Xencelabs vs. XP Pen: A Deep Dive into the Pen Tablet Medium and Deco Fun XS for Artists

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable tablet to enhance your digital art journey, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are two popular contenders. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

Design and Build Quality

Both tablets boast a sleek and minimalist design, prioritizing functionality over flashy aesthetics. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is available in a classic black finish, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS comes in a vibrant blue.

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Size: 11.6 x 8.2 inches (active area: 10.6 x 6.5 inches)
• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Build Quality: Solid and sturdy, with a premium feel.
• Connectivity: USB-C

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:

• Size: 7.9 x 5.9 inches (active area: 6.3 x 4 inches)
• Weight: 0.6 pounds
• Build Quality: Lightweight and portable, but feels slightly less premium than the Xencelabs.
• Connectivity: USB-C

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a larger active area, making it ideal for users who prefer a spacious workspace. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, despite its smaller size, is incredibly portable and perfect for travel or those with limited desk space.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offer impressive pen technology.

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Pen: Wireless, battery-free, and pressure-sensitive (8192 levels)
• Buttons: 2 side buttons
• Features: Tilt support, customizable buttons, and a comfortable, ergonomic design.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:

• Pen: Passive, battery-free, and pressure-sensitive (8192 levels)
• Buttons: 2 side buttons
• Features: Tilt support, customizable buttons, and a comfortable, ergonomic design.

Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise line variation and natural brush strokes. The Xencelabs pen boasts a slightly more accurate and responsive feel, particularly when it comes to tilt support.

Software and Drivers

Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The drivers are generally reliable and offer customization options for pen settings, button mapping, and tablet configuration.

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Software: Dedicated driver software with advanced features like customizable pressure curves and pen calibration.
• Compatibility: Windows and macOS

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:

• Software: Driver software with basic customization options.
• Compatibility: Windows and macOS

The Xencelabs driver software offers more advanced customization options, giving you finer control over your drawing experience.

Features and Functionality

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• ExpressKeys: 8 customizable buttons for shortcuts and hotkeys.
• Touch Ring: A circular dial for zooming, scrolling, and brush size control.
• Pen Stand: A dedicated stand for storing the pen and charging the pen’s battery (not applicable to XP-Pen).

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:

• ExpressKeys: 4 customizable buttons for shortcuts and hotkeys.
• Touch Ring: Not included.

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more comprehensive set of features, including dedicated ExpressKeys, a Touch Ring, and a pen stand. These features enhance workflow and provide greater control over your creative process. However, the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offers a more minimalist approach, focusing on the core drawing experience.

Price and Value

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Price: Approximately $150-$200

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:

• Price: Approximately $40-$50

The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS is significantly more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. However, the Xencelabs tablet offers a more premium experience with its advanced features and build quality.

Recommendations: Choosing the Right Tablet for You

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:

• You prioritize a spacious drawing area.
• You want advanced features like ExpressKeys and a Touch Ring.
• You are willing to invest in a premium drawing experience.

Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS if:

• You are on a budget.
• You need a portable and lightweight tablet.
• You prefer a minimalist design with fewer features.

Both tablets offer excellent drawing performance and are capable of producing stunning digital artwork. The decision boils down to your budget, desired features, and personal preferences.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What is the difference between active and passive pens?

A: Active pens require a battery and communicate wirelessly with the tablet, while passive pens do not have a battery and rely on electromagnetic resonance. Both types offer pressure sensitivity, but active pens often have more advanced features like tilt support and customizable buttons.

Q: Can I use these tablets with my iPad?

A: No, these tablets are designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. To use a drawing tablet with an iPad, you’ll need a tablet specifically designed for iOS devices.

Q: What is the best software for drawing tablets?

A: There are many excellent drawing software options available, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Krita. The best software for you will depend on your personal preferences and artistic needs.

Q: How do I connect the tablet to my computer?

A: Both tablets connect to your computer via USB-C. Simply plug the USB cable into your computer and the tablet. The drivers will automatically install, and you’re ready to start drawing.