Summary
In this post, we dig deep into the features and benefits of Zebra Technologies’ TC701 rugged mobile computer. Then, we compare the TC701 model with previous TC7 models and analyse use cases for the new machine versus earlier releases across different industries. We also consider comparable products from leading competitors and finally give our verdict: should you upgrade from the TC7x to the new TC701?
Introduction
In the months and years ahead, employees will need the right technology in the palm of their hand to take advantage of next-generation, AI-enabled workflows.
This is the pitch for the new Zebra Technologies TC701, a rugged device designed with ‘Frontline AI’ capability to power the next generation of AI apps and software. The TC701 is Zebra’s premier choice, a high-powered, AI-ready and enterprise-grade machine that’s also the toughest in its class.
But do you need it? Or are earlier devices in this range – the TC73 and TC78 – going to continue to serve your requirements for the foreseeable? We’ll help answer this question and look at comparable devices from competitors to assist your decision-making.
The new TC701 – the highlights
The topline specs for the TC701 are all about AI readiness. And those specs, compared to earlier machines, are eye-catching. Latest-generation NPUs run AI use cases 60-100 times faster than CPUs/GPUs. Embedded NPU memory ‘supports evolving multimodal AI models’ (translation: the chip is designed specifically to run complex AI tasks that may combine, for instance, text, voice, images and video). A best-in-class camera and scan engines help AI decipher visual data. Add the integrated advanced RFID scanning, and this ‘AI-ready’ claim is backed up with genuine capability.
Zebra has packed all of this functionality into a sleek, hard-as-nails device that will take more punishment than any other rugged mobile computer in its range.
The previous TC73/78 series
We’ll quote one of our earlier blog posts that featured the TC7X series, which provides a good overview of these devices.
‘The TC7X series is for organisations that work in the toughest environments out there – where shocks, heat, cold, dust and water are everyday occurrences. This range’s ultra-rugged construction withstands 2.4-metre drops and 2,000 tumbles at one metre – it’s going to handle the worst.
‘The processing power supports the most demanding enterprise applications without performance degradation, while the 5G and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity on TC73/TC78 models ensure these devices won't become communication bottlenecks as network infrastructure evolves.
‘One standout feature is an option for extended range scanning, which reaches a remarkable 40 feet with the SE55 Advanced Range Scan Engine, enabling workers to capture barcodes on high racks without ladders or lifts. Meanwhile, the 16MP rear camera with optical image stabilisation delivers sharp documentation even in moving vehicles or vibrating environments.’
A great device? Or a great device for its era? Discuss.
A closer, side-by-side comparison of TC73/78 specs versus the new TC701 will help you answer this question.
Comparison time: the TC701 versus the earlier TC7 Series models
In italics below, we’ve revealed key areas where the TC701 supersedes the earlier models. Where relevant, there’s a like-for-like comparison of features.
Processor
The new processor built for AI provides up to a 32% increase in performance. TC73/TC78 Qualcomm® 6490.
TC701 Qualcomm® Dragonwing™ Q-6690
Memory
Memory supports the most AI data-intensive apps; up to 3x more RAM and 4x more Flash.
TC73/TC78 4 GB/64 GB, 8 GB/64 GB or 128 GB
TC701 8 GB/128 GB, 12 GB/256 GB
OS support
The new machine supports further Android OS updates, keeping devices working for longer.
TC73/78 Android 16
TC701 Android 19
Data capture and scan engines
Higher-spec scanning, including the AC670 premium advanced long-range scanner captures barcodes and colour images up to 100 ft. (30 m).
TC73/78 SE4770, SE55
TC701 SR500, SR560, AC670
Mobile
The fastest mobile connectivity.
TC73/78 5G
TC701 5G 3rd Gen Release 17
WiFi
Up to 4x the speed of Wi-Fi 6E, 2x the bandwidth; supports more devices and more traffic.
TC73/78 Wi-Fi6E
TC701 Wi-Fi7
Ruggedness
20% higher drop spec at room temperature; highest drop spec in the TC Series line of handheld mobile computers.
Display
Brighter AMOLED display provides exceptional readability in any lighting conditions; and delivers a superior viewing experience even at extreme angles.
TC73/78 6 inches FHD+ 600 Nits
TC701 6 inches FHD+ AMOLED 1500 Nits
Battery
Higher-capacity batteries ensure full-shift operation even with demanding power-hungry AI apps; hot swap standard on all models.
TC73/78 4680 mAh, 7000 mAh, 4680 mAh wireless, 4680 mAh BLE; warm swap; hot swap (premium)
TC701 5000 mAh, 7240 mAh, 5000 mAh wireless hot swap
Built-in RFID
Integrated short-range UHF RFID up to 6.5 ft. (2 m); eliminates the need for separate RFID readers or RFID sleds. The TC73/78 does not have built-in UHF RFID.
Camera
More than 3x higher resolution rear camera captures more image details, providing more information for AI apps.
TC73/78 16 MP, 8 MP
TC701 50 MP, 8 MP
Analysis time – which new features may matter to your industry?
Logistics & delivery
The TC701's AC670 100ft scanning range and Gen 3 5G connectivity are real leaps forward for busy depots and distribution centres. However, if your TC73/78 fleet is handling standard barcode scanning without issue and your mobile infrastructure isn't yet Release 17-ready, there's little reason to switch. Stay unless scanning range or network speed is holding you back.
Warehousing
The headline feature is built-in UHF RFID – no sleds, no separate readers, no extra kit. For operations managing inventory at scale, that single capability could justify the upgrade on its own. The tougher build matters too – the TC701 carries a 50% higher drop spec, which counts for a lot in fast-moving pick-and-pack environments. Upgrade if RFID is anywhere on your roadmap.
Defence forces
Processing power, extended OS support and hardened security make the TC701 a strong fit for defence logistics, asset tracking and battlefield inventory management. Built-in RFID is especially useful for rapid equipment auditing without additional hardware. But bear in mind that the TC73/78 devices already meet MIL-STD-810H. Consider the new model when AI-enabled situational awareness is on the agenda.
Retail
The 50MP camera and AMOLED display make a genuine difference for visual merchandising, shelf-edge AI apps and loss prevention. If your store operations are fairly static – POS support, basic scanning – the TC73/78 still does the job well. Upgrade for vision-heavy or AI-driven retail; stay for traditional store floor use.
Field service & utilities
A larger battery and wider operating temperature range make the TC701 a better fit for demanding outdoor environments. Longer Android update support keeps devices secure and in service well into the future.
Healthcare & public sector
Security and longevity drive decisions in this sector. The TC701's enhanced security architecture and extended Android support make it a compelling choice for regulated environments with an eye on what's coming. Upgrade where compliance timelines and security posture are priorities; stay if refresh cycles are already fixed.
But wait – what about the competition?
There are, of course, other rugged manufacturers producing impressive devices. Yes, upgrading into the same environment is going to be easier and provides access to Zebra’s enterprise software ecosystem (including Zebra DNA and Zebra Frontline AI Suite). However, you’ll always want to stay informed by looking at the wider market. Here’s how two popular devices available in the UK fare against the TC701.
Datalogic Memor 30/35
Billed as ‘rugged and powerful enterprise-class PDA devices with unparalleled performance’, this mobile computer delivers for retail, transportation and logistics, and manufacturing. But does it deliver as much as the TC701? The mobile computer says no.
The plain fact is that the TC701 beats its rival on many fronts. The rear camera is 50MP versus 13MP; short-range UHF RFID comes as standard, which it doesn’t in the Datalogic device; the screen is brighter and sharper; it has up to 2X more RAM; and the Android roadmap is longer. The drop spec, meanwhile, is 2X higher, making for a considerably tougher device.
Bluebird S50
We won’t quibble that the Bluebird is a great machine, but the claim that you get ‘the largest, highest resolution and brightest display in this product class’ begs the question: which product class, exactly? In truth, the TC701 has a significantly better AMOLED display, so everything is sharper and easier to see from any angle – and it’s 150% brighter too. The TC701 wins in many other crucial categories, including integrated UHF RFID, support for more modern and better scan engines, up to 50% more RAM and a longer Android roadmap. And it is significantly more rugged.
And what about similar Zebra devices?
Now we’re getting warmer. If you are looking for a device that has almost identical specs to the TC701, you might consider the less expensive TC501.
So, what’s the catch?
If your use case fits, there simply isn’t one. The TC501 is not as rugged as the ‘ultra rugged’ TC701 (see below), but it’s a tough cookie in its own right and will handle challenging enterprise environments. If, however, you need the most rugged device in Zebra’s range for extremely challenging environments, the TC701 is your best bet.
TC501
Drop and tumble specifications without rugged boot:
- 6 ft. (1.83 m) to concrete at -20°C to +50°C
- 8 ft. (2.44 m) to concrete at room temperature
- 2000 1.6 ft. (0.5 m) tumbles
Drop and tumble specifications with rugged boot:
- 7 ft. (2.13 m) to concrete at -20°C to +50°C
- 9 ft. (2.74 m) to concrete at room temperature
- 2000 3.3 ft. (1.0 m) tumbles
TC701
Drop and tumble specifications
- 8 ft. (2.44 m) to concrete at -20°C to +50°C
- 12 ft. (3.66 m) to concrete at room temperature
- 3500 3.3 ft. (1.0 m) tumbles
Verdict
Should you upgrade, or stay? That’s partly down to your current requirements – the analysis section above provides a taster of the kinds of things you will want to consider. What’s certain is that there are many opportunities with the new TC701 to do existing work better.
As for AI, in our use cases, we haven’t talked about that quite as much as you might expect, for the simple reason that many AI applications are nascent or emerging: we simply don’t know all of the areas where AI-powered apps will revolutionise processes. What we can be sure of is that they absolutely will. And if you have a TC701 in the palm of your hands, you’ll be ready.
Nuffield Technologies procures and deploys devices to clients in logistics, field services, manufacturing, retail, defence forces and many other industries. As well as sourcing devices at preferential rates and rolling them out across your teams, we offer bespoke software development, including secure solutions for disconnected environments. We also provide an Automated Android Update Testing Service to ensure your updates roll out without any issues. Get in touch to find out more.