You cannot retrofit a standard monitor to be touch-enabled, but you can buy an external touch monitor or tablet and connect it to your computer
A touch screen is not something you can add to an existing desktop monitor or laptop screen through software or a straightforward hardware upgrade. The touch-sensing technology has to be built into the display itself during manufacturing. Your realistic options are to replace your monitor with a touch-capable one, use an external touch display connected via USB or HDMI, or use a tablet as a second display.
The easiest path for most people is buying a portable USB touch monitor — these are standalone displays that plug into your computer and work when ready, without drivers or complex setup. They range from 7 inches to 17 inches and cost between $100 and $400 depending on size and resolution. The second option is replacing your main monitor with a touch-enabled desktop display, which costs more but integrates fully into your workspace. A third option, using an iPad or Android tablet as a wireless second display, works well if you already own the tablet.
Key Takeaways
- External USB touch monitors are the fastest way to add touch capability without replacing your existing setup.
- Touch monitors need either USB or HDMI connection and work with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers.
- Portable touch displays are smaller and cheaper than replacing your main monitor but take up desk space.
- Tablets can function as wireless touch displays using software like Duet Display or Luna Link, though with some lag.
- Check your computer's ports before buying — USB-C, HDMI, or DisplayPort must be available and not fully occupied.
Buying a Portable USB Touch Monitor
A portable USB touch monitor is a self-contained display that connects to your computer through a single USB cable or USB-C connection. The monitor draws power and sends video through the same cable, so you do not need a separate power adapter or video cable. Plug it in, and your computer recognizes it as a new display within seconds. Windows, Mac, and Linux all support these displays without requiring you to install drivers in most cases.
Popular models include the ASUS MB16AC, ASUS ProArt PA148CTC, and Lenovo ThinkVision M14t. Prices start around $150 for a basic 13-inch model and go up to $400 for a 15-inch high-resolution display. The touch response is fast enough for everyday use — clicking, scrolling, and dragging work smoothly. These monitors are designed to be portable, so they come with a stand that doubles as a carrying case, making them useful if you move between rooms or travel.
The main limitation is screen size. A 15-inch portable monitor is noticeably smaller than a standard 24-inch desktop monitor, so it works best as a secondary display for reference material, chat windows, or media playback rather than as your main work screen. If you need touch on your primary display, you will need to replace your monitor instead.
Replacing Your Monitor with a Touch Display
If you want a full-sized touch screen as your main monitor, you can buy a desktop touch monitor in sizes from 21 inches to 32 inches. These connect via HDMI or DisplayPort, the same cables your current monitor uses. Brands like Dell, ASUS, and LG make touch monitors in standard desktop sizes, though they cost significantly more than non-touch models — expect to pay $400 to $800 for a 24-inch touch display versus $150 to $300 for a non-touch version of the same size.
Desktop touch monitors are built for stationary use and come with standard monitor stands. They integrate fully into your workspace and feel like a normal monitor upgrade. The touch response is typically very good because the technology is built into the panel from the start. However, they take up the same desk space as a regular monitor and cost more, so this option makes sense only if you are replacing an old monitor anyway or if touch is a priority for your work.
Before buying, check what video ports your computer has. Most desktop computers have HDMI or DisplayPort. Laptops vary — some have HDMI, some have USB-C with video support, and some have Thunderbolt. Verify your port type before ordering to avoid buying a monitor you cannot connect.
Using a Tablet as a Wireless Touch Display
If you already own an iPad or Android tablet, you can use it as a wireless second display with software like Duet Display, Luna Link, or Sidecar (for iPad on Mac). These apps mirror your computer screen to the tablet or extend your desktop onto it, and the tablet becomes a touch input device. Duet Display costs $20 one-time or $10 per month, while Sidecar is built into macOS and iPadOS at no extra cost.
The advantage is that you likely already own the tablet, so the cost is low. The disadvantage is that wireless connection introduces noticeable lag — touch input may feel slightly delayed compared to a wired USB monitor. This lag is usually acceptable for scrolling, clicking buttons, and light interaction, but it is not ideal for drawing, gaming, or precision work. The tablet also needs to stay charged and positioned at a usable angle, which requires a stand.
This option works best if you want occasional touch input on a secondary display rather than a primary touch interface. If you use the tablet for other things during the day, switching between tablet mode and display mode can be inconvenient.
Setting Up Your Touch Monitor on Windows
Once you plug in a USB or HDMI touch monitor, Windows detects it automatically in most cases. Open Settings, go to System, then Display, and you will see the new monitor listed. You can choose whether to extend your desktop (use both screens) or mirror it (show the same thing on both). Drag the monitor icons to match your physical setup so the cursor moves naturally between screens.
To adjust touch sensitivity or calibrate the screen, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touch. If the touch input feels off — for example, if touching the top-left corner registers in the wrong spot — you can run the touch calibration tool. Search for "Calibrate the screen for pen or touch input" in the Windows search bar, and follow the on-screen prompts to tap targets across the screen.
If the monitor does not appear, check that the USB cable is fully inserted or that the HDMI cable is seated properly. Restart your computer if the display is still not recognized. Most touch monitors include a driver disc, but you rarely need it — Windows includes drivers for standard touch displays.
Setting Up Your Touch Monitor on Mac
Mac computers recognize USB touch monitors automatically. Plug in the monitor, and it appears in System Settings > Displays within a few seconds. You can arrange the displays, choose which one is your main screen, and adjust resolution and refresh rate. Touch input works when ready without calibration.
If you are using an iPad as a second display with Sidecar, open System Preferences > Sidecar and select your iPad from the list. The first time you connect, you may need to sign in with your Apple ID. After that, Sidecar connects automatically when the iPad is nearby and unlocked.
Mac does not have a built-in touch calibration tool because the operating system handles touch input differently than Windows. If touch feels inaccurate, restart the monitor or disconnect and reconnect the USB cable. If the problem persists, check the monitor manufacturer's website for Mac-specific drivers or firmware updates.
Choosing Between Options Based on Your Needs
Use this table to compare the three main approaches based on what matters to you:
| Option | Cost | Setup Time | Touch Lag | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portable USB touch monitor | $150–$400 | 30 seconds | None | Secondary display, travel, quick setup |
| Desktop touch monitor | $400–$800 | 5 minutes | None | Primary display, full-time touch use |
| Tablet with software | $0–$20 | 2 minutes | Noticeable | Occasional touch, existing tablet, budget-conscious |
If you work at a desk most of the time and want touch as your main input method, a desktop touch monitor is the best choice despite the higher cost. If you move between locations or want to add touch without replacing your monitor, a portable USB monitor is faster and cheaper. If you already own a tablet and only need touch occasionally, tablet software is the most economical option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add touch to my laptop screen?
No. Laptop screens are not designed to be retrofitted with touch sensors. Your options are to use an external touch monitor connected via USB or HDMI, or to use a tablet as a wireless second display. Some newer laptops come with touch screens built in, but you cannot add it to an existing non-touch laptop.
Do touch monitors work with all computers?
USB touch monitors work with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. HDMI or DisplayPort touch monitors also work with all three operating systems. The only requirement is that your computer has an available USB port (for USB monitors) or HDMI/DisplayPort (for larger displays). Older computers may need driver updates, but most modern systems recognize touch monitors automatically.
Is the touch response fast enough for drawing or writing?
Wired USB and HDMI touch monitors have virtually no lag and work well for drawing and handwriting. Wireless tablet displays have noticeable lag and are not suitable for precision drawing or note-taking. If you plan to draw or write frequently, buy a wired touch monitor rather than using a tablet.
What if my desk does not have room for another monitor?
A small portable touch monitor (7 to 10 inches) takes up minimal space and can sit on a stand or arm mount above or beside your main monitor. Alternatively, use a tablet as your touch display — it can be propped up with a stand and put away when not in use. Both options avoid the need for a large additional monitor.
Will a touch monitor slow down my computer?
No. A touch monitor is just a display and input device — it does not affect your computer's processing speed, memory, or storage. The only minor impact is that your graphics card has to render an additional display, but this is negligible on any modern computer.