Panasonic ToughBook 55 review
The Panasonic Panasonic ToughBook 55 ranks as the #782 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 62. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #628-ranked features among 736 laptops. Consider the Microsoft Surface Pro X or Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 7i Pro, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 is an exceptional laptop that embodies versatility and choice. Its modular design allows for easy customization with xPAKs, which can be swapped out depending on the job or task at hand. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 40 hours with two batteries. However, the proprietary xPAKs may limit user flexibility, and some might find the weight and bulkiness a drawback. Despite these minor issues, the Toughbook 55 shines as a business laptop that prioritizes utility over sleekness. Is it worth the hefty price tag of $2,100? For those who value adaptability and power, yes.
Build
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 is a modular laptop that's built to withstand the rigors of rugged use. The casing is heavy and bulky, weighing in at 4.5 pounds, but it's designed for durability rather than thinness. The xPAK expansion system allows users to swap out ports and peripherals as needed, adding versatility to the device. While not marketed towards consumers, the Toughbook 55 is perfect for professionals who need a reliable and customizable laptop for their work. The modular design and rugged build make it an attractive option for those in industries such as construction or law enforcement. For an improved build, Panasonic Toughbook FZ-40 is worth considering.
Display
The Panasonic Toughbook 55's display is a standout feature. With a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, it can be easily read outdoors in direct sunlight. The screen also supports touch input, making it ideal for interactive applications. However, the color accuracy and overall visual quality are not remarkable. In fact, they're slightly below par compared to other laptops on the market. Still, this is a minor quibble when considering the device's ruggedness and versatility. The 55's display is functional and gets the job done, but it won't win any awards for its visual prowess. You might want to check out MSI Stealth 15, featuring an upgraded display for a superior experience.
Performance
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 is a powerhouse laptop that offers versatility and choice in a rugged package. The i5 or i7 processor provides ample power for demanding tasks, while the modular design allows users to customize their setup with xPAKs, which can be swapped out as needed. The ability to add a second battery doubles the estimated 40-hour lifespan to 80 hours. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for professionals who require a reliable laptop that can keep up with their demanding work schedule. Performance-wise, the Toughbook 55 delivers, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a rugged and capable laptop. Take a look at LG gram 14 - its improved performance sets a new standard.
Battery and Charging
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 boasts an impressive battery life with two front bays that can accommodate a total of 40 hours of power. The laptop's battery is removable and can be swapped out for another, providing a substantial increase in usage time. Additionally, the xPAK system allows users to add or remove batteries as needed, making it ideal for professionals who require a reliable and long-lasting computing experience on-the-go.
Connectivity
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 excels in versatility, offering connectivity options that cater to various needs. With a modular design, users can swap out expansion cards (xPAKs) as needed, such as adding a fingerprint sensor or smart card reader. The laptop also features an optional 4G LTE modem and GPS for seamless connectivity on the go. The display's high brightness of up to 1,000 nits ensures visibility in outdoor environments. It’s worth checking out MSI Creator 17, delivering remarkable connectivity.
Features
The Panasonic Toughbook 55 is a versatile laptop with a modular design, allowing users to customize ports and peripherals as needed. It features a springy keyboard, 1080p webcam, and expansion base for added power or graphics capabilities. Batteries can be swapped in bays, and xPAKs offer additional functionality like fingerprint sensors or GPU upgrades. Give Panasonic Toughbook FZ-40 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled features.
Support and Maintenance
The Panasonic ToughBook 55 is a versatile machine that offers a sense of choice, something laptops have lost with each passing year. With modular expansion capabilities, users can customize the laptop to fit their needs, adding or removing features as required. This approach makes maintenance and support more efficient, allowing users to upgrade specific components rather than replacing the entire device.
Pros
1. The Toughbook 55 has a springy, comfy keyboard that works even in the rain.
2. It features a 1080p camera with a proper privacy shade, unlike the sealed chassis of some other laptops.
3. The laptop's battery can be swapped out for more power, and additional xPAKs can be added or removed as needed.
4. The display can crank up to 1,000 nits for outdoor use, making it perfect for construction sites or other bright environments.
Cons
1. The xPAKs are proprietary, which means they're specific shapes and sizes that may not be compatible with other laptops.
2. 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.
3. The casing is heavy and bulky, making it less portable than other laptops.
4. The Toughbook 55 won't be marketed to consumers, which means it may not be available at most retailers or online marketplaces.
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