What To Know
- The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and XP-Pen Star G960 are two popular contenders in the budget-friendly drawing tablet market, each boasting its own set of features and benefits.
- On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960 has a more traditional design, with a larger active area and a slightly thicker profile.
- The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI, while the XP-Pen Star G960 offers a slightly higher resolution of 5080 LPI.
Are you a budding artist, designer, or illustrator looking for the perfect drawing tablet to unleash your creative potential? The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and XP-Pen Star G960 are two popular contenders in the budget-friendly drawing tablet market, each boasting its own set of features and benefits. Choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is known for its sleek and minimalist design. Its compact size makes it perfect for travel or limited desk space. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960 has a more traditional design, with a larger active area and a slightly thicker profile. It offers a more robust build quality, feeling sturdy and durable. Both tablets feature a textured surface that provides a good grip and prevents the pen from slipping.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen technology is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a drawing tablet. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small’s pen boasts 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering excellent accuracy and responsiveness. The pen is lightweight and ergonomic, with two customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform various functions. The XP-Pen Star G960 also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of precision and control. Its pen is also lightweight and ergonomic, with two programmable buttons. Both tablets feature a battery-free pen, eliminating the need to worry about charging.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the surface of the tablet that is sensitive to the pen’s movements. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small has a smaller active area of 6.3 x 3.9 inches, which may be limiting for some artists who prefer a larger drawing space. The XP-Pen Star G960 offers a larger active area of 9.8 x 6.1 inches, providing more room for intricate details and expansive compositions. The resolution of the tablet determines the accuracy and detail of your strokes. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI, while the XP-Pen Star G960 offers a slightly higher resolution of 5080 LPI.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer multiple connectivity options. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small can be connected via Bluetooth or USB cable, providing flexibility and convenience. The XP-Pen Star G960 also supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity, offering similar versatility. In terms of compatibility, both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. However, the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is also compatible with Android devices, making it a more versatile option for mobile artists.
Software and Features
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small comes bundled with a range of software, including Wacom’s own creative software, such as Clip Studio Paint and Corel Painter Essentials. It also offers access to a library of online tutorials and resources. The XP-Pen Star G960 doesn’t include any bundled software, but it is compatible with a wide range of popular drawing applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Krita.
Price and Value
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960, reflecting its brand recognition and advanced features. However, the XP-Pen Star G960 offers excellent value for money, providing a comparable level of performance at a more affordable price. Ultimately, the best value for you depends on your budget and specific needs.
Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Excellent pen technology with 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Bundled with creative software
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Compatible with Android devices
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Higher price compared to XP-Pen Star G960
XP-Pen Star G960: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Larger active area
- High pressure sensitivity (8192 levels)
- Affordable price
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Compatible with a wide range of drawing software
Cons:
- No bundled software
- Basic design
Which Tablet Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and XP-Pen Star G960 depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value portability, a sleek design, and bundled software, the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is a great choice. However, if you prioritize a larger active area, affordability, and compatibility with a wide range of software, the XP-Pen Star G960 may be a better option.
The Final Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best suits your needs and budget. Both the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and XP-Pen Star G960 offer excellent performance and features, making them worthy contenders in the budget-friendly drawing tablet market. Consider your specific requirements, such as portability, active area, and software compatibility, to make an informed decision.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which tablet has a better pen?
A: Both tablets offer excellent pen technology, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small has 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the XP-Pen Star G960 offers 8192 levels. Ultimately, the difference in pressure sensitivity may not be noticeable for most users.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers bundled software and online resources, which can be helpful for learning the basics of digital art. However, the XP-Pen Star G960 is more affordable and provides a comparable level of performance.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: While both tablets are capable, professional artists may prefer the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small due to its advanced features and brand recognition. However, the XP-Pen Star G960 offers excellent value for money and can be a suitable option for professionals who prioritize affordability and a large active area.
Q: Is there a significant difference in drawing performance?
A: Both tablets offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The difference in pressure sensitivity and active area may be noticeable for some users, but the overall performance is comparable.
Q: Which tablet is better for mobile drawing?
A: The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is a better option for mobile drawing due to its compatibility with Android devices. The XP-Pen Star G960 is primarily designed for desktop use.