20 years of Toughbook – the rugged original and still the leader

The story of Toughbook began 20 years ago, after major PC manufacturers turned down corporate customer requests to make a notebook PC with a built-in CD-ROM drive. Panasonic recognised the value in this market and succeeded in creating the world’s first integrated CD drive in a notebook that could take the hard knocks of everyday work life and still continue to operate. Now, as we celebrate 20 years of leading the world in rugged mobility, it’s a great time to look back at the breakthroughs we’ve made over two decades and focus on the future that we’re creating for this business-critical form factor.

Panasonic Toughbook – 20 Years Rugged Since 1996

Watch Toughbook’s evolution over the past 20 years.

Panasonic Toughbook – that was then

The birth of Toughbook began with the CF-25, also known as the first semi rugged Toughbook, was designed to withstand falls from up to 70 centimetres, resist dust and humidity. This pioneering model features elements which became the blueprints for future Toughbook models. Buyers of this fully ruggedised computing device included the leading energy company British Gas, for use by their mechanics and service personnel. They remain a Toughbook customer.

Panasonic Toughbook – this is now

Twenty years later, the range has expanded to include a comprehensive line-up of Toughbook ruggedised mobile PCs and Toughpad tablets. Our investment into research and testing means Panasonic continue to develop and build innovative technologies and products. While the rigorous testing routines carried out on the whole Toughbook and Toughpad range ensures our products continue to receive recognition as world-leading ruggedised mobile computing solutions.

Meet the Toughbook and Toughpad Range

Whatever your sector, whatever your challenge, whatever your working conditions, there will be a Toughbook solution for you, ranging from the ultra-durability of our fully ruggedised Toughbook and Toughpad devices through to our super stylish Toughpad 4K tablet. All models are designed to meet your needs with the latest technologies and are capable of withstanding the conditions you operate in and can help you go further, achieve more and transform the way you work.