Infrared vs. Capacitive: Which touch technology is right for you?

Infrared vs. capacitive which touch technology is right for you?

From infrared to capacitive to the perfect touch and back again – the ideal solution is the technology that suits your area of application. This keeps workflows in balance, as practice shows today. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is therefore more helpful to recognise that the right technology is always the best. Touchscreens are everywhere today: in schools, offices, display systems and industrial applications. But not all touch technologies work the same way.

How the two technologies work

A hand touches the VS-S-C3 display—a red infrared grid visualizes precise touch detection in real time.

Infrared touch (IR)

With infrared technology, a frame with LEDs and sensors generates an invisible infrared light grid above the display. As soon as a finger, pen or other object interrupts the light grid, the system detects the touch and calculates the position precisely. The big advantage: the technology works with fingers, gloves, pens or any other object.

Capacitive touch (PCAP)

Capacitive technology works with a conductive layer in the display that registers changes in the electric field. A network of electrodes projects an electromagnetic field onto the screen surface. When the field is touched with a finger or a special stylus, the electrical capacity changes. This change is measured to determine the exact position. However, only conductive objects trigger the touch – but the technology is very precise and fast, ideal for multi-touch gestures.

Infrared touchscreens – the flexible ones

Advantages of infrared technology:

Flexible operation: Works reliably with gloves, fingers or any stylus
Fast response time: Smooth and precise input without significant delay
Multi-touch support: Multiple simultaneous touches possible
High image quality: No additional layer on the display, the image remains clear and sharp
Robust and durable: Resistant to scratches

Capacitive touchscreens – the precise ones

Advantages of PCAP technology:

Flat design: No annoying frame necessary
High robustness: Surface made of hardened safety glass, scratch-resistant and easy to clean
Precise writing feel: High writing accuracy and natural input
Gesture control: Supports drag & drop, zooming and rotating
Multi-touch capability: Multiple touch points simultaneously

Palm detection – write as if on paper

No false triggers: resting palms or hands are not recognised as touch points
Advantage for beginners: writing, calculating, drawing and using analogue blackboard tools feels just like using an analogue blackboard or paper

“The most perfect technology is the one that goes unnoticed.”
Richard von Weizsäcker

The decision is yours

Select capacitive if:

Precise writing and drawing are paramount
Gesture control is important
A flat, elegant design is desired
Work is mainly done with fingers or special pens

Select infrared if:

Flexibility in operation is required
Work is carried out with various objects
Maximum image quality without additional layers is required
Robustness in harsh environments is important

Both technologies have their merits – the choice depends on your specific area of application.

Sales IT solutions

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Our display recommendations – compiled for you

VS Dual – the all-rounder

Your all rounder for every environment: brilliant QLED image quality with infrared technology, EDLA certified and TÜV Eyesafe approved for eye friendly working. With two slots for plug in PCs and display sizes from 55 to 110 inches, it offers maximum flexibility for modern business and education applications.

To VS DUAL

CTouch Riva R2 – sustainable total solution

The sustainability bundle, consisting of a height-adjustable mounting system with gas pressure spring and the CTOUCH Riva R2 display with built-in infrared technology, stands for future-proof education. A well-thought-out combination of quality, environmental awareness and responsibility – for schools that think and act sustainably.

To CTouch-Riva

VS-S-C series – the perfect entry-level model

The smart entry into the digital world: the clever choice for anyone who wants to start efficiently. Ideal for interactive teaching and collaboration with an intuitive Android interface, versatile compatibility, and excellent usability.

To VS-S-C series

VS-S-P series – completely intuitive

The VS S P3 is the display for schools: large display, capacitive multi touch technology and multi user support combine the advantages of a tablet with a digital whiteboard. Precise and smooth operation makes it ideal for interactive collaboration and modern teaching.

To VS-S-P series

SMART RX series

RX displays offer brilliant 4K resolution, precise multi-touch with up to 40 touch points, and Android iQ for PC-free working – complemented by built-in infrared technology. Integrated audio, environmental and safety sensors make them an excellent solution for modern, interactive teaching.

To Smart RX

SMART MX Series

The SMART MX series impresses with razor-sharp 4K resolution, precise HyPr Touch™ technology, integrated infrared technology and Android 13 for PC-free working. It offers comprehensive connectivity and free software for modern, collaborative teaching.

To SMART MX

Promethean ActivPanel 10

The Promethean ActivPanel 10 combines state-of-the-art display technology with infrared technology, versatile system integration, and advanced communication features. This enables interactive learning and productive collaboration at the highest level.