14 DAY TRIAL // The newest display from HannsG has a stand that allows it to tip backwards. It won't let it lay flat like a tablet, but it should make touch-based operation easier, and Windows 8 that much more pleasant to work with.
Windows 8 didn't really win over everyone with its touch-based user interface and lack of start menu, but it wormed its way into the market all the same.
And now that every tablet, phone and, slowly, even laptops are integrating touch support as a default feature, monitors can't really stand aside and not participate.
Thus, the HannsG has made its debut, with a display diagonal of 27 inches, Full HD resolution and 10-Point touch control.
Also, it has a robust stand that can, nonetheless, tip backwards, allowing you to more comfortably use that touch technology.
There's no rotation and height adjustment, since it wouldn't go well with a monitor shaped to resemble a TV so closely.
Still, it can lean backwards at an angle, and it's also pretty thin, although the bezel is nothing to gush over.
Anyway, the HannsG HT271HPB has a price of £269.00, which corresponds to $447 and €327 according to the exchange rates at the time of this article's writing. Wall mounting is supported.
Other features worth mentioning are the HannsG proprietary active contrast technology, which delivers “clarity and true color with an 80,000,000:1 contrast ratio.”
DVI and VGA ports are included as well, alongside HDMI, and stereo speakers are built into the frame of the LCD as well.
Basically, the newcomer is a full-featured liquid crystal display touch monitor for games, films, business work, etc.
In addition to the 27-inch HT271HPB, HannsG is selling a 23-inch display of similar make, but for a price of £199 / $332 / €242, give or take. The prices include VAT.