What To Know
- While the XP-Pen Star G640 also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, it’s worth noting that the higher sensitivity doesn’t necessarily translate to a more refined drawing experience.
- It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android devices, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
- While it may lack some of the advanced features found in the Wacom Intuos, it still provides a solid drawing experience at a lower price point.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With countless options available, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of features and specifications. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the **XP-Pen Star G640**. Both tablets offer compelling features at different price points, making the decision even more challenging.
This comprehensive comparison guide will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a compact footprint. Its black and silver colour scheme exudes professionalism, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to transport. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, offering a comfortable drawing experience.
On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G640 adopts a more utilitarian design. It’s larger than the Wacom Intuos, with a black plastic build that feels sturdy but not as premium. The tablet’s surface is slightly textured, providing a more tactile drawing experience.
Pressure Sensitivity and Active Area
Both tablets offer pressure sensitivity, a crucial feature for capturing subtle variations in line thickness and pressure. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small boasts 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing exceptional accuracy and responsiveness. Its active area, measuring 6.3 x 3.9 inches, is slightly smaller than the XP-Pen Star G640, which offers a 9.6 x 5.4-inch active area.
While the XP-Pen Star G640 also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, it’s worth noting that the higher sensitivity doesn’t necessarily translate to a more refined drawing experience. The key takeaway here is that both tablets provide sufficient pressure sensitivity for most digital artists.
Pen Technology and Features
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small comes bundled with a passive pen, meaning it doesn’t require batteries or charging. The pen offers a comfortable grip and features two customizable buttons. The tablet also supports Wacom’s signature pen technology, which provides a natural and precise drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Star G640 also includes a passive pen with two customizable buttons. However, it doesn’t support Wacom‘s pen technology, which might be a drawback for users accustomed to the Wacom experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers both Bluetooth and USB connectivity, providing flexibility for different use cases. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android devices, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
The XP-Pen Star G640 relies solely on a USB connection. While it’s compatible with Windows and macOS, it lacks Bluetooth connectivity and Android support.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with dedicated software and drivers that enable customization and enhance the overall user experience. Wacom’s software, known as Wacom Desktop Center, offers a range of features, including pen customization, shortcut mapping, and pressure sensitivity settings.
XP-Pen’s software, called XP-Pen Artist, provides similar features, allowing users to customize their pen, map shortcuts, and adjust pressure sensitivity.
Price and Value
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is generally priced higher than the **XP-Pen Star G640**. This price difference reflects Wacom‘s reputation for quality and innovation. However, it’s important to consider whether the premium price tag justifies the added features and functionality.
The XP-Pen Star G640, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious users. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in the Wacom Intuos, it still provides a solid drawing experience at a lower price point.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small:
Pros:
- Sleek and minimalist design
- Compact size and lightweight construction
- Excellent pressure sensitivity (4096 levels)
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Compatible with a wide range of devices
- Wacom pen technology for natural and precise drawing
- Dedicated software with comprehensive features
Cons:
- Smaller active area compared to XP-Pen Star G640
- Higher price point
XP-Pen Star G640:
Pros:
- Larger active area compared to Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small
- Affordable price point
- Sturdy build quality
- Pressure sensitivity (8192 levels)
- USB connectivity
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Cons:
- Less premium design
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- Limited device compatibility (no Android support)
Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The best drawing tablet for you ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small: Opt for this tablet if you value a sleek design, portability, advanced pressure sensitivity, and Wacom’s pen technology. You’re willing to pay a premium for these features and don’t mind the smaller active area.
- XP-Pen Star G640: Choose this tablet if you’re on a budget and prioritize a larger active area. You’re comfortable with USB connectivity and don’t need Bluetooth or Android support.
Concluding Thoughts: The Verdict is in!
Both the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the **XP-Pen Star G640** are excellent drawing tablets that cater to different needs and budgets. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers a premium experience with advanced features and a sleek design, while the XP-Pen Star G640 provides a more affordable option with a larger active area.
Ultimately, the best tablet for you hinges on your individual preferences and the specific tasks you intend to perform. Consider your budget, desired features, and overall drawing style to make an informed decision.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What are the recommended drawing programs for these tablets?
A: Both tablets work well with popular drawing programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for photo editing tasks such as retouching, cropping, and color correction.
Q: Is there a noticeable difference in drawing experience between the two tablets?
A: The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers a more refined and natural drawing experience due to its Wacom pen technology and higher pressure sensitivity. However, the XP-Pen Star G640 still provides a solid drawing experience, especially for users who prioritize a larger active area.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are several other excellent drawing tablets on the market, including the Wacom One Creative Pen Display, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro.
Q: What are the warranty terms for these tablets?
A: Wacom offers a one-year warranty for the Intuos Bluetooth Small, while XP-Pen provides a one-year warranty for the Star G640.