The Honeywell CK65 and the Zebra MC9300 are both rugged mobile computers designed for use in warehouse and industrial environments. Both devices have powerful processors, large batteries, and rugged housing to withstand harsh conditions. Both devices offer a variety of features and options, including barcode scanning, RFID, and wireless connectivity, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. But how can you decide which one suits you best?

ck65 vs mc9300 image

Physical Properties

battery for the honeywell ck65

Honeywell CK65

  • Li-Ion 7,000 mAh battery
  • Freezer capacity 5,200 mAh battery
  • Standard working temperature: -20°C to +50°C
  • Freezer working Temperature: -30°C to +50°C
  • Storage temperature: -30°C to +70°C
  • Can survive 10 ft Drops at room Temperature
  • Can survive 8 ft Drops across operating Range
  • IP rating of IP65 and IP68
battery for the honeywell mc9300

Zebra MC9300

  • Li-Ion 7,000 mAh battery
  • Freezer capacity 5,000 mAh battery
  • Standard working Temperature: -20°C to +50°C
  • Freezer working temperature: -30°C to +50°C
  • Storage Temperature: -40°C to +70°C
  • Can survive 10 ft Drops at room Temperature
  • Can survive 8 ft Drops across operating Range
  • IP rating of IP65 and IP67

Battery Performance

For the battery, both models are similar, with the CK65 Beating out the MC9300 by 200 mAh when it comes to the freezer battery.

 

Accordion Content

Having high-capacity mobile computer batteries in a warehouse environment is important for a few reasons:

  • Longer battery life allows for extended use without the need for frequent charging or battery replacement. This helps to minimize downtime and increase productivity.
  • Mobile computers may be used in a warehouse environment for long shifts or during overnight operations. High-capacity batteries ensure that the device stays powered on throughout the shift, reducing the risk of operational interruptions.
  • In some warehouse environments, power outlets may not be easily accessible. High-capacity batteries allow for greater mobility and flexibility, as the device can be used in areas without readily available power.
  • High-capacity batteries also reduce the environmental impact, requiring less frequent replacement and disposal.

In summary, having high-capacity batteries in warehouse mobile computers is crucial for maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime while promoting environmental sustainability.

Working/Storage Temperatures

They are equal in the working temperature, but the MC9300 takes the cake for the storage temperature with being able to be stored at 10°C colder than the CK65.

Drop Resistance

They both have excellent and equal drop resistance. With no differences, this is smaller of a factor in choosing.

IP ratings

The CK65 and the MC9300 both have an IP65 Rating, meaning they are dust tight. The CK65’s rating of IP68 means it can be submerged in water for long periods while under high pressure. This beats out the MC9300, which has an IP67 rating, meaning it can only be submerged for up to 30 minutes at low pressures.

Physical Properties - Which is better?

Depending on if you want a better freezer battery and better water protection, the CK65 is the winner, but if you want a better storage temperature, then that would be the MC9300.

Screens

honeywell ck65 screen

Honeywell CK65

  • 4.0 Inches
  • 480×800 Resolution
  • Backlight LCD
  • Cornering Gorilla Glass
zebra mc9300 screen size

Zebra MC9300

  • 4.3 Inches
  • 480×800 Resolution
  •  Backlight LED
  • Cornering Gorilla Glass

Screens - Which is better?

While both screens are competitive, each Takes the cake in different categories. The Honeywell CK65 Has an LCD screen with better color pop and is more energy efficient. But the MC9300 has a bigger display. So each has its pros. It will depend on what you want out of your screen.

Accordion Content

In a warehouse environment, screen size can be essential when choosing a mobile computer.

A larger screen size can be beneficial for several reasons:

  • It allows for a larger display area, which can help display more information on a single screen or images in greater detail. This can be especially useful for tasks such as inventory management or order picking, where a lot of information must be displayed simultaneously.
  • A larger screen can also make it easier to read and input data, reducing the risk of errors and increasing efficiency.
  • A larger screen can also make it easier to view images and videos, which can be helpful for training purposes or troubleshooting.

On the other hand, smaller screen size can be beneficial for:

  • A more compact and lightweight device that is easier to carry and handle.
  • It can also be helpful in limited space, such as in small warehouses or retail environments.

Screen size is important when choosing a mobile computer for warehouse use. The screen size should be selected based on the application’s specific needs and the environment in which the device will be used. A larger screen can be beneficial for displaying more information and making it easier to read and input data. A smaller screen can be helpful for a more compact and lightweight device in situations with limited space.

Scanning Properties

Honeywell ck65 scan range options

Honeywell CK65

  • N6703 Slim Imager Engine (1D/2D) scanning up to 50 feet away
  • N6803 FlexRange Slim Imager (1D/2D) scanning from 2.3 inches up to 20 feet away
  • FlexRange XLR Slim Imager (1D/2D) scanning from 3 inches up to 80 feet away
  • X20 Near/Far Imager (1D/2D) scanning up to 50 feet away
  • Uses Imager scanner
Zebra mc9300 scan range options

Zebra MC9300

  • SE965 (1D) scanning up to 17 feet away
  • SE4750 (1D/2D) Scanning up to 3 feet away
  • SE4770 (1D/2D) Scanning up to 2 feet away
  • SE4750 Direct Part Mark (DPM) (1D/2D) scanning up to 3 feet away
  • SE4850 Extended Range (1D/2D) scanning from 2.2 inches up to 70 feet
  • Uses laser scanner

Scanning Capabilities - Which is better?

The scanning capabilities are different, yet they have very close maximum and minimum scanning capabilities, with the CK65 beating the MC9300 by 10 feet. However, the MC9300 has a laser scanner compared to the image scanner of the CK65. Generally, laser scanners are better at longer ranges and are better in darker environments. So if you want a more extended coverage, the CK65 is the way to go, but if you want more accurate scanning in darker environments, then the MC9300 is the scanner to go with.

Scanning capabilities are important in mobile computers, particularly in warehouses and industrial environments. Barcode scanning, in particular, is widely used in these environments for tasks such as inventory management, order picking, and shipping and receiving.

Some of the benefits of having scanning capabilities in mobile computers include the following:

  • Increased efficiency: Barcode scanning allows for quick and accurate data entry, reducing the risk of errors and minimizing the time and effort required to complete tasks.
  • Improved accuracy: Barcode scanning can reduce the risk of human errors and improve the accuracy of data entry, which is particularly important in inventory management and order fulfillment.
  • Enhanced tracking and traceability: Barcode scanning can track the location and movement of products and equipment, providing real-time visibility into warehouse operations.
  • Increased automation: Barcode scanning can automate inventory management and order fulfillment processes, reducing the need for manual data entry and increasing overall efficiency.

Scanning capabilities are an essential feature for warehouse and industrial environments in mobile computers. They help increase efficiency, improve accuracy, enhance tracking and traceability, and automate various processes.

Operating System, Memory, and Bluetooth

Honeywell CK65

  • Android 9 up to Android 13
  • Android 14, when feasible 
  • 2 GB or 4 GB of ram
  • 32 GB of Flash
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Bluetooth low energy
  • Bluetooth Backwards compatible

Zebra MC9300

  • Android 11
  • Upgradable to Android 14
  • 4 GB of ram
  • 32 GB of Flash
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
  • Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Data Rate (BR/EDR)

Operating system

Once again, both the CK65 and the MC9300 are pretty similar. The CK65 has more options for the operating system, so you can find the version that suits your needs best. While the MC9300 has fewer options.

Memory

The memory is pretty close, with only one difference: the ram. The CK65 has the option of having 2 GB or 4 GB of ram, while the MC9300 only has the option of 4 GB. For Flash, they both come with 32 GB of Flash.

Bluetooth

Regarding Bluetooth, they are similar, with both having Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth low energy. What sets them apart is the CK65 is Bluetooth Backwards Compatible. The MC9300 has Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Rate Data.

Keyboards

Honeywell ck65 keyboard options

Honeywell CK65

  • 30, 38, and 42 key numeric keyboards
  • 51, and 53 key alphanumeric keyboard
Zebra MC9300​ keyboard options

Zebra MC9300

  • 29, 34, and 43 key numeric keyboard
  • 53, and 58 key alphanumeric keyboard

Keyboards - Which is better?

The CK65 and the MC9300 are similar in that they have the same number of keyboard variations, so this should be a minor factor when choosing.

Pricing and Accessories

Honeywell CK65 Accessory

Honeywell CK65 Pricing

$1,708.83 to $3,041.71

Zebra MC9300 Accessory

Zebra MC9300 Pricing

$2,733.67 to $3,371.05

Accessories

The CK65 and the MC9300 Have many accessories, from mounts and cradles to chargers to carrying devices and batteries. You can find the accessories for your needs quickly.

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the base model of the CK65 is Drastically cheaper than the base model of the MC9300, with there being close to a $1,000 difference. When it comes to the high-end models, there still is a price difference, with the CK65 being about $300 Cheaper than the MC9300.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both have their pros and cons. If you are looking for a longer-lasting battery in colder environments, a Backlight LCD screen, better water protection, or a more extended scanning range, then the CK65 is the one. But if you are looking for a larger screen, more precise scanning and more scanning options, or a colder storage temperature, then the MC9300 is the one for you.

Honeywell CK65 Models

Zebra MC9300 Models

Need more help deciding?

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