Which Touchscreen Technology Should You Choose?

Different types of touchscreens use different technologies to detect command commands. They all feature a touch-controlled interface with an integrated display. Rather than using a keyboard and mouse — or other traditional input peripherals — you can tap the touch-controlled interface. But there are several different touchscreen technologies, each of which uses a different method to detect and respond to touch commands. Here are several things to consider when choosing touchscreen technology.

Sensitivity

Some touchscreen technologies offer greater sensitivity than others. Sensitivity is a measurement of how much force is necessary to trigger a touch command. You may have to press down using a decent amount of force, or you may have to apply little or no force. Capacitive touchscreens fall under the latter category. They require little or no force to trigger touch commands. As long as your finger touches the interface, the capacitive touchscreen will detect and respond to your touch command.

Durability

You should consider durability when choosing touchscreen technology. Like with sensitivity, some touchscreen technologies offer greater durability than others. Both capacitive and resistive touchscreens are very durable. You can use them indoors or outdoors without fear of them degrading. Capacitive and resistive touchscreens are designed with an emphasis on durability. Even when exposed to humidity or liquids, they will continue to function as intended.

Stylus Support

If you plan on using a stylus, you should choose touchscreen technology that supports this method of input. Touch commands can be performed using a bare finger or a stylus. All touchscreen technologies support bare finger touch commands. With that said, only some touchscreen technologies support stylus touch commands.

Capacitive touchscreens don’t support stylus touch commands. You can use a bare finger to control them, but you can’t use a stylus — at least not a regular stylus. Capacitive touchscreens measure changes in capacitance. The human body is a conductor of electricity, so when you tap the interface with a bare finger, you’ll change the capacitive touchscreen’s capacitance. Traditional styluses offer poor conductivity, so they don’t work with most capacitive touchscreens.

Longevity

Touchscreen technologies often have different lifespans. When properly maintained, most touchscreens will last for many years, regardless of the technology. But capacitive touchscreens are particularly long-lasting because they don’t have any moving parts. When you perform a touch command, none of their parts will move. Capacitive touchscreens feature stationary parts that promote a longer lifespan than that of other many other touchscreen technologies.