AR glasses vs tablets: which device for work instructions?
AR glasses vs tablets for work instructions: compare hands-free use, comfort, rollout effort and IT impact. When to start with tablets and add glasses.
Short answer
AR glasses vs tablet: tablets are the best starting point for most digital work instructions because they are familiar, robust and quick to roll out. AR glasses pay off when operators need both hands, work at height or inside machines, or need guidance on the exact part. Actarion runs the same instruction on both.
What is the real question behind the device choice?
- Operators put the tablet down and lose their place in the procedure.
- Glasses look impressive in the demo but are uncomfortable after an hour.
- IT worries about managing yet another device type.
- Nobody wants hardware that ends up in a drawer.
Conclusion first
Start with tablets. They cover most tasks and get operators used to digital steps. Add AR glasses for specific tasks where hands-free work or spatial guidance clearly saves time or prevents errors, such as complex changeovers, maintenance inside a machine or remote expert support.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Tablet / smartphone | AR glasses / headset |
|---|---|---|
| Hands-free | No, unless on a stand or arm | Yes |
| Spatial guidance | AR via camera view, hand-held | Overlay in the field of view |
| Comfort over a shift | High | Varies by device; often for task-length use |
| Familiarity | Everyone knows a tablet | Short introduction needed |
| Rugged and ATEX options | Widely available | Limited; check per device |
| IT and device management | Standard MDM | Specific per platform |
| Best for | Checklists, inspections, routine steps | Complex assembly, maintenance, remote assistance |
How do the criteria play out on the floor?
Hands-free. If the operator holds a wrench in each hand, a tablet becomes a detour. A stand helps for fixed workstations; for mobile tasks, glasses win.
Spatial guidance. Pointing at "the third bolt from the left" works better as an overlay on the bolt than as a photo.
Comfort. Battery life and weight differ per device. Apple states up to 2.5 hours of general use for Apple Vision Pro on one charge, longer with external power. Plan glasses for tasks, not for full shifts.
Environment. Dust, oil, cleanrooms and explosion zones limit device choice. Check certification per site.
Rollout effort. Tablets fit existing IT processes. Headsets need their own enrolment, hygiene and charging routine.
When do you choose what?
- 1Tablet. for inspections, checklists, line clearance and most standard work.
- 2AR glasses. for hands-busy tasks, unfamiliar or rare procedures, and remote expert support.
- 3Mix. per use case. Because the instruction is the same, you can switch devices without re-authoring.
How does Actarion help?
- One instruction, authored once, runs on tablets, smartphones and AR glasses.
- Support for Apple Vision Pro, HoloLens and Android XR devices.
- We test devices in the pilot on your own task before you buy at scale.
- Execution data shows per device how fast and accurately tasks are done.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. A tablet camera can overlay digital markers on the live view. You hold it up instead of wearing it.
It depends on the device and task. Passthrough headsets and see-through glasses differ; your HSE team should approve each use case.
No. A shared pool for specific tasks is common.
