Main points
- The Wacom Intuos Pro M is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display.
- The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation offers excellent value for its price, providing a pen display with a large screen size, accurate color reproduction, and responsive pen technology.
- If you’re looking for a premium pen tablet with excellent pen technology and a compact design, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation. Both offer excellent features and performance, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two drawing tablets, helping you make an informed decision for your creative journey.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom Intuos Pro M boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black and silver color scheme. It’s compact and lightweight, making it ideal for portability. The tablet surface is textured, providing a comfortable and responsive drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a black and red color scheme. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the Intuos Pro M, but still relatively portable. The tablet surface is smooth and glossy, offering a different feel from the Intuos Pro M.
Both tablets are built with durable materials and feel solid in hand. However, the Intuos Pro M’s premium build quality and sleek design might appeal to those seeking a more professional aesthetic.
Display and Resolution
The Wacom Intuos Pro M is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display. You’ll need to connect it to a computer monitor to view your artwork. This setup offers flexibility and can be advantageous for those who prefer a larger workspace.
The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation, on the other hand, is a pen display, featuring a built-in 15.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution. This allows you to draw directly onto the screen, providing a more intuitive and immersive drawing experience. The display offers accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles, making it suitable for professional use.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity and pen technology. The Wacom Intuos Pro M features Wacom’s renowned Pro Pen 2, which boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and customizable side buttons. The pen feels natural and responsive, providing a precise and accurate drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation comes with the PA2 pen, which also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. The pen is comfortable to hold and provides a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
While both pens offer comparable performance, the Wacom Pro Pen 2 might be slightly more precise and responsive for some users.
Software and Compatibility
The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes bundled with a suite of creative software, including Corel Painter Essentials, Clip Studio Paint Pro, and Autodesk Sketchbook. It also offers compatibility with popular drawing applications like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation doesn’t come with bundled software but offers excellent compatibility with major drawing applications. It also supports Windows and macOS operating systems.
Price and Value
The Wacom Intuos Pro M is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation. However, it offers a premium build quality, renowned pen technology, and bundled software, justifying its higher price tag.
The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation offers excellent value for its price, providing a pen display with a large screen size, accurate color reproduction, and responsive pen technology. It’s an excellent option for budget-conscious artists who seek a professional-grade drawing experience.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Detailed Comparison
Wacom Intuos Pro M:
- Pros:
- Premium build quality and design
- Excellent pressure sensitivity and pen technology (Pro Pen 2)
- Bundled creative software
- Compact and portable
- Cons:
- No built-in display
- Higher price
XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation:
- Pros:
- Affordable price
- Built-in 15.6-inch display with 1920×1080 resolution
- Excellent pressure sensitivity and pen technology (PA2 pen)
- Large workspace
- Cons:
- Not as premium build quality as the Intuos Pro M
- No bundled software
The Verdict: Which Tablet Wins?
The best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a premium pen tablet with excellent pen technology and a compact design, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize a built-in display, large workspace, and affordability, the **XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation** is a strong contender.
A Final Thought: Beyond the Specs
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right drawing tablet is to try them out yourself. Visit a local store or borrow a friend’s tablet to experience their feel and responsiveness firsthand. Consider your budget, workflow, and artistic style to make an informed decision.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation might be more user-friendly due to its built-in display, which provides a more intuitive drawing experience. However, the Wacom Intuos Pro M’s bundled software can be helpful for learning new techniques.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: Both tablets can be used by professional artists. The Wacom Intuos Pro M’s premium build quality, renowned pen technology, and bundled software might appeal to professionals seeking a more refined experience. However, the XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation offers a larger workspace and accurate color reproduction, making it suitable for professional use as well.
Q: Can I use the Wacom Intuos Pro M with an iPad?
A: No, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is designed for use with computers. It’s not compatible with iPads or other tablets.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation support tilt sensitivity?
A: Yes, the PA2 pen included with the XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation supports tilt sensitivity, providing a more natural and expressive drawing experience.
Q: Which tablet has a better warranty?
A: Wacom offers a longer warranty period than XP-Pen. However, both companies provide reliable customer support and warranty coverage.