Mar 11 2010
Touch Screen Laptops Come In Different Formats
In the mobile touch screen computing world there are two classes of computers. They are either the slate PC or the convertible laptops. Convertible touch screen laptops are more common among typical computer users because of the versatility it offers in being able to function as both a regular PC and a touch recognition capable tablet. A slate PC on the other hand only functions as a tablet but as a result offers a lighter weight alternative for those who need to use their touch recognition display while on the go. Obviously each device offers its own advantages.
The slate PC is a computer that is a full tablet. That means that the design includes a large screen with no keyboard or mouse built in. However, the option to add a mouse or keyboard through the USB connection is available. But the purpose of being in tablet mode all the time means that most of the interface will be entirely and directly through the screen with the use of the included stylus.
The light weight and improved portability of the slate PC over the convertible laptop is made possible by eliminating the keyboard and touch pad. They usually offer larger screen sizes as well so that it is more effective for creating hand written notes. The larger screen minimizes the distance between the margins of the screen which slows down note taking. For people who need to carry the tablet around and take notes while on their feet this is the perfect device for that job function.
The convertible touch screen laptops offer their own advantages and it is quite obvious what they are. These devices can transform from a standard laptop into a tablet. This is made possible by the design of the hinge which holds the screen and the rest of the computer together on a swivel allowing it to rotate 180 degrees and fold back over the keyboard screen side up. This makes it more effective when writing or drawing on the screen like a traditional notepad.
For those who will need a computer that can function like a typical laptop and want the advantages of a touch screen laptop the convertible computer is definitely the way to go. A slate PC is too specific to the function of the job for it to be a common consumer item. The convertible laptop allows for use of the keyboard and mouse pad like a standard laptop yet allows the user to make handwritten notes in tablet mode. There is an advantage to being able to draw diagrams where you otherwise would not be able to when typing into a word processor.
Each machine has its own individual advantages and disadvantages. The convertible laptop is heavier since it offers more in the way of a built in keyboard and touch pad. The slate PC, however, is too restrictive for most common computer users who still want to portability with a keyboard and mouse since this is still the primary way we know to interact with the computer. Either way touch screen laptops will soon take over the laptop market.
Learn more at the Touch Screen Laptop Guide where you will find more information about different types of laptop computers with touch sensitive screens and read reviews on popular items like the Dell touch screen laptop.