Mobile Computers for Warehouse & Logistics

Q: What's the difference between a 1D laser scanner and a 2D imager on a mobile computer?

A 1D laser scans a single barcode line; it's fast and cheap but can't read QR codes, Data Matrix, or barcodes on curved surfaces. A 2D imager captures a photo of the barcode, reads all formats, tolerates dirt and wrinkles, and works at multiple angles. Modern WMS systems require 2D; 1D is obsolete for new deployments.

Q: How do I choose between Android and Windows mobile computers?

Android is faster to deploy, has a modern app ecosystem, and lower total cost of ownership. Windows is better for legacy ERP integration, long-term vendor support contracts, and enterprises with existing Windows infrastructure. Test both OS versions with your WMS vendor before committing to a fleet.

Q: What battery life should I expect, and how does it impact my shift scheduling?

Standard batteries last 8–10 hours; extended batteries reach 12–14 hours. For 16-hour operations, use hot-swap battery models or invest in mid-shift charging docks. Cold environments reduce battery life by 20–30%; factor this into your deployment and dock placement strategy.

Q: How many mobile computers do I need for my warehouse?

Use a 1-device-per-200-sq-ft rule as a baseline, then adjust for shift overlap and redundancy. A 50,000 sq ft warehouse with 2 shifts typically needs 12–18 devices; add 20% spares for rotation and repairs. Test your actual throughput (picks/hour) before finalizing fleet size.

Q: What's the real-world wireless range of a mobile computer in my warehouse?

Advertised range (100+ meters) assumes open space; actual warehouse range is 30–50 meters due to metal racking, concrete, and interference. Site-survey your AP locations and conduct a real-world RF walktest before purchase. Poor RF coverage kills throughput faster than slow devices.

Q: Are refurbished or certified pre-owned mobile computers a good fit for our operations?

CPO devices from reputable distributors can cut costs 30–40% and work well for non-critical zones (returns, QA) or temporary projects. Always verify drop-test history and battery health; avoid CPO units for high-volume picking where downtime is expensive. Budget for 12-month warranty coverage on CPO fleets.

Mobile Computers

Warehouse mobile computers provide rugged handheld computing and barcode scanning capabilities for inventory management, order fulfillment, and logistics workflows. These devices combine enterprise mobility, wireless connectivity, and integrated scanning to support receiving, picking, packing, and shipping operations across distribution centers and industrial environments.

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Zebra

SKU: ET51AT-W14E

Zebra ET51AT-W14E 10.1" Wearable Scanner WLAN

10.1" wearable scanner with Wi-Fi for hands-free warehouse operations
- Intel Atom quad-core processor, 8GB RAM, 64GB storage runs Windows 10
- IP65 sealed design withstands dust, washdown, and 1-meter drops
- Wrist or body harness mount keeps hands free during picking and inventory
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$2,039.99

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Zebra

SKU: ET51CE-G21E-SFNA

Zebra ET51CE-G21E-SFNA 8.4" Android Tablet

8.4" Android tablet for warehouse & field ops with Wi-Fi connectivity
- Snapdragon 660 @ 2.2 GHz processor with 4 GB RAM for multitasking
- 8.4-inch display sized for order fulfillment and detailed scanning workflows
- 32 GB storage + microSD expansion for apps and on-device data caching
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$1,925.99

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Zebra

SKU: ET60AW-0HQAGN00A0-NA

Zebra ET60AW-0HQAGN00A0-NA Rugged Android Tablet

10.1" rugged Android tablet with heated display for cold warehouse ops
- IP66-rated with 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and Snapdragon processor
- Heated touch screen works in freezing conditions without removing gloves
- Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and all-shift 5,920 mAh battery
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$2,777.25 $2,376.99 Save $400.26

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Zebra

SKU: ET60AW-0SQAGN00A0-NA

Zebra ET60AW-0SQAGN00A0-NA 10.1" Android Tablet

10.1" Android tablet with built-in 1D/2D scanner for warehouse ops
- IP66-rated for dust and water resistance in harsh field conditions
- 1D/2D barcode scan engine integrated directly into the tablet
- 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, Snapdragon 2.7 GHz with Wi-Fi 6 and NFC
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$2,248.25 $1,923.99 Save $324.26

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Zebra

SKU: ET60AW-0SQAGSK0A0-NA

Zebra ET60AW-0SQAGSK0A0-NA Android Tablet

10.1-inch rugged Android tablet with 1D/2D scanner for warehouse ops
- IP66 dust and water resistant for indoor/outdoor warehouse environments
- Snapdragon 2.7 GHz processor with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage
- Integrated 1D/2D barcode scanner reads QR, Data Matrix, Code 128, UPC, EAN
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$2,920.00 $2,150.99 Save $769.01

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Zebra

SKU: ET60WW-0S6DPSK0A0-00

Zebra ET60WW-0S6DPSK0A0-00 ET60W Windows Mobile Computer

Rugged 10.1" Windows tablet with 1D/2D scanning for field operations
- Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD for multitasking in warehouses
- IP66-rated design handles dust and water spray in outdoor/wet environments
- 1D/2D barcode scanning with Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
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$4,433.25 $3,793.99 Save $639.26

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Zebra

SKU: ET65WW-ES8HLEL0A0-00

Zebra ET65WW-ES8HLEL0A0-00 Rugged Tablet Scanner

Intel Core Ultra 7 rugged tablet with integrated 1D/2D scanner
- 32GB RAM handles multitasking and complex enterprise applications
- IP66 sealed against dust and high-pressure water for field durability
- Wi-Fi 6E with 20/40/80/160 MHz channels for reliable connectivity
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$5,216.99 $4,989.99 Save $227.00

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Zebra

SKU: ET80A-0E5A1-000

Zebra ET80A-0E5A1-000 12-inch Rugged Enterprise Tablet

12-inch Windows tablet built for warehouse floors and field operations
- 12-inch glove-compatible touchscreen with Intel Core i5 for WMS and data apps
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC runs existing enterprise software without rewrites
- Drop-resistant, dust and moisture tolerant; multi-hour battery for full-shift use
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$4,214.00 $3,435.99 Save $778.01

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Zebra

SKU: ET80A-0E5A2-CF0

Zebra ET80A-0E5A2-CF0 12-inch Rugged Tablet

12-inch rugged tablet with Intel i5 for enterprise field operations
- 12-inch touchscreen display with Intel Core i5 for warehouse and logistics workflows
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC for extended support and predictable patching cycles
- 802.11 WLAN connectivity for mobile data collection and real-time ERP integration
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$4,149.99

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Zebra

SKU: ET85B-3P5A1-000-HZ

Zebra ET85B-3P5A1-000-HZ 12" Rugged Tablet Windows Pro

12" rugged tablet with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, and 4G cellular
- 12-inch display for data-intensive logistics and warehouse workflows
- Intel Core i5 processor with 8GB RAM handles multitasking and legacy software
- 4G WWAN cellular keeps field teams connected without WiFi dependency
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$4,178.99

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Zebra

SKU: FLB3678-C100F3WW

Zebra FLB3678-C100F3WW IP65 Sealed Forklift Cradle

IP65 sealed forklift cradle for Zebra handhelds in dusty warehouses
- IP65 rating blocks dust and washdown spray without dropping Wi-Fi signal
- Wi-Fi connectivity maintains real-time barcode scanning across warehouse zones
- Forklift-optimized mounting with standard attachment points for quick deployment
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$645.99

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Zebra

SKU: FRR-ET51-T3

Zebra FRR-ET51-T3 ET51 Tablet Technical Support

Technical support for Zebra ET51 8.4" Android tablet deployments
- OS troubleshooting, firmware updates, and connectivity management on Android 8.1
- WiFi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC configuration assistance included
- Integration support for inventory, fulfillment, and field service applications
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$1,085.99 $1,038.99 Save $47.00

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Zebra

SKU: FRR-TC2XX-DA

Zebra FRR-TC2XX-DA Mobile Computer

One-handed warehouse mobile computer with all-shift battery and cellular
- Rugged drop-resistant design built for high-volume warehouse & logistics operations
- Wireless and cellular connectivity for real-time inventory and shipment updates
- Full-shift battery life sustains continuous scan-to-completion workflows
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$58.99 $55.99 Save $3.00

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Zebra

SKU: G38000M

Zebra G38000M Printhead 203DPI Mobile Computer

203DPI thermal printhead for Zebra Xi3, Xi3+, PAX3, PAX4 mobiles
- 203DPI resolution prints scannable barcodes and labels from handheld devices
- Direct thermal technology eliminates ink cartridges for field operations
- Compatible across four Zebra mobile computer models in one replacement part
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$935.99 $894.99 Save $41.00

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Zebra

SKU: KC50E22-GLA200-NA

Zebra KC50E22-GLA200-NA 22-Inch Kiosk Computer

22-inch touchscreen kiosk with PoE single-cable setup
- 22-inch capacitive touchscreen for high-traffic retail and service applications
- 6GB RAM and 64GB SSD with 2.1 GHz multi-core processor for responsive operation
- WiFi 6 and Power-over-Ethernet reduce installation complexity to one cable
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$1,771.00 $1,515.99 Save $255.01

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Zebra

SKU: KT-ET40AA-001C1B0-FT

Zebra KT-ET40AA-001C1B0-FT ET40 8" Wi-Fi 6 Tablet SE4100

8" Android tablet with Wi-Fi 6 and secure element for field operations
- 4GB RAM and 64GB storage for responsive multitasking in logistics and retail
- SE4100 secure processor isolates cryptographic operations for compliance
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity enables faster data sync across high-density deployments
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$1,031.99

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What to Look For When Buying

The decisions that matter most before you spec.

Processor Power & Operating System Stability

Mobile computer performance directly impacts barcode scan speed, application responsiveness, and real-time inventory sync across your WMS. Choose quad-core processors and proven OS versions from CipherLab, Datalogic, and Unitech to avoid throughput bottlenecks during peak shift cycles.

Display Brightness & Outdoor Visibility

Sunlit dock areas and outdoor receiving yards require 400+ nits minimum brightness to maintain barcode readability and worker accuracy. Transflective LCD or high-brightness IPS screens prevent mis-picks and rework labor costs.

Barcode Engine Optics & Decode Speed

2D imager quality determines first-pass scan success rate and throughput. Standard-range 4–6 inch focal depth suits small labels on cases; extended-range (15+ inches) engines handle high-shelf and pallet scanning without repositioning, reducing pick time by 15–25%.

IP Rating & Drop-Test Certification

IP65 and above seals against splash and dust; MIL-STD 810G drop tests to concrete at 4–6 feet confirm durability in fast-paced environments. Verify drop-test heights match your actual deployment (dock height vs. racking height) to avoid field failures.

Wireless Range & Network Architecture

802.11ac and 6E handheld coverage depends on AP density, interference, and warehouse metal/concrete barriers. High-throughput operations (1000+ picks/hour) need <50ms latency; weak RF coverage forces workers to walk back to load zones, adding 30+ minutes per shift.

Total Cost of Ownership & Charging Infrastructure

Device cost is typically 40–50% of TCO; add charging docks and cradles, spare parts, cases and holsters, and extended warranty. Battery replacement cycles (every 2–3 years) and screen repairs are predictable costs; account for them in fleet budgets.

Technology Stack

The specs and acronyms that actually affect mobile computers performance.

2D Imager (Area-Based Barcode Engine)

Uses a CMOS or CCD sensor to capture an image of the barcode, not a single laser line. 2D imagers read QR codes, Data Matrix, and PDF417 in addition to 1D barcodes; they work on curved surfaces and tolerate more dirt. Industry standard for modern WMS operations.

IP Rating (Ingress Protection)

Two-digit code: first digit = dust protection (0–6, where 6 = dust-tight), second digit = moisture (0–8, where 8 = submersion to 1m+). IP65 is minimum for dock/yard use; IP67–68 required for wet environments or washdown zones.

802.11ac / Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)

ac standard offers ~866 Mbps aggregate throughput; Wi-Fi 6 (6E in newer models) adds sub-6 GHz and 6 GHz bands for lower interference and <10ms latency in dense APs. Critical for high-volume pick operations and real-time WMS sync.

RFID UHF Gen2 (860–960 MHz)

Long-range radio frequency identification: read distance 5–15 meters depending on antenna and tag. Enables case and pallet-level tracking without line-of-sight barcode scanning; 10–100x faster than 1D barcode for bulk receiving.

Nits (Display Brightness)

A nit is one candela per square meter. Outdoor visibility requires 400+ nits; 500+ nits recommended for full-sun dock areas. Test readability in your actual light conditions (morning vs. afternoon) before purchase.

MIL-STD 810G Drop Test

Military standard durability protocol: device dropped from specified height (typically 4–6 feet onto concrete) multiple times. Passing certification proves structural integrity; failure often means screen/digitizer replacement costs every 12–18 months.

Typical Deployment Scenarios

Medium Warehouse Receiving & Picking (50,000 sq ft, 2-shift operation)

Deploy 12–16 mobile computers with 802.11ac, integrated 2D barcode engines, and 12-hour batteries across dock and pick zones. Pair with 4–6 charging docks positioned at end-of-shift zones. Use CipherLab or Datalogic platforms for WMS integration. Total hardware ROI: 18–24 months via labor reduction.

High-Velocity Cross-Dock (100,000+ sq ft, 3-shift, 5000+ picks/day)

100+ mobile computers with Wi-Fi 6, extended-range 2D imagers, and hot-swappable batteries. Implement 8–12 APs with mesh or controller for <20ms latency. Add rugged cases and spare parts inventory (screens, batteries, triggers). Unitech or enterprise-grade Datalogic devices recommended for sustained throughput.

Multi-Location Retail / Grocery (5–15 store locations, inventory cycles)

30–50 mobile computers with UHF RFID capability plus 2D barcode fallback. Stagger deployments across locations to share charging infrastructure. CipherLab Android devices integrate quickly with cloud WMS; Windows options suit legacy POS-linked environments.

Cold-Chain / Pharmaceutical Distribution (temperature-controlled warehouse, 24/7)

15–25 mobile computers rated for -10°C to +50°C operation with heated battery modules. Use specialized power cables for high-amperage charging in cold zones. Deploy protective fogging-resistant screen protectors. Device rotation every 18 months due to condensation stress; maintain spares.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a 1D laser scanner and a 2D imager on a mobile computer?

A 1D laser scans a single barcode line; it's fast and cheap but can't read QR codes, Data Matrix, or barcodes on curved surfaces. A 2D imager captures a photo of the barcode, reads all formats, tolerates dirt and wrinkles, and works at multiple angles. Modern WMS systems require 2D; 1D is obsolete for new deployments.

How do I choose between Android and Windows mobile computers?

Android is faster to deploy, has a modern app ecosystem, and lower total cost of ownership. Windows is better for legacy ERP integration, long-term vendor support contracts, and enterprises with existing Windows infrastructure. Test both OS versions with your WMS vendor before committing to a fleet.

What battery life should I expect, and how does it impact my shift scheduling?

Standard batteries last 8–10 hours; extended batteries reach 12–14 hours. For 16-hour operations, use hot-swap battery models or invest in mid-shift charging docks. Cold environments reduce battery life by 20–30%; factor this into your deployment and dock placement strategy.

How many mobile computers do I need for my warehouse?

Use a 1-device-per-200-sq-ft rule as a baseline, then adjust for shift overlap and redundancy. A 50,000 sq ft warehouse with 2 shifts typically needs 12–18 devices; add 20% spares for rotation and repairs. Test your actual throughput (picks/hour) before finalizing fleet size.

What's the real-world wireless range of a mobile computer in my warehouse?

Advertised range (100+ meters) assumes open space; actual warehouse range is 30–50 meters due to metal racking, concrete, and interference. Site-survey your AP locations and conduct a real-world RF walktest before purchase. Poor RF coverage kills throughput faster than slow devices.

Are refurbished or certified pre-owned mobile computers a good fit for our operations?

CPO devices from reputable distributors can cut costs 30–40% and work well for non-critical zones (returns, QA) or temporary projects. Always verify drop-test history and battery health; avoid CPO units for high-volume picking where downtime is expensive. Budget for 12-month warranty coverage on CPO fleets.

Mobile Computers

Select the Right Mobile Computer

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Showing Results for Mobile Computers

Zebra ET51AT-W14E 10.1" Wearable Scanner WLAN

Zebra ET51CE-G21E-SFNA 8.4" Android Tablet

Zebra ET60AW-0HQAGN00A0-NA Rugged Android Tablet

Zebra ET60AW-0SQAGN00A0-NA 10.1" Android Tablet

Zebra ET60AW-0SQAGSK0A0-NA Android Tablet

Zebra ET60WW-0S6DPSK0A0-00 ET60W Windows Mobile Computer

Zebra ET65WW-ES8HLEL0A0-00 Rugged Tablet Scanner

Zebra ET80A-0E5A1-000 12-inch Rugged Enterprise Tablet

Zebra ET80A-0E5A2-CF0 12-inch Rugged Tablet

Zebra ET85B-3P5A1-000-HZ 12" Rugged Tablet Windows Pro

Zebra FLB3678-C100F3WW IP65 Sealed Forklift Cradle

Zebra FRR-ET51-T3 ET51 Tablet Technical Support

Zebra FRR-TC2XX-DA Mobile Computer

Zebra G38000M Printhead 203DPI Mobile Computer

Zebra KC50E22-GLA200-NA 22-Inch Kiosk Computer

Zebra KT-ET40AA-001C1B0-FT ET40 8" Wi-Fi 6 Tablet SE4100

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