What To Know
- It offers a pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels, a report rate of 233 PPS, and a laminated screen for a near-pen-to-screen experience.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, relies on a separate display, meaning you’ll need to connect it to your computer monitor.
- The Huion Kamvas 12 boasts a comprehensive set of features, including a built-in stand for adjustable viewing angles, a multi-function dial for quick adjustments, and a shortcut key for easy navigation.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the realm of small drawing tablets are the Huion Kamvas 12 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small**. Both offer a compelling mix of features and affordability, making it challenging to decide which one fits your needs best. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
A Glimpse into the Contenders
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, let’s take a quick look at what each tablet brings to the table.
Huion Kamvas 12: The Huion Kamvas 12 is a feature-packed drawing tablet that boasts a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution. It offers a pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels, a report rate of 233 PPS, and a laminated screen for a near-pen-to-screen experience.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a compact and sleek tablet designed for portability and ease of use. It features a 10×6.25 inch active area and a pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels. The tablet comes with two customizable buttons, a smooth surface, and a premium pen with side buttons.
Display: A Visual Feast or a Blank Canvas?
The Huion Kamvas 12 stands out with its integrated display, offering a direct visual feedback of your strokes. The 11.6-inch IPS screen provides vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for artists who prefer a more immersive drawing experience. The laminated screen further enhances the experience by minimizing parallax, creating a seamless connection between your pen and the screen.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, relies on a separate display, meaning you’ll need to connect it to your computer monitor. While this might seem like a drawback, it allows for greater flexibility in terms of screen size and setup. You can choose to draw on a larger monitor or even utilize a dual-monitor setup for enhanced productivity.
The Pen: Your Creative Weapon
Both tablets offer a pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels, ensuring smooth and responsive strokes. However, their pen designs differ. The Huion Kamvas 12’s pen features a **battery-free design**, eliminating the need for charging. It also includes **eight customizable buttons**, allowing for quick access to various functions.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small‘s pen, while also battery-free, boasts a more ergonomic design with a comfortable grip. It features **two side buttons** that can be customized to your liking. The pen also comes with a **replaceable nib** for extended use.
Features and Connectivity: Beyond the Basics
The Huion Kamvas 12 boasts a comprehensive set of features, including a built-in stand for adjustable viewing angles, a multi-function dial for quick adjustments, and a shortcut key for easy navigation. It offers **multiple connectivity options** via HDMI and USB-C ports, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small focuses on simplicity and portability. It features two customizable buttons on the tablet itself, providing quick access to frequently used commands. The tablet connects to your computer via **USB-C**, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
Price: Value for Money or Premium Experience?
The Huion Kamvas 12 offers excellent value for money, considering its integrated display, impressive features, and affordability. Its price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, while slightly more expensive, delivers a premium experience with its sleek design, comfortable pen, and intuitive software. Its price reflects its focus on quality and user experience.
The Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Match
Ultimately, the choice between the Huion Kamvas 12 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Huion Kamvas 12:
- Best for: Artists seeking an affordable drawing tablet with an integrated display, a wide range of features, and a comfortable pen.
- Pros: Integrated display, multiple connectivity options, pressure sensitivity, customizable buttons, affordable price.
- Cons: Limited active area, less ergonomic pen design compared to Xencelabs.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
- Best for: Artists who prioritize portability, a premium pen experience, and a sleek design.
- Pros: Compact size, comfortable pen, customizable buttons, sleek design, intuitive software.
- Cons: Separate display required, higher price point.
Beyond the Comparison: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
While the Huion Kamvas 12 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are great options, they might not be the perfect fit for everyone. Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Your budget: Both tablets offer excellent value for money, but the Huion Kamvas 12 is more budget-friendly.
- Your drawing style: If you prefer a more immersive experience with a direct visual feedback, the Huion Kamvas 12’s integrated display is a great choice. If you value portability and a comfortable pen, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small might be more suitable.
- Your preferred features: The Huion Kamvas 12 boasts a wider range of features, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small focuses on simplicity and ease of use.
- Your level of experience: Both tablets are suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike.
The Final Word: Embracing Your Creative Journey
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can find the perfect tool to fuel your creative journey. Whether you choose the Huion Kamvas 12 or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, empowering you to bring your artistic visions to life.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the Huion Kamvas 12 with my smartphone?
A: Yes, the Huion Kamvas 12 can be connected to your smartphone via USB-C. However, you might need an adapter depending on your phone’s port.
Q: Is the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small compatible with Macs?
A: Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is compatible with both Windows and macOS.
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a display tablet?
A: A drawing tablet has a separate display, while a display tablet has an integrated screen. Display tablets offer a more immersive drawing experience, while drawing tablets provide greater flexibility in terms of screen size and setup.
Q: Is the Huion Kamvas 12 compatible with all drawing software?
A: Yes, the Huion Kamvas 12 is compatible with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Q: Does the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come with a stand?
A: No, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small does not come with a stand. However, you can purchase a separate stand if desired.