What To Know
- The XP-Pen Artist 12, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a larger active area and a wider frame.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the RTS 300 and the Artist 12 offer impressive pen technology.
- The absence of a display on the RTS 300 might be a dealbreaker for some artists, especially those who prefer a more traditional drawing experience.
Are you a budding artist, illustrator, or graphic designer looking for an affordable drawing tablet to elevate your creative process? If so, you’ve likely stumbled upon two popular contenders: the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the XP-Pen Artist 12. Both offer impressive features and value for money, but which one truly emerges as the champion?
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 boasts a minimalist design with a sleek black finish. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable, ideal for artists on the go. The XP-Pen Artist 12, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a larger active area and a wider frame. While it’s still relatively portable, it’s heavier and bulkier than the RTS 300.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The RTS 300’s plastic casing feels durable, while the Artist 12’s textured plastic provides a more premium feel.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet that responds to your pen input. The RTS 300 offers a 6.3 x 4-inch active area, while the Artist 12 boasts a larger 10.6 x 6.5-inch active area. This difference is significant for artists who prefer a more spacious canvas to work with. The larger active area of the Artist 12 provides a more immersive and natural drawing experience, especially for larger artwork or intricate details.
Both tablets feature a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and accurate pen strokes. However, the Artist 12’s larger active area translates to a higher overall resolution, offering greater precision and detail.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the RTS 300 and the Artist 12 offer impressive pen technology. Both feature battery-free pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and subtle shading.
The RTS 300’s pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, while the Artist 12’s pen provides a slightly heavier feel with a rubberized grip for enhanced control. Both pens offer customizable buttons for shortcuts, further enhancing workflow efficiency.
Display and Viewing Angle
The RTS 300 is a tablet-only device, meaning it doesn’t come with a built-in display. You’ll need to connect it to a separate monitor to view your work. The Artist 12, on the other hand, features a built-in 11.6-inch Full HD display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. This allows you to draw directly on the screen, offering a more intuitive and immersive drawing experience.
The Artist 12’s display offers a wide viewing angle, ensuring consistent color accuracy even when viewed from different angles. The absence of a display on the RTS 300 might be a dealbreaker for some artists, especially those who prefer a more traditional drawing experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the RTS 300 and the Artist 12 connect to your computer via USB cable. The Artist 12 also supports optional wireless connectivity through a separate wireless module, providing greater flexibility and mobility.
In terms of compatibility, both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support popular drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is generally more affordable than the XP-Pen Artist 12. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Artist 12’s built-in display and larger active area justify its higher price tag, especially for artists who prioritize a more immersive and professional drawing experience.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Wins?
Choosing between the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a quick summary:
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300:
- Pros: Affordable, compact and portable, good pen pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: No built-in display, smaller active area.
XP-Pen Artist 12:
- Pros: Built-in display, larger active area, good pen pressure sensitivity, optional wireless connectivity.
- Cons: More expensive, bulkier than the RTS 300.
The RTS 300 is a solid choice for budget-conscious artists who prioritize portability. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel or sketching on the go. However, the lack of a built-in display might be a drawback for some.
The Artist 12 is a better choice for artists who want a more immersive and professional drawing experience. Its built-in display, larger active area, and optional wireless connectivity offer a significant advantage over the RTS 300.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Battle
Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are excellent drawing tablets that offer great value for money. The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
Remember, the most important factor is choosing a tablet that inspires you to create.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Is the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 compatible with Mac computers?
A: Yes, the RTS 300 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist 12 come with a screen protector?
A: Yes, the Artist 12 comes with a built-in screen protector.
Q: What is the difference between the Artist 12 and the Artist 12 Pro?
A: The Artist 12 Pro features a laminated display, which reduces parallax and creates a more natural drawing experience. It also has a higher resolution and a wider color gamut.
Q: Can I use the RTS 300 with a smartphone?
A: No, the RTS 300 is not compatible with smartphones. It is designed for use with computers.
Q: What is the warranty period for both tablets?
A: Both the RTS 300 and the Artist 12 typically come with a one-year warranty.