Main points
- The pen performance is a crucial factor for any drawing tablet, and both the H1161 and the Star G640 deliver impressive results.
- The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640 are priced competitively, making them accessible to artists on a budget.
- XP-Pen Star G640 is a more compact and affordable option, ideal for artists who value portability and prefer a slightly heavier pen.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the market. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. But which one emerges as the victor in this digital duel? Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640 boast sleek and modern designs, prioritizing functionality over extravagant aesthetics. Both tablets feature a black and gray color scheme, seamlessly blending into any workspace.
The H1161 comes with a larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for intricate drawings and precise control. It also features eight customizable shortcut keys on the side, offering convenient access to frequently used functions. In contrast, the Star G640 boasts a slightly smaller active area of 9.84 x 6.1 inches. It compensates with six programmable shortcut keys, ensuring quick access to essential tools.
Both tablets are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go artists. The build quality is solid, with sturdy construction ensuring durability for everyday use.
Pen Performance and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen performance is a crucial factor for any drawing tablet, and both the H1161 and the Star G640 deliver impressive results. Both pens offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and subtle variations in line thickness. This level of sensitivity provides a natural and responsive drawing experience, mirroring the feel of traditional art mediums.
The H1161’s pen features a slightly lighter weight, providing a more comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions. It also boasts a lower activation force, requiring less pressure to register strokes, enhancing responsiveness and reducing hand fatigue. The Star G640, on the other hand, offers a slightly heavier pen with a more robust build.
Display and Resolution
Both tablets lack an integrated display, meaning you’ll need to connect them to a computer monitor for viewing your artwork. However, the H1161 offers a higher resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), providing sharper and more detailed lines. The Star G640, with its 4000 LPI resolution, delivers a slightly less refined display but still offers satisfactory clarity for most drawing tasks.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the H1161 and the Star G640 utilize USB connectivity, ensuring a straightforward setup process. They are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, making them accessible to a wide range of users. The H1161 also supports Android devices, expanding its versatility for mobile creatives.
Software and Driver Support
Both Huion and XP-Pen offer dedicated software and driver support for their tablets. These drivers provide essential features like pen customization, shortcut key mapping, and calibration tools. Both companies offer regular updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the latest operating systems.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640 are priced competitively, making them accessible to artists on a budget. The H1161 typically retails for a slightly higher price than the Star G640, reflecting its larger active area and additional features. However, both tablets offer exceptional value for their respective price points, providing a solid foundation for digital art creation.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Final Verdict
So, which tablet emerges as the ultimate champion in this digital showdown? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Huion Inspiroy H1161 shines for users who prioritize a larger active area, enhanced pen sensitivity, and customizable shortcut keys. It’s an excellent choice for detailed drawings, intricate designs, and those who prefer a lighter pen feel.
XP-Pen Star G640 is a more compact and affordable option, ideal for artists who value portability and prefer a slightly heavier pen. Its six customizable shortcut keys and solid build quality make it a reliable choice for everyday drawing tasks.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that aligns with your specific needs and artistic style. Take your time to consider your budget, desired features, and drawing preferences before making your final decision.
The Verdict: A Draw?
While both tablets offer compelling features and value, it’s difficult to declare a clear winner. The H1161 excels in terms of active area, pen sensitivity, and shortcut keys, while the Star G640 boasts a more compact design and affordability. The choice ultimately boils down to your individual preferences and priorities.
Questions You May Have
Q: What are the dimensions of the active areas for both tablets?
A: The Huion Inspiroy H1161 has an active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, while the XP-Pen Star G640 has an active area of 9.84 x 6.1 inches.
Q: Do both tablets come with a pen holder?
A: Yes, both the H1161 and the Star G640 include a pen holder for convenient storage.
Q: What is the warranty period for each tablet?
A: Both Huion and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their drawing tablets.
Q: Are there any additional features or software included with the tablets?
A: Both tablets come with dedicated software and driver support, offering features like pen customization, shortcut key mapping, and calibration tools.
Q: Can I use both tablets with Android devices?
A: The Huion Inspiroy H1161 supports Android devices, while the XP-Pen Star G640 is primarily designed for Windows and macOS operating systems.