Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small vs. XP Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: Which Reigns Supreme in Digital Art?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both tablets offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a minimalist design with a sleek black finish. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel and small workspaces. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation features a larger active area and a more traditional design. Its textured surface offers slightly more friction, which some artists may prefer. Both tablets are well-built and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Pen Technology and Performance

Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens with excellent responsiveness. The Xencelabs Pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing precise control over line thickness and brush strokes. Its low latency and minimal parallax ensure a smooth and natural drawing experience. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also boasts 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and low latency, delivering a comparable drawing experience. The pens on both tablets are comfortable to hold and feature customizable buttons for shortcuts.

Display and Viewing Area

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in display. This allows for a more compact design and a lower price point. However, it requires artists to rely on their computer screen for visual feedback. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a 11.6-inch full HD display, providing a direct view of your artwork. This eliminates the need to constantly look back and forth between the tablet and the computer screen, enhancing workflow and creative efficiency.

Software and Compatibility

Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comes with a dedicated driver that offers customization options for pen pressure, button mapping, and other settings. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also comes with its own driver and supports popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.

Price and Value

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a more complete package with its built-in display, making it a worthwhile investment for those who value a streamlined workflow and direct visual feedback.

Features and Extras

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comes with two customizable buttons on the pen and a dedicated shortcut key on the tablet, offering a limited range of shortcuts. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation provides a more comprehensive set of features, including eight programmable express keys on the tablet, a touch ring for zooming and scrolling, and a built-in stand for ergonomic positioning.

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small vs XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: Who Wins?

The choice between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and affordable tablet with excellent pen performance, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more immersive drawing experience with a built-in display and a wider range of shortcut keys, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is the clear winner.

Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets

Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are capable drawing tablets that offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small excels in its compact design, affordability, and excellent pen performance. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation shines with its built-in display, comprehensive feature set, and overall value. Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your individual needs, budget, and workflow preferences.

Answers to Your Questions

Q1: Does the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small have a built-in display?

No, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a pen tablet without a display. It requires you to use your computer screen for visual feedback.

Q2: What is the active area size of the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation?

The active area of the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is 10.6 inches by 6.3 inches.

Q3: Are both tablets compatible with drawing software like Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint?

Yes, both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are compatible with popular drawing software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.

Q4: What is the difference between the Xencelabs Pen and the XP-Pen pen?

Both pens offer similar features, including 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and low latency. However, the Xencelabs Pen is known for its smooth and responsive feel, while the XP-Pen pen has a slightly more textured tip.

Q5: Which tablet is better for beginners?

For beginners, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a great starting point due to its affordability and ease of use. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a more immersive and intuitive drawing experience with its built-in display, making it a suitable option for those who are willing to invest a bit more.