What are the Differences Between Zebra's TC53 and TC58 Touch Computers?

Zebra have just released their new TC53 and TC58 devices, the latest editions to Zebra’s best selling rugged touch computer, the TC5X series. As an upgrade to the very popular TC52/57, the TC53 and TC58 have been designed to take productivity and ease of use to the next level.

Whilst the TC53 and TC58 are two very similar devices, it is very important to understand what are the differences between the TC53 and TC58, and which would be a better fit for your business and colleagues?

Ultimately, these two new devices are identical, except for one critical difference.

TC53 Vs. Tc58 - The Key Differences

The only difference between the Zebra TC53 and TC58 is that the TC53 is Wi-Fi only (WLAN) whilst the TC58 has a SIM card slot, providing cellular capabilities (WWAN).

Zebra markets the TC53 as a “Within the four walls” device, suitable to be used where there is a stable Wi-Fi connection, as you would find in retail and warehouse environments. The TC58 is considered an “Outside the four walls” device, as you would find in industries like field services, couriers, transport and logistics.

What are the Zebra TC53 Connectivity Capabilities?

The TC53 has been designed with the latest Wi-Fi technology, including Wi-Fi 6E, an early adopter within the rugged handheld computers. This latest development in Wi-Fi technology support 6GHz wireless spectrum, enabling lightning-fast speeds and low latency than Wi-Fi 6 and earlier iterations.

What are the Zebra TC58 Connectivity Capabilities?

The TC58 has been designed with the fastest wireless technologies, including both 5G and Wi-Fi 6E – the latest in both Wi-Fi technology and cellular network connectivity, allowing enterprises to provide their workers with the fastest and most reliable wireless connections, enabling cost-effective wireless connectivity in both the largest indoor and outdoor facilities.

Which should you choose?

When data is used effectively, it gives your staff the ability to access information as quickly and easily as their colleagues in the office, increasing productivity, efficiency and ultimately impacting your bottom line.

The choice between the TC53 and TC58 is all based on – do your devices need a SIM card and will they ever leave your site?

If the devices will never leave the site and will always have a Wi-FI access point within range, the TC53 device is the better-suited cost-effective device, this is perfect for warehouse or retail environments. On the other hand, the TC58 has been designed for field service, transportation, couriers and any other job where you will be out of range of Wi-Fi but require an internet connection for things like; satellite navigation, route optimisation, proof of delivery and any other feature where you need to download or upload data.

Don’t forget the yard! An important but often overlooked location, where devices may find themselves without a connection, are warehouse yards. Just outside the reach of the indoor access points, unless you are wanting to install access points around the yard which can often be time consuming and expensive, cellular-enabled devices like the TC58 may be the better option, reducing dead zones around your site.

Always Stay Connected

With the differences between the two devices based solely on cellular connectivity, it’s safe to say that the best option will ultimately depend on your needs. If your devices have any chance of moving outside your Wi-FI range, using the TC58 is a must. But, if you know your site has strong Wi-Fi connections that cover your entire site, the TC53 is an easier and cost-effective solution.

To help you get the most out of your handheld computers and device estate, get in touch with our experts and see how we can benefit your company or if you want to read more about the TC53 and 57 devices and their features