Best Mobile Computers of 2024

Zebra MC9300: Best Handheld Mobile Computer

Price: Starting at $2,500

Have you ever had to stand up and say something nice about somebody, and you end up saying 15 things because you can’t help yourself? That sums up the performance of the Zebra MC9300. We’ve seen this device work in so many environments and applications, and it has never disappointed. This device is perfect for receiving in warehouse and distributions centers, cold chain management in freezing environments, Inventory management of your assets or goods, cross docking product flows, and line side replenishment. You ask of it, and you will receive.

Weighing just under 27 oz., this handheld mobile computer is larger than most devices, but is purpose built for the non-carpeted space. Whether barcodes are in hand, on the uppermost shelves of your racks or somewhere in between, the MC9300 can capture them all. The MC9300 has the capability to read barcodes as close as 3 inches to as far as 70 feet. The ultra-powerful 8-core processor combines with up to eight times the RAM and 16 times the Flash memory of the legacy MC9200 to deliver superior performance on all your voice and data apps.

We all know how frustrating it is to be in an environment where wireless connectivity is an issue. There are many times where batch mode of data capture is just not going to work for an application. The MC9300 comes with a Mobility DNA Wireless, a free Zebra Mobility DNA tool which delivers near instant application response time, unmatched roaming performance, and exceptional voice quality. With this nice feature, workers can make sure they have a strong connection and signal every minute of their shift.

Security has always been a concern when you have sensitive information in the palm of mobile workers. The MC9300 comes with Zebra’s LifeGuard for Android. This platform allows for security updates to update the fleet of devices so your MC9300 mobile computers stay secure every day they are in service.

While not the screen size of tablets, the Zebra MC9300 does have a very inviting screen to handle most applications. The large multi-touch 4.3 in. WVGA display allows your workers to view more business data, while providing best-in-class indoor/outdoor readability and data input flexibility. What I find appealing is the ability to use the device the way you want to use it. The screen can be accessible by using your finger, or even in harsh environments using a glove. Aside from the screen, the MC9300 also comes with an optional 13 Megapixel color rear-facing camera to capture highly detailed photos and videos to document proof of condition, proof of compliance and more.

Zebra MC9300 Strengths

• Durable
• Various Scan Engines
• Secure

Honeywell CT30 XP: Best All Purpose Mobile Computer

Price: $1,479

It is hard to keep Honeywell out of the top device conversation. They have been a market leader for years and have been coming out with new devices that work well in a variety of environments. The CT30 XP is one of those devices that doesn’t disappoint. It is a versatile handheld device, that is as durable as it is sleek. This all-purpose business tool ensures ultra-reliable data access and communications for front-line mobile workers.

One unique aspect specific to Honeywell devices is its Mobility Edge platform, a stable, secure foundation on which to build these solutions. The platform enables a longer productive life, superior security, and optimized performance. Whether you are deploying one for your business or deploying hundreds for your enterprise fleet, the Mobility Edge platform provides the jumping off point for accelerated deployments.

The CT30XP has a nice look and feel in your hands. You can easily use if for a variety of different applications. It meets the aesthetic and user experience requirements of apparel retail users while delivering the durability and manageability serious businesses depend on. The CT30 XP comes with a 5.5-inch (14 cm), full-high-definition (FHD) screen built into a slim, lightweight, yet durable package.

Looking for improved throughput and more reliable connections due to innovations like traffic prioritization? The CT30 XP has you covered with High-performance Networking Selected SKUs offer Wi-Fi 6, based on the IEEE 802.11 ax standard.

One other advantage we see in the CT30 XP is the complete set of accessories. There is an accessory for every need, which include but are not limited to universal dock chargers, holders, and powering accessories which can be field upgraded by the end user without tools. Other accessories include an easy-to-replace, warm swap battery, wearable accessory for hands free use, IH40 RFID handle for fast cycle counting, ruggedizing boot and low-profile belt clip for healthcare.

CT30 XP Strengths

• All Purpose
• Attractive Screen
• Large Selection of Compatible Accessories

Handheld Nautiz X81: Best Rugged Mobile Computer

Price: Starting at $1399

While many mobile computers are built tough for applications in the non-carpeted space, not many can stand up to the most rugged environments like the Handheld Nautiz X81. This device was built for the elements, yet still is elegant in design, features and functionality. The Nautiz X81 runs Android 12 and is Android Enterprise Recommended (AER). It offers 5G performance while also operating on 4G/LTE if needed. It has both Bluetooth and NFC to connect with devices nearby.

I would never say a device is indestructible, but this device tests well in many different extreme factors. The Nautiz X81 is rated IP67: waterproof and dust-tight, which allow it to be used in any outdoor environment. I have seen cases where water or dust get into the device, causing all sorts of issues. This certainly won’t be the case with the Nautiz X81. Extreme temperature also is not an issue. You may be able to fry an egg on a car, but that won’t stop the X81 from operating in that environment. The Nautiz line has excelled in temperature ranges from -30˚C to 60˚C (-22˚F to 140˚F). Lastly, the device is immune to most drops, vibrations, shocks, and humidity.
This device meets MIL-STD-810G military performance standards for rugged operation.

Another feature which is unique about the Nautiz X81 is the screen. When outside in rugged environments, ambient sunlight makes some screens unreadable. The X81 delivers on it promise of making sure it is a screen you can always see. Thanks to unique display technology, the Nautiz X81’s screen delivers a sunlight-readable screen, without draining the battery. Which brings up another advantage with this device: Battery life. Handheld introduced efficient screen technology, to help sustain the battery power in your device. While the battery is long lasting, it will eventually drain. The great news is that you can charge it via pogo-pin docking or using the fast-charging USB-C to get it ready to go in no time.

Lastly, there are some cool features and functionality worth noting. The Nautiz X81 has a dedicated multi-band u-blox receiver for fast and accurate location data. This can come in hay when outside the four walls and needing to find exact locations of workers or assets. The GNSS antenna supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou as well as SBAS, so foresters, GIS field technicians and other mobile crews can rely on the Nautiz X81 for reliable performance. Plus, an optional Real Time Kinematic (RTK) receiver offers centimeter-level accuracy for improved precision and time savings for surveying and mapping.

Overall, this is one heck of a device. Its strength and ruggedness make it the Superhero of mobile devices.

Handheld Nautiz X81 Strengths

• Extremely Rugged
• Impressive Screen Visibility
• Long Battery Life

AML Striker: Best Value Mobile Computer

Price: Starting at $1,749

While it may lack the flair of some other devices, the AML Striker is like “the Little Engine That Could”. You ask it to do anything, and there is a good chance it will respond with a resounding yes. The Striker is ideal for manufacturing and warehouse barcode scanning for inventory control applications due to its size, weight, and ergonomic design. It has the ability to scan close barcodes as well as the added feature of long range barcode scanning, which shows its versatility for use in distribution centers.

The Striker is manufactured in the good ‘ol USA and continues AMLS development of American-Made, Android-based mobile computers. AML has a few different models and the Striker is a smaller, more lightweight version of the popular Scepter mobile computer. The Striker is a smaller, more lightweight version of the Scepter, and is the ideal android mobile computer for barcode scanning in a wide variety of applications ranging from distribution, manufacturing, retail, and commercial deployments.

The Striker also comes preloaded with Ivanti’s Velocity terminal emulation software powered by Wavelink. The software will run in demo mode until activated with a license which is sold separately from the device. For users that are more familiar with telnet connections to legacy systems, the Striker is preloaded with a basic, text-based terminal emulation client specifically for VT220 applications. This TE client from Glink is licensed and ready to use.

Built with an Rugged IP65 rating, this mobile computer is plenty durable. Mobile devices will invariably get dropped, and in some environments get exposed to water, dust or other contaminates. Striker is dust tight, and is warranted to survive a 6’ drop to a concrete floor or water sprayed from any angle. Despite its lean, compact design, Striker’s 4” display provides more viewing area than legacy devices that sported 3.5” displays. The device also features a multi-touch capacitive touchscreen that allows for on-screen gesturing that most users are accustomed to with their personal devices.

Overall, the Striker fills the need of the warehouse and is a great value for your fleet of devices.

Strengths

• Lightweight
• Compact Design
• Hygienic Housing

Point Mobile PM75: Best Newcomer Mobile Computer

Price: Starting at $540

Are you looking for a rugged mobile computer streamlined for Enterprise Mobility at an economical price point? Then look no further than the exciting new release from Point Mobile. The PM75 is Wi-Fi 6 ready and maintains a light and ergonomic body with a 5.45in screen, running on the latest Android 11 operating system. It is extremely rugged and survives drops from 1.5m to concrete (MIL-STD-810G) and is IP65 certified.

One of the more exciting aspects of this release is what is powering the device. Each PM75 comes equipped with Qualcomm‘s 2.0GHz processor, which helps it run the device smoothly with the help of 3GB RAM / 32GB ROM (opt. 4GB / 64GB). PM75 comes with two scan engine options (N3601 or N6603) to match your business needs. In addition, the device is running on Android 11 operating system, which offers efficient battery management, easy navigation, and the best data security among any existing mobile operating system.

Not to be outdone by other manufacturers, the PM75 has a bright 5.45in HD+ (720 x 1440 pixels) display helps users to see and control PM75‘s interface without difficulty even under the sunlight. The device withstands multiple drops to concrete from 1.5m (5ft) height and has an IP65 water/dust resistance rating. So, while it looks elegant and suited for the Enterprise space, it can also flex its muscles when it needs to.

The Android device provides a powerful scan engine, comfortable grip, long-lasting battery, and seven-long years of update support—all of which are the essential components for building a great and versatile rugged mobile computer.

PM75 Pros

• Enterprise Ready
• 8M Rear Camera
• Competitively Priced