Quick notes
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation, while more expensive, offers a premium experience with its display screen and advanced features, making it a better choice for professional artists and those who prioritize a more immersive drawing experience.
- However, if you’re a professional artist or prioritize a more immersive drawing experience, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better investment.
- The HS64 is a pen tablet, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation is a display tablet.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the affordable drawing tablet market are the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both offer impressive features and cater to different needs, making the decision even more challenging. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed choice.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion HS64 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a compact footprint, making it ideal for smaller workspaces. Its black plastic construction feels sturdy and durable, though it might not be as premium as some other options. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a more modern and stylish design with a slightly larger active area. Its aluminum alloy construction adds a touch of sophistication and feels robust. Both tablets come with a pen holder, making them easy to organize.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is a crucial aspect to consider as it determines the drawing space. The Huion HS64 offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, which is slightly smaller than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s 11.6 x 7-inch active area. This difference in size can be significant for artists who prefer a larger drawing space. However, the HS64’s smaller size might be advantageous for users with limited desk space. Both tablets offer a resolution of 5080 LPI, providing sufficient detail and precision for drawing.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The drawing experience is largely determined by the pen technology and pressure sensitivity. Both tablets utilize a battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for a natural and responsive feel, enabling you to create nuanced strokes and subtle variations in line thickness. The pens are comfortable to hold and feature customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform various functions.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Huion HS64 is a pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in display. This means you’ll need to connect it to a computer monitor and draw directly onto the tablet surface while viewing the results on the screen. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, is a display tablet, featuring a 11.6-inch IPS LCD screen with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. This allows you to draw directly onto the screen, providing a more immersive and intuitive experience. The Artist 12 2nd Generation also boasts a wide color gamut and accurate color reproduction, making it suitable for professional artists and designers.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options. The Huion HS64 connects to your computer via USB cable, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers both USB-C and HDMI connections. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, as well as popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Price and Value for Money
The Huion HS64 is generally more affordable than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. This makes it a great entry-level option for beginners and casual users. The Artist 12 2nd Generation, while more expensive, offers a premium experience with its display screen and advanced features, making it a better choice for professional artists and those who prioritize a more immersive drawing experience.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a budget and prioritize portability, the Huion HS64 is a solid choice. Its compact size and affordable price make it an excellent option for beginners and casual users. However, if you’re a professional artist or prioritize a more immersive drawing experience, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better investment. Its display screen, advanced features, and accurate color reproduction make it a powerful tool for creative professionals.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What are the main differences between the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation?
A: The main difference lies in the presence of a display screen. The HS64 is a pen tablet, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation is a display tablet. This means you draw directly on the screen with the Artist 12 2nd Generation, providing a more immersive experience. The HS64 requires you to draw on the tablet surface while viewing the results on your computer monitor.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Huion HS64 is a good option for beginners due to its affordability and ease of use. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation can also be a good choice for beginners who are willing to invest in a more advanced tablet.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better choice for professional artists due to its display screen, accurate color reproduction, and advanced features.
Q: Can I use both tablets with my Mac?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with macOS operating systems.
Q: Which tablet is better for drawing manga?
A: Both tablets are suitable for drawing manga. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation might be a better choice due to its display screen and accurate color reproduction.