Key points
- The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus adopts a more conventional design, with a rectangular shape and a black plastic casing.
- It comes with a USB cable for wired connection and offers a wireless option for a clutter-free setup.
- While both the Wacom One and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer excellent value for their respective price points, the choice ultimately comes down to individual needs and preferences.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the Wacom One and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making it difficult to decide which one is the better choice. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, comparing their performance, features, and overall value, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Wacom One
The Wacom One boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black plastic body with rounded edges. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport. The active area is slightly smaller than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, but it still provides ample space for drawing. The tablet’s surface is textured, offering a comfortable grip for the pen.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus adopts a more conventional design, with a rectangular shape and a black plastic casing. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the Wacom One but still remains portable. The active area is larger, offering more space for drawing and navigating. The surface is smooth and provides a slightly different feel compared to the Wacom One.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
Wacom One
The Wacom One comes with a pressure-sensitive pen that offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. It features a comfortable grip and a responsive tip that accurately translates pen strokes onto the screen. The pen doesn‘t require batteries or charging, making it convenient to use.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also features a battery-free pen with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This higher pressure sensitivity allows for greater nuance and control in your drawings. The pen’s tip is slightly different from the Wacom One, offering a slightly different feel and response.
Features and Connectivity
Wacom One
The Wacom One supports both USB and Bluetooth connectivity, offering flexibility in connecting to your computer. It comes with a USB cable for wired connection and offers a wireless option for a clutter-free setup. The tablet also includes a built-in stand for comfortable viewing angles.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus relies solely on USB connectivity. It comes with a USB cable for wired connection, and no wireless options are available. The tablet features a built-in stand for adjusting the viewing angle.
Software and Compatibility
Wacom One
Wacom One is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes with Wacom’s proprietary software, Wacom One Creative Pen Display, which offers basic drawing tools and features. The tablet is also compatible with various other creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is also compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. It doesn’t come with any dedicated software but works seamlessly with popular drawing and design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Price and Value
Wacom One
The Wacom One is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. It offers a good balance of features and performance for its price, making it a solid entry-level drawing tablet.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is typically priced higher than the Wacom One. It offers a more feature-rich experience, with higher pressure sensitivity and a larger active area. While it’s a bit pricier, it provides excellent value for its features and performance.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Wacom One and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Wacom One if:
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
- You prefer a compact and lightweight design.
- You need wireless connectivity for a clutter-free setup.
Choose the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus if:
- You prioritize higher pressure sensitivity and a larger active area.
- You don’t mind a slightly larger and heavier tablet.
- You prefer a smooth drawing surface.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Battle of the Titans
While both the Wacom One and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer excellent value for their respective price points, the choice ultimately comes down to individual needs and preferences. The Wacom One shines with its affordability, portability, and wireless connectivity, making it an ideal entry-level option. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, delivers superior pressure sensitivity, a larger active area, and a smooth drawing experience, catering to more demanding users.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that fits your workflow and budget. Consider your specific needs, explore the features of both tablets, and make an informed decision based on your preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use the Wacom One or XP-Pen Star G960S Plus with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers and don’t offer direct compatibility with smartphones.
Q: Is there a noticeable difference in pen pressure sensitivity between the two tablets?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boasts higher pressure sensitivity (8,192 levels) compared to the Wacom One (4,096 levels). This allows for greater nuance and control in your drawings.
Q: Can I customize the buttons on the pen for either tablet?
A: While both pens have buttons, they are typically pre-programmed for functions like switching between pen modes or erasing. Customization options might vary depending on the software you’re using.
Q: Which tablet has a better driver experience?
A: Both Wacom and XP-Pen offer drivers for their tablets, but Wacom’s drivers are generally regarded as more reliable and user-friendly.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets I should consider?
A: There are many other excellent drawing tablets available, including the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and the Wacom Intuos. Researching these options based on your specific needs and budget is recommended.