Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1

“With its Intel Core i5-4302Y processor, the Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1 offers significantly better performance than Atom-based counterparts. Its small size makes it easier to tote around, whether you're carrying it from house to house checking gas meters or accessing real-time data in a war zone. The broad array of modules and accessories that can be added to the tablet offer a robust variety of functions and uses. Compared with larger rugged tablets, however, its Y-Series processor doesn't have a lot of oomph, and the battery life is a bit short. The battery issue is solved in part by the option for a hot-swappable battery, but it's an added expense. For a fuller PC computing experience, the larger Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G1 remains our top pick, thanks to its superior performance and longer lasting battery.”

“In an ideal world, you'll use the FZ-M1 to run custom-made applications that are designed with a Windows tablet of this size in mind. If you’re running a small business, though, it’s more likely that you’ll be using off-the-shelf programs and tablet apps, and, when it comes to business, Google Play and Apple’s App Store are far better equipped with such programs than the Windows Store. While the Windows Store does have a section for business apps, including bar code readers, finance and invoicing tools and standard office software, finding tools suited to your needs can be a challenge, especially as the Store is packed with apps that are little more than glorified ads or just placeholders for a standard desktop app that you can download elsewhere.Unless you’re able to deploy applications specifically designed for Windows tablets of this size, the usability of the FZ-M1 is restricted by its screen size. Many small business users will be better served by the Panasonic Toughpad JT-B1 7in Android tablet or the 10in FZ-G1 Windows tablet, which has a screen that is much better suited to desktop use.”