Q&A: "Why would I need a touch screen on my Windows 8 laptop?"

It's pretty well-known that Windows 8 and 8.1 almost screams for a touch-enabled screen. Though it's not technically required, it's much easier to

Seemingly, as the holiday season is approaching, I've received several questions from developers asking, "Why would I need a touch screen for my next laptop running Windows 8?" When first touch-based mobile devices started widely appear (around 2005–2007 I presume), I recall thinking that why would I need one. Quickly however, it became apparent that touch screen can provide a superior experience overall, though certain specific things could still be better implemented as hardware buttons. However, try to think about mobile (smart) phones without a touch screen today, would you get one?

In a similar fashion, a touch screen in a laptop can first sound like a non-necessary feature. But once you have one, this might happen to you. First, you start to scroll web pages around, then you start clicking some buttons on the screen. Quickly you notice that you are touching the screen more and more, and swiping from the sides of the screen to bring in Windows 8/8.1 menus (charms bar, for instance). After using the screen for a month or so, you might notice using the screen extensively, especially over the regular track pads that are standard nowadays.

Of course, your mileage might vary, but in essence, touch screens are addictive. Plus, as a developer, it's more or less mandatory to have at least one touch-enabled device, so that you can test your Windows 8 applications.

In summary: even though you think you won't need a touch screen, give yourself a chance with the new technology. Price isn't an objection anymore, especially in the commercial world. However, you can get a consumer laptop with a touch screen for less than $500 this holiday season.