Mastering Digital Art: A Detailed Comparison of Huion HS64 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the small tablet market are the Huion HS64 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both offer compelling features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor in this showdown? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key differences, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Huion HS64 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boast distinct design aesthetics. The Huion HS64 adopts a classic rectangular shape with a textured surface for better grip. Its slim profile and lightweight construction make it portable and easy to carry around. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, features a more modern design with rounded corners and a smooth, glossy finish. It feels slightly heavier than the HS64 but still remains compact and travel-friendly.

In terms of build quality, both tablets exhibit solid construction. The Huion HS64’s plastic casing feels sturdy and durable, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s premium aluminum construction exudes a sense of quality and sophistication.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area refers to the tablet’s drawing surface, while the resolution determines the tablet’s ability to detect pen movements. The Huion HS64 offers a smaller active area of 4.25 x 2.75 inches compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s 6.25 x 3.9 inches. This difference translates to a more spacious drawing surface on the Xencelabs tablet, providing more room for intricate details and larger strokes.

Regarding resolution, the Huion HS64 boasts a resolution of 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI. This means the Xencelabs tablet can detect finer pen movements, resulting in greater precision and accuracy in your artwork.

Pen Technology and Features

Both tablets come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The Huion HS64’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and brush strokes. It also includes two side buttons that can be customized for various functions.

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s pen takes things a step further with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and a rubberized grip for a more comfortable and natural drawing experience. It also features customizable side buttons and a unique eraser button on the pen’s side, providing a convenient option for quick corrections.

Software and Compatibility

Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Huion HS64 comes bundled with the Huion driver, which offers basic customization options for pen settings and button assignments. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, is compatible with the Xencelabs driver, which provides a more comprehensive set of features, including customizable brush settings, color palette management, and shortcut key assignments.

Price and Value

The Huion HS64 is generally priced lower than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, despite its higher price, offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, higher resolution, and advanced pen features.

Who Should Choose the Huion HS64?

The Huion HS64 is an excellent choice for:

• Beginner artists: Its affordability makes it an ideal entry point into the world of digital art.
• Casual users: If you’re looking for a tablet for occasional sketching or note-taking, the HS64’s basic features are sufficient.
• Travelers: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport.

Who Should Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small?

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a better choice for:

• Professional artists: Its larger active area and advanced pen features provide the precision and control needed for intricate artwork.
• Serious hobbyists: If you’re passionate about digital art and want a high-quality tablet, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is worth considering.
• Users seeking a premium experience: Its sleek design and superior pen technology offer a more refined and enjoyable drawing experience.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs

Ultimately, the choice between the Huion HS64 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boils down to your individual needs and preferences. While the HS64 offers a budget-friendly option with decent features, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small provides a more premium experience with its larger active area, advanced pen technology, and comprehensive software.

Remember to consider your drawing style, budget, and desired level of precision when making your decision. Both tablets offer excellent value for their respective price points, and either one can be a valuable tool for your artistic journey.

What You Need to Know

1. Do these tablets require special software to function?

Both tablets require drivers to be installed for proper operation. Huion provides its own driver, while Xencelabs offers a more feature-rich driver.

2. Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?

Currently, neither tablet is compatible with smartphones. They are designed for use with computers.

3. Are there any other small drawing tablets worth considering?

Yes, other excellent options include the XP-Pen Artist 12, the Wacom One Creative Pen Display, and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro.

4. What are the advantages of a smaller tablet?

Smaller tablets are more portable and compact, making them ideal for travel or limited desk space. They also tend to be more affordable than larger tablets.

5. What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display?

A drawing tablet has a separate screen, while a pen display has an integrated screen. Pen displays offer a more immersive drawing experience as you can see your artwork directly on the tablet’s screen.