Quick notes
- The Kamvas 16 2021 stands out with its minimalistic black frame and silver accents, while the Artist Pro 16TP presents a more traditional look with a black frame and a black stand.
- The Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, features a non-laminated display, which can lead to a slight lag and a less immersive drawing experience.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Kamvas 16 2021 and the Artist Pro 16TP deliver excellent performance in this regard.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the 16-inch category are the Huion Kamvas 16 2021 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor in this head-to-head battle? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion Kamvas 16 2021 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP boast sleek, modern designs. The Kamvas 16 2021 stands out with its minimalistic black frame and silver accents, while the Artist Pro 16TP presents a more traditional look with a black frame and a black stand.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Kamvas 16 2021 features a slightly thinner profile, making it more portable. The Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, offers a more robust feel thanks to its thicker frame. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference.
Display and Screen Technology
Both tablets feature a 15.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution. This provides a sharp and vibrant viewing experience, making them ideal for both casual sketching and professional artwork. However, there are subtle differences in their screen technology.
The Kamvas 16 2021 utilizes a laminated display, which eliminates the air gap between the screen and the glass. This results in a more responsive and natural drawing experience, as there’s less parallax. The Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, features a non-laminated display, which can lead to a slight lag and a less immersive drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Kamvas 16 2021 and the Artist Pro 16TP deliver excellent performance in this regard. Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control and nuanced strokes.
The Kamvas 16 2021’s pen features a battery-free design, eliminating the need to recharge or worry about battery life. It also offers tilt sensitivity, allowing for more natural and expressive strokes. The Artist Pro 16TP’s pen also features battery-free operation but lacks tilt sensitivity.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options. The Kamvas 16 2021 connects via USB-C, while the Artist Pro 16TP utilizes a USB-C and HDMI connection. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS, as well as Android devices.
Software and Drivers
Both Huion and XP-Pen provide dedicated software and drivers for their tablets. Huion’s driver offers customization options for pen pressure, buttons, and display settings. XP-Pen’s driver provides similar features, including a built-in screen calibration tool.
Price and Value
The Huion Kamvas 16 2021 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are priced competitively, making them attractive options for budget-conscious artists. The Kamvas 16 2021 is typically priced slightly lower than the Artist Pro 16TP.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the Huion Kamvas 16 2021 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Choose the Huion Kamvas 16 2021 if:
- You prioritize a laminated display for a more responsive and natural drawing experience.
- You value tilt sensitivity for more expressive strokes.
- You prefer a more portable and lightweight design.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP if:
- You prefer a more traditional and robust design.
- You are not concerned about the lack of tilt sensitivity.
- You require a higher refresh rate for smoother drawing.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Huion Kamvas 16 2021 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling balance of features and affordability. The Kamvas 16 2021 excels with its laminated display and tilt sensitivity, while the Artist Pro 16TP stands out with its robust build and higher refresh rate. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a laminated and a non-laminated display?
A: A laminated display eliminates the air gap between the glass and the screen, resulting in a more responsive and natural drawing experience with less parallax. A non-laminated display has an air gap, which can lead to a slight lag and a less immersive drawing experience.
Q: Do both tablets have built-in stands?
A: Yes, both the Huion Kamvas 16 2021 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP come with adjustable stands for comfortable viewing angles.
Q: Can I use these tablets with Android devices?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with Android devices via USB-C connection.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Huion Kamvas 16 2021’s laminated display and tilt sensitivity can be beneficial for learning to draw, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP offers a more affordable option.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each tablet?
A:
Huion Kamvas 16 2021:
- Pros: Laminated display, tilt sensitivity, battery-free pen, portable design.
- Cons: Slightly lower refresh rate.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP:
- Pros: Robust build, higher refresh rate, affordable price.
- Cons: Non-laminated display, no tilt sensitivity.