Touch screen technologies

Touch turns a display into a kiosk — wayfinding, self-service, product exploration. The right touch technology depends on screen size, durability needs, and whether users wear gloves.

When to go interactive

Add touch when users need to choose — find a room, browse a catalogue, check in. If the screen only broadcasts, touch is wasted cost. Interactive kiosks also raise accessibility obligations around reach height and alternative input.

PCAP (projected capacitive)

The smartphone-style technology: glass surface, excellent clarity, precise multi-touch, very durable, easy to clean. It's the premium default for kiosks up to ~55–65". Standard PCAP doesn't work with thick gloves (though special controllers help), and very large sizes get expensive.

Infrared & optical

Infrared (IR) uses a grid of beams in a bezel; it scales affordably to very large screens and works with gloves or any stylus, but the raised bezel can collect dust and bright sunlight can interfere. Optical/camera touch also suits large formats. For big interactive walls, IR is usually the pragmatic choice; for polished small-to-mid kiosks, PCAP wins.

How to choose

• Size ≤ 55", premium feel → PCAP.
• Large / video-wall scale → infrared or optical.
• Gloves / industrial use → infrared.
• Outdoor / high-durability → hardened PCAP with protective glass.

Frequently asked questions

What is PCAP touch?
Projected capacitive — the same glass, multi-touch technology as smartphones. It offers the best clarity and precision and is very durable, ideal for kiosks up to about 55–65 inches.

Which touch works with gloves?
Infrared touch works with gloves and any stylus; standard PCAP generally does not, though specialised controllers can enable it.

Does adding touch affect accessibility?
Yes — interactive kiosks add obligations for reach height, contrast and alternative input; see the ADA compliance guide.