Recommendations for Windows tablet with good battery life for astronomy rig control. - Forums

Topic starter

2 hours ago

Currently, I drive to remote sites and run one setup with a Mele computer controlling the rig. I use an iPad Mini via Windows App to control everything. I am assembling a second rig so I can run two setups simultaneously, but I really do not want to purchase another iPad Mini for it. I know nothing about Windows tablets, but I would assume that they are cheaper, and since this will be its only job, it makes sense to me to just get a Windows tablet.

So my question is: does anyone have a recommendation for a good Windows tablet with battery life similar to the iPad Mini?

Thank you!

Darryl

Well Written Respectful

Brian Puhl

IOTD Staff

2 hours ago

Why not just run multiple sessions on your iPad? I run multiple scopes and every one of them I can connect and tab between via RDP app. Honestly zero reason to get another tablet.

Helpful Concise Engaging

Astro Jeep

Topic starter

2 hours ago

Brian Puhl · Mar 2, 2026 at 01:40 AM
Why not just run multiple sessions on your iPad? I run multiple scopes and every one of them I can connect and tab between via RDP app. Honestly zero reason to get another tablet.

I was thinking that, and I haven’t put much research into whether it’s possible. I spent about half an hour looking into it a few days ago, but I didn’t find anything definitive. Now that I know that it works, that is what I will do. Thank you for saving me money!

Darryl

Respectful Supportive

Brian Puhl

IOTD Staff

2 hours ago

Astro Jeep · Mar 2, 2026, 01:44 AM
Brian Puhl · Mar 2, 2026 at 01:40 AM
Why not just run multiple sessions on your iPad? I run multiple scopes and every one of them I can connect and tab between via RDP app. Honestly zero reason to get another tablet.
I was thinking that, and I haven’t put much research into whether it’s possible. I spent about half an hour looking into it a few days ago, but I didn’t find anything definitive. Now that I know that it works, that is what I will do. Thank you for saving me money!
Darryl

Depending on how you're running things, you will probably need a travel router, establish a local network, but beyond that it’s pretty simple.

Astro Jeep

Topic starter

2 hours ago

Brian Puhl · Mar 2, 2026 at 01:47 AM
Astro Jeep · Mar 2, 2026, 01:44 AM
Brian Puhl · Mar 2, 2026 at 01:40 AM
Why not just run multiple sessions on your iPad? I run multiple scopes and every one of them I can connect and tab between via RDP app. Honestly zero reason to get another tablet.
I was thinking that, and I haven’t put much research into whether it’s possible. I spent about half an hour looking into it a few days ago, but I didn’t find anything definitive. Now that I know that it works, that is what I will do. Thank you for saving me money!
Darryl
Depending on how you're running things, you will probably need a travel router, establish a local network, but beyond that it’s pretty simple.

I run a Starlink Mini out of my Jeep, and it makes a strong network that the Mele has no problem staying connected to. I can even run an Ethernet cable into it from the scope if I absolutely need to. Again, I appreciate the help!

Well Written Respectful Concise