Work tablets in B2B use: Efficient companions for the digital workplace

In times of increasing digitalization and mobile working, work tablets are becoming more and more important for companies. Whether in field service, logistics, healthcare or industry – tablets offer flexible, robust and powerful solutions for a wide range of requirements. But which work tablet is suitable for which applications? What trends are emerging in 2024 and what should companies look out for when purchasing or renting a tablet? In this comprehensive article, we highlight the most important aspects relating to the use of work tablets in the B2B environment.

What are work tablets?

The term “work tablet” covers mobile devices that have been specially developed or adapted for professional use. They differ from conventional consumer tablets in the following ways, among others:

Increased durability (shock, water and dust resistant)
Longer battery life and replaceable batteries
Extended connection options (e.g. USB-C, HDMI, SIM slot)
Compatibility with MDM software and security solutions
Dock stations, brackets or rugged accessories

These features make them particularly attractive for companies that depend on reliable, mobile systems and decide to purchase or rent a modern model such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra or a versatile hybrid device such as the Microsoft Surface Pro 9.

Why rent work tablets instead of buying them?

Especially in the B2B context, it pays to rent tablets instead of buying them. Companies that choose flexible rental solutions benefit from:

Cost control: No high investment costs, more predictable budgets
Flexibility: Temporary projects, trade fairs or training assignments can be better covered
Technical up-to-dateness: Regular replacement with modern devices without legacy issues
Service & support: Technical support, replacement in the event of a defect, preconfigured devices

Particularly in the area of mobile devices, where innovation cycles are very short, rental models – for example via specialized providers – offer a future-proof option.

Current trends and technologies (2024)

The market for work tablets is constantly evolving. Some trends will be particularly relevant in 2024:

1. 5G connectivity

Many new models rely on 5G, which is ideal for mobile workers with data requirements in the field or for remote access. One example of this is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE, which is particularly suitable for field service and sales.

2. Ruggedized designs

More and more manufacturers are offering so-called “rugged” or “semi-rugged” devices. These are certified against shocks, water and dust (IP65/IP68, MIL-STD-810G/H) and are therefore ideal for outdoor use or industrial environments.

3. integration into company software

Modern tablets, such as models from the Samsung Galaxy Tab S series, can be perfectly integrated into existing system landscapes via interfaces and MDM solutions. IT departments thus retain control over device security and software deployments.

4. Sustainability & repairability

The focus is increasingly on longer life cycles, modular design and recyclable materials. Especially with rental solutions, tablets can be used several times and operated in a resource-saving manner.

Which work tablets are suitable for which industry?

Whether healthcare processes are to be digitized, sales representatives supplied with product information or machines in production controlled – the requirements vary greatly. Below is a tabular overview of suitable devices depending on the industry:

Industry	Typical requirements	Recommended work tablets
Industry & Production	Robustness, large displays, dust/water resistance	Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G1, Getac UX10, Samsung Galaxy Tab Active4 Pro
Field service & sales	Lightweight, long battery life, 5G	Apple iPad Pro 5G, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE 10.9” (2023)
Logistics & warehouse	Barcode scanner, high connectivity, handles	Zebra ET40/ET45, Honeywell RT10A
Healthcare	Hygienic, easy to disinfect, compatible with patient records	Apple iPad Air, Getac RX10-H, Surface Go 3
Education & training	Touchscreen, stylus support, security profiles	Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (2022), Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

Important selection criteria for tablet rental

Companies looking to rent tablets that are fit for work should keep certain criteria in mind in order to find the optimal device for their use case:

Display size & resolution: Dependent on the respective application (e.g. CAD display vs. form input).
Processor performance & RAM: For graphics-intensive applications or multitasking apps.
Connectivity: WLAN, 4G/5G, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS.
Accessory compatibility: External keyboards, holders, scanner modules.
Security features: TPM, biometrics, MDM, device encryption.
Operating system: Android, Windows or iOS – depending on the existing company software.

Are you looking for the ideal work tablet for your company? Get in touch with us today – we will advise you individually and provide you with exactly the devices that meet your requirements.

Request a tablet offer now

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