What To Know
- Two popular contenders in the compact tablet arena are the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS.
- The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS both boast a sleek and minimalist design, prioritizing portability and ease of use.
- The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small features a resolution of 4000 LPI, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offers a resolution of 5080 LPI.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the compact tablet arena are the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of portability, affordability, and functionality, making them attractive choices for aspiring artists, designers, and casual doodlers alike. But which one emerges as the victor in this head-to-head comparison? Let’s delve into their key features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS both boast a sleek and minimalist design, prioritizing portability and ease of use. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small comes in a compact rectangular form factor with rounded edges, available in black or blue. Its surface features a textured finish that provides a comfortable drawing experience. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, sports a more rounded design with a smooth surface. It’s available in black and white, offering a slightly more playful aesthetic.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel solid and durable. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is made from a mix of plastic and metal, giving it a premium feel. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, while primarily made from plastic, still feels sturdy and well-constructed. Both tablets are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for travel or working on the go.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface where your stylus interacts with the tablet. A larger active area provides more space for drawing and navigating, while a smaller active area might feel cramped for some users. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers a 6.3 x 3.9-inch active area, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS boasts a slightly larger 7.1 x 4.4-inch active area.
Resolution, measured in lines per inch (LPI), determines the level of detail and precision the tablet can capture. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small features a resolution of 4000 LPI, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offers a resolution of 5080 LPI. The higher resolution of the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS translates to slightly finer detail and responsiveness, but the difference might not be noticeable for casual users.
Stylus and Pressure Sensitivity
The stylus is the heart of any drawing tablet, and the quality of its features directly impacts the user experience. Both the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS come bundled with passive styluses, meaning they don’t require batteries. However, the styluses differ in their pressure sensitivity levels.
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small stylus offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and pressure-sensitive effects. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, provides 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering even greater precision and responsiveness. This higher level of pressure sensitivity can be beneficial for artists who rely on subtle pressure variations in their work.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Connectivity is a crucial factor, especially for users who prefer wireless freedom. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small, as its name suggests, offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless connection to your computer or mobile device. However, it also supports USB connectivity for a wired connection option. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, relies solely on a USB connection. While this might be a drawback for some users, it ensures a stable and reliable connection.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small also supports Android and iOS devices, making it a more versatile option for mobile drawing.
Software and Features
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small comes bundled with a suite of software, including Wacom’s own software, Wacom Inkspace, which allows for note-taking, sketching, and cloud storage. It also offers compatibility with various creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, doesn’t come with any bundled software. However, it offers compatibility with a wide range of drawing software, including popular options like Krita and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS. This price difference reflects Wacom’s established brand recognition and reputation for quality. While the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS might be more budget-friendly, the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers a premium experience with its software suite and wireless connectivity.
Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless freedom
- 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Bundled software suite, including Wacom Inkspace
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
Cons:
- Smaller active area compared to XP-Pen Deco Fun XS
- Higher price point
XP-Pen Deco Fun XS: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Larger active area for more drawing space
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for greater precision
- Affordable price point
- Compatible with a wide range of drawing software
Cons:
- No bundled software
- USB connectivity only, no wireless option
The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize wireless freedom, a larger active area, and a budget-friendly price, the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS might be the better choice. However, if you value a premium experience, bundled software, and compatibility with a wider range of devices, the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is a solid option.
The Final Word: Choosing Your Artistic Companion
Both the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offer excellent value for their respective price points. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small excels in portability, wireless connectivity, and bundled software, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS impresses with its larger active area, higher pressure sensitivity, and affordability. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your specific needs and budget.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small with my iPad?
A: Yes, the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is compatible with iPads and other iOS devices.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS come with a screen protector?
A: No, the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS doesn’t come with a screen protector. You might want to consider purchasing one separately to protect the tablet surface.
Q: What is the difference between passive and active styluses?
A: Passive styluses don’t require batteries and rely on electromagnetic resonance to communicate with the tablet. Active styluses, on the other hand, use batteries and have more advanced features like pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS with my smartphone?
A: No, the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS is not compatible with smartphones. It only supports connection to computers.
Q: Are there any alternative drawing tablets I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other drawing tablets available in the market. Some popular alternatives include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, and the Wacom Cintiq 16. You can compare their features and prices to find the best option for your needs.