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Routing
Equipment tracking
Work order management

The Best Tablets for Field Service Workers

We live in a digital world and technology is allowing businesses to streamline everyday processes. Discover tablets perfect for your field service business!

There are a lot of new phones on the market that are perfect for field workers. If you're looking for a new tablet and you're in the market for something that will serve you well out in the field, then you've come to the right place.

In this blog post, we'll compare some of the best new tablets available and help you decide which one is right for you. We will also discuss the new technology that is available in this area of the tech world. So whether you're looking for a new iPad or a top-of-the-line Samsung tablet, we've got you covered!

Benefits of Using a Tablet for Work

A tablet can be a game-changer for someone who spends a lot of time working on a job site.

  • It’s a much more portable option than a laptop, which can be a godsend when you have to move around a lot during the day.
  • Tablets are less likely to break if they’re dropped or bumped, which is always a risk when you’re working in an outdoor or construction environment.
  • Many tablets come equipped with features that can be extremely helpful on a job site, such as GPS and access to construction apps.
  • Having a tablet on the job site can help you stay organized and on top of things. You can use it to take notes, keep track of tasks, and even take pictures and videos.

In short, using a tablet for work can provide significant advantages over using a laptop or paper documents. Now lets take a look at some of the devices available on the market today.

Tablets for Field Service Workers

Service workers are the backbone of many industries. They provide critical services that keep businesses running smoothly, and they often do so in demanding environments. As a result, service workers need to have devices that can help them stay connected and productive. With that in mind, here are some of the best tablets for service workers:

The iPad Air

The perfect device for service workers. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it ideal for use on the go, and its powerful processor ensures that it can handle even the most demanding workloads.

The iPad Air also features several apps, such as a calendar, notes, and email, which can help service workers to stay organized and efficient. In addition, the iPad air's large screen makes it easy to view documents and diagrams, making it an essential tool for field technicians and other service workers who need to reference complex information on the job.

With its combination of portability, power, and productivity apps, the iPad air is the perfect device for today's service workers.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

Its sleek design and powerful processing make it ideal for use in a variety of industries, from healthcare to hospitality. With its built-in fingerprint sensor and iris scanner, the Galaxy Tab S8 provides a high level of security for sensitive data.

Additionally, the tablet's 8-inch Super AMOLED display is perfect for displaying information and keeping track of appointments. The Galaxy Tab S8 is also equipped with dual speakers and a long-lasting battery, making it ideal for use in noisy environments or long shifts.

For service workers who need a reliable and secure tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a perfect choice.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 8

A game-changer for service workers. It's lighter and more compact than ever before, making it easy to take with you on the go. And it's packed with powerful features that will help you get your job done more efficiently.

The new Surface Pro 8 features an updated processor that is up to 50% faster than the previous generation, making it perfect for running the latest business applications. And with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, you'll have plenty of room to store all your work files. Plus, the new 12.3-inch display provides a sharp and clear view of your work, even in direct sunlight.

Whether you're a field service worker or a desk worker, the Surface Pro 8 is the perfect device for getting your job done.

The Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablet

The Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablets for field service workers

The ultimate field productivity device, no matter the field. Latitude Rugged PCs can handle any condition they’re put in. The Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablet is drop-tested from 4 feet, temperature-tested from -20F to 145F, and is IP-65 rated, for maximum protection against dust, dirt, and water ingress.

With hot swappable dual batteries and improved thermal management, the Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablet maintains peak performance while offering military-grade durability.

When it gets bright, go brighter. Viewable in direct sunlight, the 1000-Nit glove touch-capable screen helps you get your work done. And the new rugged active stylus allows an even faster and more accurate interaction with the tablet's screen.

With the FirstNet Ready™* Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablet, first responders and public safety organizations can get priority access to the fast, reliable, and high-capacity LTE network core. This tablet checks all the boxes if you need tough and durable.

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 7 

lenovo thinkpad X1 yoga gen 7

The perfect device for service workers who need a reliable and tough tablet with laptop capabilities is the Lenovo ThinkPad X! Yoga Gen 7, as it is the next level in 2-in-1 technology. It has robust security that includes Tile® tracking technology. The keys have been redesigned to create better airflow and a new rear exhaust has been added for better ventilation. It also has been military spec tested for durability and extreme conditions. It may not be as light as a regular tablet, but still only weighs 3.04 pounds.

Amazon Fire HD 10

amazon fire hd tablet

For service workers who need a reliable and affordable tablet, the Amazon Fire HD 10 is a great option. This powerful tablet is perfect for workers in the service industry, as it offers a long-lasting battery, a bright display, and a fast processor.

Plus, the Amazon Fire HD 10 comes with Alexa built-in, so you can easily access information and control your workflow with just your voice. So if you're looking for a dependable tablet that can help you stay productive on the job, the Amazon Fire HD 10 is a perfect choice.

When it comes to choosing the right tablet for your needs, it's important to consider what type of work you'll be doing with it. For example, if you're on a construction job site, you'll need something that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. On the other hand, if you're looking for a device to help you with your administrative work, you'll need something more lightweight and portable.

There are a variety of tablets on the market, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase. Once you've determined what type of tablet will best suit your needs, you'll be able to choose the perfect device for your service or field jobs.

How to Pick the Right Tablet for Your Needs

Deciding on the right tablet can be a tough decision. If you're primarily using your tablet for field work, then you'll want to make sure that it's durable enough to withstand being dropped or bumped around a bit. After all, you don't want to have to replace your tablet every time it takes a tumble.

Type

Think about the type of tablet you want and need. Do you want an iPad, a Microsoft Surface, an Amazon Fire HD, or something else entirely? All of these brands offer different features and capabilities. Microsoft products run different applications than Apple and have different compatibility and security features. Make sure to do some research and understand how these differ from one brand to another.

Size

What size of tablet will best suit your needs? If you will be using it primarily for paperwork or light web browsing, a smaller tablet will do just fine. However, If you're planning on doing any video editing or graphic design work on your tablet, then you'll need to make sure that it has the necessary processing power, screen size, and memory to handle those tasks.

Software

You'll want to consider what type of software you'll need to use for work. If you're primarily using Microsoft Office applications, then you might want to get a Surface tablet. If you need to use other types of software for work or have different security needs, then an iPad might be a better option.

Price

Finally, think about the price. Job sites can have many other costs associated with them, so you may not have a lot of money to spend on a tablet. However, there are a variety of tablets on the market that are both affordable and durable. If you're looking for the best value, it's important to compare the features and prices of different tablets to find the one that's right for you. Although the Amazon Fire HD tablet may be lacking in processing power, they are some of the most affordable on the market.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your choices and find a tablet out there that's perfect for you and your work.

The Connection

wireless connection for device

Connecting to the internet is one of the most important aspects of having a mobile workforce. You typically use these devices to get away from a pen and paper process, but having no connection to the internet in the field can send everything back to the stone age.

Cellular

Most cellular carriers will offer options to include cellular data when purchasing tablet devices from them, which works similarly to how a cell phone would use a SIM-Card. Cellular is the most reliable option for a fleet on the go, as long as you are in an area where the geography does not interfere with cell tower connections.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is built into almost every device you can find now. WiFi doesn’t require an additional cellular data plan, but it does require close physical proximity to a modem or router. Not every customer will want your technician to connect to their Wi-Fi, and not every technician will have a plan that gives them a free Hot Spot on their phone they can use to connect other devices to the internet. 

The Platform

You should discuss your platform choice with input from the technicians who will use the devices. They may all prefer to use Apple over Android (or vice versa), because that is what they’ve always used and it is hard to pick up new technology and start running with it.

Android

Android devices will typically be less expensive, so they are the go-to option for larger companies with large workforces in the field. The user interface often represents the biggest stumbling block though, as it offers more customization and unlocked features. This can muddy the waters for those new to this type of technology. Different manufacturers will have different user interfaces and features, further muddying the waters.

Apple

Apple devices represent the more expensive option, but offer the user a more streamlined set of features. Each Apple device operates with the same operating system, whereas each Android device might have a different “flavor” of Android OS. Apple products also offer more options for locking down the device, which can help improve productivity if the person using it can’t access social media and other unproductive distractions. Apple devices also come with great features for locating lost or stolen devices.

How do Tablets Compare to Other Devices for Service Work

Tablets offer a unique set of advantages for people who work in the service industry or who frequently find themselves in the field.

  • Highly portable, making them easy to carry with you wherever you go.
  • Offer a large and clear display, which is ideal for viewing diagrams, blueprints, or other detailed documents.
  • Often have built-in cameras, which can be useful for taking pictures of equipment or for documentation purposes.
  • Typically less expensive than laptops, and they offer a longer battery life.
  • Many tablets are now equipped with wireless data plans, which means that you can always stay connected even when you're away from the office.
  • Tablets offer a great deal of flexibility and functionality for people who need to stay productive while on the go.

There are of course some downsides to using a tablet. They're not as powerful as laptops, and they can be more difficult to type on. They also don't have optical drives, so you can't install software from a CD or DVD. With that being said, tablets are still a great option for service work. They're affordable, lightweight, and easy to use.

What New Technology is Available in the Area of Service Work

Advancements in technology have made a big impact in the service industry, particularly in the area of fieldwork. Service contractors and field workers are now able to take advantage of a variety of new tools and devices that can make their jobs easier and more efficient. For example, many companies are now using GPS tracking to dispatch workers to their next job site. This not only saves time but also ensures that workers are always aware of their current location and can easily find their way back to the office or home base.

In addition, new mobile apps have been developed specifically for service professionals, providing them with access to customer information, job schedules, and even routing by way of GPS navigation. These apps allow workers to manage their time more effectively and provide a higher level of customer service. Ultimately, the availability of new technology is benefiting both service contractors and their customers by making the process of scheduling and completing service work more efficient and convenient.

Smart Service

Smart Service is one example of a company that is using new technology to revolutionize the service industry. While we do offer a desktop software product, Smart Service is transitioning into primarily a cloud-based software solution that enables service companies of all sizes to manage their business more effectively.

With Smart Service, businesses can dispatch workers in real-time using GPS tracking, schedule and dispatch jobs from a mobile app, track employee hours and job costs, and invoice customers electronically. Smart Service also offers a customer portal that allows customers to view their service history, schedule appointments, and make payments online.

By using new technology to streamline the process of scheduling and dispatching service work, Smart Service is making it easier for businesses to provide a much higher level of customer service.

Smart Service For Your Company

If you are a part of a service company looking for better scheduling software, Smart Service software is loaded with features and is a great option for you. Service companies are always searching for ways to optimize their time so that they can provide the best possible service to their customers.

Smart Service software helps companies do just that by scheduling appointments and managing customer information all in one place. It also offers features like GPS tracking and automatic appointment reminders, which can further help improve your company’s efficiency.

In addition to its many benefits, Smart Service software is also very user-friendly and affordable, making it a great option for small businesses or startups. If you are looking for a way to improve your company’s efficiency and better serve your customers, Smart Service software is the way to go. Contact us today to learn more, or just head to our website to get a free demo scheduled today!

Wrapping Up

So, what have we learned about using a tablet for work? Tablets are becoming more and more popular for many different types of work, especially in fields that involve a lot of traveling. They offer many benefits over traditional laptops or smartphones, such as portability, longer battery life, and the ability to use multiple applications at once. There are now tablets designed specifically for field workers that offer additional features like barcode scanning and GPS tracking.

If you’re looking for a tablet to use for work, it’s important to consider your specific needs and what type of device will best meet them. We hope this article has helped you understand the different options that are available and how to pick the right tablet for your needs.

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