At a Glance
- The larger active area of the Star G640 allows for more comfortable and natural drawing, while the higher resolution of the HS64 offers greater accuracy and detail.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with excellent pressure sensitivity and a comfortable pen, the Huion HS64 is a great option.
- Both the HS64 and the Star G640 are relatively lightweight and portable, but the Star G640’s included stand provides an added level of ergonomic support.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G640. Both offer a decent drawing experience, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G640 boast a sleek and minimalist design. The HS64 features a black plastic body with a textured surface, providing a firm grip. The Star G640, on the other hand, comes in a slightly more vibrant red with a smooth finish. In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed, capable of handling everyday use.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the tablet’s drawing surface, while the resolution determines the sensitivity and precision of your strokes. The Huion HS64 offers a 6.3 x 3.9-inch active area with a 4000 LPI resolution, while the XP-Pen Star G640 provides a slightly larger 6.5 x 4-inch active area with a 5080 LPI resolution. The larger active area of the Star G640 allows for more comfortable and natural drawing, while the higher resolution of the HS64 offers greater accuracy and detail.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor for achieving natural and expressive strokes. Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and brush strokes. The pens included with both tablets are lightweight and comfortable to hold, featuring two buttons for customization. The HS64 pen features a replaceable nib, while the Star G640 pen has a fixed nib.
Compatibility and Software
Both the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G640 are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The HS64 comes with Huion’s own driver software, which offers customizable pen settings and hotkeys. The Star G640, on the other hand, uses the XP-Pen driver, providing similar functionality. Both drivers are user-friendly and easy to navigate.
Pros and Cons of Huion HS64
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Good pressure sensitivity
- Replaceable pen nibs
- Lightweight and portable
- Customizable pen settings
Cons:
- Smaller active area than Star G640
- Lower resolution than Star G640
- No included stand
Pros and Cons of XP-Pen Star G640
Pros:
- Larger active area than HS64
- Higher resolution than HS64
- Included stand for comfortable drawing
- Sleek and vibrant design
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than HS64
- Fixed pen nibs
Which Drawing Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G640 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with excellent pressure sensitivity and a comfortable pen, the Huion HS64 is a great option. However, if you prioritize a larger active area, higher resolution, and a more stylish design, the XP-Pen Star G640 might be a better fit.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
While the features discussed above are essential, several other factors should be considered:
- Driver Software: Both Huion and XP-Pen offer user-friendly drivers with customizable settings. Explore the features of each driver to determine which one suits your workflow better.
- Pen Buttons: Both tablets allow you to customize the pen buttons for various functions, such as brush size, zoom, and undo. Consider how you want to utilize these buttons for a more efficient drawing experience.
- Ergonomics: The size and weight of the tablet are important for comfort. Both the HS64 and the Star G640 are relatively lightweight and portable, but the Star G640’s included stand provides an added level of ergonomic support.
- User Reviews and Comparisons: Reading user reviews and watching comparison videos can provide valuable insights into the real-world performance of each tablet.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict is In…
Both the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G640 are excellent entry-level drawing tablets that offer a solid drawing experience. The HS64 excels in affordability and pressure sensitivity, while the Star G640 boasts a larger active area and higher resolution. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones and tablets?
A: No, both the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G640 are designed for use with computers, not mobile devices.
Q2: Can I use these tablets for photo editing and graphic design?
A: Yes, both tablets are suitable for photo editing, graphic design, and other creative tasks that require precise input.
Q3: Do these tablets require any special software to function?
A: While they work with most drawing software, you need to install the driver software provided by the manufacturer for optimal functionality and customization.
Q4: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a monitor tablet?
A: A drawing tablet is a pressure-sensitive input device that translates your pen strokes into digital signals, while a monitor tablet combines the functionality of a drawing tablet with a display screen.
Q5: What is the recommended drawing software for beginners?
A: Some popular drawing software options for beginners include Krita, Autodesk Sketchbook, and MediBang Paint. They offer user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of tools for learning and exploring digital art.