Main points
- The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S share a compact and portable design, making them ideal for travel or limited desk space.
- The XP-Pen Deco Fun S takes it a step further with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience.
- The Deco Fun S takes a step further with its included pen holder, which doubles as a charging dock for the pen.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices that often come up in discussions are the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun S. Both tablets offer a budget-friendly approach to digital art, but they differ in features, performance, and target audience. This comprehensive comparison will help you determine which tablet best suits your needs and artistic aspirations.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S share a compact and portable design, making them ideal for travel or limited desk space. Both tablets feature a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a textured surface for enhanced grip. The HS64 boasts a slightly larger active area at 6.3 x 3.9 inches compared to the Deco Fun S’s 6.0 x 3.7 inches. However, the Deco Fun S compensates with a slimmer profile and lighter weight, making it even more portable.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The HS64’s textured surface provides a good grip, while the Deco Fun S features a smooth, glossy finish. Both tablets come with a textured pen that feels comfortable to hold and provides a natural drawing experience.
Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor for digital artists, allowing for nuanced strokes and varying line weights. The Huion HS64 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is considered standard for entry-level tablets. The XP-Pen Deco Fun S takes it a step further with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience.
Both tablets boast excellent accuracy, with a resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch). This high resolution translates to precise linework and detailed drawings. However, the Deco Fun S’s slightly higher reporting rate of 233 RPS (reports per second) gives it a slight edge in terms of responsiveness and smooth brush strokes.
Driver Compatibility and Software
Both the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S offer excellent driver compatibility across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and even Android. The drivers are readily available on the respective manufacturers’ websites and provide customizable settings for pen pressure, button mapping, and display calibration.
In terms of software, both tablets offer basic drawing and editing programs. The Huion HS64 comes bundled with OpenCanvas, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun S includes ArtRage Lite. These software packages provide a good starting point for beginners, but experienced artists may prefer to use their preferred software.
Ergonomics and Features
The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S both prioritize user comfort. Both tablets feature a comfortable pen grip and a textured surface that prevents slippage. The HS64 offers six customizable buttons on the pen, while the Deco Fun S provides eight. These buttons can be programmed to perform various functions, such as brush size adjustments, undo/redo, or shortcuts to specific programs.
The Deco Fun S takes a step further with its included pen holder, which doubles as a charging dock for the pen. This feature is convenient for users who want to keep their pen organized and charged.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets utilize a USB connection for power and data transfer. The HS64 comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable, while the Deco Fun S uses a USB-A to micro-USB cable. Both cables are included in the package.
In terms of compatibility, both tablets work seamlessly with a wide range of software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. They can be used with both laptops and desktops, providing flexibility for artists on the go.
Pricing and Value
The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S are both affordable drawing tablets, making them accessible to aspiring artists on a budget. The HS64 generally retails for slightly less than the Deco Fun S, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Deco Fun S’s additional features, such as the pen holder and higher reporting rate, justify the slightly higher price.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a basic tablet with a large active area, the HS64 is a solid choice. If you prefer a more compact and feature-rich tablet, the Deco Fun S is a good investment.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Huion HS64 is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious artists: It offers excellent value for money, especially if you prioritize a large active area.
- Beginners: Its simple design and intuitive features make it easy to learn.
- Artists who prioritize portability: Its compact size and light weight make it easy to travel with.
XP-Pen Deco Fun S is ideal for:
- Artists who need precision and responsiveness: Its higher reporting rate and pressure sensitivity provide a smoother drawing experience.
- Artists who want a feature-rich tablet: Its pen holder, customizable buttons, and slim profile add convenience and functionality.
- Artists who value ergonomics: Its comfortable pen grip and textured surface enhance user comfort.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Artistic Companion
Both the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S are excellent choices for entry-level drawing tablets. They offer a balance of affordability, performance, and features that cater to aspiring digital artists. The HS64 excels in its affordability and large active area, while the Deco Fun S shines with its advanced features and responsiveness.
Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your budget, artistic goals, and personal preferences. Consider your specific needs and prioritize the features that are most important to you. Whether you choose the Huion HS64 or the XP-Pen Deco Fun S, both tablets will empower you to unleash your creativity and embark on a rewarding journey into the world of digital art.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the difference between the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun S?
A: The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S are both budget-friendly drawing tablets, but they differ in features, performance, and target audience. The HS64 offers a larger active area and more customizable buttons, while the Deco Fun S boasts a higher reporting rate and a pen holder.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The HS64’s simple design and intuitive features make it easy to learn, while the Deco Fun S provides a more advanced experience with its higher reporting rate and pressure sensitivity.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my phone?
A: While both tablets support Android devices, they primarily function with laptops and desktops. You may need an adapter to connect them to your phone.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: While both tablets offer good performance, they are primarily designed for entry-level artists. Professionals may prefer tablets with higher resolution, more pressure sensitivity levels, and advanced features.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both Huion and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their products. You can find more information about the warranty on their respective websites.