Touchscreen laptops have all the features and benefits of their regular counterparts but add more flexibility. Having a touchscreen makes it easier to jot down notes or sketch images, and many come with a stylus included. The best touchscreen laptops typically have better displays than most affordable and midrange alternatives, making them better for animators and creatives looking for excellent picture quality.
Another benefit of touchscreen laptops is their easy navigation. Most people are accustomed to using touchscreens on their smartphones, and having the same functionality on their laptops means they can transition seamlessly from one to another. Some touchscreen laptops can also be folded and used as a tablet and are great for media consumption in "tent" mode. Like any tech, finding the right touchscreen laptop can be challenging with so many available options. We’ve made it easier with our picks of the best touchscreen laptops for most uses and budgets.
HP Spectre x360 16
The HPSpectre x360 2-in-1 has enough performance to satisfy most users while coming in at a realistic price. Its 16-inch screen and touch capability make it perfect for productivity, and not only does it have a premium look, but backs that up with sturdy construction.
- Brand
- HP
- Storage
- 512GB/1TB/2TB
- CPU
- Intel Core i7-13700H
- Memory
- 16GB
- Ports
- 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 16-inches (3072 x 1920)
- GPU
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Powerful performance
- Large screen size
- Four speakers
- Not for gaming
- It might be too bulky for some buyers
HP’s Spectre x360 2-in-1 Convertible Ultrabook for its strong all-around performance at a competitive price. This laptop is powerful enough for most tasks you can throw at it while still having a large screen size and sturdy construction. This laptop uses Intel’s Core i7-13700H Evo CPU paired with up to 32GB RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage. The CPU is a solid choice that can easily handle work tasks and media, while the 16GB RAM is about standard at this price. But users have the option to upgrade to the Core i7-1360P processor and Intel Arc A370 Graphics and also double the RAM. The 512GB SSD should be fine for most work files and moderate media libraries, but you can get higher storage versions for up to 2TB.
One of the best things about this laptop is its large, clear display. The 16-inch, 3K+ (3072 x 1920) touchscreen is big enough for multitasking and compliments the four Bang & Olufsen speakers for an excellent viewing experience with booming sound. You can make the jump to a 3840 x 2400 resolution for an additional $140.
Build quality is decent, with a sturdy aluminum chassis, and it includes a stylus pen for sketching or taking notes. The connectivity options aren’t bad either, with two Thunderbolt 4-capable USB-Cs, a USB-A 3.1 Gen1 port, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone jack. There’s also a MicroSD card reader, making transferring data from a smartphone or camera easy.
The Spectre x360 2-in-1 ticks most boxes for design and performance and should be suitable for most tasks except gaming. Its GPU won’t handle complex 3D imagery, so gamers will be better off with other options on this list.
Dell XPS 15
The Dell XPS 15 9520 is a premium laptop with top-of-the-range performance. It can run anything from productivity to media and casual gaming with its graphics card. You can customize it to suit your needs, with options for a high-resolution display, high-end graphics cards, and up to 64GB of RAM.
- Brand
- Dell
- Storage
- 1TB
- CPU
- Intel i9-13900H
- Memory
- 32GB
- Ports
- 3 x USB-C, 3.5mm audio jack, SD card reader
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 15.6-inch (3456 X 2160)
- GPU
- NVIDIA RTX 4060
- Excellent performance
- Powerful GPU
- Sturdy design
- Lacks legacy ports
- Expensive
The Dell XPS 15 is one of the best options if money’s no object or you just want the best regardless of the cost. It’s a do-all laptop perfect for productivity or gaming, but you must be prepared to pay the price.
When it comes to performance, the XPS 15 packs the powerhouse Intel i9-13900HK that can handle most tasks when paired with the 32GB of RAM. Its 1TB SSD is enough for medium-sized media libraries or a few game installations. The NVIDIA RTX 4060 impresses, even if the display's 60Hz refresh rate is limiting. It will still handle most gaming without a hitch. Graphics pros and gamers will love the 15.6-inch (3456 x 2160) OLED display. It's big enough for work or play and offers unmatched vibrant colors and deep blacks.
The specs mentioned are for the $2,499 version (linked above) of the XPS 15. However, users have the option to upgrade the RAM to 64GB, get up to a whopping 8TB of SSD storage, and enjoy better graphics with the RTX 4070. Of course, lower-end models are also available. The good news is that Dell lets you customize the laptop to just the way you like it, with options for the display, RAM, storage, graphics card, and Windows 11 version to choose from.
As a premium laptop, the XPS 15 has a tough metal design in Dell’s standard Platinum Silver finish, and it contrasts nicely with the attractive carbon fiber pattern surrounding the touchpad. Not only does the laptop have impressive performance, but it also looks the part with a classy design. The modern design includes three USB-C ports, including a USB 3.2 and two Thunderbolt 4's, but lacks legacy options like USB-A. There’s also an SD card reader for easy data transfer.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 8
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 8 brings the latest hardware and features, like a high-resolution touchscreen, to the business-oriented laptop series. The ThinkPad's classic red dot look remains, and the durable laptop is MIL-STD certified for drop protection and comes with water resistance.
- Brand
- Lenovo
- Storage
- 512GB/1TB/2TB
- CPU
- Intel Core i7-1365U
- Memory
- 32GB
- Ports
- 2 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI 2.0b, 1 x 3.5mm audio port
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 14-inches (1920x1200)
- GPU
- Intel Iris Xe
- MIL-STD certified for durability
- Spill-proof keyboard
- Great port selection
- Can't run games in ultra-high settings
- Expensive
Business professionals and other on-the-go users might prefer durable laptops that can withstand bumps and knocks without compromising performance. Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 8 fits the bill with a sturdy design and top-of-the-range components. There’s no doubting the ThinkPad X1’s performance with the latest-gen Intel Core i7-1365U CPU and a 32GB of RAM to handle everything you can throw at it. It also has a huge 1TB SSD with enough space for most media libraries. The Intel Iris Xe GPU is fine for work or watching media but won’t handle gaming. Of course, these specs bring the price up to $2,299. But there are lower- and higher-end variants available, with the base model starting at $1,722.
Where the ThinkPad X1 stands out from the competition is its build quality. The solid aluminum frame is expected at this price point, but it goes the extra mile by meeting MIL-STD 810H standards, increasing its durability against vibrations, temperature, and more. It also has a spill-proof keyboard, so there’s no worry about that spilled cup of coffee damaging your laptop.
The ThinkPad X1 excels in the display department with a 14-inch WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS touchscreen. Its compact size makes it easier to transport, but it still offers excellent graphics and can be flipped 360 degrees for tablet mode. In a nutshell, this laptop is compact and tough enough to go anywhere while still offering outstanding performance. It might not be the best for gaming, but it excels in all other areas.
ASUS ROG Flow X13
The ASUS ROG Flow X13 2-in-1 is perfect for gaming or media with its NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti GPU and 120Hz refresh rate. It's also compact enough to transport and has great battery life.
- Brand
- ASUS
- Storage
- 1TB
- CPU
- AMD Ryzen 9 6900HS
- Memory
- 16GB
- Ports
- 2 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI 2.0b, 1 x USB-A, 1 x 3.5mm audio port
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 13.4-inches (1920 x 1200)
- GPU
- NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti
- Fast GPU
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Decent port selection
- Can't run the most demanding games in ultra-high settings
- No stylus
Gamers need a laptop with a powerful GPU and fast refresh rate to handle the complex 3D images of fast-paced modern titles. The ASUS ROG Flow X13 is one of the best gaming laptops you can get, and it doubles as a tablet with its 360-degree convertible touchscreen. It uses AMD’s Ryzen 9 6900HS CPU, known for its power and efficiency. It has enough oomph to handle most games and provides excellent battery life compared to Intel’s rivals.
The CPU is paired with a decent 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD with enough space for game installations. Graphics are courtesy of the 4GB NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti, which is powerful enough for most games. It's also possible to connect an external GPU via a docking station if you need more graphics power. The 13.4-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) display is compact yet versatile enough for media and gaming, with a 120Hz refresh rate. You can easily flip it over and turn it into a tablet when you're not using it in laptop mode.
Despite its diminutive size, the Flow X13 is tough with a metal exterior. Many smaller laptops skimp on ports, but there’s no shortage here with a pair of USB-Cs, an HDMI 2.0b, and a USB-A 3.2 to connect older devices. For a compact laptop, the Flow X13 can easily handle gaming and media and has excellent battery life.
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2
The Samsung Chromebook 2 is an eye-catching alternative to a Windows laptop. It comes in a stunning red color and is sufficient for light to medium tasks.
- Brand
- Samsung
- Storage
- 128GB
- CPU
- Intel i3 10110U
- Memory
- 8GB
- Ports
- 2 x USB-C
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 13.3 Inches (1920 x 1080)
- GPU
- Intel UHD
- Stylish design
- Low price
- Sturdy build quality
- USB-C ports only
Chromebooks are a popular alternative to Windows laptops because they are more affordable and offer a responsible and streamlined experience. They run ChromeOS, which is designed to provide a browser-first experience and is very light on system resources, and doesn't require high-end specs to work well. But there are plenty of options in this category too, and Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook 2 stands out from the competition with its eye-catching design and ease of use.
Since ChromeOS isn't resource-heavy, the Galaxy Chromebook 2's Intel i3 10110U CPU with 8GB of RAM is enough to handle most tasks. Its 128GB SSD is fine for light work and web-based applications, but buyers with large media libraries might be better off with other options. Otherwise, they'd have to depend on cloud or external storage. The stunning Fiesta Red housing makes it a more fun-looking option than other laptops on this list, but it’s just as durable with its aluminum construction. Considering its size and price, it’s not surprising that the Chromebook 2 ports are limited to a USB-C on either side, with no USB-A or HDMI available.
Samsung uses its QLED technology on the 13.3-inch (1920 x 1080) IPS display to deliver vibrant colors and rich blacks. It’s touch-responsive despite lacking a stylus and easily flips over on sturdy hinges when in tablet mode. The list of the best touchscreen Chromebooks is growing slowly since it's a relatively high-end feature. But it's great to see the option making its way to the affordable Chromebook category.
Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1
The Dell Inspiron 14 is a great option for anyone looking for a comparatively affordable laptop with a touchscreen. There's a choice between Intel and AMD processors (the latter is slightly cheaper), and while the specs are mid-range, it should be more than enough for a starter laptop.
- Brand
- Dell
- Storage
- 1TB
- CPU
- AMD Ryzen 7 7730U
- Memory
- 16GB
- Ports
- 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI 1.4
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 14-inches (1920 x 1200)
- GPU
- AMD Radeon
- Model
- Inspiron 14 2-in-1
- Incredible value
- Mid-range specs can be upgraded
- Upmarket look
- Heavy
- No stylus included
Savvy buyers looking for the best price-to-performance ratio should check out the Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 Touch Screen Laptop. It offers incredible performance considering its pricing and comes in an appealing size that should work for most buyers. This variant of the laptop is powered by AMD’s Ryzen 5 7530U and has 8GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. That should be more than enough for anyone looking for a starter laptop. But it can be upgraded to the AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. There are slightly more expensive Intel i5 and i7 options as well.
Many buyers will find the 14-inch IPS (1920 x 1080) 60Hz touchscreen to be the perfect compromise and offer enough space while being compact enough to carry easily. Like many of the laptops on this list, the Inspiron 14 has strong hinges and folds 360 degrees into a tablet mode.
For a reasonably-priced laptop, the Inspiron 14 has a sturdy aluminum lid and a plastic body without any flex. Connectivity options are above-average for the price and include two USB-C ports, a USB 3.2 Type-A port, and an HDMI port. There’s also an SD card reader and the usual headphone jack. There’s no doubt about this laptop’s outstanding value because it packs premium performance in a low-priced package. It comes in a practical size but is a bit heavy and doesn’t include a stylus.
Lenovo Flex 5
The Lenovo Flex 5 14-inch model is a great option for budget-conscious buyers. The AMD Ryzen 7 processor and 16GB of RAM provide ample performance and features like a touchscreen, 1080p webcam, and included digital pen are useful additions for an affordable laptop.
- Brand
- Lenovo
- Storage
- 1TB
- CPU
- AMD Ryzen 7 7730U
- Memory
- 16GB
- Ports
- 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI 1.4b, audio jack
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 14-inch (1920 x 1200)
- GPU
- AMD Radeon
- Great performance for the price
- Plenty of RAM and storage
- Affordable
- Build quality could be better
Budget-conscious buyers looking for a touchscreen laptop should consider the Lenovo Flex 5. It may come at a low price, but it still has enough performance to run most tasks. It also features a convertible design with an included stylus to take advantage of the touchscreen. Despite its low price, the Flex 5 has solid performance with the AMD Ryzen 7 7730U CPU, paired with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage.
The Flex 5’s 14-inch IPS display hits the sweet spot for practicality and offers a QHD (1920 x 1200) resolution at 60Hz and 360-degree touch functionality. Unlike many rivals in its class, there’s also an included stylus that doubles as a ball-point pen, so you can take notes or sketch pictures wherever you are.
It’s easy to forgive the Flex 5 for looking like a run-of-the-mill laptop with its ubiquitous grey color and mostly plastic frame. That said, it gets the job done with a spill-resistant keyboard and an acceptable array of connectivity ports, including an HDMI 1.4b, a USB-C, and two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports for connecting older devices. There aren’t many touchscreen laptops competing with the Flex 5 when it comes to price and performance. It has some flaws, like a flexible plastic exterior and average battery life, but it’s hard to complain, considering its other features and price point.
Which Is The Best Overall Touchscreen Laptop?
Our pick for the best overall touchscreen laptop goes to the HP Spectre x360 2-in-1. It provides plenty of performance that should be enough for most buyers, while not being incredibly expensive. Its powerful CPU and RAM make it ideal for productivity, and its large 16-inch screen, together with four Bang & Olufsen speakers, make it suitable for watching movies and shows. It also has a sturdy build with an aluminum chassis and includes all the ports you'll need to connect old and new devices. There's also a stylus included to take notes or sketch images.
Lenovo's Flex 5 is the best budget pick because it provides acceptable performance for a low price. It can easily perform most day-to-day tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and running spreadsheets and word-processing apps. Unlike most similarly-priced rivals, it also has a touchscreen, a stylus, and a spill-resistant keyboard.
The ASUS ROG Flow X13 is best for gamers because of its powerful GPU and fast refresh rate. The NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti paired with the AMD’s Ryzen 9 6900HS CPU and 16GB RAM should run most games and is perfect for entertainment too. For a compact laptop, it has a durable metal finish and comes with ample ports to connect various devices.
HP Spectre x360 16
The HPSpectre x360 2-in-1 has enough performance to satisfy most users while coming in at a realistic price. Its 16-inch screen and touch capability make it perfect for productivity, and not only does it have a premium look, but backs that up with sturdy construction.
- Brand
- HP
- Storage
- 512GB/1TB/2TB
- CPU
- Intel Core i7-13700H
- Memory
- 16GB
- Ports
- 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 16-inches (3072 x 1920)
- GPU
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
FAQ
Q: Is it a good idea to get a touchscreen laptop?
A: It’s a good idea to get a touchscreen laptop if you want the versatility of a two-in-one device that can fit dual roles and save you money.
Q: What’s the best size when getting a touchscreen laptop?
A: It depends on your budget and requirements. The larger 15.6-inch options are better for productivity because of the big screen size, but they are also big and heavy, which can be a downside if you’re on the go. Many consider 14 inches the perfect compromise, while others prefer smaller 13.3-inch versions for portability.
Q: Do you need a stylus with a touchscreen laptop?
A: Most touchscreen laptops work like smartphones, and using your fingers for navigation is easy. However, a stylus is preferable if you need to draw images or take notes because it offers more precision.
Q: Are touchscreen laptops good for gaming?
A: It depends on the laptop. Some touchscreen laptops include powerful GPUs and fast refresh rates to handle demanding games. Others are more business or productivity orientated and can’t support the high graphics requirements of modern games.
Q: Are touchscreen laptops good for productivity?
A: Yes. They have all the advantages of regular laptops, and the touchscreen functionality adds more flexibility and accessibility to switch between apps and perform other tasks.
Q: Are touchscreen laptops expensive?
A: Touchscreen laptops are more expensive than similarly-specced regular laptops because of the increased functionality. However, their prices are decreasing as they increase in popularity, and many options are available to suit most budgets.