When businesses start looking for a touch screen PC, they quickly find a confusing mix of names: touchscreen computer, touch screen all-in-one PC, panel PC, touch panel PC, industrial touch PC, Windows tablet and touch monitor. They all put a touchscreen in front of your users, but they suit very different jobs. This guide explains the differences and shows where HiStone’s touch screen all-in-one PCs fit alongside products from Elo, Advantech, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo, HP and Dell.
Touch screen PC options explained
| Type | What it is | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touch screen all-in-one PC | Complete computer built into a touchscreen display, with stand or VESA mount | Reception, retail, offices, education, kiosks | Choose commercial PCAP touch and desktop CPU for all-day use |
| Panel PC / touch panel PC | Slim, often fanless touch computer designed to be built into machines or enclosures | Industrial HMI, machine control | Often low-power CPUs and higher prices |
| Windows / Android tablet | Battery-powered portable touch device | Mobile staff, table service, stock checks | Batteries, limited ports, consumer lifecycles |
| Touch monitor + separate PC | Touchscreen display connected to a mini PC or tower | Where you already own PCs or want to swap the PC separately | More cables, two devices to support |
| EPOS terminal | Touch all-in-one designed for point of sale, with customer display options | Tills in retail and hospitality | Designed for POS software and peripherals |
Why a touch screen all-in-one PC is often the best choice
For most fixed locations, a touch screen all-in-one computer offers the best balance. It runs full Windows or Linux software, has proper USB and LAN ports for scanners, printers and card readers, and needs only a power cable. There is no battery to swell, no separate box to steal, and nothing to unplug.
HiStone touch screen PCs
- Hibertek T20 – 19.5-inch HD+ touch screen PC with 10-point capacitive touch; compact enough for counters, walls and production lines.
- Hibertek T22 – 21.5-inch Full HD touchscreen computer with frameless glass option, the all-rounder for reception and retail.
- Hibertek BF24 – 23.8-inch Full HD VA all-in-one with optional touch and optical drive.
- Hibertek E24 – 23.8-inch Full HD VA with optional touch, dual-band Wi-Fi and Y-stand.
All four support Intel Core i3, i5 or i7 desktop processors up to 65W on a Thin Mini-ITX motherboard, with options including smart card reader, internal battery and chassis intrusion, plus VESA and Kensington lock on the T20, T22 and BF24.
Touch screen PC vs panel PC
Industrial panel PCs from brands such as Advantech and Elo’s open-frame range are designed to be built into machinery, often with fanless cooling and IP-rated fronts. They are the right choice for harsh, wet or dusty environments. For offices, receptions, shops, schools and light industrial areas, a commercial touch screen all-in-one PC such as the Hibertek T22 delivers more performance per pound, with a stand or VESA mount included. Tell us about your environment and we will recommend the right option.
Touch screen PC vs Windows tablet
Tablets such as Microsoft Surface Pro or Lenovo and Samsung tablets are perfect for staff on the move. On a fixed counter or wall, though, batteries degrade, ports are limited and docks add cost. A touch screen PC has no battery to wear out (unless you choose HiStone’s internal battery option for power-cut protection) and offers full-size ports. For mobile use, see our HiStone mobile EPOS tablets.
Touch screen PC vs touch monitor
A HiStone touch screen monitor plus a separate PC can make sense when you already own PCs. For new installations, a touch screen all-in-one saves space, cabling and support time.
Touch screen all-in-one PCs from the big brands
Dell, HP and Lenovo offer touch versions of their 24-inch and 27-inch office AIOs, such as the Dell Pro 24 All-in-One, HP ProOne 440 G9 and HP EliteOne 870 G9. These are designed primarily for office desks. Elo’s I-Series is designed for commercial touch but often uses lower-power processors. HiStone covers the space between: 19.5-inch, 21.5-inch and 24-inch commercial touch screen PCs with desktop processors and commercial options.
Touch screen PC FAQs
What is a touch screen PC?
A touch screen PC is a computer that you control by touching the display. The most common business form is the touch screen all-in-one PC, with the computer built into the back of the screen.
What is the difference between a panel PC and an all-in-one PC?
A panel PC is usually designed to be built into machinery or enclosures, often fanless and ruggedised. An all-in-one PC is a complete desktop computer with a stand, designed for desks, counters and walls.
Which touch screen PC is best for a reception desk?
The Hibertek T22 21.5-inch Full HD capacitive touch screen PC is an ideal choice for receptions and visitor sign-in.
Find the right touch screen PC
Explore the HiStone AIO touch screen PC range, read touch vs non-touch all-in-one PCs, or contact us on 0116 260 3100. You can try every touch screen PC in our Leicester showroom.