Interactive whiteboards have become central to modern teaching — enabling educators to deliver dynamic lessons, boost student engagement, and support collaboration both in-class and remote. As schools are planning to upgrade, replace, or newly integrate interactive classroom displays this year and beyond, understanding the key differences in operating systems and selecting the right interactive whiteboard for your environment is essential. In our 2026 guide to interactive whiteboards, we’ll break down the two primary interactive whiteboard operating system options and highlight which type of interactive whiteboard series best fits different educational settings, from K-12 to higher ed to budget-conscious environments.
2026 Guide to Interactive Whiteboards: EDLA vs OS-Free
When shopping for an interactive whiteboard in 2026, one of the first decisions you’ll face is what type of interactive display makes the most sense for your needs. In today’s interactive market there are two main types of interactive whiteboards to choose from – EDLA-certified interactive displays and interactive displays without any built-in operating system.
EDLA-Certified Interactive Whiteboards
EDLA-certified interactive whiteboards leverage an Android™ Enterprise Device Licensing Agreement (hence EDLA) operating system designed specifically for educational use. These interactive displays run apps natively, support wireless casting, and seamlessly integrate with the Google Ecosystem.
Benefits:
- All-in-one solution — no need to connect an external device to operate.
- Direct access to your Google Workspace for Education and the Google Play Store from the display.
- Advanced security and hassle-free maintenance from Google including automatic Google updates, Google Play Protect, data encryption, and two-step verification.
Choose EDLA If:
- Using the display by itself (no connected external device) is important to you
- You want to have the ability to wirelessly cast to the display
- You have apps from the Google Play Store that you want direct access to from the panel
- Using Google Drive or One Drive is important
OS-Free Interactive Whiteboards
This is going to be your most budget friendly interactive whiteboard option. Non-OS interactive panels act as a display and touch input surface. They rely on a connected device (like a laptop, tablet, or desktop) to run software and apps. You “bring your own device” to power the display.
Benefits:
- Flexibility — connect your preferred devices/OPS module including Windows, Mac, Chrome, or Android EDLA.
- Easier integration into existing tech ecosystems with its plug-and-play connectivity.
- No built-in OS means a lower purchase cost and less firmware and technical support issues for easy maintenance.
Choose OS-Free If:
- Your school/district has very strict budget requirements and you want your classroom displays to offer interactive touch capabilities
- Classroom environment is BYOD and teachers are connecting their laptops or desktops to the display via USB or USB-C
- There is no need for wireless casting
- You want more freedom and flexibility when it comes to upgrading options
2026 Guide to Interactive Whiteboards: Best Fit by Education Setting
When it comes to our 2026 guide to interactive whiteboards, the best choice depends largely on the education setting. Here’s how the ViewSonic ViewBoard lineup of interactive displays stands out as top solutions for different educational needs.
Best for K-12: ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP51 Series
The ViewBoard IFP51 Series delivers a blend of performance, reliability, and classroom-ready features that make it ideal for K-12 school districts that are looking for a secure and streamlined Google Classroom experience.
Why it’s the Best Fit for K-12 Classrooms:
- Octa-core CPU and 16GB RAM
- Enhanced Multi-User Login
- 70W Front-Facing Soundbar
- Secure by Design with Android EDLA
- Native to the Google Education Ecosystem
- Up to 50 Points of Touch
- Built-in 8-Mic Array
- UHD 3840×2160 Resolution
- Suite of pre-installed ViewSonic Education solutions including myViewBoard 3.0 for interactive whiteboarding, ClassSwift for real-time classroom feedback, and AirSync for wireless content sharing.
- Better device management with the pairing of Google Workspace enterprise security tools and ViewSonic Manager
- Strong support ecosystem and professional services for training and professional development.
For K-12 classrooms where teachers want an all-in-one interactive solution — with software, apps, and tools running right on the board — the ViewBoard IFP51 Series is a top choice.
Best for Higher Education: ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP63 Series
Higher education classrooms benefit from a slightly more robust interactive experience delivered by premium interactive displays — supporting larger screens, advanced connectivity, and collaboration tools that work in lecture halls and active learning spaces alike. That’s where the ViewBoard IFP63 Series of shines.
Why it’s Ideal for Higher Ed Settings:
- 65″, 75″, and 86″ 4K UHD displays with 450-nit brightness
- Upgradable Android 15 OS, EDLA-certified, octa-core CPU, up to 32GB RAM
- 50-point PCAP technology with near-zero latency, palm rejection, and Write Away™ technology
- NFC tap-to-sign-in and single sign-on (SSO)
- Built-In Collaboration Tools including ViewSonic TeamOne software and AirSync for wireless casting
- Enterprise Security features including auto updates, Google Play Protect, encryption, and two-way authentication
- Access to Google Workspace and Play Store
- Centralized control and monitoring with ViewSonic Manager
- EPEAT Gold registered with up to 24% better energy efficiency
The ViewBoard IFP63 Series strikes the right balance of powerful features and classroom flexibility that universities and colleges need to support next-generation teaching models.
Best Budget Choice: ViewSonic ViewBoard IFPG1 Series
For education environments with strict budget requirements, the ViewSonic ViewBoard IFPG1 OS-free interactive whiteboard offers an opportunity to integrate interactive technology into the classroom. This series delivers basic interactive whiteboarding capabilities without the premium cost of a built-in operating system.
Why it’s a Great Options for Budget-Focued Schools
- Non-OS design keeps costs lower
- Works with any connected device — use your existing tech
- Basic touch and annotation support
- Simple installation and maintenance
If you’re looking to bring interactive display capabilities into classrooms but don’t need an embedded OS, want to leverage your own devices to power the display, and have no need for wireless casting functionality— the IFPG1 Series is an economical and effective solution.
Make the Best Choice for Your School with Our 2026 Guide to Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive whiteboards have the potential to significantly enhance the teaching and learning experience. By understanding the differences between EDLA and Non-OS IFP options outlined in our 2026 guide to interactive whiteboards, your district can choose the type of interactive whiteboard that will not only enhance instruction but also deliver lasting value and align with your educational priorities.
Ready to upgrade your classrooms for 2026? The ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP51 Series, IFP63 Series, and IFPG1 Series offer tailored solutions — whether you’re focused on K-12, higher education, or budget-savvy deployments. Want help comparing features or selecting the perfect configuration for your classrooms? We’re here to help! You can give us a call at (800) 727-6383, email us at info@parmetech.com, or submit a contact request on our website.
You can also explore our ViewSonic interactive whiteboards for education offerings here.
