Android Tablet vs Windows Tablet: Which Operating System is Better?

High Performance and Productivity

With high-performance processors, ample memory, and generous storage, these tablets handle multitasking and demanding applications effortlessly. Responsive touchscreens, peripheral support, and compatibility with productivity software allow field workers and office staff alike to maintain smooth, efficient workflows.

Full Desktop & 2-in1 Capability

Support for high-resolution displays, external monitors, and standard input devices—such as keyboards and mice—allows professional engineering, design, and content creation software to run smoothly. With 2‑in‑1 design, these tablets transform into laptop-style workstations, delivering a complete, portable desktop environment without compromising durability or rugged performance.

Enhanced Security

Built-in features like Windows Defender, BitLocker encryption, and secure boot safeguard information, while support for multi-factor authentication, enterprise management tools, and regular security updates ensures robust protection in industrial and field settings.

Android Tablets Advantages

Cost-efficient Affordable Options

Budget-friendly performance doesn’t mean compromising functionality. These tablets deliver reliable operation for everyday tasks, media consumption, and app usage, providing a practical solution for users seeking value without sacrificing essential features.

Extensive Application Ecosystem and Integration

Integration with Google Workspace, access to Gmail, Drive, Calendar, and Sheets, and support for third-party tools and open-source apps allow users to customize workflows and maximize efficiency.

Less Power Consumption

Optimized processors and software reduce power draw, ensuring long battery life for mobile work, travel, or situations where frequent charging isn’t convenient.

Customization Flexibility

From home screen layouts and widgets to app permissions and system behaviors, the interface, apps, and settings can be adapted for personal or professional workflows.

Wide Range of Options

From compact, lightweight models to larger, high-performance devices, users can select a tablet suited to basic media use, professional tasks, or specialized applications.

Key Factors to Compare When Choosing an Operating System for Your Industrial Tablet

---

When you’re beginning to look into operating systems for industrial tablets, there are a few big areas you’ll want to understand:

It Meets Your Industry-specific Productivity and Requirements

Does the OS support the applications, automation software, or custom tools your industry depends on? Check compatibility with SCADA, MES, ERP, or other specialized systems.

Software Ecosystem Integration Systems

Availability of apps and development tools (Windows has legacy driver support, Android offers wide app stores). Ability to integrate with cloud services, IoT platforms, or enterprise management systems.

Security and Reliability

Built-in security features (encryption, secure boot, device management). Frequency and longevity of updates/patches. Resistance to malware and unauthorized access.

Hardware Durability and Performance

Resource efficiency: some OSs are lighter and better for lower-power devices. Peripheral/driver support (barcode scanners, PLC connections, sensors, etc.). Performance under 24/7 operation and extreme conditions.

Price and Budget

Licensing costs (Windows licenses can be expensive; Android are typically lower cost). Long-term cost of ownership including updates, IT support, and integration.

Battery Life and User Experience

Power efficiency (Android often consume less than Windows). Ease of use for operators—familiarity can reduce training time. Touch optimization and multi-language support.

Maple Systems Industrial Tablet PC’s

---

Maple Systems Industrial Rugged Tablets are built for rugged and harsh environments, powered for different workflows, connected through versatile ports and wireless options, kept running with long-lasting batteries, integrated with flexible software ecosystems, and applied across industries from automation to logistics.

Rugged and Reliable Design

All models feature IP66 or IP67-rated protection against dust and water, and drop resistance up to 1.22m(4 ft). High-brightness capacitive touchscreens (readable in direct sunlight, Gorilla Glass protection, ≥7H hardness). Wide operating temperature ranges (-20 °C ~ 60°C). Certified against shock, vibration, and electrostatic discharge (±5kV contact, ±10kV air). Built for harsh environments including industrial plants, outdoor fieldwork, marine, and logistics.

---

High-Performance Processing

Windows models (Intel N5100 Celeron, up to 2.8GHz, i5 and i7): Excellent for multitasking, automation software, SCADA, MES, and engineering tools. Android models (MTK 6771 Octa-Core, up to 2.0GHz): Optimized for lightweight, mobile-friendly workflows and app-driven use cases. Ample RAM and storage options (4–16GB memory, 64–256GB storage, expandable). Integrated GPUs ensure smooth handling of graphics-intensive tasks and data visualization.

---

Extensive Connectivity and Mobility

Standard wireless: 5G, 4G LTE, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS/GLONASS/Beidou. Wired I/O: USB Type-C, USB 2.0/3.0, RJ45 Ethernet, Mini HDMI, TF/SIM slots, pogo-pin docking. Optional expansion: NFC, HF/UHF RFID, 1D/2D barcode scanning, fingerprint recognition, ID card reader. Supports docking stations, hubs, and full peripheral integration for both modern and legacy equipment.

---

Extended Battery Life with Easy Maintenance

High-capacity, removable lithium batteries (10,000mAh and up). Hot-swappable designs on select models for continuous 24/7 use. Runtime: ~8+ hours under typical operation. Supports Type-C fast charging and wide-voltage AC adapters. Clear guidance for replacement and storage ensures extended battery lifespan.

---

Open-Ended Integration and Application Flexibility

Windows tablets: Full Microsoft ecosystem (Office, OneDrive, SharePoint), legacy driver/software support, integration with PLC/SCADA, MES, ERP.

Android tablets: Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Sheets), open-source apps, lightweight custom workflow adaptability. Both platforms support modular add-ons, third-party industrial tools, and cloud-based solutions. Customizable hotkeys, scan buttons, and programmable interfaces.

---

Industrial Applications

Vision, measurement, and quality control platforms. Industrial automation & process control. Traffic monitoring & smart transportation. Marine and vehicle-based systems. Environmental monitoring and field testing. Logistics, express management, and supply chain. Human-machine interface (HMI), kiosks, and security systems.

Conclusion

---

When selecting an operating system for your industrial tablet, the choice ultimately depends on your organization’s priorities and application requirements. Windows tablets excel in compatibility, performance, and enterprise-level security, making them ideal for demanding workflows that rely on specialized software and legacy systems. Android tablets, on the other hand, deliver affordability, energy efficiency, and flexibility, offering a practical solution for mobile tasks and customizable environments. Maple Systems rugged tablets combine these strengths by providing robust hardware, versatile connectivity, and support for a wide range of applications, ensuring that businesses can deploy a solution tailored to their operational needs—whether in the field, on the factory floor, or in mission-critical environments.

Whether building complex industrial networks or programming your first PLC or HMI, Maple Systems has an expansive library of technical and educational resources to support your success. Explore our support pages for tutorials, technical notes, sample projects, and more.