Quick summary
- The G960S Plus, however, takes it a step further with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a higher reporting rate, resulting in smoother and more responsive strokes.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the H420x and the G960S Plus come equipped with comfortable and responsive pens.
- If you are a casual artist or a beginner looking for an affordable and portable drawing tablet, the H420x is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right 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 Inspiroy H420x and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer compelling features and performance, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion Inspiroy H420x and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast a sleek and minimalist design. The H420x features a black plastic body with a textured surface for improved grip. Its compact size and lightweight nature make it portable and convenient for on-the-go artists. The G960S Plus, on the other hand, comes with a slightly larger drawing area and a more robust build. It also features a textured surface, but with a slightly different design.
Drawing Area and Pressure Sensitivity
The drawing area is a crucial factor for any drawing tablet. The Huion Inspiroy H420x offers a 4×3 inch active area, which is suitable for casual sketching and drawing. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, however, provides a larger 6.5×4 inch active area, offering more space for intricate details and complex artwork.
Both tablets boast impressive pressure sensitivity levels. The H420x supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, enabling precise line variations and nuanced brush strokes. The G960S Plus, however, takes it a step further with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a higher reporting rate, resulting in smoother and more responsive strokes.
Pen Features and Functionality
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the H420x and the G960S Plus come equipped with comfortable and responsive pens. The H420x pen features a battery-free design and two programmable buttons, offering customization options for shortcuts. The G960S Plus pen also boasts a battery-free design, but with eight customizable buttons, providing even more control and flexibility.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. The Huion Inspiroy H420x comes with its own driver software that offers customization options for pen settings and tablet configuration. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also includes driver software with similar features, allowing users to fine-tune their drawing experience.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy H420x is known for its affordability, making it a great entry-level option for aspiring artists. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, while slightly more expensive, offers a larger drawing area and more advanced features, justifying its price tag.
Huion Inspiroy H420x: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Compact and portable design
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Battery-free pen with two programmable buttons
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Cons:
- Smaller drawing area
- Fewer pen buttons compared to the G960S Plus
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Larger drawing area
- 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity with higher reporting rate
- Battery-free pen with eight programmable buttons
- Sleek and robust design
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Cons:
- Slightly higher price compared to the H420x
Verdict: Which Tablet Is Right for You?
The choice between the Huion Inspiroy H420x and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you are a casual artist or a beginner looking for an affordable and portable drawing tablet, the H420x is an excellent choice. However, if you require a larger drawing area, more pen buttons, and a more responsive drawing experience, the G960S Plus is the better option.
The Final Word: Beyond the Competition
While this comparison has focused on the Huion Inspiroy H420x and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, it’s important to remember that the world of drawing tablets is vast and diverse. There are numerous other options available from different brands, each with its unique features and price points. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
1. Are the Huion Inspiroy H420x and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus compatible with smartphones?
No, both tablets are designed for use with computers and laptops. They are not compatible with smartphones or tablets.
2. Do the pens require batteries?
Both the H420x and the G960S Plus pens are battery-free, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries.
3. What is the difference between pressure sensitivity and reporting rate?
Pressure sensitivity refers to the tablet’s ability to detect varying levels of pressure applied to the pen, translating into different line thicknesses and brush strokes. Reporting rate, on the other hand, determines how frequently the tablet sends data to the computer, affecting the smoothness and responsiveness of the drawing experience.
4. Can I use these tablets for digital painting?
Yes, both tablets are suitable for digital painting, offering the necessary pressure sensitivity and responsiveness for creating detailed and expressive artwork.
5. What are the warranty periods for these tablets?
Both Huion and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their drawing tablets. However, it’s always advisable to check the specific warranty terms and conditions provided by the manufacturer.