Summary
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is priced at a slightly higher price point compared to the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation.
- The XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation is more affordable, offering a larger display and a direct drawing experience at a lower price.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation. Both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making the decision even more challenging. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, 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 sleek and minimalist design, with a focus on ergonomics. It features a compact active area of 10.6 x 6.25 inches, making it ideal for smaller desks or those who prefer a more portable setup. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy construction that feels robust and durable.
XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation:
The XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a larger active area of 21.5 inches diagonally. This expansive canvas provides ample space for intricate drawings and digital paintings. The tablet features a sturdy, black frame with a textured surface that offers a good grip. While the build quality is generally solid, some users have reported issues with the screen’s responsiveness and durability.
Display and Color Accuracy
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display. Users rely on their computer monitor for visual feedback. This setup can be advantageous for some, as it allows for flexibility in screen size and setup. However, it might not be ideal for artists who prefer a direct drawing experience on the tablet itself.
XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation:
The XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation is a pen display, offering a 21.5-inch Full HD display with a 178-degree viewing angle. This provides a direct drawing experience, allowing artists to see their strokes in real-time. The display features a laminated screen, minimizing parallax for a more natural drawing experience. The color accuracy is decent, with a wide color gamut and good color reproduction.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes bundled with the Pen 2, a pressure-sensitive pen with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen features a comfortable grip, customizable buttons, and a low-friction nib, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The pen also offers tilt sensitivity, allowing for nuanced control over brush strokes.
XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation:
The XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation features the PA2 pen, boasting 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with customizable buttons for shortcuts. However, some users have reported issues with the pen’s responsiveness and accuracy, particularly at higher pressure levels.
Software and Compatibility
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It doesn’t require any drivers to function, making setup a breeze. The tablet also works seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Procreate.
XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation:
The XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation is also compatible with Windows and macOS, with dedicated drivers available for optimal performance. The tablet supports various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Krita.
Price and Value
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is priced at a slightly higher price point compared to the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation. However, it offers a premium build quality, excellent pen performance, and a user-friendly experience.
XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation:
The XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation is more affordable, offering a larger display and a direct drawing experience at a lower price. However, it comes with some compromises in pen performance, display accuracy, and build quality.
Which One Is Right for You?
The best choice between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:
- You prioritize pen performance and accuracy.
- You prefer a compact and portable setup.
- You value a premium build quality and user-friendly experience.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation if:
- You need a larger display for detailed work.
- You prefer a direct drawing experience on the tablet itself.
- You’re on a tighter budget.
Choosing the Right Drawing Tablet: A Deeper Dive
While the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation are popular choices, it’s crucial to consider other factors before making your final decision.
- Your Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a drawing tablet. Both options offer different price points, with the XP-Pen being more affordable.
- Your Drawing Style: Consider your preferred drawing style and the level of detail you require. If you work with intricate details, a larger display might be beneficial.
- Your Work Environment: Think about your workspace and how much space you have available. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is more compact, while the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation requires a larger desk.
- Your Software Preferences: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software. Both options support popular software, but it’s always best to double-check.
- Your Experience Level: Consider your experience level with drawing tablets. If you’re a beginner, a more affordable option with user-friendly features might be a better choice.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
Ultimately, the decision of which drawing tablet to choose is subjective. Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation offer unique strengths and weaknesses. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and work style, you can select the tablet that best supports your artistic journey.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Can I use the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium with my smartphone?
A1: No, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is designed for use with computers and does not support smartphone connectivity.
Q2: Does the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation have a built-in stand?
A2: Yes, the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation comes with an adjustable stand that allows for multiple viewing angles.
Q3: Are there any replacement nibs available for the Xencelabs Pen 2?
A3: Yes, Xencelabs offers replacement nibs for the Pen 2, available in various sizes and materials.
Q4: Is the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation compatible with Linux operating systems?
A4: While XP-Pen officially supports Windows and macOS, some users have reported success using the tablet with Linux. However, full functionality might not be guaranteed.
Q5: What is the warranty period for both tablets?
A5: Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist 22 2nd Generation come with a one-year warranty.