At a Glance
- Both the Huion H420 and the Wacom One by Wacom Small are entry-level drawing tablets designed for beginners and casual artists.
- It features a 4×3 inch active area, a pressure sensitivity of 2048 levels, and a responsive pen with eight replaceable nibs.
- Here’s a closer look at the key differences between the Huion H420 and the Wacom One by Wacom Small.
The world of digital art is filled with exciting possibilities, and a drawing tablet is an essential tool for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. Two popular choices in the budget-friendly category are the Huion H420 and the Wacom One by Wacom Small. Both offer a compelling blend of affordability and functionality, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison aims to help you make an informed decision, exploring their key features, pros, and cons.
A Quick Overview
Both the Huion H420 and the Wacom One by Wacom Small are entry-level drawing tablets designed for beginners and casual artists. They offer a compact and portable design, making them ideal for travel or limited workspace setups. While they share a similar price point, there are some key differences that set them apart.
Huion H420: The Affordable Choice
The Huion H420 is a budget-friendly drawing tablet known for its simplicity and ease of use. It features a 4×3 inch active area, a pressure sensitivity of 2048 levels, and a responsive pen with eight replaceable nibs.
Pros:
- Affordable price: The Huion H420 is one of the most affordable drawing tablets available, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists.
- Lightweight and portable: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around and use on the go.
- Responsive pen: The pen offers good pressure sensitivity and a comfortable grip, providing a smooth and natural drawing experience.
- Multiple nibs: The included eight nibs provide a variety of drawing options and ensure a long lifespan.
Cons:
- Limited active area: The 4×3 inch active area is smaller than the Wacom One by Wacom Small, which can feel cramped for some users.
- Basic features: The Huion H420 lacks advanced features like express keys or a touch ring.
- Driver issues: Some users have reported driver issues with the Huion H420, which can lead to compatibility problems.
Wacom One by Wacom Small: The Trusted Brand
The Wacom One by Wacom Small is a compact drawing tablet from the renowned Wacom brand. It boasts a 6.5×4 inch active area, a pressure sensitivity of 4096 levels, and a pressure-sensitive pen with side buttons.
Pros:
- Larger active area: The Wacom One by Wacom Small offers a more spacious active area, providing more room for drawing and navigation.
- Higher pressure sensitivity: Its 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity allow for more nuanced and detailed strokes.
- Pen side buttons: The pen’s side buttons can be customized to perform specific actions, enhancing workflow efficiency.
- Wacom brand reliability: Wacom is a trusted name in the digital art industry, known for its quality and reliability.
Cons:
- Higher price: The Wacom One by Wacom Small is slightly more expensive than the Huion H420.
- No express keys: It lacks express keys, which can be a drawback for users who rely on shortcuts.
- Limited software compatibility: While it works with most popular drawing software, it may not be compatible with all programs.
Key Differences: A Detailed Comparison
Here’s a closer look at the key differences between the Huion H420 and the Wacom One by Wacom Small:
- Active Area: The Wacom One by Wacom Small has a larger active area (6.5×4 inches) compared to the Huion H420 (4×3 inches). This provides more space for drawing and navigation, especially for users who prefer a larger working area.
- Pressure Sensitivity: The Wacom One by Wacom Small offers a higher pressure sensitivity of 4096 levels, while the Huion H420 has 2048 levels. This allows for more nuanced and detailed strokes with the Wacom One by Wacom Small, though the Huion H420 still provides decent pressure sensitivity for beginners.
- Pen Features: Both tablets come with a pressure-sensitive pen, but the Wacom One by Wacom Small’s pen features two side buttons that can be customized to perform specific actions. The Huion H420’s pen does not have side buttons.
- Express Keys: The Wacom One by Wacom Small lacks express keys, while the Huion H420 also doesn’t offer them.
- Software Compatibility: Both tablets are compatible with most popular drawing software, but the Wacom One by Wacom Small may have better compatibility with some specialized programs.
Who is Each Tablet Suitable for?
- Huion H420: The Huion H420 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious artists, beginners, or those looking for a portable and simple drawing tablet. Its affordable price and ease of use make it an attractive option for casual drawing and sketching.
- Wacom One by Wacom Small: The Wacom One by Wacom Small is ideal for artists who value a larger active area, higher pressure sensitivity, and the reliability of the Wacom brand. It’s a good choice for beginners who want to step up their digital art skills and for those who need a more responsive and precise drawing experience.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability: The Huion H420 is an excellent choice.
- If you prefer a larger active area, higher pressure sensitivity, and the Wacom brand: The Wacom One by Wacom Small is a better option.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Advanced Features
While both tablets are entry-level, there are other factors to consider when making your decision.
- Driver Support: Wacom is known for its driver stability and compatibility with various operating systems. Huion’s drivers can sometimes be less reliable, leading to compatibility issues or performance problems.
- Software Bundles: Wacom often includes software bundles with their tablets, which can be a significant value for beginners. Huion typically does not offer software bundles.
- Customer Support: Both brands offer customer support, but Wacom’s reputation for excellent customer service is well-established.
The Final Word: A Drawing Tablet for Every Artist
Both the Huion H420 and the Wacom One by Wacom Small are solid drawing tablets that offer a great starting point for digital art. The Huion H420 is a budget-friendly and portable option, while the Wacom One by Wacom Small provides a more advanced experience with a larger active area and higher pressure sensitivity. Choose the tablet that best aligns with your needs and budget, and embark on your digital art journey with confidence.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the Huion H420 or Wacom One by Wacom Small with my phone?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers. While there are adapters available that allow you to connect them to your phone, the experience may not be optimal due to limitations in software and compatibility.
Q: Can I use the Huion H420 or Wacom One by Wacom Small for professional art?
A: While both tablets are entry-level, they can be used for professional art, especially by beginners and casual artists. For professional-grade work, you may want to consider a higher-end tablet with more advanced features.
Q: What drawing software is compatible with these tablets?
A: Both tablets are compatible with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q: How long do the pen nibs last?
A: The lifespan of pen nibs depends on your usage and drawing style. On average, you can expect to get several months of use out of a set of nibs.
Q: What are the warranty terms for these tablets?
A: Both Huion and Wacom offer warranties for their products. Check the manufacturer’s website for specific warranty terms and conditions.