Key points
- The Huion Kamvas 12 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black frame with a glossy finish.
- On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G640 adopts a more traditional look with a black plastic frame and a slightly thicker bezel.
- The XP-Pen Star G640, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a basic drawing tablet without the need for a separate display.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of options available. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Huion Kamvas 12 and the XP-Pen Star G640. Both offer compelling features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of each tablet, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Kamvas 12 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black frame with a glossy finish. Its 11.6-inch display is encased in a thin bezel, maximizing screen real estate. The tablet’s stand is adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect viewing angle. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G640 adopts a more traditional look with a black plastic frame and a slightly thicker bezel. While it lacks the sleekness of the Kamvas 12, the G640’s build quality remains solid and durable.
Display Technology and Performance
The Huion Kamvas 12 shines with its 11.6-inch IPS display, offering a vibrant and accurate color reproduction. With a 1920×1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut, the Kamvas 12 delivers a visually immersive experience. The XP-Pen Star G640, however, lacks a built-in display. Instead, it functions as a pressure-sensitive tablet that relies on your computer monitor for visualization. This means you’ll be working directly on your screen rather than on a separate display.
Pen Technology and Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens, emulating the natural feel of traditional art tools. The Huion Kamvas 12’s pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing precise control and responsiveness. The XP-Pen Star G640 comes with a pen featuring 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity as well, ensuring accurate line thickness and brush strokes. Both pens are equipped with side buttons that can be customized for various functions.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Huion Kamvas 12 offers versatile connectivity options, including HDMI and USB-C ports. This allows you to connect the tablet to a wide range of devices, including laptops, desktops, and even smartphones. The XP-Pen Star G640 relies on a USB connection, limiting its compatibility to devices with available USB ports.
Software and Driver Support
Both Huion and XP-Pen provide dedicated software drivers for their tablets, offering customization options for pen settings, hotkeys, and screen calibration. The software is generally user-friendly and provides a smooth workflow.
Price and Value
The Huion Kamvas 12 is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G640. However, its built-in display and advanced features justify the price difference for many users. The XP-Pen Star G640, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a basic drawing tablet without the need for a separate display.
Huion Kamvas 12: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Built-in 11.6-inch IPS display with vibrant colors
- High resolution (1920×1080) and 72% NTSC color gamut
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise control
- Versatile connectivity options (HDMI, USB-C)
- Adjustable stand for optimal viewing angles
Cons:
- Higher price compared to the XP-Pen Star G640
- May require more desk space due to the display
XP-Pen Star G640: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for accurate strokes
- Compact and portable design
- Works with a wide range of devices with USB ports
Cons:
- Lacks a built-in display, requiring reliance on a computer monitor
- Thicker bezel compared to the Kamvas 12
- Limited connectivity options (USB only)
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Decision Framework
The choice between the Huion Kamvas 12 and the XP-Pen Star G640 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. Here’s a decision framework to help you make the right choice:
Choose the Huion Kamvas 12 if:
- You prioritize a built-in display for a more immersive drawing experience
- You need accurate color reproduction for professional work
- You’re willing to pay a premium for advanced features and versatility
Choose the XP-Pen Star G640 if:
- You’re on a tight budget and don’t require a separate display
- You prefer a compact and portable drawing tablet
- You’re comfortable working directly on your computer monitor
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
The Huion Kamvas 12 and the XP-Pen Star G640 both excel in different aspects. The Kamvas 12 offers a premium experience with its built-in display, advanced pen technology, and connectivity options. The Star G640, on the other hand, provides an affordable and portable solution for budget-conscious users. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a monitor tablet?
A: A drawing tablet is a pressure-sensitive input device that allows you to control a cursor on your computer screen. A monitor tablet, like the Huion Kamvas 12, has a built-in display, allowing you to draw directly on the tablet’s screen.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Star G640 with my smartphone?
A: No, the XP-Pen Star G640 requires a USB connection and is not compatible with smartphones.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Huion Kamvas 12 offers a more immersive experience, while the XP-Pen Star G640 provides an affordable entry point.
Q: Do I need a special software to use these tablets?
A: Both Huion and XP-Pen provide dedicated software drivers for their tablets, but they are not strictly required. You can use the tablets with standard drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop or Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q: What are the main differences between the Huion Kamvas 12 and the XP-Pen Star G640?
A: The key difference lies in the presence of a built-in display. The Huion Kamvas 12 has a display, while the XP-Pen Star G640 does not. The Kamvas 12 also offers more connectivity options and a higher price point.