Panasonic Toughbook CF-W7

Given the cost and compromises involved, choosing the right rugged machine is inevitably tougher than picking a standard notebook. If a semi-rugged notebook isn't essential, the same money will buy you a more luxurious standard notebook, with money left over for a rugged case to protect it. At the other end of the scale, you'll find military-grade protection in notebooks elsewhere in Panasonic's armoury, or on models such as Getac's V100 (web ID: 145221).

The Toughbook CF-W7 caters for those in the middle ground: the business user who regularly travels being a prime example. It may not be the smallest, fastest or most rugged laptop on the market, but it's quick enough to run office software, small enough to be portable, and strong enough to survive the rigours of life in a white van or on a daily commute - including the drops and the spilled coffee.

Author: Matthew Sparkes