What To Know
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, opts for a more modern aesthetic with a white plastic body and a glossy finish.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the VK1200 and the Artist 12 2nd Generation offer impressive pen technology.
- The VK1200 offers a USB-C port for a more convenient connection, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation uses a traditional USB-A port.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both tablets offer a compelling feature set and excellent value for money, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boast a sleek and minimalist design. The VK1200 features a black plastic body with a textured surface, providing a comfortable grip. The Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, opts for a more modern aesthetic with a white plastic body and a glossy finish.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The VK1200’s textured surface may attract dust and fingerprints more easily, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation’s glossy finish is more prone to scratches. Overall, both tablets offer a solid build quality that should withstand everyday use.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet that responds to your pen input. Both the VK1200 and the Artist 12 2nd Generation offer a generous 10 x 6.25 inches active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. This is a significant advantage over smaller tablets, allowing for more natural and fluid movements.
Both tablets also boast a 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) resolution, ensuring accurate and precise pen tracking. This high resolution translates to smooth lines and effortless transitions, making them ideal for both casual and professional artists.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the VK1200 and the Artist 12 2nd Generation offer impressive pen technology. The VK1200 features a battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for a wide range of line thickness and shading variations, giving your artwork a more realistic feel.
The Artist 12 2nd Generation also features a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. However, the Artist 12 2nd Generation’s pen boasts a more ergonomic design and a textured grip, providing a more comfortable drawing experience.
Display and Viewing Angle
While both tablets offer a similar active area and resolution, the display technology and viewing angle differ significantly. The VK1200 doesn’t include a display, meaning you’ll need to use a separate monitor to see your artwork. This can be a disadvantage for some artists, as it can be difficult to maintain a consistent workflow between the tablet and the monitor.
The Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a built-in 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. This provides a more immersive drawing experience, as you can see your artwork directly on the tablet’s screen. The display also offers a wide 178° viewing angle, ensuring consistent color accuracy from any angle.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the VK1200 and the Artist 12 2nd Generation connect to your computer via USB cable. The VK1200 offers a USB-C port for a more convenient connection, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation uses a traditional USB-A port.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with your existing software and hardware. They also work with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value for Money
The Veikk Studio VK1200 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for artists who are just starting out or looking for a good value for money.
The Artist 12 2nd Generation, while slightly more expensive, offers a more comprehensive feature set, including a built-in display and an ergonomic pen. This makes it a better choice for artists who prioritize a more immersive and comfortable drawing experience.
The Verdict: Which Drawing Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Veikk Studio VK1200 is a great choice for:
- Budget-conscious artists: The VK1200 offers excellent value for money, providing a large active area and accurate pen tracking at a lower price point.
- Artists who prefer to use a separate monitor: If you already own a high-quality monitor, the VK1200’s lack of a built-in display won’t be a dealbreaker.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a great choice for:
- Artists who prioritize a more immersive drawing experience: The built-in display allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s screen, providing a more seamless workflow.
- Artists who value comfort and ergonomics: The Artist 12 2nd Generation’s pen offers a more comfortable grip and a textured surface, reducing hand fatigue during long drawing sessions.
Moving Beyond the Verdict: Seeking a More Personalized Choice
This comparison has provided a comprehensive overview of the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. However, the best drawing tablet for you ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Consider these factors before making your final decision:
- Your budget: How much are you willing to spend on a drawing tablet?
- Your drawing style: Do you prefer to draw on a large active area or do you need a smaller tablet for portability?
- Your preferred software: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- Your personal preferences: Do you prefer a textured or smooth surface? Do you need a battery-free pen?
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the drawing tablet that best meets your needs.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the Veikk Studio VK1200 with a smartphone?
A: No, the VK1200 is only compatible with computers running Windows or macOS operating systems. It does not have the necessary drivers for Android or iOS devices.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation come with a stand?
A: No, the Artist 12 2nd Generation does not come with a stand. However, you can purchase a stand separately if you prefer to use the tablet at an angle.
Q: What is the difference between the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 12 Pro?
A: The Artist 12 Pro features a higher resolution display (2560 x 1440) and a slightly larger active area (11.6 x 7.3 inches). It also comes with a more advanced pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support.
Q: Is the Veikk Studio VK1200 compatible with Linux?
A: While Veikk does not officially support Linux, some users have reported success in using the VK1200 with Linux drivers available online. However, compatibility may vary depending on the Linux distribution and driver version.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation have any lag?
A: The Artist 12 2nd Generation is designed to minimize lag, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience. However, lag can occur if your computer’s processing power is insufficient or if the USB connection is unstable.