Yes, Apple currently offers laptops with touch screen functionality, such as the MacBook Pro models.
Apple, renowned for its innovative technology and sleek design, has long been a leader in the laptop market.
While traditionally known for their trackpad-based navigation, Apple has also embraced the touch screen trend by introducing laptops with touch screen functionality. This feature allows users to interact directly with the display, offering a more intuitive and versatile user experience.
In this article, we will explore Apple’s laptops with touch screen capabilities and discuss their benefits and limitations.
Table of Contents
I. Pros and Cons of Apple’s Laptops with Touch Screen
Pros:
- Enhanced User Interaction: The addition of a touch screen to Apple’s laptops provides a more intuitive and interactive user experience. Users can directly interact with the screen, allowing for easier navigation, scrolling, and zooming.
- Productivity Boost: The touch screen functionality can enhance productivity by enabling users to quickly access and interact with various applications, files, and tools with a simple tap or swipe.
- Drawing and Design: Artists, designers, and creative professionals can benefit from a touch screen as it allows for more precise and natural drawing or sketching directly on the screen using a stylus or their fingers.
- Multi-Touch Gestures: Apple’s touch screen laptops support a wide range of multi-touch gestures, such as pinch-to-zoom, swipe-to-scroll, and three-finger swipes, making it easier to navigate through applications and documents.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: Apple’s laptops with touch screen functionality tend to be more expensive compared to their non-touch screen counterparts.
- Smudges and Fingerprints: Touch screens are prone to smudges and fingerprints, which can hinder the clarity of the display and require frequent cleaning.
- Limited App Support: While many apps are optimized for touch screen devices, there are still some applications that are better suited for traditional keyboard and mouse inputs, which may limit the full potential of a touch screen laptop.
- Screen Durability: Touch screens are more susceptible to scratches and potential damage compared to non-touch screens. Users need to exercise caution and consider using screen protectors.
II. Comparison of Apple’s MacBook Models with Touch Screen
1. MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro is Apple’s flagship laptop model and offers a range of options with touch screen capabilities. It comes in two screen sizes: 13-inch and 16-inch.
Here are the key features of the MacBook Pro with touch screen:
- Retina Display: The MacBook Pro’s touch screen boasts a stunning Retina display with high resolution and vibrant colors, providing a visually immersive experience.
- Touch Bar: This unique feature replaces the function keys on the keyboard with a touch-sensitive OLED strip. It dynamically adapts to the active application, providing contextual controls and shortcuts.
- Powerful Performance: The MacBook Pro is equipped with powerful processors, ample RAM, and fast storage options, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing and graphic design.
- Touch ID: The MacBook Pro includes a Touch ID sensor integrated into the power button, allowing users to securely unlock their laptops and make secure online purchases with Apple Pay.
- Thunderbolt 3: With Thunderbolt 3 ports, the MacBook Pro offers high-speed data transfer, external display connectivity, and charging capabilities.
2. MacBook Air
The MacBook Air is Apple’s ultraportable laptop that also comes with touch screen functionality. It is known for its sleek design and lightweight nature.
Here are the key features of the MacBook Air with touch screen:
- Retina Display: Similar to the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air features a Retina display that delivers sharp and vibrant visuals.
- Touch ID: The MacBook Air includes a Touch ID sensor, allowing users to conveniently unlock their laptops and authenticate purchases.
- Portability: The MacBook Air is incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for users who prioritize portability. It is perfect for students and frequent travelers.
- Long Battery Life: With efficient hardware and optimized software, the MacBook Air offers impressive battery life, enabling users to work for extended periods without needing to recharge.
- Improved Keyboard: Apple has introduced an updated keyboard design in the MacBook Air, addressing the previous issues with reliability and durability.
3. MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air
When deciding between the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air with touch screen capabilities, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and budget.
Here is a comparison of the two models:
| Feature | MacBook Pro | MacBook Air |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Sizes | 13-inch, 16-inch | 13-inch |
| Performance | High-end processors, more RAM options | Mid-range processors, limited RAM options |
| Portability | Slightly heavier | Lightweight |
| Battery Life | Shorter battery life | Longer battery life |
| Price | Higher price range | Lower price range |
Ultimately, the choice between the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air with touch screen functionality depends on your specific requirements, such as performance needs, screen size preferences, and budget constraints.
III. Alternatives to Apple’s Touch Screen Laptops
While Apple’s laptops with touch screen capabilities are popular among many users, they may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Fortunately, there are several alternatives available in the market that offer similar functionality and features.
Here are some notable alternatives to consider:
1. Microsoft Surface Pro
The Microsoft Surface Pro is a versatile 2-in-1 device that combines the power of a laptop with the flexibility of a tablet. It features a touch screen display with excellent pen input support, making it a great option for creative professionals and note-takers.
The Surface Pro runs on Windows 10, providing a familiar operating system for those who prefer the Windows ecosystem.
2. Dell XPS 13 2-in-1
The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is a premium convertible laptop that offers a touch screen display and a 360-degree hinge, allowing it to be used in various modes including tablet mode. It boasts a sleek design, powerful performance, and a vibrant display.
The XPS 13 2-in-1 is a great choice for those who value portability and versatility.
3. HP Spectre x360
The HP Spectre x360 is another excellent alternative to Apple’s touch screen laptops. It features a sleek design, a touch screen display, and a 360-degree hinge for easy conversion into tablet mode.
The Spectre x360 offers impressive performance and a long battery life, making it suitable for both work and entertainment.
4. Lenovo Yoga C940
The Lenovo Yoga C940 is a premium 2-in-1 laptop that comes with a touch screen display and a versatile hinge that allows it to be used in laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes. It offers powerful performance, a stunning display, and a comfortable keyboard.
The Yoga C940 is a great option for those who prioritize flexibility and performance.
5. ASUS ZenBook Flip
The ASUS ZenBook Flip is a stylish and lightweight 2-in-1 laptop that features a touch screen display and a 360-degree hinge. It offers excellent performance, a bright display, and a comfortable keyboard.
The ZenBook Flip is a budget-friendly alternative to Apple’s touch screen laptops, making it a popular choice among students and casual users.
Verdict
While Apple’s touch screen laptops are highly regarded, there are several alternatives available in the market that offer similar functionality and features.
The Microsoft Surface Pro, Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, HP Spectre x360, Lenovo Yoga C940, and ASUS ZenBook Flip are just a few examples of the many options available.
Each alternative has its own unique strengths and considerations, so it’s important to carefully evaluate your needs and preferences before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apple Laptops with Touch Screen
1. Does Apple produce laptops with touch screen functionality?
Currently, Apple does not manufacture laptops with touch screen displays.
2. Can I use a stylus or pen on an Apple laptop?
No, Apple laptops do not support stylus or pen input as they lack touch screen capability.
3. Are there any alternatives to touch screen on Apple laptops?
Yes, Apple offers a range of trackpad gestures that provide intuitive and efficient ways to interact with their laptops.
4. Can I add touch screen functionality to my existing Apple laptop?
No, touch screen functionality cannot be added to Apple laptops as it requires specialized hardware.
5. Why doesn’t Apple include touch screen displays on their laptops?
Apple believes that touch screen functionality is better suited for mobile devices like iPads and iPhones, while laptops are optimized for keyboard and trackpad input.
6. Are there any advantages to not having a touch screen on Apple laptops?
Yes, by not having a touch screen, Apple laptops can maintain a sleek design, provide longer battery life, and offer a more precise input experience with the trackpad.
7. Can I still use touch screen apps or software on an Apple laptop?
No, touch screen apps and software are not compatible with Apple laptops as they do not have touch screen functionality.
8. Will Apple release touch screen laptops in the future?
Apple’s future product plans are not publicly disclosed, so it is uncertain if they will introduce touch screen laptops in the future.
9. What are the popular alternatives to Apple laptops with touch screen?
Some popular alternatives to Apple laptops with touch screen functionality include Windows laptops from manufacturers like Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
10. Can I use an external touch screen monitor with my Apple laptop?
Yes, you can connect an external touch screen monitor to your Apple laptop, but the touch screen functionality will only work on the external monitor, not the laptop’s built-in display.
Conclusion: Does Apple Make A Laptop With Touch Screen
Yes, Apple does make a laptop with touch screen capabilities. The MacBook Pro with Touch Bar and the MacBook Air (2020) both offer touch screen functionality, allowing users to interact with their devices using gestures and taps on the screen.
These touch-enabled laptops provide a more intuitive and versatile user experience for those who prefer touch input.
