Touch technology

IR vs PCAP touch: which touch technology should you specify?

Touch is a technical service item. The choice depends on who uses the screen, whether gloves are worn, what software runs and which peripherals connect.

Last updated · 2026-10-23

Quick answer

IR touch is often chosen for gloved or cost-sensitive public use; PCAP is chosen for smooth gestures, handwriting and multi-point interaction.
The MG-AD500 datasheet lists optional 20-point IR or PCAP touch with ±1 mm accuracy and ≤10 ms response.
The SS-215WD uses a 10-point PCAP screen with ≥90% transmittance and ≥3H hardness.
Self-service terminals add card readers, printers and scanners, which are a separate integration scope.

Compare the two touch layers

Question	IR touch	PCAP touch
How it senses	Infrared light grid	Projected capacitive layer
Gloved use	Usually works with gloves	Depends on glove type
Gesture & handwriting	Basic multi-point	Smooth gestures and handwriting
Typical use	Public kiosks, gloved environments	Wayfinding, product browsing, meeting rooms

Scroll horizontally to see all columns

Self-service is more than touch

A card reader, printer, scanner or NFC module needs power, a data interface, a mounting cut-out and software integration. Adding touch to a display does not automatically make it a self-service terminal.

What to confirm

Glove type and whether users wear gloves.
Operating system, USB interface and software driver.
Touch points, surface hardness and calibration procedure.
Peripherals and the application software owner.
Recess depth and service access if the screen is wall-mounted.

Product families

Turn the decision into a product family.

Freestanding touch kiosk with a portrait display

01Touch kiosksTouch Kiosks & Self-Service TerminalsInteractive kiosks for wayfinding, queues, product browsing and self-service.

9 modelsRequest price View details

Interactive flat panel on a movable stand showing a whiteboard home screen

02Interactive flat panelsInteractive Flat Panels4K collaboration panels for meeting rooms, classrooms and training spaces.

4 modelsRequest price View details

43-inch wall-mounted advertising display with a slim black frame

03Wall-mounted displaysWall-Mounted Digital SignageSlim commercial displays for walls, columns and recessed niches.

12 modelsRequest price View details

Frequently asked questions

Questions buyers ask about this decision

Which touch type is better outdoors?

Both can work, but the enclosure and thermal design matter more. IR has a bezel and light grid to protect; PCAP needs a compatible cover glass. Confirm IP rating, touch layer and service access together.

Can PCAP work with gloves?

Depends on glove material and thickness. IR usually tolerates gloves more readily. State the glove type and test a sample before rollout.

Does touch add thickness?

Yes. A touch layer adds a front stack and USB connection, so recess depth and service access must be checked. Confirm the model drawing before framing.

Can touch work with my own software?

Usually if the OS and USB interface match. Confirm driver requirements, touch points and peripheral connections with the software provider.

Need a touch sample or drawing?

Tell us the glove type, software, touch points and peripherals.

Discuss a touch configuration