Panasonic ToughBook CF-52 Semi-Rugged Notebook Review

From the practically bullet proof CF-29 and CF-30, to the super light semi-rugged delights of the CF-Y5, the ToughBook CF-52 I’m looking at today sits very much in the middle of those models, being a semi-rugged machine like the CF-Y5, but with a size and shape similar to those larger and hardier models. It also marks a first for the ToughBook range because, remarkably, it’s the first to feature a widescreen display.

Quite apart from the 15.4in, 1,280 x 800 display, it is clear Panasonic has moved the design of this more budget orientated ToughBook closer to the rest of the range. Whereas the CF-51 resembled a thicker, heavier and stronger version of a normal notebook, the CF-52 looks far more like its more hardcore cousins. Most evident in this respect is the addition of a handle, which is included more or less as standard on all but the ultra-portable ToughBooks. This is a very welcome addition, helping to make the CF-52 fairly portable despite its 3.3kg weight.

..A well designed and more affordable ToughBook, if you want ruggedness but think the full fat varieties are little too much, then the CF-52 is a great option.

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