I think we're in the same state we were in a month before the iPad shipped. Will we really like a giant sized iPhone (as it was positioned at the time)? No one really knew. I think it's fair to say that it was mischaracterized, and people really do like it.
Interestingly, even the Verge (who typically skew anti-MS, but fairly even) seem to really like the experience thus far (with some reservations).
Ask me this question in a month or two after I get some actual touch screens. :-)
But when a laptop or a tablet is being used, a touch is very natural because the screen is at the right distance and more importantly at a "right" angle. In fact it is way more convenient to use a touch based laptop instead of a tablet because of the angle the screen is at and the arm rest that the keyboard provides. Try it out yourself. I have RC running on my old hp and it is pleasant to use
Real touch screen support and an app store.
I know that it may seem like not much given that it's focused in the Metro UI, but I think it can be a lot bigger than many here suspect.
I've already had a friend ask me about the Sony Vaio Tap 20. A 20" all-in-one that has a battery so you can take it to the kitchen or coffee table. All for $900.
Windows 8 gives you the ability to have the desktop experience, which is at least as good as Win7. But also to have a first class touch experience on the same device.
It fixes the problem I have of taking a tablet and a laptop on travel. I need my laptop for work, but the tablet for everything else.
Right now it may seem like a contrived example. I think in a year Apple will be doing the same thing. And in 18 months we'll have trouble imagining why this was at all controversial.