Panasonic Toughpad 4K review

We got an early look at the high-powered performance version of the tablet, due out next year

The Toughpad 4K runs Windows 8.1, so you can use the same design and graphics software you would on any PC. The tablets are also suitable for medical applications, with screen modes designed for effective use as X-ray viewers. The large, high-resolution screen works brilliantly not only for image editing, but also for displaying catalogues and multiple images, videos and documents split across the display.

The Toughpad 4K runs Windows 8.1

The IPS panel used in the Toughpad 4K has a quoted 1000:1 contrast ratio and is capable of reproducing around 98% of the SRGB colour gamut. Unlike other Toughpad computers, it has a glossy display and the kind of rich, vivid colour we expect from a graphics workstation. The depth of colour produced by the display is amazing, and the high resolution means that you can work on massively detailed photos and images with ease. This easily one of the best displays we’ve seen on any PC, and certainly the best of any tablet we’ve used.

THE PEN IS MIGHTIER

Both versions of the tablet can be bought with an Anoto Electronic Touch Pen, which allows you to directly sketch and manipulate images on the screen, effectively replacing the expensive digital tablets used by many artists and designers. The pen connects to the tablet via Bluetooth, has a six hour battery life and uses infrared sensors in combination with an infrared dot pattern on the screen to accurately identify its position on the tablet.

The Anoto Electronic Touch Pen uses infrared position detection

Fine pressure sensors allow it to accurately replicate the behaviour or a real pen on paper, creating thicker and more defined lines if you put more weight on the stylus. When you’re using the electronic touch pen, the capacitive touchscreen automatically shuts down, so you can’t accidentally affect your work by brushing the screen with your hand. Currently only one pen can be used at time, but Panasonic’s Jan Kampfer says that future updates will allow users to use two or even more pens simultaneously with a single tablet, making it even more suitable for group working. Because the Toughpad 4K is being marketed as a tablet, it doesn’t come with a keyboard and mouse, but you can connect any input devices you need via either USB or Bluetooth.

HARD GLASS

The tablet has a toughened glass surface, designed to withstand scratches and even a certain degree of impact damage. While it lacks the reinforced, splash-proof, impact proof titanium chassis of other Toughpads such as the Toughpad FZ-G1, the 4K is nonetheless hardy, rated as proof against a 76cm drop for the bottom of the tablet and a 30cm drop from 26 angles.

The standard version of the Toughpad 4K will be out in November, priced from around £3,800. The performance model will be available in the first quarter of 2014, with pricing to be announced nearer the time.