MikeK

Great information, thank you!

For me individually the size and feel of the remote was the primary difference and better experience.  In addition we don't use any of the number, info, etc items on the non-Touch so it became an extra amount of 'real estate' on the remote that wasn't needed.  We had DirecTV still while using the non-Touch at the same as doing a trial on YouTube TV to see if we liked it in preparation for NFL sunday ticket.  When using the DirecTV we used the number functions quite a bit since we knew the channel numbers of preference to go to.  However, when we were using YouTube TV, the other streaming apps on Apple TV & Roku, and Kaleidescape we never used the additional buttons on the non-Halo Touch.  Then when we purchased 1 Halo Touch I set it up and gave that one along with the non-Touch to the wife.  By this point we had removed DirecTV and now just distributing Apple TV throughout the home.  After the few days of her use, she much preferred the Touch version.  The primary reasons for her was the size, touch functions for the lights and thermostat, and comparability to the NEEO and iOS app she used (she never liked the SR260).   
The other reason was we have family visit a lot and they were familiar with the NEEO's in the guest bedrooms so this was a more natural progression for them we felt.  So far no regrets

Having just got the remote, I would say it's a bit confusing not having a hybrid approach, especially if you're used to one-handed remotes.
I think it would have been beneficial if you selected "watch" when the options showed up, you can either pick on the screen or use the D-button to navigate and select.
 
 
 

Not sure what you mean exactly about "hav[ing] the navigation pad operate in two different ways". That's exactly the situation today if you switch between those two remotes, and you're quite right, it's confusing.

Got my first Touch this morning.   Love the smaller size.  My biggest first impression complaint is that the UI is "mandatory touch."   Coming from hard button Halo (I will have a mix of the types), I would prefer it if I could use the D-Pad to navigate sub menus and make selections (like on non-touch).   Right now, the D-Pad is "locked" to transport controls (and I see the argument for that), but having an option to have a mode making it more consistent between Touch/Non-Touch would avoid frustration, IMHO.   Obviously, I'm not saying touch interface should ever be disabled in any mode--- just have an option to use D-Pad for navigation in certain contexts.