Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium vs XP Pen Deco Pro S: Which is the Ultimate Drawing Tablet for Professionals?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro S. 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 to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro S boast a sleek and minimalist design. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium features a larger active area, measuring 10.6 x 6.25 inches, compared to the XP-Pen Deco Pro S’s 9.6 x 5.4 inches. This extra space on the Xencelabs tablet can be beneficial for those who prefer a larger drawing surface.

The build quality of both tablets is impressive. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a durable plastic construction with a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip. The XP-Pen Deco Pro S, on the other hand, features a slightly more premium feel with its metal frame and textured plastic surface. Both tablets feel sturdy and well-built, ensuring long-lasting use.

Pen Performance

The pen is the heart and soul of any drawing tablet, and both the Xencelabs and XP-Pen offerings deliver excellent performance.

The Xencelabs Pen, included with the Pen Tablet Medium, is a pressure-sensitive pen with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. It features a comfortable, ergonomic design with a textured grip that provides a secure hold. The pen also offers tilt sensitivity, allowing you to create expressive strokes that mimic traditional drawing techniques.

The XP-Pen Deco Pro S comes with the PA2 pen, which also boasts 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. It features a slightly more rounded design compared to the Xencelabs pen and offers a comfortable grip. The PA2 pen also supports tilt sensitivity, providing a realistic drawing experience.

Both pens are highly responsive and accurate, offering a smooth and natural drawing experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, as both pens excel in their respective areas.

Software and Features

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes bundled with a suite of software, including Xencelabs‘ own pressure-sensitive drawing software, “Pentablet,” which is a lightweight and user-friendly alternative to industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop. It also includes Clip Studio Paint Pro, a powerful digital art application, and a 1-year subscription to Autodesk Sketchbook, a popular sketching app.

The XP-Pen Deco Pro S, on the other hand, doesn’t come with any bundled software. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a unique feature called “Quick Keys,” which are customizable buttons located on the tablet’s side. These buttons can be programmed to perform various actions, including shortcuts, brush switching, and more, enhancing workflow efficiency. The XP-Pen Deco Pro S lacks dedicated buttons, relying on on-screen controls for shortcuts.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Both tablets offer reliable connectivity options. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium connects via USB-C, providing a fast and stable connection. The XP-Pen Deco Pro S also connects via USB-C, offering similar connectivity performance.

Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring wide-ranging compatibility with various devices.

Price and Value

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Deco Pro S. However, the bundled software and the added features like Quick Keys can justify the price difference for some users.

The XP-Pen Deco Pro S, on the other hand, offers excellent value for its price, providing a solid drawing experience at a more affordable price point.

Which Tablet is Right 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 larger active area.
• You value the bundled software and Quick Keys features.
• You are willing to spend a bit more for added functionality.

Choose the XP-Pen Deco Pro S if:

• You are on a tighter budget.
• You prefer a more compact design.
• You are comfortable using your preferred drawing software.

The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets

Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Deco Pro S are excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium stands out with its larger active area, bundled software, and Quick Keys, making it an ideal choice for professional artists or those seeking advanced features. The XP-Pen Deco Pro S, on the other hand, offers exceptional value for its price, providing a solid drawing experience for beginners and casual users.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a monitor tablet?

A drawing tablet is a device that allows you to control your computer’s cursor using a pen, while a monitor tablet is a display that also functions as a drawing tablet. Monitor tablets offer a more immersive drawing experience, as you can see your artwork directly on the screen.

2. Can I use a drawing tablet with my phone?

Most drawing tablets are designed for use with computers, and they typically require a USB connection. However, some tablets, like the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, are compatible with both computers and Android devices.

3. How do I choose the right drawing tablet for me?

Consider your budget, the size of the active area you need, the pen features you prefer, and the software compatibility. It’s also helpful to read reviews and compare different models before making a decision.

4. What are the advantages of using a drawing tablet?

Drawing tablets offer several advantages over using a mouse, including:

• Greater precision and control: Pens with pressure sensitivity allow for more nuanced strokes.
• Natural drawing experience: Mimics traditional drawing techniques.
• Increased productivity: Customizable shortcuts and features can streamline workflow.
• Digital flexibility: Enables digital art creation and editing.

5. Are drawing tablets difficult to learn?

Drawing tablets are relatively easy to learn, and most users can get accustomed to them within a short time. There are plenty of resources available online, including tutorials and guides, to help you get started.