Do you remember life without a touch screen smartphone? Assuming you’re of a certain age, the answer is probably a “yes.” But how difficult would it be to go back? Tapping and swiping have become such a normal part of our everyday lives, that life without a touch screen phone would feel a little strange and cumbersome.
While touch screen smartphones are the norm, touch screen Windows laptops are still being adopted. Should you get one? Or are you better off sticking with a non-touch model?
Let’s explore that question in further detail by looking at some of the pros and cons of each.
Pros of Touch Screen Laptops
- Intuitive Navigation and Control. One of the biggest advantages of touch screen Windows laptops is their intuitive navigation and control. Swiping, tapping, and zooming directly on the screen can make interacting with your laptop feel more natural and responsive. This is especially handy when browsing the web, navigating maps, or flipping through photos. Most people have become so accustomed to using touch screen smartphone interfaces that it impacts how they prefer to use their laptops.
- Enhanced Creativity and Productivity. Touch screen laptops open up new possibilities for creativity and productivity. With a touch screen, tasks like drawing, sketching, or note-taking feel more direct and engaging. Many touch screen laptops are compatible with styluses, offering precision that can be especially useful for artists, designers, or anyone who takes handwritten notes.
- Versatility and Flexibility. Many touch screen laptops feature 2-in-1 designs that allow them to function as both a traditional laptop and a tablet. This versatility can be incredibly convenient, offering the best of both worlds. Whether you’re typing up a report, reading an ebook, or watching a movie, you can choose the mode that best fits your activity.
- Better for Presentations and Collaboration. Touch screen Windows laptops can enhance presentations and collaborative work. Being able to interact directly with the screen can make presentations more dynamic and engaging. For teamwork, touch screens allow for a more interactive experience, allowing multiple users to manipulate data or brainstorm ideas on a single device.
Cons of Touch Screen Laptops
- Higher Cost. One of the main drawbacks of touch screen laptops is their higher cost compared to non-touch models. The touch screen technology adds to the overall price of the device. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll need to consider whether the benefits of a touch screen justify the extra expense.
- Decreased Battery Life. Touch screens consume more power, which can lead to shorter battery life. If you’re on the go a lot and rely on your laptop to last through the day without charging, this could be a significant drawback. You’ll need to balance the convenience of touch interaction with the need for longer battery life.
- Reflective Screens and Fingerprints. Many touch screen laptops have glossy screens to facilitate touch interaction, but these can be more reflective than matte screens, potentially causing glare in bright light. Additionally, touch screens are prone to fingerprints and smudges, which can detract from your viewing experience and require frequent cleaning.
- Potential for Wear and Tear. The nature of touch interaction means that your laptop’s screen may be subjected to more wear and tear than a non-touch screen. Constant tapping and swiping can potentially lead to scratches or other damage over time, especially if you’re not careful.
- Heavier and Thicker. To accommodate the touch screen technology, these laptops are often slightly heavier and thicker than their non-touch counterparts. While the difference may be minimal, it’s something to consider if portability is a top priority for you.
Making Your Decision
Choosing a touch screen Windows laptop really comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you value intuitive navigation, creative flexibility, and the versatility of a 2-in-1 design, the pros might outweigh the cons for you. However, if longer battery life, a glare-free screen, and keeping costs down are your top concerns, a non-touch laptop might be the better choice.
Before making your decision, consider how you plan to use your laptop and which features are most important to you. Carefully weighing the pros and cons will help you select a Windows laptop that best fits your lifestyle and work habits, ensuring you get the most out of your technology investment.
