Highlights
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come with their own unique pens.
- The Xencelabs Pen Small, however, takes pressure sensitivity to a whole new level with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a pen tilt feature.
- Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With the plethora of options available, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of features and specifications. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both tablets offer excellent value for money, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, pros, cons, and ultimately help you decide which tablet best suits your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small both prioritize portability and a minimalist design. The RTS 300 boasts a compact, rectangular design with rounded edges, making it easy to carry around. It features a black plastic body with a textured surface, providing a decent grip. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, opts for a sleek, modern design with a smooth, white plastic finish. Its slightly larger size and rounded corners offer a comfortable and ergonomic feel.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and sturdy. The RTS 300 feels slightly more plasticky, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a more premium feel. However, both tablets are durable enough for everyday use and can withstand moderate pressure.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the surface of the tablet that responds to the pen’s movements. The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 offers a compact active area of 6.3 x 4 inches, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a slightly larger active area of 7.9 x 5.9 inches. This difference in size can significantly impact your drawing experience. If you prefer a more spacious canvas for your artwork, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small might be a better choice. However, if you prioritize portability and prefer a smaller working area, the RTS 300 could be more suitable.
Both tablets offer a resolution of 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch), which translates to a high level of accuracy and responsiveness. This means that your pen strokes will be translated onto the screen with precision, ensuring a smooth and natural drawing experience.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come with their own unique pens. The RTS 300’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for a wide range of line weights and subtle pressure variations. It also includes two customizable buttons that can be programmed to your liking. The Xencelabs Pen Small, however, takes pressure sensitivity to a whole new level with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a pen tilt feature. This feature allows you to create a wider range of expressive strokes, mimicking the natural tilt of a traditional pen.
Both pens are lightweight and comfortable to hold, with a natural, rubberized grip. The RTS 300’s pen features a more traditional pen design, while the Xencelabs Pen Small has a more ergonomic, triangular shape. Both pens offer a smooth and responsive experience.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS. They also work seamlessly with popular drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
The RTS 300 comes with its own driver software, which allows you to customize pen settings, calibrate the tablet, and access additional features. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, doesn’t require any drivers, making it a plug-and-play device. It also offers its own software, Xencelabs Pen Control, which provides advanced customization options for the pen and tablet.
Pros and Cons
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Compact and portable design
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Two customizable buttons on the pen
- Compatible with a wide range of operating systems and software
Cons:
- Smaller active area compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
- No pen tilt feature
- Drivers can be slightly less user-friendly compared to Xencelabs
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
Pros:
- Larger active area for a more spacious canvas
- Pen tilt feature for enhanced expressiveness
- No drivers required, plug-and-play experience
- Premium design and build quality
- Advanced software with customization options
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to the RTS 300
- No customizable buttons on the pen
Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize portability, the RTS 300 is a great option. It offers excellent value for money with its high pressure sensitivity and customizable pen buttons. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more and prioritize a larger active area, a more premium design, and the additional expressiveness of pen tilt, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is the clear winner.
Final Thoughts: Unveiling the Winner
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal decision. Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offer exceptional value for their respective price points. The RTS 300 is a budget-friendly option for beginners or those seeking portability, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small caters to users who demand a larger active area, premium design, and the added expressiveness of pen tilt. Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets are compatible with Android devices, but you’ll need to check if your specific smartphone model supports OTG (On-The-Go) functionality.
Q: Do I need to install drivers for the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small?
A: No, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a plug-and-play device and doesn’t require any drivers.
Q: What is the difference between the RTS 300 and the larger RTS 300 Pro?
A: The RTS 300 Pro offers a larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, making it suitable for users who need a more spacious drawing surface.
Q: Can I use the pen from one tablet with the other tablet?
A: No, the pens are not interchangeable between the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: While both tablets can be used by professional artists, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small might be more suitable due to its larger active area, pen tilt feature, and premium build quality. However, the RTS 300 is still a capable tablet for professional use, especially for those who prioritize portability and affordability.