you should confirm the availability of the feature in case you plan to use it.
Security
Another major factor is security. You’ll need a device that can ensure your business data is safe. Opt for devices with a two-factor authentication feature. Every time you try to log in, you’ll receive a code sent to either your phone by text or another trusted mobile number. Tablets also now feature Touch ID which is a fingerprint identity sensor which allows only the person with that registered fingerprint to access your tablet. With the Ipad, you can only install Apple’s pre-approved apps and this minimizes risks of virus infection. Android and Windows users, on the other hand, a vast amount of antivirus apps free to download from the respective stores. Windows 10 also comes with Windows Defender antivirus pre-installed so you have that peace of mind knowing your Microsoft Surface is protected from malware.
Price
Tablets come in different price ranges and you can a get a great device without having to spend way over the top. You can get a great 7- to 8-inch tablet starting at under A$200. Tablets with larger display sizes cost more, of course, but you can get a very good 12-inch tablet for under A$350.
Top tablet choices for 2017
Tablets can be a terrific productivity tool. But which models are right for your business? Whether you need powerful performance, stylus support or just something really affordable, there are great options to choose from. Here are our top picks for 2017.
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S2
The Galaxy Tab S2 is a compact tablet featuring a slim and light built a feature that makes it portable and a great device for business on the go. The device includes the Samsung S Pen Stylus and features a Super AMOLED display on a screen that fits in your hands. Samsung included a great set of features from an excellent display to advanced security features – including hardware-based encryption. Additionally, the tablet comes with a split-screen mode allowing you to view two apps for easy multitasking. Alternatively, you can opt for a flexible monthly plan.
Technical Specifications
Memory: 32GB, 4GB RAM Display Size & Resolution: 9.7 inches, 1536 x 2048 pixels
Size: 9.34 x 6.65 x 0.24 in
Weight: 434 g
OS: Android 7.0 (Nougat)
2. Apple iPad Pro
The Ipad Pro is Apple’s best tablet and has features that best even the new Ipad (2017). The LED-backlit IPS LCD, capacitive touchscreen (264 ppi), optional Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil
are what make the Ipad Pro one of the best business tablet in the market. The tablet also comes with a secure Touch ID and iOS 10 which users will be able to upgrade to ios 11 later this year and you can choose between a 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch model.The Ipad Pro comes with its own office software called iWork but is also compatible with Microsoft Office making it ideal for business.
Technical Specifications
CPU: Apple A10X
RAM: 4GB
Display Resolution: 2732 x 2048 pixels
3. HP Elite X2
The HP Elite X2 is a Windows 10 Pro “2 in 1” Business Tablet that delivers a powerful performance. The 1080P Multi touch display and full Windows 10 operating system make it ideal for multitasking professionals. HP Elite X2 is light enough to take anywhere and powerful enough to use as a full desktop workstation. The tablet features a multi-position kickstand and as well as a detachable keyboard allowing you to work on the go. Pricing starts from $1,776 for the 4GB/128GB to $2,376 for the 8GB/256GB model. Should the price be out of your budget, you can opt for a $80 per month plan payable for a minimum of 24 months.
Technical Specifications
CPU: Intel Core M5
Display Size & Resolution: 12.3 inches, 2736 x 1824 pixels
Size: 213.5 × 300 × 8.05 mm
Weight: 840g tablet ; 1205g with travel keyboard grams
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A sits pretty as the best budget business tablet. Starting at just $456, the device is a great option if you want to give business tablets a try without committing to something top of the line. You can even acquire the device for as little as $20 per month with a 1GB data plan. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A boasts an incredible battery life with Ultra Power Saving Mode making ideal for working when commuting.
Technical Specifications
CPU: Quad-core 1.2 GHz
Memory: 2 GB RAM, 168 GB internal memory
Display Size & Resolution: 8 inches, 1024 x 768 (~160 ppi pixel density)
Sze: 208.4 × 137.9 × 7.5 mm
Weight: 320 grams
5. Toshiba Portege Z20T
The Toshiba Z20t’s top-of-the-line Z20T tablet dispels the notion that you have to put up with sub-par performance in tablets. The tablet boasts a stylish design and a 14 hour battery life not to mention a horde of other premium features. However, at a price of between $1,800 and $3,168for the core M models, the tablet isn’t the cheapest and may be out of range for most users.
Technical Specifications
CPU: Intel Core M5Y71
Memory: 512GB M.2 Solid State Drive (SSD), 168 GB internal memory
Display Size & Resolution: 12.5″ Full High Definition TFT Active Matrix Widescreen (1920 x 1080)
Size: 12.2 x 8.5 x 0.83 inches
Weight: 320 grams
The above tablets can help you make the most out of your time and can run powerful business apps without a glitch. And at Telephone Technologies, we can assist you equip the device you opt for with productivity apps for your business as well as help you ensure the security of your data.
For more information, you can make enquiries online here. Alternatively, our consultants love to have a chat, so give us a call on 03 9781 7000.