Overview
- The HS64 features a black and silver color scheme with a textured surface, while the Star G960S Plus opts for a more minimalist design with a black finish.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the HS64 and Star G960S Plus come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools.
- The HS64 features four express keys on the tablet itself and two buttons on the pen, while the Star G960S Plus has eight express keys on the tablet and two on the pen.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? 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 Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast a sleek and compact design, making them ideal for portability and space-saving setups. The HS64 features a black and silver color scheme with a textured surface, while the Star G960S Plus opts for a more minimalist design with a black finish. Both tablets are lightweight and comfortable to hold.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel solid and durable. The HS64’s textured surface provides a good grip, while the Star G960S Plus’s smooth finish is less prone to fingerprints. The pen holders on both tablets are convenient for keeping the stylus close at hand.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface of the tablet, while resolution determines the level of detail and precision. The Huion HS64 offers a 6.3 x 4-inch active area with a 4000 LPI resolution, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boasts a larger 9.6 x 6.4-inch active area with a 5080 LPI resolution.
The larger active area of the Star G960S Plus provides more room for drawing and navigating applications, making it suitable for artists who prefer a more spacious workspace. The higher resolution of the Star G960S Plus offers greater precision and detail, resulting in smoother lines and more accurate strokes.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the HS64 and Star G960S Plus come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The HS64’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Star G960S Plus offers a slightly higher 8,192 levels.
Both pens are comfortable to hold and have a good balance, making them suitable for long drawing sessions. The pressure sensitivity allows for varying line thickness and brush strokes, adding depth and realism to your artwork.
Buttons and Functionality
Both tablets offer a range of customizable buttons for enhancing productivity and workflow. The HS64 features four express keys on the tablet itself and two buttons on the pen, while the Star G960S Plus has eight express keys on the tablet and two on the pen.
The customizable buttons allow you to assign shortcuts for frequently used commands, such as undo, redo, zoom in, zoom out, and brush selection. This can significantly speed up your workflow and make your drawing experience more efficient.
Compatibility and Software
Both the HS64 and Star G960S Plus are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support various creative software applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
The HS64 comes with Huion’s driver software, which offers basic customization options for the buttons and pen settings. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, utilizes XP-Pen’s driver software, which provides more advanced features, such as the ability to create custom profiles for different software applications.
Price and Value
The Huion HS64 is typically priced lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Star G960S Plus offers a larger active area, higher resolution, and more customizable features, making it a more premium choice.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize portability, the HS64 is a solid choice. If you’re looking for a more spacious drawing experience with enhanced features, the Star G960S Plus might be worth the extra investment.
Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately comes down to your specific requirements and budget. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Huion HS64 if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize portability.
- You’re comfortable with a smaller active area.
- You don’t need advanced customization options.
Choose the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus if:
- You’re willing to invest in a more premium tablet.
- You prefer a larger active area for a more spacious workspace.
- You want higher resolution for greater precision and detail.
- You need advanced customization options for your workflow.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent drawing tablets that offer impressive features at affordable prices. The HS64 excels in its portability and affordability, while the Star G960S Plus shines with its larger active area, higher resolution, and advanced customization options.
Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired active area size, and the level of customization you require before making a decision.
Top Questions Asked
Q1: Can I use the HS64 or Star G960S Plus with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers. While there are some limited options for using drawing tablets with smartphones, it’s not their primary intended use.
Q2: What are the differences between the HS64 and Star G960S Plus pens?
A: Both pens offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, but the Star G960S Plus pen has a slightly more advanced design and a more comfortable grip.
Q3: What is the minimum system requirement for using these tablets?
A: The minimum system requirements for both tablets are a computer running Windows 7 or macOS 10.10 or later.
Q4: Can I use different software with these tablets?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with a wide range of creative software applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q5: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range worth considering?
A: Yes, there are other budget-friendly drawing tablets available, such as the XP-Pen Artist 12, Huion Kamvas 13, and XP-Pen Deco Pro M. It’s recommended to compare their features and price points to find the best option for your needs.