Video Review: Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1

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The Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1 is a 7-inch ruggedized tablet from the pioneer of ruggedized computers.

Like a shrunken version of the 10.1-inch Toughpad FZ-G1, the M1 is just as powerful, rugged and versatile, runs Windows 8.1 and makes a great addition to Panasonic's line of durable solution platforms. The M1 comes with tons of vertically oriented options to help tailor it to specific uses and accessories to make it easier to handle and charge. And unlike its larger counterpart, the M1 locks the battery automatically.

Right off the bat, we were impressed by the brightness of the M1’s screen. Its 500-nit LED backlight made the tiles of Windows 8 really pop. Its 10-point touch screen and auto-rotation are also super-responsive.

We tested the model with Intel's Core i5 Haswell processor and 8 GB of RAM; there's also a Celeron option that starts at $1,299 with 10-point touch screen, 500-nit LED, stylus, Wi-Fi and USB 3. All models have micro SD and SIM card slots and programmable controls.

PUBLISHED OCT. 2, 2014