Quick notes
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a larger active area and a more robust build.
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also lacks a display, but it offers a slightly more convenient connectivity option with a USB-C port.
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, while slightly more expensive, offers a larger active area, superior resolution, and a more robust build, making it a better value proposition for professional artists and those who demand high-quality drawing experience.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring artists, designers, and digital illustrators. But which one emerges as the victor? Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 boasts a compact and minimalist design, making it an ideal choice for those with limited desk space. Its sleek black exterior and rounded corners provide a modern aesthetic. The tablet surface is smooth and responsive, offering a comfortable drawing experience. However, its plastic construction might feel a bit flimsy to some users.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a larger active area and a more robust build. Its aluminum frame provides a premium feel and adds to its durability. The textured surface of the tablet offers a more tactile experience, providing a better grip for your pen. The sleek black and red color scheme adds a touch of sophistication to its design.
Active Area and Resolution
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 comes with a smaller active area of 6.3 x 4 inches, which might feel cramped for users accustomed to larger tablets. It offers a resolution of 4000 LPI, providing decent accuracy for basic drawing and sketching.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boasts a larger active area of 10.6 x 6.3 inches, offering ample space for intricate drawings and detailed illustrations. Its resolution of 5080 LPI ensures precise pen movements and smooth lines.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a realistic pen-on-paper experience. The Huion pen features a comfortable grip and two customizable buttons, while the XP-Pen pen offers a slightly more ergonomic design with three buttons.
Display and Connectivity
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is a tablet without a built-in display, meaning you’ll need to rely on your computer screen for visual feedback. It connects to your computer via USB cable.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also lacks a display, but it offers a slightly more convenient connectivity option with a USB-C port.
Software and Drivers
Both Huion and XP-Pen provide drivers for their tablets, allowing you to customize pen settings, calibrate the tablet, and access additional features. However, the user experience with the software can vary depending on individual preferences.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 typically retails for a lower price point than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for beginners and casual users.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, while slightly more expensive, offers a larger active area, superior resolution, and a more robust build, making it a better value proposition for professional artists and those who demand high-quality drawing experience.
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable price
- Responsive tablet surface
- Pressure-sensitive pen with two customizable buttons
Cons:
- Small active area
- Plastic construction might feel flimsy
- No display included
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large active area
- High resolution
- Durable aluminum frame
- Pressure-sensitive pen with three customizable buttons
- USB-C connectivity
Cons:
- More expensive than the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300
- No display included
Which Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is a good choice for:
- Beginners and casual users
- Those with limited desk space
- Users on a tight budget
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better choice for:
- Professional artists and illustrators
- Users who require a large active area and high resolution
- Those who prioritize durability and build quality
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are excellent choices, it’s always worthwhile to explore other options in the market. Consider factors such as:
- Active area: Do you need a large or small tablet?
- Resolution: How important is precision and accuracy to you?
- Pen pressure sensitivity: How many levels of pressure sensitivity do you require?
- Display: Do you prefer a tablet with a built-in display?
- Connectivity: What type of connectivity options do you need?
- Software and drivers: Are the software and drivers user-friendly?
- Price: What is your budget?
The Verdict: Embracing Your Artistic Journey
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best suits your workflow and preferences. Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are capable tablets offering impressive features at affordable prices. By carefully considering your needs and budget, you can choose the perfect drawing tablet to embark on your artistic journey.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is a good starting point for beginners due to its affordability and ease of use.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better choice for professional artists due to its larger active area, high resolution, and robust build.
Q: Do either of these tablets have a built-in display?
A: No, neither tablet has a built-in display.
Q: What is the difference between LPI and DPI?
A: LPI (Lines Per Inch) refers to the resolution of a drawing tablet, while DPI (Dots Per Inch) refers to the resolution of a display.
Q: How do I choose the right pen pressure sensitivity for my needs?
A: The number of pressure sensitivity levels depends on your personal preference. More levels offer a more nuanced and realistic experience, but 8192 levels are sufficient for most users.