I've had touch screens, HATE THEM. They're constantly dirty and smudgy and I spent probably more time wiping the screen than actually doing anything on it. I found myself using the touch screen less and less.
I was disappointed it doesn't have a backlit keyboard to, but even that's not a deal breaker. You can get a nice lap top lap desk with built in lcd light that you aim at the keyboard. They are especially plentiful and inexpensive at this time of year for Christmas presents.
The specs on this laptop are really impressive, especially given the price.