What To Know
- Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW.
- The Xencelabs Medium features a clean, rectangular shape with a black finish, while the Deco Pro SW sports a more rounded design with a silver and black color scheme.
- The choice between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. But which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW boast sleek and minimalist designs. The Xencelabs Medium features a clean, rectangular shape with a black finish, while the Deco Pro SW sports a more rounded design with a silver and black color scheme.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
- Size: 11.6 x 8.6 inches (active area: 9.8 x 6.1 inches)
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Material: Plastic with a matte finish
- Features: Eight customizable buttons, a dedicated pressure-sensitive dial, and a textured surface for enhanced grip.
XP-Pen Deco Pro SW:
- Size: 10.6 x 6.7 inches (active area: 9.8 x 6.1 inches)
- Weight: 0.9 lbs
- Material: Plastic with a glossy finish
- Features: Eight customizable buttons, a pressure-sensitive dial, and an optional pen stand.
In terms of build quality, the Xencelabs Medium feels slightly more premium due to its matte finish and solid construction. The Deco Pro SW, on the other hand, feels a bit more plasticky but is still sturdy enough for everyday use.
Pen Technology
The pen is arguably the most crucial component of any drawing tablet. Both tablets offer pressure-sensitive pens with a comfortable grip and a variety of features.
Xencelabs Pen:
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Report Rate: 266 PPS
- Features: Battery-free, tilt support, side buttons, and a customizable pen tip.
XP-Pen Deco Pro SW Pen:
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Report Rate: 233 PPS
- Features: Battery-free, tilt support, side buttons, and a customizable pen tip.
The Xencelabs pen boasts a slightly higher report rate, which translates to smoother and more responsive strokes. Both pens offer excellent pressure sensitivity and tilt support, making them suitable for various drawing styles.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with dedicated software and drivers that offer a range of customization options and features.
Xencelabs:
- Software: Xencelabs Driver (Windows and macOS)
- Features: Customizable button mapping, pressure sensitivity settings, pen calibration, and shortcut profiles.
XP-Pen:
- Software: XP-Pen Artist (Windows and macOS)
- Features: Customizable button mapping, pressure sensitivity settings, pen calibration, and shortcut profiles.
Both software packages provide a user-friendly interface and offer similar features, allowing for personalized settings to optimize your workflow.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets connect to your computer via USB-C cable, ensuring reliable and fast data transfer.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
- Compatibility: Windows 7 or later, macOS 10.11 or later
XP-Pen Deco Pro SW:
- Compatibility: Windows 7 or later, macOS 10.11 or later
Both tablets are compatible with various popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are priced competitively within the mid-range segment.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
- Price: Around $200
XP-Pen Deco Pro SW:
- Price: Around $150
The Deco Pro SW offers slightly better value for money due to its lower price point. However, the Xencelabs Medium justifies its slightly higher price with its superior build quality, pen technology, and additional features like the pressure-sensitive dial.
Pros and Cons
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Excellent pen technology with a high report rate
- Pressure-sensitive dial for easy zoom and brush size control
- Customizable button mapping for efficient workflow
- Compatible with various drawing software
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to the Deco Pro SW
XP-Pen Deco Pro SW:
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Comfortable pen with good pressure sensitivity
- Customizable button mapping for efficient workflow
- Compatible with various drawing software
Cons:
- Slightly plasticky build quality
- Lower report rate compared to the Xencelabs pen
Which Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:
- You prioritize premium build quality and superior pen technology.
- You value the added functionality of the pressure-sensitive dial.
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for a high-quality drawing experience.
Choose the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW if:
- You’re on a tighter budget.
- You’re looking for a comfortable and responsive pen.
- You prefer a more compact and portable design.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Fit
Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and enjoyable drawing experience. The Xencelabs Medium excels in terms of build quality, pen performance, and additional features, making it a worthwhile investment for serious artists. The Deco Pro SW, on the other hand, provides a more affordable option with a comfortable pen and a user-friendly interface. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Are the pens compatible with other tablets?
A: No, the pens are specifically designed for their respective tablets and are not compatible with other brands.
Q: Can I use the tablets with my phone or iPad?
A: No, these tablets are specifically designed for use with computers and are not compatible with mobile devices.
Q: What is the difference between the Xencelabs Medium and the Xencelabs Small?
A: The Xencelabs Medium has a larger active area (9.8 x 6.1 inches) compared to the Small (6.8 x 4.2 inches). The Medium is ideal for larger canvases and detailed work, while the Small is more compact and portable.
Q: Can I use the tablets with left-handed mode?
A: Yes, both tablets offer left-handed mode, allowing you to customize the button layout and pen orientation for a comfortable experience.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering in this price range?
A: Yes, other notable tablets in the same price range include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, the Wacom One Creative Pen Display, and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro.