What To Know
- The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes with the Wacom Pro Pen 2, a highly acclaimed pen known for its exceptional pressure sensitivity of 8,192 levels.
- The Wacom Intuos Pro M is priced at a higher price point compared to the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus.
- While it may not possess the same level of sophistication as the Intuos Pro M, it still delivers a solid drawing experience at an attractive price.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making the decision even more challenging. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed choice based on your individual requirements.
Design and Build Quality
Wacom Intuos Pro M: Known for its sleek and minimalist design, the Wacom Intuos Pro M boasts a premium build quality. Its compact size and slim profile make it portable, while the textured surface provides a comfortable drawing experience. The tablet is available in both black and silver, adding a touch of elegance to your workspace.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus takes a more functional approach with its larger active area and robust construction. While not as sleek as the Intuos Pro M, it offers a more spacious drawing surface, ideal for those who prefer a larger canvas. The tablet is available in black, providing a classic and practical aesthetic.
Active Area and Resolution
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a smaller active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, making it suitable for users who prioritize portability and compact setups. It boasts a high resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and accurate linework.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus provides a larger active area of 11.6 x 7 inches, catering to users who prefer a more expansive drawing space. It offers a slightly lower resolution of 5080 LPI, but still delivers a responsive and precise drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes with the Wacom Pro Pen 2, a highly acclaimed pen known for its exceptional pressure sensitivity of 8,192 levels. This level of sensitivity allows for nuanced strokes and precise control, making it ideal for professional artists and illustrators.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features the XP-Pen P03 pen, which offers a respectable pressure sensitivity of 8,192 levels. While not quite as refined as the Wacom Pro Pen 2, it still provides a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Buttons and Customization
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Wacom Intuos Pro M includes eight customizable buttons on the tablet and two side buttons on the pen. This allows for effortless control and customization of your workflow, enabling you to personalize your drawing experience.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features eight customizable buttons on the tablet and two side buttons on the pen, mirroring the Intuos Pro M’s functionality. This provides ample opportunity for personalization and streamlining your drawing process.
Software and Driver Support
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Wacom Intuos Pro M benefits from Wacom’s robust software ecosystem, including Wacom Desktop Center and Wacom Driver. These programs offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to fine-tune the tablet’s settings and access exclusive features.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus comes with XP-Pen’s driver software, which provides basic customization options and driver updates. While not as comprehensive as Wacom’s offerings, it ensures smooth functionality and compatibility with various creative applications.
Price and Value
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Wacom Intuos Pro M is priced at a higher price point compared to the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. This premium price reflects its renowned build quality, advanced pen technology, and comprehensive software support.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more budget-friendly option, providing a compelling balance of features and affordability. While it may not possess the same level of sophistication as the Intuos Pro M, it still delivers a solid drawing experience at an attractive price.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Comparative Analysis
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Wacom Intuos Pro M is an excellent choice for professional artists, illustrators, and designers who demand the highest level of precision and control. Its premium build quality, advanced pen technology, and comprehensive software support make it a top-tier option for serious creative professionals.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is an ideal option for aspiring artists, students, and hobbyists who seek a reliable and affordable drawing tablet. Its larger active area, responsive pen, and user-friendly software make it a great entry point into the world of digital art.
Beyond the Features: A Deeper Look
While features and specifications are important, it’s also crucial to consider your individual needs and preferences.
Wacom Intuos Pro M: If you prioritize portability, premium build quality, and the most advanced pen technology, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is the way to go. Its compact size, precise pen, and robust software make it an excellent choice for professional workflows.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: If you value a larger active area, affordability, and a straightforward user experience, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is a compelling option. Its spacious canvas, responsive pen, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for beginners and those seeking a budget-friendly solution.
The Verdict: It’s Not a One-Size-Fits-All
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your specific needs and budget. The Wacom Intuos Pro M excels in providing professional-grade features and a premium experience, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a solid balance of features and affordability.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Drawing Tool
Whether you choose the Wacom Intuos Pro M or the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, both tablets can unlock a world of creative possibilities. They are more than just drawing tools; they are gateways to expressing your artistic vision and bringing your ideas to life.
Questions You May Have
Q: What is the difference between the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a smaller active area, higher resolution, and more advanced pen technology, making it ideal for professional artists. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus provides a larger active area, a more affordable price point, and a user-friendly experience, making it a good choice for beginners and hobbyists.
Q: Which tablet is better for drawing?
A: Both tablets are capable of drawing, but the Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a more refined and precise drawing experience due to its advanced pen technology. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus still provides a responsive and enjoyable drawing experience, especially for larger drawings.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each tablet?
A:
Wacom Intuos Pro M:
- Pros: Premium build quality, advanced pen technology, comprehensive software support.
- Cons: Higher price point, smaller active area.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:
- Pros: Larger active area, affordable price point, user-friendly software.
- Cons: Less advanced pen technology, limited software features.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my iPad or iPhone?
A: No, these tablets are designed for use with computers and laptops. They are not compatible with iPads or iPhones.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is a good choice for beginners due to its larger active area, affordable price point, and user-friendly software.