The Zebra MC9300 and the Datalogic Skorpio X5 are powerful mobile computers designed for industrial and warehouse environments. Both devices offer a range of features and capabilities, but they also have some notable differences. In this article, we will look closer at the Zebra MC9300 and the Datalogic Skorpio X5, comparing their design, performance, and functionality to help you decide which device best suits your needs.
Physical Properties
Zebra MC9300
Datalogic Skorpio X5
- Li-Ion 3,500 mAh Battery
- High capacity 6,200 mAh Battery
- Standard working temperature: -20°C to 50°C
- Storage temperature: -30°C to 70°C
- Can survive 6 ft drops across operating range
- IP rating of IP65
Battery Performance
Regarding the battery, the MC9300 significantly outperforms the Skorpio X5. This is done with the standard 7,000 mAh battery of the MC9300, compared to the standard 3,500 mAh and even the High Capacity 6,200 mAh battery. The MC9300 and the larger battery have an optional freezer battery to help them operate at lower temperatures.
A mobile computer’s battery life is an important consideration, as it determines how long the device can be used between charges. A higher capacity battery, such as the 7000mAh battery in the Zebra MC9300, will generally have a longer battery life than a lower capacity battery, such as the 3500mAh battery in the Datalogic Skorpio X5.
However, it’s important to note that battery life is also influenced by other factors such as device usage, settings, and the environment it’s being used in. So, while a higher-capacity battery may provide longer battery life, other factors may also come into play.
A mobile computer with a 7000mAh battery, such as the Zebra MC9300, may be a better choice for users who need extended periods of usage without interruption and in work environments where there may not be an opportunity to charge the device frequently. On the other hand, a mobile computer with a 3500mAh battery, such as the Datalogic Skorpio X5, may be a better choice for users who have shorter usage periods and have access to charging the device frequently.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider the specific usage requirements and work environment of the mobile computer when evaluating the importance of battery capacity.
Working/Storage Temperatures
As for the Working temperatures, they are evenly matched. With them having an equal standard operating temperature, the Freezer and storage temperature is what sets them apart. Because of the freezer battery of the MC9300, it can be operated at 10°C colder than the Skorpio X5. The same as the Working temperature, the MC9300 can also be stored at 10°C colder.
A large operating temperature range is vital in mobile computers because it allows the device to function effectively in a wide range of temperatures. This is particularly important in industrial and warehouse environments where temperatures fluctuate greatly and may exceed the normal operating range of standard consumer electronics. Devices with a large operating temperature range can withstand these extreme temperatures and continue functioning correctly, reducing the risk of device failure and downtime.
Additionally, a large operating temperature range ensures that the device can handle the temperature changes when transported from one area to another, for example, from a cold warehouse to a hot loading dock. This is crucial for the continuous operation of the device and the productivity of the workers using them.
In summary, a large operating temperature range ensures that mobile computers can operate effectively in industrial environments and handle temperature changes, minimizing downtime and ensuring productivity.
Drop Resistance
For the drop resistance, the MC9300 has better drop resistance, with it able to be dropped from 10 ft at room temperature and 8 feet across its operating range. This is a big difference compared to the Skorpio X5 drop resistance of 6 ft across its operating range.
You may need to consider a mobile computer with a high drop spec in work environments where the device is likely to be dropped or bumped frequently. This can include:
- Warehouses and distribution centers: In these environments, workers are often moving quickly and may accidentally drop the device while picking or packing items.
- Manufacturing plants: In these environments, workers may be working with machinery or in areas with a lot of movement, which increases the likelihood of drops.
- Outdoor environments: Outdoor environments like construction sites, field services, or delivery routes, are characterized by rough terrains and unpaved surfaces, which increases the likelihood of drops.
- Healthcare environments: Healthcare environments, such as hospitals and clinics, may require mobile computers that can withstand drops as healthcare workers may accidentally drop the device while moving around or working in tight spaces.
In general, any work environment where the mobile computer is likely to be dropped frequently or exposed to harsh conditions, it’s important to consider a device with a high drop spec to ensure the device can withstand the wear and tear of the job.
IP ratings
Regarding the IP rating, they both have an IP rating of IP65, which means that they are totally dust tight and can withstand light jets of water. The MC9300 is also equipped with an IP67, meaning it can be fully submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at low pressure.
Physical Properties - Which is better?
The MC9300 is Better for the physical properties. With its larger battery, greater operating and storage temperature range, and better IP rating, the Skorpio X5 is overmatched in this category.
Screens
Zebra MC9300
- 4.3 Inches
- 480×800 Resolution
- Backlight LED
- Corning Gorilla Glass
Datalogic Skorpio X5
- 4.3 Inches
- 480×800 Resolution
- Backlight LCD
- Hardened gorilla glass
Screens - Which is better?
Screen size is a small factor in deciding here because they both have a screen size of 4.3 inches. However, what sets them apart is the Skorpio X5 has an LCD screen which tends to have better color pop and is more energy efficient. On the other hand, the MC9300 has corning gorilla glass, which is more scratch resistant than the hardened gorilla glass of the Skorpio X5
Scanning Properties
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
Datalogic Skorpio X5
- 1D Imager scanning from 1.5 inches up to 2.5 feet away
- 1D/2D Imager Standard Range scanning from 2.5 inches up to 2.5 feet away
- 1D/2D Imager Mid-Range scanning from 3.1 inches up to 13.2 feet away
- 1D/2D Imager Extra Long Range scanning up to 65 feet away
- Uses Imager Scanner
Scanning Capabilities - Which is better?
The Scanning capabilities of the MC9300, and the MC9300 are very similar int hat they both have 1D, and 1D And 2D options. What sets them apart is the MC9300 has a option for a direct part mark (DPM) imager, it also uses a Laser scanner which has better accuracy and better in darker environments, while the Skorpio X5 uses a imager scanner..
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
Zebra MC9300
- Android 11
- Upgradable to Android 14
- 4GB of ram
- 32 GB of flash
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
- Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Data Rate (BR/EDR)
Datalogic Skorpio X5
- Android 10
- 3 GB or 4 GB of RAM
- 32 GB or 64 GB of flash
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
- Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Data Rate (BR/EDR)
Operating system
The MC9300 comes equipped with Android 11 while being upgradable to Android 14. This beats out the operating system capabilities of the Skorpio X5, which only comes with Android 10 and is not upgradeable.
Memory
The memory on both models is quite similar. For the RAM, the MC9300 only comes with the option of 4 GB, while the Skorpio X5 comes in 3 GB or 4GB options. As for the flash, the MC9300 comes with one option, 32 GB; on the other hand, the Skorpio X5 comes with 32 GB or 64 GB.
RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory are essential in mobile computers because they affect the device’s performance and ability to store and access data.
RAM is the memory that the device uses to store data that is currently in use. The more RAM a device has, the more data it can store and the faster it can access that data, which means the device can run more applications and perform more tasks simultaneously without slowing down. This is especially important for mobile computers used for tasks such as scanning, data entry, and running multiple applications.
Flash memory, also known as storage, is the memory the device uses to store data even when the device is turned off. The more flash memory a device has, the more data it can store, such as software, images, and videos. This is important for mobile computers that need to store large amounts of data or run applications that require a lot of storage.
In summary, RAM and flash memory are essential in mobile computers because they affect the device’s performance and ability to store and access data. RAM enables the device to run more applications and perform more tasks simultaneously. Flash memory allows the device to store more data and run applications that require a lot of storage.
Bluetooth
The MC9300 and the Scorpio X5 are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth low energy. What Sets them apart is the Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Data Rate (BR/EDR) Capabilities of the MC9300, which allows for faster Data transfer.
Keyboards
Zebra MC9300
- 29, 34, and 43 key numeric keyboard
- 53 and 58 key alphanumeric keyboard
Datalogic Skorpio X5
- 28 and 38 key numeric keyboard
- 47 key alphanumeric keyboard
Numeric and alphanumeric keyboards are two different types of keyboards that are commonly used on mobile computers.
Numeric keyboards are designed for inputting numbers and are typically smaller and more compact than alphanumeric keyboards. They usually have the standard number keys (0-9) and basic arithmetic operators like +, -, *, and /. They may also have a small number of function keys, such as Enter, Clear, and Tab. Numeric keyboards are ideal for tasks involving a lot of data entry, such as inventory management, where most data entry consists of numbers and arithmetic operations.
On the other hand, Alphanumeric keyboards have a complete set of keys, including letters, numbers, and special characters. They are larger and more complex than numeric keyboards and are designed for more versatile data inputting. These keyboards are often used in applications where the user needs to input text, such as customer service, order entry, and data management. They may also have additional keys like function, arrow, and other special keys.
In summary, numeric keyboards are designed for inputting numbers and are typically smaller and more compact. In contrast, alphanumeric keyboards have a complete set of keys, including letters, numbers, and special characters, and are more versatile and larger than numeric keyboards. The choice of keyboard type depends on the kind of data input expected to be performed with the mobile computer.
Keyboards - Which is better?
The MC9300 and Skorpio X5 both have numeric and alphanumeric keyboard options. What sets them apart is the MC9300 has 5 different key options, while the Skorpio X5 only has 4.
Pricing and Accessories
Zebra MC9300 Pricing
$2,73367 to $3,371.05
Datalogic Skorpio X5
$1,845.99 to $2,837.17
Accessories
The CK65 and the Skorpio X5 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 the pricing, there is a significant difference in the prices of the base models, with the MC9300 being nearly $1,000 more than the Skorpio X5 for the base models. Although the price difference between the High-end models isn’t as drastic, it is still noticeable, with about a $500 Difference with the MC9300 Costing more than the Skorpio X5.
Conclusion
The MC9300 and the Skorpio X5 are both mobile computers that offer a range of features and capabilities. Each device has its strengths and weaknesses and choosing which device is best for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. The MC9300 offers a bigger battery, a more extensive operating/storage range, more keyboard options, and an extended scanning range. On the other hand, the Skorpio X5 offers a better screen and more affordable options. Ultimately, it is essential to consider your specific requirements and compare the features of both devices to determine which one best fits you.
Zebra MC9300 Models
Datalogic Skorpio X5 Models
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