Touchscreen Windows 8 Notebooks: HP Doubles Down

Major PC manufacturer Hewlett-Packard (HP) is betting big on Windows 8-based touchscreen laptop computers. The firm has unveiled several new models and even the lower-priced hardware comes equipped with touchscreen displays.

At the top end of the new range are the Envy Touchsmart 15 and 17 Notebook computers. These models come with long-lasting 6-cell batteries.

Lots of RAM, Processing Power for Under $1,000

Those interested in the Envy 15 and 17 will be able to choose from a range of processors, including fourth-generation Intel Core chips and AMD's newest products.

Memory starts at 6GB DDR3 RAM, while consumers can choose from a number of storage options, including 5400-rpm hard drives.

The new Envy Touchsmart computers will also feature HP's Beats Audio, four speakers, and even a dual-drive subwoofer. So far, Beats Audio has helped to set the firm's hardware apart from devices marketed by other PC manufacturers.

The 15.6-inch Envy Touchsmart 15 Notebook will be available June 5, 2013, at a price of $529 and up. The Envy 17, which features a massive 17.3-inch display, will be priced at $699 and up. (Source: pcworld.com)

Lower down the list, there's the Pavilian 14 Touchsmart Sleekbook. It comes equipped with an AMD processor and will retail for just under $500 when it goes on sale in late June.

Buyers can opt to upgrade the Sleekbook's display from a disappointing 1,366 x 768 resolution to a lush 3,200 x 1,800 resolution display. (Source: digitaltrends.com)

Business users and on-the-go students may be more interested in the 11.6-inch Pavilian Touchsmart 11 Notebook. At just $399, it offers a low price and portability. It too will be available in late June.

HP, Microsoft Hoping for Turnaround

As the names suggest, every one of these devices will feature touchscreen displays. After recent reports suggested that Windows 8 users are refusing to use the operating system's new 'Metro' apps, Microsoft will be hoping the availability of touchscreen displays at a lower price point helps change that trend.

HP will be hoping the new line of touchscreen devices helps boost PC sales. The firm recently admitted that its profits dipped an astounding 32 per cent during the second fiscal quarter of 2013. (Source: pcworld.com)

Overall, the firm's revenue was down 10 per cent from the same period last year.