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REASON #1: For those considering which MK model in the CF-31 series and are new to the Toughbook universe, the models usually get updated over time to include faster processors, updated specifications, etc... So the 1st Generation or release is called a "Mark 1" or "MK1". The 2nd second generation is MK2, and so on. If you already own a Toughbook but are not sure which CF-31 "Mark / MK" model you have, see our other blog post. The Panasonic Toughbook CF-31 series range from MK1 (1st generation) , MK2, MK3, MK4, MK5 and MK6 (most recent generation). Now, the main reason for this headline is that only the Panasonic Toughbook CF-31 MK4, MK5 and MK6 models will support the newest Windows 11 operating system. But if you are happy with Windows 7 (that is no longer supported with MS security updates) or Windows 10 (which will not be supported by Microsoft after Oct. 2025) then the CF-31 MK1 to MK3 are still fine machines indeed! (Which we still sell) But in making your purchasing decision, you might want to consider the future upgradeability factor. Keep mind if you order an MK4 or MK5 with Windows 10 you can easily upgrade to Windows 11 for free in the future if you have applications that are only compatible with Windows 10. REASON #2: As you can see from the above chart with the higher MK models you can upgrade to 16GB ram, have faster CPU's and later generation of USB, Bluetooth connections, etc.. By buying a Black Cobra CF-31 MK4, MK5 you are also getting insurance against future obsolescence. CF-31 MK4 vs MK5: The CPU on the MK5 is actually 2 generations newer than the MK4. As such, it is more power efficient, meaning your battery will hold a longer charge. And with a speed boost of up to 2.9Ghz gives you the best performance in its class. The more efficient CPU design also generates less heat, which is an important factor for overall longevity and use in hot environments. All our Black Cobra CF-31 Toughbook's include 16GB ram, along with brand new fast SSD hard drives that are much faster than the original SATA that these units came with. SSD consume less power (giving you longer battery life) and are more reliable and silent. Of course we are the only Toughbook seller to offer a 3 Year Warranty. REASON #3: You may have noticed we left out mention of the MK6. The reason for that is the market price for this model is still crazy expensive as of February 2023. And the very high cost, for the slight hardware improvement, is frankly not worth it in our humble opinion. Over time this can change, but I feel the best "Bang for the buck" right now in 2023, is the Black Cobra Panasonic Toughbook CF-31 MK4 or MK5 models for the best fully rugged experience. https://www.techtough.com/product-page/panasonic-toughbook-black-cobra-cf-31-mk4-mk5

The Panasonic Toughbook CF-31 comes in 5 different sub-models. The CF-31 models range from Mark 1 to Mark 5 (or MK1 to MK5). When Panasonic first releases a new Toughbook model it is a Mark 1 or MK1. The next generation would be MK2 and so on... The difference is mostly in the internal hardware such as faster CPU or other upgrades. The biggest improvements for the Toughbook CF-31 line are going from an MK1 to MK2 since the MK2 models are able to handle up to 16GB of ram vs. a maximum of 8GB for the MK1 CF-31 units, other upgrades are a faster CPU speed, etc... We normally recommend the CF-31 MK2 model or newer just for the ram upgrade alone can make a noticeable speed difference with 64 bit versions of Windows 7 or 10 running. How do you know which Mark or MK model you have? You can check the bottom label that looks like this below. In this example this unit is an MK1 model. The character that comes after CF-31_ will determine which model you have according to the chart below. Sometimes if the units have a lot of wear this label could either be missing or unreadable. So you can can also check your BIOS by pressing the F2 key when you see the BLUE PANASONIC screen after turning on your Toughbook. In the example below this is an MK3. The character that comes after CF-31_ will determine which model you have CF-31 MARK FIRST 3 DIGITS MK1 CF-31A, CF-31B, CF-31C, CF-31D, CF-31E, CF-31G MK2 CF-31J, CF-31K, CF-31M, CF-31N, CF-31P, CF-31Q, CF-31R MK3 CF-31S, CF-31U, CF-31V MK4 CF-31W, CF-31X, CF-31Y MK5 CF-311, CF-312, CF-313, CF-313 This is also critical if you want to order one of our Hard drive caddy packages for the Panasonic Toughbook CF-31. Click here. I hope that helps clarify any confusion. If you have any questions please contact us. TechTough