What To Know
- The Wacom One 13 Touch boasts a sleek and modern design, with a thin profile and a minimalist aesthetic.
- The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the contrary, is a pen display, meaning it doesn’t have an integrated screen.
- If you prioritize a standalone drawing experience and are willing to spend a bit more, the Wacom One 13 Touch is a solid choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Wacom One 13 Touch and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer impressive features and affordability, 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.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom One 13 Touch boasts a sleek and modern design, with a thin profile and a minimalist aesthetic. Its textured surface provides a comfortable grip, while the integrated stand offers multiple viewing angles. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a larger footprint. It comes with a separate stand, which can be a bit cumbersome to adjust.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are solid and durable. The Wacom One 13 Touch’s plastic construction feels sturdy, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus’s metal frame adds a premium touch. However, the Wacom One 13 Touch’s thin profile might make it feel slightly less robust compared to the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus.
Display and Resolution
The Wacom One 13 Touch stands out with its integrated 13.3-inch full HD display, offering a vibrant and crisp visual experience. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the contrary, is a pen display, meaning it doesn’t have an integrated screen. Users need to connect it to a separate monitor, which might be a drawback for some.
The Wacom One 13 Touch’s display boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, providing sharp details and accurate color reproduction. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, being a pen display, relies on the connected monitor‘s resolution, which can vary depending on the user’s setup.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets excel in pen technology, offering a natural and responsive drawing experience. The Wacom One 13 Touch utilizes Wacom’s renowned EMR (Electro-Magnetic Resonance) technology, providing 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for precise line variations and subtle shading effects.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also employs EMR technology, offering 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. While this might seem like a higher number, the difference in pressure sensitivity levels is barely noticeable in real-world usage. Both tablets provide a smooth and accurate pen experience.
Touchscreen Functionality
The Wacom One 13 Touch differentiates itself by offering touchscreen functionality, allowing users to interact with the tablet directly with their fingers. This feature is particularly useful for navigating menus, zooming in and out, and selecting tools. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, being a pen display, lacks touchscreen capabilities.
While touchscreen functionality can be convenient, some users might find it distracting or prefer the traditional pen-only experience. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and workflow.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options. The Wacom One 13 Touch connects via USB-C, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus supports both USB-C and HDMI connections. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, including laptops, desktops, and even smartphones.
In terms of compatibility, both tablets work with major creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. They also support both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Price and Value
The Wacom One 13 Touch is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. However, its integrated display adds significant value for users who prefer a standalone drawing experience. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, being a pen display, offers a more budget-friendly option, but requires a separate monitor for use.
Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on individual needs and budget. If you prioritize a standalone drawing experience and are willing to spend a bit more, the Wacom One 13 Touch is a solid choice. If you’re on a tighter budget and already have a suitable monitor, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers excellent value for its price.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Wacom One 13 Touch and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boils down to individual preferences and workflow.
The Wacom One 13 Touch excels with its integrated display, touchscreen functionality, and renowned pen technology. It’s an excellent choice for artists who prioritize a standalone drawing experience and appreciate the added convenience of touchscreen interaction.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more affordable option with excellent pen performance and a large active area. It’s a great choice for users who have a suitable monitor and prioritize a budget-friendly solution.
Beyond the Comparison: A Look at the Bigger Picture
While this comparison focuses on the Wacom One 13 Touch and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, it’s important to consider the broader landscape of drawing tablets. Other factors to consider include:
- Your budget: Drawing tablets come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models.
- Your skill level: Beginners might find a basic tablet sufficient, while professionals might require more advanced features.
- Your workflow: Consider how you intend to use the tablet, whether for digital painting, sketching, or graphic design.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display?
A drawing tablet is a digital input device that allows you to draw on a surface using a stylus, with the output displayed on a separate monitor. A pen display, on the other hand, has an integrated screen, allowing you to draw directly onto the tablet’s display.
2. Does the Wacom One 13 Touch have a battery-free pen?
Yes, the Wacom One 13 Touch comes with a battery-free pen that uses EMR technology.
3. What is the active area of the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus has an active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching.
4. Can I use the Wacom One 13 Touch with my smartphone?
Yes, the Wacom One 13 Touch is compatible with Android devices via USB-C connection.
5. Is the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus compatible with Windows Ink?
Yes, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus supports Windows Ink, allowing users to take advantage of features like handwriting recognition and ink-based drawing tools.