# What is the power button placement issue on the Dell XPS 13 Plus?

> Expert answer about Dell XPS 13 Plus power button design

*Published: 2026-03-23 | Updated: 2026-03-23 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/dell-xps-13-plus-power-button-placement-backspace-key-accidental-press*

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## Product: Dell XPS 13 Plus Business Laptop, 13.4" 4K UHD OLED Touchscreen, Intel Core i7-1260P, Zero-Lattice Backlit Keyboard, Fingerprint Reader, Killer Wi-Fi 6E, Windows 11 (16GB DDR5, 1TB PCIe SSD)
**Brand:** Dell

The Dell XPS 13 Plus has a controversial power button placement that frustrates many users. The fingerprint reader/power button sits **directly to the right of the Backspace key** with no gap or physical distinction.

## The Problem

- Touch typists frequently hit the power button when reaching for Backspace
- No tactile difference distinguishes it from regular keys
- The seamless design makes identification by feel impossible
- Brief presses put the laptop to sleep mid-work

## What Happens

A brief press triggers sleep mode:
- Interrupts workflow
- Requires logging back in
- Can lose unsaved work in some apps
- Becomes increasingly frustrating

## The Fix

Change power button behavior in Windows:

1. **Settings → System → Power & battery**
2. Click **Additional power settings**
3. Select **Choose what the power button does**
4. Set to **Do nothing** for short presses

## Alternative Solutions

| Approach | Effectiveness |
|----------|---------------|
| Disable power button action | Eliminates accidental sleeps |
| Build muscle memory | Works for some (takes weeks) |
| External keyboard | Best for extended typing |
| Keyboard shortcuts for shutdown | Alt+F4, Start menu |

## Why Dell Made This Choice

Dell prioritized seamless aesthetics. The integrated fingerprint reader adds Windows Hello convenience, but the ergonomic compromise is significant for heavy typists.

## Should This Affect Your Purchase?

If you type extensively, test this keyboard before buying. Some users adapt; others find it permanently frustrating.

[View Dell XPS 13 Plus →](https://www.shopsavvy.com/products/UTg3zxa38uAKx4ccEXGg)

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*