Touchscreen laptops have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a more intuitive and interactive user experience. The best touchscreen laptops have responsive, accurate screens that make swiping and tapping your way through work or play feel natural and intuitive. They also have bright, vibrant displays, and are often mounted on a 360-degree hinge that lets them flip over to use as tablets.
In addition to all of the above, touchscreen laptops have improved by leaps and bounds in recent years as PC operating systems have been refined for touch input. While you won’t find any Macs with touchscreens (though we hear MacBooks with touchscreens may debut as soon as 2025), Windows 11 and ChromeOS are both very usable with nothing but your fingers. Now that displays have gotten better, laptops have gotten smaller and components have become more powerful, there are a ton of options available to you when you’re in the market for a new portable PC with a touchscreen—and many of them rank among the best laptops you can buy.
These are the best touchscreen laptops we recommend, based on our own hands-on testing and reviews.
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Guide to Buying Touchscreen Laptops
Touchscreen laptops have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and ease of use. Whether you are a student, a professional, or just someone who loves technology, a touchscreen laptop can be a valuable addition to your gadget collection. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect touchscreen laptop that meets your needs.
1. Understand Your Needs
Usage
- General Use: If you primarily use your laptop for browsing, streaming, and basic office tasks, you don’t need the highest specs.
- Creative Work: For graphic design, video editing, or digital art, look for a high-resolution display, powerful GPU, and ample RAM.
- Gaming: Gamers should seek laptops with strong GPUs, high refresh rates, and robust processors.
Portability
- Light and Thin: For frequent travelers, a lightweight and thin laptop is ideal.
- Durability: If you need a rugged device for tough environments, consider durability and build quality.
2. Screen Size and Resolution
Screen Size
- Small (11-13 inches): Highly portable, best for travel and casual use.
- Medium (14-15 inches): Balance between portability and usability, suitable for most users.
- Large (16-17 inches): Great for gaming, media consumption, and creative work but less portable.
Resolution
- Full HD (1920 x 1080): Standard resolution that provides clear and sharp images.
- QHD (2560 x 1440) or 4K (3840 x 2160): Higher resolutions for more detailed visuals, ideal for design and multimedia tasks.
3. Performance
Processor (CPU)
- Intel Core i3/i5 or AMD Ryzen 3/5: Sufficient for general use.
- Intel Core i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 7/9: Required for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling.
Memory (RAM)
- 8GB: Adequate for most users.
- 16GB or more: Recommended for intensive multitasking, gaming, and professional applications.
Storage
- SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster and more reliable than HDDs. 256GB SSD is a good starting point.
- Additional Storage: Consider laptops with additional storage options (HDD or secondary SSD) if you need more space.
4. Battery Life
- Long Battery Life: Essential for users who need to work on the go without frequent charging. Aim for at least 8 hours of battery life.
- Battery Capacity: Check reviews and manufacturer specs for real-world battery performance.
5. Build Quality and Design
Materials
- Aluminum or Magnesium Alloy: Durable and premium feel.
- Plastic: Often lighter and cheaper, but less durable.
Keyboard and Trackpad
- Comfortable Keyboard: Essential for long typing sessions.
- Responsive Trackpad: Smooth and accurate, with multi-touch gesture support.
6. Connectivity and Ports
- USB-C/Thunderbolt 3/4: For fast data transfer and charging.
- USB-A: For compatibility with older devices.
- HDMI: To connect to external displays.
- SD Card Slot: Useful for photographers and videographers.
- Headphone Jack: Still essential for many users.
7. Additional Features
Operating System
- Windows: Versatile, supports a wide range of software.
- MacOS: Preferred by creative professionals, known for its smooth user experience.
- ChromeOS: Lightweight and simple, best for basic tasks and web-based applications.
Pen and Stylus Support
- Artists and Designers: Look for models that support active pens for precise drawing and note-taking.
Security
- Fingerprint Scanner or IR Camera: For secure and convenient logins.
8. Budget
Entry-Level
- $300-$600: Basic touchscreen laptops with adequate performance for everyday tasks.
Mid-Range
- $600-$1200: Better build quality, higher resolution screens, and improved performance.
High-End
- $1200+: Premium devices with top-tier specs, suitable for demanding tasks and professional use.
Choosing the right touchscreen laptop involves balancing your needs with the available features and your budget. Consider what you will primarily use the laptop for, and prioritize features that will enhance your experience. By carefully evaluating the factors mentioned above, you can find a touchscreen laptop that is perfect for you.
The Best Touchscreen Laptop
(best touchscreen laptops)HP Spectre x360 15
Detailed Technical Specifications
Advantage
Defect
The Best Affordable Touchscreen Laptop
(best touchscreen laptops)Acer Spin 5
The Best Premium Touchscreen Laptop
(best touchscreen laptops)Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is one of the flagship devices in the Surface lineup, combining innovative design with powerful performance. Specifically designed for creative professionals, developers, and demanding users, the Surface Laptop Studio offers a versatile user experience with the ability to switch seamlessly between different modes of use.
Detailed Technical Specifications Review
Processor (CPU)
- Specifications: 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11370H
- Review: This powerful CPU delivers high performance for demanding tasks, from graphic design to programming and video editing.
Memory (RAM)
- Specifications: 16GB or 32GB LPDDR4x
- Review: The large RAM capacity ensures smooth multitasking, meeting both work and entertainment needs.
Storage (SSD)
- Specifications: 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB SSD
- Review: The high-capacity and fast SSD allows ample storage and quick data access.
Display
- Specifications: 14.4 inch, 2400 x 1600 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, PixelSense technology
- Review: The high-resolution display with fast refresh rate and vibrant colors is ideal for creative work and entertainment.
Graphics (GPU)
- Specifications: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
- Review: This powerful GPU supports professional graphic work and smooth gaming.
Operating System (OS)
- Specifications: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Review: The latest operating system from Microsoft offers many improved features and a user-friendly interface.
Connectivity
- Specifications: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, 2 USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, 1 Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack
- Review: Diverse and modern connectivity options support peripherals and fast data transfer.
Battery
- Specifications: Up to 18 hours of battery life, supports fast charging
- Review: Impressive battery life ensures you can work all day without worrying about recharging.
Security
- Specifications: Windows Hello with facial recognition
- Review: Modern security features ensure personal data safety and quick login.
Weight
- Specifications: Approximately 1.8 kg
- Review: Moderate weight, easy to carry and use on the go.
Pros
- Powerful Performance: With a high-end CPU and GPU, the Surface Laptop Studio handles demanding tasks well.
- High-Quality Display: High resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and PixelSense technology offer an excellent visual experience.
- Flexible Design: The ability to switch between laptop, studio, and presentation modes provides versatile use.
- Modern Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt 4 for fast and efficient connections.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 18 hours of continuous use, supporting uninterrupted work.
Cons
- High Price: With its features and performance, the Surface Laptop Studio is quite expensive, which might not suit all users.
- Weight: Although portable, the 1.8 kg weight might be heavier compared to some ultrabook laptops.
- Limited Number of Ports: Only having 2 USB-C ports and lacking USB-A ports can be inconvenient for some users.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is a premium device, ideal for creative professionals and users who demand high performance. With its beautiful display, powerful performance, and flexible design, it provides an excellent user experience. However, the high price and weight are factors to consider before purchasing. If you are looking for a powerful and versatile device, the Surface Laptop Studio is definitely worth considering.
The Best Touchscreen Laptop for Creators
(best touchscreen laptops)Lenovo Yoga 9i
The Best Chromebook Touchscreen Laptop
(best touchscreen laptops)Acer Chromebook Spin 713
The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is a versatile and powerful 2-in-1 laptop designed to meet the needs of professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts alike. With its sleek design, robust performance, and the flexibility of Chrome OS, this device stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking productivity, portability, and ease of use.
Detailed Technical Specifications Review
Processor (CPU)
- Specifications: 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7
- Review: The 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor provides impressive performance for multitasking, web browsing, and running demanding applications. It ensures smooth and efficient operation, making it suitable for both work and entertainment.
Memory (RAM)
- Specifications: 8GB LPDDR4X
- Review: The 8GB of RAM allows for seamless multitasking and efficient handling of multiple applications simultaneously. This ensures a smooth user experience without lag, even when using resource-intensive apps.
Storage (SSD)
- Specifications: 256GB NVMe SSD
- Review: The 256GB NVMe SSD offers fast data access speeds and ample storage space for documents, media files, and applications. It enhances overall system performance with quick boot times and rapid file transfers.
Display
- Specifications: 13.5-inch 2K (2256 x 1504) IPS touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio
- Review: The high-resolution 2K display provides sharp and vibrant visuals, with the 3:2 aspect ratio offering more vertical screen space for productivity tasks. The touchscreen capability adds to the versatility, allowing for intuitive interaction.
Graphics (GPU)
- Specifications: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Review: The Intel Iris Xe Graphics delivers good performance for light gaming, video playback, and graphic design tasks. It ensures smooth visuals and supports high-definition content effortlessly.
Operating System (OS)
- Specifications: Chrome OS
- Review: Chrome OS offers a fast, secure, and easy-to-use environment. With seamless integration of Google services and access to a wide range of Android apps, it provides a versatile platform for both work and play.
Connectivity
- Specifications: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, 2 x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), USB-A 3.2, HDMI, microSD card reader, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Review: The comprehensive connectivity options ensure compatibility with a wide range of peripherals and accessories. Wi-Fi 6 provides fast and reliable internet connectivity, while Thunderbolt 4 supports high-speed data transfer and external displays.
Battery
- Specifications: Up to 10 hours of battery life
- Review: The long battery life allows for all-day usage without frequent recharging. It ensures that you can stay productive and entertained throughout the day, whether at work or on the go.
Security
- Specifications: Fingerprint reader
- Review: The built-in fingerprint reader enhances security and provides quick and convenient access to the device, ensuring that your data remains protected.
Weight
- Specifications: Approximately 1.37 kg (3.02 lbs)
- Review: The lightweight design makes it highly portable, allowing you to carry it comfortably for work, school, or travel.
Pros
- High-Quality Display: The 2K touchscreen display with a 3:2 aspect ratio offers sharp and vibrant visuals, ideal for productivity and media consumption.
- Strong Performance: The 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM provide excellent performance for multitasking and running demanding applications.
- Versatile Design: The 2-in-1 convertible form factor adds flexibility, allowing use as a laptop or tablet.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Modern connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6, offer fast and versatile connections.
- Secure and Easy to Use: Chrome OS provides a secure and user-friendly environment, with the added benefit of a fingerprint reader for enhanced security.
Cons
- Limited Storage: While 256GB of storage is ample for many users, those with extensive media libraries or large software installations might find it limiting.
- Chrome OS Limitations: Chrome OS, while fast and efficient, may not support all the software available on other operating systems like Windows or macOS, which could be a drawback for some users.
- Integrated Graphics: The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, while capable, may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or intensive graphic design work.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is an excellent 2-in-1 laptop that excels in performance, design, and versatility. Its powerful internals, stunning display, and flexible form factor make it a top choice for professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts. While there are some limitations, such as storage capacity and the constraints of Chrome OS, the overall package of features and capabilities makes the Chromebook Spin 713 a standout option in the convertible laptop market.
The Best Budget Touchscreen Laptop
(best touchscreen laptops)Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1
The Best Touchscreen Laptop for Gaming
(best touchscreen laptops)Razer Blade 15 Advanced
The Razer Blade 15 Advanced is a high-end gaming laptop that delivers exceptional performance, premium build quality, and cutting-edge technology. Designed for gamers and professionals who demand the best, this laptop combines power, portability, and a sleek design to offer an unmatched computing experience.
Detailed Specifications Review
Processor (CPU)
- Specification: 11th Generation Intel Core i7-11800H
- Review: The 11th Generation Intel Core i7-11800H provides top-tier performance, capable of handling intensive tasks such as gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering with ease. Its high clock speeds and efficient architecture ensure smooth multitasking and responsiveness.
Memory (RAM)
- Specification: 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
- Review: With 16GB of high-speed DDR4 RAM, the Razer Blade 15 Advanced ensures smooth performance across multiple applications. This amount of memory is ideal for both gaming and professional workloads.
Storage
- Specification: 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Review: The 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD offers incredibly fast data access speeds and ample storage space for games, software, and multimedia files. It significantly reduces boot times and enhances overall system performance.
Display
- Specification: 15.6-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) 240Hz
- Review: The 15.6-inch QHD display with a 240Hz refresh rate delivers stunning visuals and ultra-smooth gameplay. The high resolution provides crisp and detailed images, while the high refresh rate ensures a fluid gaming experience, making it perfect for competitive gaming.
Graphics (GPU)
- Specification: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
- Review: The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU is one of the most powerful graphics cards available, capable of handling the latest AAA games at high settings and delivering excellent performance in GPU-intensive tasks like video editing and 3D modeling. It also supports real-time ray tracing and DLSS for enhanced visual fidelity.
Operating System (OS)
- Specification: Windows 10 Home, upgradeable to Windows 11
- Review: Windows 10 Home provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features. The laptop is also upgradeable to Windows 11, offering the latest enhancements from Microsoft.
Connectivity
- Specification: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 2.1, UHS-III SD card reader
- Review: The Razer Blade 15 Advanced offers a variety of connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of peripherals and accessories. Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1 provide high-speed data transfer and support for external displays.
Battery
- Specification: Up to 6 hours of battery life
- Review: The battery life of up to 6 hours is decent for a high-performance gaming laptop. However, heavy usage, especially during gaming sessions, may significantly reduce battery life.
Build Quality and Design
- Specification: CNC aluminum chassis, RGB keyboard
- Review: The CNC aluminum chassis offers durability and a premium feel. The customizable RGB keyboard enhances the gaming experience and allows for personalization.
Weight
- Specification: Approximately 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs)
- Review: Weighing around 2.1 kg, the Razer Blade 15 Advanced is relatively light for a gaming laptop, making it portable and convenient for on-the-go use.
Advantages
- Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core i7-11800H processor and NVIDIA RTX 3080 GPU, the laptop delivers top-notch performance for gaming and professional tasks.
- High-Quality Display: The QHD display with a 240Hz refresh rate provides excellent visuals and smooth gameplay.
- Premium Build Quality: The CNC aluminum chassis and RGB keyboard offer a durable and stylish design.
- Versatile Connectivity: Multiple ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1, ensure compatibility with various devices and peripherals.
Disadvantages
- Battery Life: While decent for a gaming laptop, the battery life of up to 6 hours may not be sufficient for extended use without access to a power source.
- Price: The high-end specifications and premium build quality come at a premium price, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users.
- Heat Management: High-performance components can generate significant heat, which may require effective cooling solutions during extended gaming sessions.
The Razer Blade 15 Advanced is an exceptional gaming laptop that excels in performance, design, and display quality. Its powerful CPU and GPU, high-refresh-rate QHD screen, and premium build make it an excellent choice for gamers and professionals alike. While it comes with a higher price tag and has some limitations in battery life and heat management, the overall package delivers a top-tier computing experience that is hard to beat.
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How We Test the Best Touchscreen Laptops
To determine the best touchscreen laptops on the market, we conduct a series of tests to evaluate performance, display quality, battery life, build quality, and overall user experience. Here are some of the key factors we consider:
- Performance: We test the laptops’ processors, RAM, and GPUs to assess how well they handle everyday tasks, multimedia consumption, and more demanding applications like gaming and content creation.
- Display Quality: We evaluate the brightness, color accuracy, resolution, and touch responsiveness of the touchscreen displays to ensure an immersive and enjoyable viewing experience.
- Battery Life: We measure how long each laptop lasts on a single charge under normal usage conditions to determine its suitability for users who need all-day battery life.
- Build Quality: We assess the materials, design, and durability of each laptop to determine its overall build quality and how well it can withstand daily wear and tear.
- User Experience: We consider factors like keyboard comfort, trackpad responsiveness, port selection, and software features to evaluate the overall user experience of each laptop.
By thoroughly testing and evaluating these aspects of each touchscreen laptop, we can provide recommendations based on real-world performance and user satisfaction.
touchscreen laptops offer a versatile and intuitive way to interact with your device, whether you’re browsing the web, editing documents, creating digital art, or gaming. The best touchscreen laptops cater to a variety of needs and preferences, from affordable options like the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 to high-performance gaming laptops like the Razer Blade 15 Advanced.
When choosing a touchscreen laptop, consider factors like display quality, performance, battery life, build quality, and price to find the right balance for your specific use case. Whether you prioritize affordability, versatility, gaming performance, or portability, there’s a touchscreen laptop out there that can meet your needs.
We hope this guide has helped you navigate the crowded landscape of touchscreen laptops and find the perfect device for your lifestyle and preferences. Happy shopping, and may your new touchscreen laptop bring you productivity, entertainment, and joy for years to come!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers When Buying Touchscreen Laptops
When considering the purchase of a touchscreen laptop, many consumers have common questions. Below are some frequently asked questions along with their answers to help guide you through the decision-making process.
1. What are the benefits of a touchscreen laptop?
Answer: Touchscreen laptops offer several benefits, including:
- Enhanced Interaction: Allows for more intuitive and interactive use, especially for tasks like drawing, note-taking, and navigation.
- Versatility: Can be used in different modes such as laptop, tablet, tent, and stand modes, making them ideal for various scenarios.
- Ease of Use: Simplifies certain tasks, such as scrolling, zooming, and tapping, which can be quicker than using a trackpad or mouse.
2. Are touchscreen laptops more expensive than non-touchscreen models?
Answer: Yes, touchscreen laptops generally cost more than their non-touchscreen counterparts due to the additional technology and features. However, prices have been decreasing, and there are affordable options available in the market.
3. Do touchscreen laptops consume more battery?
Answer: Touchscreen functionality can consume more battery power, especially when used frequently. However, advancements in technology have minimized this difference, and many touchscreen laptops still offer good battery life.
4. Can I disable the touchscreen function if I don’t need it?
Answer: Yes, you can disable the touchscreen function on most laptops through the device settings or Device Manager in Windows. This can help save battery and avoid accidental touches.
5. How durable are touchscreen laptops?
Answer: The durability of touchscreen laptops varies by model and brand. Premium models often feature sturdy glass screens and robust construction. It’s advisable to read reviews and check the build quality before purchasing.
6. Are touchscreen laptops good for gaming?
Answer: While touchscreen laptops can handle casual gaming, they are not typically designed for high-performance gaming. For serious gaming, it’s better to choose a laptop with a powerful GPU, high refresh rate display, and other gaming-specific features.
7. Do touchscreen laptops support styluses or pens?
Answer: Many touchscreen laptops support active styluses or pens, which are great for drawing, taking notes, and precise navigation. Check if the model you are interested in is compatible with styluses and if it includes one or if it needs to be purchased separately.
8. What screen size is best for a touchscreen laptop?
Answer: The best screen size depends on your needs:
- 11-13 inches: Highly portable and suitable for light tasks.
- 14-15 inches: Balanced portability and usability, good for most users.
- 16-17 inches: Ideal for multimedia, gaming, and professional work but less portable.
9. How do touchscreen laptops handle fingerprints and smudges?
Answer: Touchscreen laptops can accumulate fingerprints and smudges. Most come with coatings that help reduce smudges. Regular cleaning with a microfiber cloth and screen cleaner can keep the display clear.
10. Are there specific operating systems that work better with touchscreen laptops?
Answer: Windows 10 and Windows 11 are highly optimized for touchscreen use, with many touch-friendly features. ChromeOS also works well with touchscreens, especially on convertible Chromebooks. MacOS supports touch only on iPads and iPadOS, not on MacBooks.
11. What kind of ports and connectivity should I look for in a touchscreen laptop?
Answer: Ensure the laptop has:
- USB-C/Thunderbolt: For fast data transfer and charging.
- USB-A: For older peripherals.
- HDMI: To connect to external displays.
- SD Card Slot: Useful for photographers.
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0: For better wireless connectivity.
12. What is the difference between capacitive and resistive touchscreens?
Answer:
- Capacitive Touchscreens: More responsive and support multi-touch gestures. Commonly used in modern touchscreen laptops.
- Resistive Touchscreens: Less responsive, require pressure, and typically support single touch. Less common in laptops.
13. How can I protect my touchscreen laptop?
Answer:
- Use a Screen Protector: To prevent scratches and reduce glare.
- Invest in a Good Case or Sleeve: For protection during transport.
- Regular Cleaning: To maintain screen clarity and hygiene.
- Insurance/Warranty: Consider extended warranties or insurance for damage protection.
14. Do touchscreen laptops support multi-touch gestures?
Answer: Yes, most touchscreen laptops support multi-touch gestures, allowing for actions like pinch-to-zoom, swipe, and multi-finger gestures for better navigation and productivity.
15. What is the difference between a touchscreen laptop and a 2-in-1 convertible?
Answer:
- Touchscreen Laptop: Standard laptop with touchscreen capability.
- 2-in-1 Convertible: Can be used as both a laptop and a tablet, often featuring a 360-degree hinge or detachable keyboard for versatility.
By understanding these FAQs and their answers, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a touchscreen laptop that best suits your needs.