Highlights
- Two popular contenders in the small tablet category are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small.
- On the other hand, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a more minimalist design with a clean, white plastic finish.
- It features a single customizable side switch on the pen and two dedicated buttons on the tablet, which can be programmed for shortcuts.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the small tablet category are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both offer compelling features at competitive prices, making it difficult to decide which one suits your needs best. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 boasts a sleek and modern design with a black plastic finish. It features a textured surface that provides a good grip, preventing accidental slips. The tablet is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.
On the other hand, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a more minimalist design with a clean, white plastic finish. It features a smooth, non-textured surface, which some users may find less grippy. The tablet is slightly heavier than the Huion but still compact and portable.
Both tablets offer a comfortable drawing experience, with the choice between textured or smooth surfaces coming down to personal preference.
Active Area and Resolution
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. It features a resolution of 5080 LPI, ensuring smooth and precise lines.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, while smaller in size, still offers a decent active area of 7.9 x 5.9 inches. It boasts a higher resolution of 8192 LPI, resulting in even finer detail and smoother lines.
The choice between the two comes down to your individual needs. If you require ample space for your artwork, the Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a good option. However, if you prioritize high resolution and precision, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small might be a better choice.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens for a natural drawing experience. The Huion Inspiroy H1161’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a wide range of line thicknesses and brush strokes.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a similar level of control and accuracy. However, it stands out with its unique pen design. The pen features a customizable side switch that can be programmed for various functions, such as brush size control or undo/redo. This feature can significantly enhance workflow for creative professionals.
Features and Functionality
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 offers a range of features, including customizable express keys and a touch ring. The express keys can be programmed for frequently used shortcuts, while the touch ring allows for quick adjustments of brush size, zoom, or other settings.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small focuses on minimalist design and functionality. It features a single customizable side switch on the pen and two dedicated buttons on the tablet, which can be programmed for shortcuts. While it lacks the extensive customization options of the Huion, the Xencelabs prioritizes a streamlined workflow for creative professionals.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 comes bundled with a driver that provides access to customization options and driver updates.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small also offers a driver with customization options and driver updates. However, it stands out with its dedicated software, Xencelabs Control Panel. This software provides a more intuitive interface for customizing pen settings, configuring buttons, and managing other tablet settings.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is generally priced lower than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, while more expensive, offers a premium experience with its high-resolution display, unique pen design, and dedicated software. It is a worthwhile investment for professional artists and designers who prioritize a streamlined workflow and high-quality drawing experience.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Huion Inspiroy H1161 vs. Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
The choice between the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Huion Inspiroy H1161 if:
- You need a large active area for your artwork.
- You are on a tight budget.
- You prefer a textured surface for better grip.
- You need a tablet with customizable express keys and a touch ring.
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small if:
- You prioritize high resolution and precision.
- You need a tablet with a customizable pen and dedicated buttons.
- You are willing to invest in a premium drawing experience.
- You prefer a smooth, minimalist design.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are excellent drawing tablets that offer a comfortable and responsive drawing experience. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 excels with its large active area and affordable price, making it a great option for beginners and casual artists. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, stands out with its high resolution, unique pen design, and dedicated software, making it an ideal choice for professional artists and designers who demand the best.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
The decision ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Both tablets offer excellent value for their respective price points, and the choice between them depends on what features and functionality are most important to you.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use the Huion Inspiroy H1161 or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small for photo editing?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and GIMP. They can be used for tasks like retouching, color correction, and creating digital paintings.
Q: Does the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come with a pen stand?
A: Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small includes a stylish pen stand that can hold the pen and other accessories.
Q: Is the Huion Inspiroy H1161 compatible with Android devices?
A: The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is not officially compatible with Android devices. However, some users have reported success using it with specific Android devices and apps.
Q: What is the difference between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the Xencelabs Medium?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and Medium have the same pen and resolution but differ in active area size. The Small has an active area of 7.9 x 5.9 inches, while the Medium has an active area of 10.6 x 6.7 inches.
Q: Can I use the Huion Inspiroy H1161 or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small for digital calligraphy?
A: Yes, both tablets are suitable for digital calligraphy. They offer pressure sensitivity and a responsive drawing experience, allowing for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes.