What To Know
- The tablet also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a battery-free pen, eliminating the need for battery replacements.
- The XP-Pen Star G640’s battery-free pen is a clear advantage over the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s pen, which requires a replaceable AAAA battery.
- The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M lacks dedicated express keys, which can be a limitation for users who rely on shortcuts.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners navigating the vast landscape of options. Two popular choices often come up: the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and the XP-Pen Star G640. Both offer compelling features at affordable price points, but which one emerges as the winner? This comprehensive comparison aims to break down their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision.
The Contenders: Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and XP-Pen Star G640
The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and XP-Pen Star G640 are both entry-level drawing tablets designed for artists, designers, and anyone looking to explore digital art. They share some similarities, such as their compact size and pressure sensitivity, but also boast distinct features that cater to different preferences.
Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M: A Focus on Affordability and Portability
The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M stands out for its affordability and compact design. It features a 6.3 x 4-inch active area, making it ideal for travel or limited workspace. The tablet boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a nuanced and responsive drawing experience. The pen, while not battery-free, uses a replaceable AAAA battery.
Pros:
- Affordable: The H320M offers excellent value for its price.
- Compact and Portable: Its small size makes it easy to carry around.
- Pressure Sensitivity: The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity provide a smooth and natural drawing experience.
Cons:
- Small Active Area: The limited drawing area can feel restrictive for some users.
- Pen Requires Battery: The pen requires a replaceable AAAA battery, which can be inconvenient.
- No Express Keys: The tablet lacks dedicated express keys for shortcuts, which can be limiting for some workflows.
XP-Pen Star G640: A Balance of Features and Affordability
The XP-Pen Star G640 strikes a balance between features and affordability. It offers a larger 6.5 x 4-inch active area compared to the H320M, providing more space for drawing. The tablet also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a battery-free pen, eliminating the need for battery replacements.
Pros:
- Larger Active Area: The larger drawing area offers more room for creativity.
- Battery-Free Pen: The pen doesn’t require batteries, providing a hassle-free experience.
- Express Keys: The tablet features eight customizable express keys for shortcuts.
Cons:
- Slightly More Expensive: The G640 is slightly pricier than the H320M.
- No Tilt Support: The tablet lacks tilt sensitivity, which can be a drawback for some artists.
Comparing Key Features: A Head-to-Head Analysis
Active Area: The XP-Pen Star G640 wins in this category with its slightly larger active area of 6.5 x 4 inches compared to the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s 6.3 x 4 inches. The extra space can be beneficial for artists who prefer a more spacious drawing surface.
Pressure Sensitivity: Both tablets offer an impressive 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and responsive drawing experience. However, the G640’s battery-free pen might be a deciding factor for some users.
Pen Design: The XP-Pen Star G640’s battery-free pen is a clear advantage over the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s pen, which requires a replaceable AAAA battery. This eliminates the hassle of battery replacements and ensures uninterrupted drawing sessions.
Express Keys: The XP-Pen Star G640 boasts eight customizable express keys, offering greater control and efficiency in your workflow. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M lacks dedicated express keys, which can be a limitation for users who rely on shortcuts.
Tilt Sensitivity: The XP-Pen Star G640 lacks tilt sensitivity, while some users might find this feature beneficial for achieving more nuanced brushstrokes. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M also lacks tilt sensitivity.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Your Digital Art Journey Begins Here
So, which tablet reigns supreme? That depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M if:
- Affordability is a priority.
- You need a compact and portable tablet.
- You’re comfortable with a smaller active area.
Choose the XP-Pen Star G640 if:
- You prefer a larger active area.
- You value a battery-free pen experience.
- You need dedicated express keys for shortcuts.
Beyond the Specs: The User Experience Matters
While specs provide a good starting point, the user experience is ultimately what matters. Both tablets offer solid performance, but some users might find one more comfortable or intuitive than the other. It’s crucial to consider factors like:
- Pen Feel: How comfortable is the pen to hold and use?
- Software Compatibility: Does the tablet work seamlessly with your preferred drawing software?
- Driver Support: Are the drivers stable and reliable?
- Customer Support: Does the manufacturer offer helpful support in case of any issues?
The Verdict: A Tie for Entry-Level Excellence
Ultimately, the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and XP-Pen Star G640 are both excellent entry-level drawing tablets. They offer impressive features at affordable price points, making them viable options for beginners and seasoned artists alike. The best choice for you hinges on your individual needs and priorities.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?
A: Both tablets are designed for use with computers, not smartphones or tablets.
Q2: What kind of software can I use with these tablets?
A: These tablets are compatible with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and more.
Q3: Do these tablets come with a screen protector?
A: Most drawing tablets don‘t come with screen protectors as they don’t have a screen.
Q4: How do I connect these tablets to my computer?
A: Both tablets connect to your computer via USB.
Q5: Can I use these tablets for gaming?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, some users have found success using them for certain games, particularly those that require precise input. However, they are not ideal for gaming in general.