A touch display can be handy when you want to point at something directly, but editing a long document or moving around a crowded workspace is a different task. Touch and the trackpad serve different purposes on Apple's PROLED XDR notebook.

Quick Answer

Touch adds direct gestures to the PROLED MacBook Pro; it does not replace the trackpad, which is still built in. As at 29 October 2026, Evetech listed the existing 1TB M5 Pro configuration of the 14-inch MacBook Pro at R50,999, giving South African buyers a current alternative while they weigh the new display.

👆 When direct touch makes sense

Apple describes swiping to scroll a web page and pinching to zoom in on a photo. In both cases the gesture happens where you are looking, which can be convenient for a quick adjustment or review. Apple also describes dragging slides between presentations and touching a window to change its position.

These examples describe specific gestures, not proof that every action is easier by touch. If you are comparing laptops for photo review, ask whether you often want to adjust the view with your fingers or already prefer a pointer. The best choice depends on the work you repeat, not simply on whether a feature is present.

🖱️ Why the trackpad stays useful

The PROLED model retains a Force Touch trackpad and keyboard. A trackpad controls a pointer from the laptop deck, so you do not have to reach towards the screen for every small adjustment. It also leaves the display clear when you need to examine detail.

Keyboard shortcuts still matter for longer tasks. A person working across many windows may prefer a combination of typing, trackpad navigation and occasional touch. The screen and trackpad are inputs to the same Mac, not competing operating systems that require you to choose one permanently.

🧩 Check the app before deciding

Apple says that on macOS a touch becomes a click in many existing apps. That helps explain why a touch may trigger a familiar control, but it does not mean every app has specially designed touch gestures. Apple also announced touch features for specific creative apps.

Apple says the named third-party applications will be available later in 2026. A touchscreen alone does not establish Apple Pencil compatibility or pressure sensitivity.

💻 Compare the whole laptop

The new PROLED machines use M5 Pro or M5 Max. An existing M5 Pro laptop in Evetech's catalogue is a separate configuration; the R50,999 figure above is not a price for the announced touch model. Compare its storage and display with the features you need in the MacBook range.

If you would rather spend the budget on a machine available now, examine laptop best sellers alongside the software you use. Display finish, size and ports can matter just as much as input when the laptop moves between home and a desk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PROLED MacBook Pro still have a trackpad?

Yes. Apple lists a Force Touch trackpad alongside the touch display on both PROLED sizes.

Can you use the touchscreen to scroll?

Yes. Apple describes swiping to scroll a web page on the new MacBook Pro.

Will every Mac app have dedicated touch controls?

No. Apple says many existing apps receive taps as clicks via macOS, while specific touch features depend on the app.

Is the R50,999 laptop the PROLED model?

No. The dated catalogue figure is for the separate 1TB M5 Pro with a 14-inch screen.

Ready to choose your input setup? Compare the MacBook configurations at Evetech and look at the screen, ports and storage together.