How to Disable Touchscreen on Dell XPS: Proven Methods You Need to Know

The Dell XPS series is renowned for its sleek design, powerful performance, and, for many models, a responsive touchscreen. While this feature can be useful for navigating and interacting with your device, sometimes you might want to disable it. Whether you’re concerned about accidental touches, prefer using a mouse, or simply want to conserve battery life, knowing how to disable the touchscreen on your Dell XPS is essential.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different methods available to disable your Dell XPS touchscreen, ensuring you have the control you need over your device.

Understanding the Need to Disable Your Dell XPS Touchscreen

Before diving into the methods, let’s understand why you might want to disable your Dell XPS touchscreen:

• Accidental Touches: The sensitive nature of touchscreens can lead to unwanted inputs, especially if you’re prone to resting your hands on the screen.
• Mouse Preference: Some users simply prefer the precision and familiarity of a traditional mouse for tasks like editing, design, or gaming.
• Battery Life: Touchscreens consume additional power, so disabling them can extend your battery life, particularly if you’re using your XPS on the go.
• Preventing Damage: If your touchscreen is damaged or malfunctioning, disabling it can prevent further issues and protect your device.

Method 1: Using the Dell XPS Touchscreen Settings

The most straightforward way to disable your Dell XPS touchscreen is through the device’s built-in settings. Here’s how:
1. Open Settings: Click the Windows Start button and select “Settings”.
2. Navigate to Devices: In the Settings window, click on “Devices”.
3. Select Touchscreen: Click on “Touchscreen” from the left-hand menu.
4. Disable Touchscreen: Uncheck the box next to “Use your finger as an input device”.

Method 2: Using the Device Manager

If the touchscreen settings don‘t offer the desired control, you can try using the Device Manager:
1. Open Device Manager: Press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager”.
2. Locate Touchscreen Driver: Expand the “Human Interface Devices” category. Look for a device named “HID-compliant touch screen”.
3. Disable Touchscreen: Right-click on the touchscreen driver and select “Disable device”.
4. Confirm Disabling: A confirmation window will appear. Click “Yes” to disable the touchscreen.

Method 3: Using the BIOS Settings

For more permanent control over your touchscreen, you can disable it from within the BIOS settings:
1. Access BIOS: Restart your Dell XPS and repeatedly press the F2 key during the boot process. This will access the BIOS settings.
2. Locate Touchscreen Option: Navigate to the “Advanced” or “System Configuration” section of the BIOS. Look for an option related to the touchscreen or tablet mode.
3. Disable Touchscreen: Set the touchscreen option to “Disabled” or “Off”.
4. Save and Exit: Press F10 to save the changes and exit the BIOS.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Software

If the built-in methods don‘t work, you can explore third-party software solutions designed to disable touchscreens:

• TouchFreeze: This free software allows you to disable your touchscreen temporarily or permanently.
• Touchpad Disable: This program provides a simple interface to disable your touchpad and touchscreen.
• Touchpad Blocker: This software offers comprehensive control over your touchpad and touchscreen, allowing you to disable them selectively or completely.

Note: Before using third-party software, ensure it’s compatible with your Dell XPS model and from a reputable source to avoid potential security risks.

Troubleshooting Touchscreen Issues

If you’re experiencing issues with your Dell XPS touchscreen, try these troubleshooting steps:

• Restart Your Device: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.
• Update Drivers: Outdated drivers can cause touchscreen problems. Check for updates in the Device Manager.
• Run a System Scan: Use the Windows built-in troubleshooter or a third-party antivirus software to scan for malware that might be interfering with your touchscreen.
• Contact Dell Support: If the issue persists, reach out to Dell support for further assistance.

A Final Word on Disabling Your Dell XPS Touchscreen

Disabling your Dell XPS touchscreen can be a useful solution for various reasons. By using the methods outlined in this guide, you can regain control over your device and optimize its functionality according to your preferences. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and ensure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid any unintended consequences.

Popular Questions

Q: Will disabling the touchscreen affect other functions on my Dell XPS?
A: Disabling the touchscreen should not affect other functions on your Dell XPS. It primarily disables the touch input, allowing you to use the device with a mouse or keyboard.
Q: Can I re-enable the touchscreen after disabling it?
A: Yes, you can re-enable the touchscreen using the same methods you used to disable it. For example, if you disabled it through the settings, you can re-enable it by checking the “Use your finger as an input device” box.
Q: Is there a way to disable the touchscreen temporarily?
A: You can temporarily disable the touchscreen using the “TouchFreeze” software mentioned earlier. This allows you to disable it for a specific period and re-enable it later.
Q: Can I disable the touchscreen without using the BIOS settings?
A: While the BIOS settings offer a permanent solution, you can disable the touchscreen through the Device Manager or using third-party software. However, these methods might require reapplying the settings after each restart.
Q: Is it safe to disable the touchscreen on my Dell XPS?
A: Disabling the touchscreen is generally safe and won’t harm your device. However, it’s always advisable to follow the instructions carefully and use reputable software if you’re using third-party solutions.