Does Dell XPS 15 Support Pen? You Need to Know This!

The Dell XPS 15 is a powerful and versatile laptop that’s popular among professionals and creative individuals. But does Dell XPS 15 support pen? This is a question that many potential buyers have, especially those who rely on digital inking for their work or hobbies.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about pen support on the Dell XPS 15, covering different generations, compatibility, and the best pens to use.

Understanding Dell XPS 15 Pen Support

The Dell XPS 15 has gone through several generations, and pen support has evolved along the way. Here’s a breakdown of the different generations and their pen compatibility:
Dell XPS 15 9560 (2017): This generation does not have built-in pen support. However, you can use a third-party pen with a Bluetooth connection, like the Wacom Bamboo Ink, on the touchpad.
Dell XPS 15 9570 (2018): This model still lacks built-in pen support. You can use a Bluetooth pen, but the experience might not be as smooth as with a dedicated pen display.
Dell XPS 15 9500 (2019): This generation marks a significant change. The Dell XPS 15 9500 is the first model to offer built-in pen support. It comes with a Dell Precision Active Pen, which uses Wacom AES technology for precise and responsive inking.
Dell XPS 15 9510 (2020): The XPS 15 9510 continues to offer built-in pen support. It is compatible with the Dell Precision Active Pen and the Dell Premium Active Pen, both delivering a responsive and accurate inking experience.
Dell XPS 15 9520 (2021): The latest generation, the XPS 15 9520, maintains pen support and is compatible with the Dell Precision Active Pen and the Dell Premium Active Pen.

Why Choose a Dell XPS 15 with Pen Support?

There are several compelling reasons to consider a Dell XPS 15 with built-in pen support:

• Enhanced Productivity: If your work involves taking notes, sketching, or signing documents, a pen-enabled XPS 15 can significantly enhance your productivity.
• Creative Freedom: Artists and designers can benefit from the precise and responsive inking experience, allowing them to unleash their creativity.
• Intuitive Navigation: Pen support can also be used for navigation, making it easier to scroll through documents, browse websites, and interact with on-screen elements.
• Improved User Experience: Using a pen for input adds a layer of precision and control that is often lacking with a traditional trackpad or mouse.

Choosing the Right Dell XPS 15 Pen

If you are looking to purchase a Dell XPS 15 with pen support, you have two primary options for active pens:

• Dell Precision Active Pen: This pen is designed for professionals and offers excellent accuracy and pressure sensitivity. It features two programmable side buttons and a convenient eraser tip.
• Dell Premium Active Pen: This pen is more affordable and offers a comfortable grip. It features a single side button and a traditional pen design.

The choice between the two pens ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you require the highest level of accuracy and features, the Dell Precision Active Pen is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget or prefer a more traditional pen design, the Dell Premium Active Pen is a good option.

How to Use a Pen with Your Dell XPS 15

Using a pen with your Dell XPS 15 is quite straightforward:
1. Pair the Pen: If you are using a Bluetooth pen, make sure to pair it with your laptop.
2. Enable Pen Input: Go to your laptop’s settings and enable pen input.
3. Start Inking: Simply press the pen tip against the display to start writing or drawing.

Dell XPS 15 Pen Support: The Bottom Line

The Dell XPS 15 is a versatile and powerful laptop that can be further enhanced with pen support. Whether you’re a professional, a creative individual, or someone who simply prefers the convenience of pen input, the Dell XPS 15 with pen support is an excellent choice.

Beyond the Basics: Dell XPS 15 Pen Support in Depth

Using Pen Input with Different Applications:

• Note-taking: Apps like OneNote, Evernote, and Microsoft Word are optimized for pen input, allowing you to take handwritten notes, draw diagrams, and annotate documents.
• Drawing and Design: Software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint offer robust pen support, enabling you to create intricate drawings, digital paintings, and graphic designs.
• Productivity Tools: Even productivity applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint can benefit from pen input for marking up spreadsheets or creating interactive presentations.

Troubleshooting Pen Issues:

• Check Battery: Ensure that your pen has enough battery life.
• Re-pair the Pen: If the pen is not responding, try re-pairing it with your laptop.
• Update Drivers: Make sure you have the latest drivers installed for your pen and laptop.
• Restart Your Laptop: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve pen issues.

Final Thoughts: The Dell XPS 15 Pen Experience

The Dell XPS 15 is a fantastic laptop that offers a compelling pen experience for a wide range of users. With its precise inking, responsive performance, and compatibility with a variety of applications, the Dell XPS 15 with pen support is a powerful tool for productivity, creativity, and everyday tasks.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What kind of pen does the Dell XPS 15 use?
A: The Dell XPS 15 with pen support uses an active pen, either the Dell Precision Active Pen or the Dell Premium Active Pen.
Q: Can I use any pen with the Dell XPS 15?
A: No, you need to use a compatible active pen. Passive pens, which rely on the display’s touch sensors, will not work.
Q: Does the Dell XPS 15 come with a pen?
A: The Dell XPS 15 does not come bundled with a pen. You need to purchase it separately.
Q: How do I know if my Dell XPS 15 supports pen?
A: Check the specifications of your Dell XPS 15 model. If it mentions pen support, it is compatible with an active pen.
Q: Can I use a pen on the touchpad of the Dell XPS 15?
A: No, the touchpad of the Dell XPS 15 does not support pen input.