Over the years, we’ve seen our software used across a wide range of industries and environments—from warehouses to worksites to field operations. While our apps do run on most Android devices, we’ve found that both we and our customers get the best results when using rugged tablets rather than consumer smartphones.
Here’s why we, and many of our customers find that setup just works better—and why so many of our customers have made the switch.
1. Reliability in Tough Conditions
Many of the environments our customers work in are demanding—dusty, wet, cold, or fast-paced. In those settings, regular consumer smartphones tend to fall short. We’ve found that rugged tablets like the Conker SX87 (with AT&T or T-Mobile) or the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 (for Verizon) are much better suited for the job.
They’re built to handle:
- Drops and rough handling
- Rain and dust exposure
- Long hours on the job without needing a recharge
- Extreme temperatures that would slow down or shut off most consumer phones
One customer told us their tablets had survived drops from in parking lots and daily use in the rain—something their previous devices couldn’t handle for more than a few weeks.
“I realized quickly, I am careful with my phone, but I could not say the same for most of my team.”
2. Bigger Screens, Better Workflow
We—and many of our customers—quickly realized that screen size makes a big difference. Our app is designed for real-world tasks like data entry, visual inspections, and digital signatures, which are simply easier and faster on an 8″ or larger screen. Our rugged devices come with Hand Straps that make them very easy and convenient to hold on to while still using their hands.
Customers have told us:
- “It’s just easier to see everything at a glance.”
- “Our team isn’t squinting or fumbling around as much with the interface.”
- “The hand strap just makes holding it feel natural.”
- “Signatures are cleaner and easier to capture.”
The extra screen space improves accuracy, reduces frustration, and speeds up task completion. It’s a small change that has a big impact.
3. Dedicated Devices = Fewer Distractions
We’ve also seen how using a dedicated work tablet helps teams stay focused. Unlike smartphones—which are often filled with personal apps, notifications, and distractions—rugged tablets tend to be used purely for work.
Several customers have shared that rolling out tablets helped improve consistency across teams, especially when the devices were preloaded with the app and locked down to just what was needed. It also simplifies support, since everyone is working from the same type of device.
Plus, while working on an order, if the phone rings or a text message that pops up over whatever you are working on and really slows down your workflow.
4. Long-Term Value
Consumer devices come and go quickly, and it’s not uncommon for a model to be discontinued or unsupported after a year or two. Rugged tablets are designed for business, which means longer support cycles, fewer breakages, and overall better return on investment. Ever notice how every time you walk into a phone carrier, they seem to have all new devices?
One customer summed it up well:
“We stopped replacing broken phones and started getting work done instead.”
In Summary
While our apps do run on most Android smartphones, our experience—and the feedback we’ve heard time and time again from customers—is that rugged tablets simply work better. They’re more durable, easier to use, and built to handle the realities of business on the move.
If you’re considering what device to use with our software, we strongly recommend going the rugged tablet route. It’s what works best—for us, and for the people who rely on our app every day.
Want help choosing the right device? We’re happy to share recommendations based on what others in your industry are using successfully.