CES 2017: Dell Unveils Canvas, a Surface Studio without the PC

Dell has launched Dell Canvas, a huge horizontal touch display for drawing and creation at CES.

The 27-inch panel is very much similar to the Surface Studio in function, but unlike Microsoft's desktop, this is no PC. Rather, it's a display that connects to any PC and runs off its hardware, serving as an extension of your existing computer.

The 27-inch QHD smart workspace can be used at an angle or flat on a desk so professionals can create, communicate and express their thoughts and ideas as naturally as they do with a pen on paper. For example, through the use of touch, digital pen and totems, the Dell Canvas turns drawings into part of the digital workflow and enhances collaboration. Developed in partnership with Microsoft Corp. and powered by virtually any Windows 10 device, Dell Canvas plugs seamlessly into software solutions from partners including Adobe, Autodesk, AVID, Dassault Systems, SolidWorks and Microsoft to unleash the creative genius in everyone.

Like the Surface Studio, Dell's monitor has a puck-like controller that, when placed directly on the screen, pulls up a circular menu that can be used for controlling Windows and certain apps. Dell's peripheral is called the Totem — as opposed to Microsoft's Dial — but the feature is very much the same.

The display comes at a pretty low resolution of 2560 x 1440.

Dell has also provided custom software for the Canvas that allows apps to be pinned to different edges of the display. It's a small feature, but it could be useful in helping people manage their apps on such a large touchscreen.Pricing hasn’t been announced just yet, but according to Dell, the shipping will start sometime in April.

Pricing hasn’t been announced just yet, but according to Dell, the shipping will start sometime in April.