What To Know
- Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 13.
- As a pen tablet without a display, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium relies on your computer monitor for visual feedback.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for artists who travel frequently or prefer a clutter-free workspace.
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 category are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro. Both offer impressive features and functionalities, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two drawing tablets, helping you determine which one best suits your artistic journey.
Design and Build Quality
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a minimalist and sleek design. It features a large active area (10.6″ x 6.7″) with a durable, textured surface for optimal control and responsiveness. The tablet itself is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go.
XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro takes a more traditional approach with its integrated screen design. The 13.3-inch display is bright and vibrant, offering a more immersive drawing experience. The tablet’s overall design is compact and sturdy, making it suitable for both studio and travel use.
Pen Technology and Features
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen is a standout feature, renowned for its pressure sensitivity and responsiveness. It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and customizable buttons. The pen is lightweight and balanced, providing a comfortable and natural drawing experience.
XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro comes with a passive pen that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. The pen is also lightweight and comfortable to use, but it lacks customizable buttons.
Display and Color Accuracy
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: As a pen tablet without a display, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium relies on your computer monitor for visual feedback. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution. However, it requires artists to constantly switch their gaze between the tablet and the monitor, which can be distracting for some.
XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro features a 13.3-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 178° viewing angle. The display boasts vibrant colors and accurate color reproduction, making it ideal for digital artists who prioritize visual accuracy.
Software and Compatibility
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It offers a driver-free experience, eliminating the need for additional software installations.
XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro is also compatible with Windows and macOS. It comes with its own driver software, which allows for customization of pen settings and display calibration.
Price and Value
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro. However, it offers a premium drawing experience with its excellent pen technology and intuitive design.
XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro is a more affordable option, offering a good balance of features and performance. It’s an excellent choice for artists who prioritize a budget-friendly drawing tablet with a built-in display.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Detailed Analysis
The choice between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
For artists who prioritize:
- Pen technology and responsiveness: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a superior pen experience with its excellent pressure sensitivity and customizable buttons.
- Portability and minimalist design: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for artists who travel frequently or prefer a clutter-free workspace.
- Flexibility in screen size and resolution: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium allows you to use any computer monitor, giving you more freedom in choosing your preferred screen setup.
For artists who prioritize:
- Immersive drawing experience with a built-in display: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro offers a more direct and intuitive drawing experience with its integrated screen.
- Vibrant colors and accurate color reproduction: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro’s display boasts impressive color accuracy, making it ideal for artists who work with color-sensitive projects.
- Budget-friendly option: The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro is a more affordable choice compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium.
The Verdict: A Final Thought
Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro are excellent drawing tablets that can elevate your artistic workflow. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium excels in pen technology and portability, while the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro offers a more immersive drawing experience with its built-in display. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Is the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium compatible with drawing programs like Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint?
Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is compatible with all major drawing programs, including Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Illustrator, and more.
2. Does the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro require a powerful computer for optimal performance?
The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro is relatively lightweight on system resources, so it can be used with most modern computers. However, a more powerful computer will provide a smoother and more responsive drawing experience.
3. Can I use the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium with a Mac computer?
Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is fully compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
4. What is the difference between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small?
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small has a smaller active area (6.2″ x 3.9″) compared to the Medium (10.6″ x 6.7″). Choose the Small if you have limited desk space or prefer a more compact tablet.
5. Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro with a laptop?
Yes, the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro can be used with both desktop computers and laptops. It’s a versatile tablet that can adapt to different setups.