We know touchscreens from phones and tablets, but we also find them on laptops. The question is whether it is worth paying extra for touch, or whether it is needless. The answer depends on how you use the laptop. Let us break it down.

What a laptop with a touchscreen is

It is a classic laptop whose display responds to touch by finger or pen, similar to a phone. Some models are so-called 2-in-1 (convertible), where the display can be flipped or detached and the laptop turns into a tablet.

When touch is worth it

A touchscreen really makes sense in these cases:

  • Drawing and notes with a pen. For graphic artists, designers and students who write by hand it is a big advantage.
  • A 2-in-1 device instead of a tablet. If you want one device for work and for consuming content, a convertible laptop replaces a tablet. A comparison is offered in the article on how to choose a tablet.
  • Touch apps and presentations, where it is handy to tap directly on the screen.
  • Consuming content, browsing the web and photos comfortably with a finger.

When it is a needless extra cost

In ordinary work you often will not use touch:

  • Classic typing and office work. Here a keyboard and touchpad are enough, the hand does not reach to the screen.
  • Work at a desk with a monitor. Reaching to the laptop’s display is uncomfortable (so-called gorilla arm, a tired arm).
  • When saving budget. The money is better invested in performance, memory or disk.

Disadvantages that are forgotten

  • Shorter battery life. A touch display consumes more energy, this relates to the article on laptop battery life.
  • A higher price for the same performance.
  • Higher weight and a glossy display that reflects more and catches fingerprints.

Glossy versus matte display

Touch displays tend to be glossy, which worsens readability in sunlight and with light behind your back. If you work by a window or outdoors, consider this. For ergonomics and placement, the article on workplace ergonomics helps.

Who touch makes sense for

  • Yes: graphic artists, students with a pen, people who want a 2-in-1 instead of a tablet, users of touch apps.
  • Rather not: office work, programmers, ordinary desk work, those saving budget or needing long battery life.

Conclusion

A laptop with a touchscreen is great for those who will really use touch or a pen, especially in the form of a 2-in-1 device. For ordinary office work, however, it is usually a needless extra cost that also shortens battery life. Decide based on how you really use the laptop.

Choosing a laptop and unsure whether touch is worth it? Get in touch, we will advise based on what you need the laptop for.

This article is part of our Hardware and components overview.