The monitor

Time for getting the monitor. I have been eyeing the Hannspree HT231HPBU for quite some time. It is a really great option for 3 reasons.

1. It has HDMI with speakers. The TV stick has no separate audio output. So HDMI audio is my ideal choice. Besides, the less wires the better. Even better is the fact that the speakers are facing out. Which means they will not be blocked when laid flat.
2. It has capacitive touch screen. There are several other options that uses IR sensor. I don't know how well they work, but it means their screens are recessed. A recessed touchscreen just does not feel right, especially not for a table.
3. It is cheap. It was going for $150 shipped on both Amazon and Newegg. And I have even seen it for $130 for a refurbished one on Newegg. No other touchscreen monitors come close.

On top of that, the monitor has excellent reviews. So it is an easy choice for me.

When I received the monitor, I hook it up to a Windows 8.1 laptop. The touchscreen is excellent as others has suggested. 

The only downside is the viewing angle. I realized that the viewing angle is noticeably worse than my IPS monitor. Color is also not as accurate. I guess I was spoiled. The viewing angle can become an issue down the road but I cannot complain too much for $150.

There is no turning back now. Time to connect my TV stick.