The Dell XPS 13 is a remarkable laptop available in different configurations, but the decision between touch and non-touch versions is crucial.
Touchscreen vs. non-touchscreen Dell XPS 13
Key Insight: Opt for a touch-enabled Dell XPS 13 if a 4K display is your priority. However, without official pen support, the standard non-touch model provides better value for most users. For touch or pen aficionados, the XPS 13 2-in-1 is a more suitable choice.
Touchscreen comes at an extra cost.
As expected, opting for a touchscreen-free Dell XPS 13 will result in a higher price tag. While the default option is a 1080p non-touch display, for an additional $100, users can switch to a 1080p touch screen. The higher-end models come standard with touch screens, but some models allow for customization down to a 1080p non-touch display. The 4K touch display and 3.5K OLED touch panel are also available choices.
Dell’s displays are known for exceptional quality, boasting excellent brightness and color reproduction across all models. However, the touch functionality may not significantly enhance user experience since digital pen support is lacking even on touch models. Given that Windows 10 may not be optimized for touch devices, traditional input methods like keyboard and mouse are often preferred for store and desktop applications.
Most Dell XPS 13 users tend to rely more on the trackpad or an external mouse, making the touchscreen somewhat underutilized for many. Therefore, for most users, forgoing the touchscreen can result in cost savings, which is more beneficial on one of the top-rated Windows laptops.
4K resolution requires touch capability.
For users seeking a 4K display, especially for professional tasks such as CAD or creative work, a touchscreen is necessary. While a non-touch 4K option is not available, its use is not obligatory.
It is somewhat limiting that Dell does not provide a more affordable 4K option without touch capability. Nevertheless, the 4K display is exclusively touchscreen-enabled, whether included in the top-tier configuration or added as an option. The same applies to the 3.5K OLED display, which only supports touch interaction.
Enhanced functionality for Digital Inking.
Presently, owning a touch-enabled Windows device primarily benefits users who desire to leverage inking capabilities with a digital pen. The XPS 13 2-in-1, a convertible version of the XPS 13 with a fully rotatable display, offers versatility as it can function as a tablet, conventional laptop, or in other modes.
Equipped with 11th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and potential compatibility with Intel’s new Xe graphics, this variant boasts more impressive internal hardware. With a price point comparable to the standard XPS 13, the 2-in-1 model delivers exceptional value.
The XPS 13 2-in-1 is notable for its compatibility with Dell’s Active Pen, enabling users to write and draw with ease. If touchscreen functionality is a priority, opting for the 2-in-1 model is a premium choice, despite the additional cost.
