Microsoft Surface Pro XvsPanasonic ToughBook 55

We compare these two popular phones to help you decide which one fits your needs and budget better.

Microsoft
Microsoft Surface Pro X
Surface Pro X

Quick Stats

The Surface Pro X's performance falls short of promises, with sluggish app loading and stuttering graphics in complex programs.
The Microsoft Surface Pro X boasts a sleek, durable build perfect for frequent travelers due to its sturdy magnesium alloy chassis.
The Surface Pro X boasts a stunning and immersive display with vibrant colors and crisp text overall.
The Microsoft Surface Pro X boasts impressive features, including onboard 4G, LTE, and high-resolution touchscreen display capabilities.
Panasonic
Panasonic ToughBook 55
ToughBook 55

Quick Stats

The Toughbook 55 delivers strong performance with i5 or i7 processor, ideal for demanding tasks.
The Panasonic Toughbook 55's rugged build prioritizes durability over thinness, making it ideal for harsh work environments.
The Panasonic Toughbook 55's display excels with peak brightness of 1,000 nits and touch input functionality.
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 boasts a modular design with customizable ports and peripherals for maximum flexibility.
Key Differences

No significant specification differences found between these devices.

Rank
Microsoft Surface Pro X
Winner
#781
Panasonic ToughBook 55
#782
Scores by Category
Rankings
Connectivity
Microsoft Surface Pro X
#868
Panasonic ToughBook 55
#793
Winner
Display
Microsoft Surface Pro X
#281
Winner
Panasonic ToughBook 55
#868
Performance
Microsoft Surface Pro X
#849
Panasonic ToughBook 55
#658
Winner
Build
Microsoft Surface Pro X
#82
Winner
Panasonic ToughBook 55
#854
Features
Microsoft Surface Pro X
#790
Panasonic ToughBook 55
#628
Winner

Note: Lower rank number indicates a better position in category.

Specifications Comparison
Specification
Microsoft Microsoft Surface Pro X
Panasonic Panasonic ToughBook 55
up to 16GB
up to 64GB
up to 512GB SSD
up to 1000GB SSD
Microsoft SQ2
Intel Core i7-8665U
Qualcomm Adreno 690
Intel UHD Graphics 620

Note: Highlighted specifications show differences between the two devices.

Pros and Cons

Microsoft Surface Pro X

Strengths

The Surface Pro X has a beautifully engineered design that's a glimpse at the future of ultra-portables.
It excels at battery life, lasting significantly longer than the Surface Pro 7 with around 9.5 hours of fullscreen video at 50% brightness.
The battery life will comfortably get you through a full workday, especially with mixed usage time at around 8.5 hours.
The sound is surprisingly good, with plenty of punch and acceptable bass levels.
It's great for working on the go without needing to tether or hotspot from your phone thanks to onboard 4G and LTE connectivity.
Having two USB Type-C ports is a welcome feature, especially considering it's been requested by Microsoft fans for three years.
The Surface Pro X has a sleek design that makes it a pleasure to use as a primary device.
It's a great option for those who want a full-fat Intel chip with decent onboard Iris Plus graphics.

Weaknesses

The Surface Pro X struggles with software compatibility, particularly when running complex programs like Photoshop through emulation.
Performance in Photoshop was downright bad, making it difficult to use the app for anything other than simple cutouts and text.
Adobe apps like Illustrator and Photoshop feel a lot slower than they should be given the benchmark results, even with 64-bit emulation support planned for this year.
The Surface Pro X has a battery life that's not quite as good as the Surface Pro 7, despite lasting significantly longer in some tests.
It lacks a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, forcing users to opt for wireless Bluetooth headphones or use the USB-C port.
The Surface Pro X is more expensive than its Intel-based brother and offers limited software compatibility compared to the Surface Pro 7.
Choosing the Surface Pro X over an iPad Pro might not be the best value, given the latter's optimized apps and lower price point.
For now, while the Surface Pro X is a great device, it may not be worth buying when considering options like the iPad Pro or Surface Pro 7.

Panasonic ToughBook 55

Strengths

The Toughbook 55 has a springy, comfy keyboard that works even in the rain.
It features a 1080p camera with a proper privacy shade, unlike the sealed chassis of some other laptops.
The laptop's battery can be swapped out for more power, and additional xPAKs can be added or removed as needed.
The display can crank up to 1,000 nits for outdoor use, making it perfect for construction sites or other bright environments.

Weaknesses

The xPAKs are proprietary, which means they're specific shapes and sizes that may not be compatible with other laptops.
Despite the Toughbook name, this laptop isn't as water-resistant as you might expect, and some users have reported issues with the trackpad and speakers.
The casing is heavy and bulky, making it less portable than other laptops.
The Toughbook 55 won't be marketed to consumers, which means it may not be available at most retailers or online marketplaces.
Read Full Reviews

Microsoft Surface Pro X

The Microsoft Surface Pro X is a sleek and portable ultra-book that offers a glimpse into the future of computing. With its impressive battery life, 4G connectivity, and beautiful design, it's an attractive option for those seeking a device that can keep up with their on-the-go lifestyle. However, its compatibility issues with certain programs and apps may deter some users, making it essential to weigh the pros and cons before considering this cutting-edge device.

Panasonic ToughBook 55

The Panasonic Toughbook 55 is a behemoth of a laptop that defies the conventional design philosophy of its peers. In an era where thinness is prioritized over utility, this rugged PC boldly bucks the trend with a modular design and expandable ports. With interchangeable batteries, storage options, and peripherals, it's almost like having multiple computers in one. Is this the anti-MacBook Pro that I've been dreaming of?

Need help choosing?

Read our detailed reviews to understand which device is better for your specific needs and budget.

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