Looking for tablet recommendations for a field project. We'll be out 8-10 hrs/day doing data collection, so battery life and durability are the priorities.
**Must-haves:**
- 10+ hour real-world battery life, or hot-swappable batteries
- Usable in direct sun - 600+ nits preferred
- IP65/IP67 or similar dust/water rating. We'll be in dirt, rain, 90°F+ heat
- Decent GPS. Centimeter accuracy not required, but should be reliable under canopy
- Android preferred, but open to iPadOS/Windows if the case is strong
Mini sim or Sim car slot.
**Use case:** Running Survey123/QField/ODK Collect. Mostly forms + photos + GPS points. Budget is flexible but ideally <$800/unit or lower since we need ~5 of them.
Currently looking at Samsung Tab Active5, Getac ZX10, and Dell Latitude 7230 Rugged. Any real-world feedback on these? What actually survives a full field season?
What would you buy if you had to deploy in about 2 weeks?