In today's digital age, tablets have become an essential tool for many individuals and businesses. They offer portability, versatility, and convenience. However, not all tablets are created equal. There are two main types of tablets on the market: rugged tablets and MID (Mobile Internet Device). While both serve a similar purpose, there are distinct differences between the two.
Firstly, let's discuss rugged tablets. As the name suggests, rugged tablets are built to withstand harsh conditions and environments. They are designed for use in industries such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, and outdoor activities. Rugged tablets are built with durable materials and are often certified to meet specific standards like IP (Ingress Protection) or MIL-STD (Military Standard) for ruggedness. These tablets can withstand extreme temperatures, shocks, vibrations, dust, and water. They are equipped with reinforced frames and ruggedized screens to protect against drops and impacts. Rugged tablets are also equipped with additional features such as barcode scanners, GPS, and RFID readers, making them ideal for fieldwork and data collection.
On the other hand, MID (Mobile Internet Device) is a term used to describe a small handheld device that is primarily used for internet browsing, multimedia consumption, and basic productivity tasks. MIDs are often smaller and lighter than rugged tablets, making them more portable. They are designed for everyday use and are not built to withstand harsh conditions. MIDs typically have a sleek and slim design, with a focus on aesthetics and user experience. They are equipped with touchscreens, Wi-Fi connectivity, and access to app stores for downloading and using various applications. MIDs are popular among consumers who prioritize entertainment and web browsing on the go.
One of the main differences between rugged tablets and MIDs is their durability and ruggedness. Rugged tablets are designed to withstand extreme conditions, while MIDs are not. This makes rugged tablets suitable for industries and activities where the device may be exposed to rough handling or environmental hazards. Rugged tablets are often used by field workers, construction crews, and outdoor enthusiasts who require a device that can withstand the rigors of their work or activities.
Another difference between the two is their functionality and features. Rugged tablets are equipped with additional hardware features such as barcode scanners, GPS, and RFID readers, which are not typically found in MIDs. These features make rugged tablets more versatile and suitable for specific tasks such as inventory management, asset tracking, and navigation. MIDs, on the other hand, focus more on multimedia consumption and internet browsing. They are designed to provide a seamless user experience for activities such as watching videos, playing games, and social media browsing.
In terms of price, rugged tablets tend to be more expensive than MIDs. This is due to the additional hardware and ruggedness features that rugged tablets offer. The cost of rugged tablets also reflects the specialized nature of their use in industries and the higher level of durability they provide.
In conclusion, while both rugged tablets and MIDs serve a similar purpose of providing a portable and versatile computing experience, there are distinct differences between the two. Rugged tablets are built to withstand harsh conditions and offer additional features for specific industry use, while MIDs are designed for everyday use and focus on multimedia consumption and internet browsing. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user or industry.
