What To Know
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display.
- This eliminates the need for a separate monitor, making it a more immersive option for those who prefer a screen-based workflow.
- While the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP offer compelling options, the world of drawing tablets extends far beyond these two.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making it a challenging decision. This blog post aims to dissect the key differences between these two tablets, helping you make an informed choice for your artistic journey.
Design and Build: A Tale of Two Approaches
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP take different approaches to design. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small prioritizes portability and minimalist aesthetics. Its compact size and sleek design make it ideal for travel and on-the-go sketching. Its smooth, black surface provides a clean canvas for your creative endeavors.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, focuses on a more traditional tablet experience. It boasts a larger active area, mimicking the feel of drawing on a physical canvas. Its sturdy build and textured surface provide a more tactile feel. The inclusion of eight customizable buttons on the pen and tablet further enhances its functionality.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Performance: A Deeper Dive
Both tablets excel in pressure sensitivity, offering a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, replicating subtle pressure variations with precision. Its pen boasts a comfortable grip and a low-friction tip, enhancing the overall drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring accurate line weight variations. Its pen, though slightly heavier, provides a more robust feel, catering to users who prefer a more substantial drawing tool. The XP-Pen pen also includes tilt sensitivity, adding another layer of nuance to your strokes.
Display and Resolution: Visual Fidelity Compared
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display. You’ll need to rely on a separate monitor for visual feedback. This approach offers flexibility and affordability, allowing you to connect the tablet to any monitor of your choice.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, however, takes a different route. It features a 15.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing a direct drawing experience. This eliminates the need for a separate monitor, making it a more immersive option for those who prefer a screen-based workflow.
Software and Compatibility: Bridging the Digital Divide
Both tablets offer seamless compatibility with popular creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comes bundled with a comprehensive software suite, including Xencelabs’ own Pen Tablet Driver, offering customizable settings and advanced functionalities.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also enjoys wide software compatibility. It comes with XP-Pen’s Artist Pro driver, allowing for customization of pen settings and tablet buttons.
Price and Value: Weighing the Costs
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a more affordable price point compared to the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Its compact size and minimalist features make it a budget-friendly option for beginners and casual users.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, with its larger display and advanced features, commands a higher price tag. Its comprehensive feature set justifies the cost, making it a compelling choice for professional artists and those seeking a more immersive drawing experience.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Artistic Vision
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small if:
- You prioritize portability and affordability.
- You prefer a minimalist design with a focus on drawing functionality.
- You already have a suitable monitor for visual feedback.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP if:
- You desire a larger drawing area and a more immersive experience.
- You value the convenience of a built-in display.
- You’re willing to invest in a more advanced and feature-rich tablet.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP offer compelling options, the world of drawing tablets extends far beyond these two. Explore other brands like Wacom, Huion, and Gaomon to find the perfect match for your creative aspirations.
What You Need to Know
1. Can I use the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small with my iPad?
No, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is designed for use with computers and is not compatible with iPads.
2. Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP have a screen protector?
Yes, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP comes with a built-in screen protector to safeguard its display.
3. How do I calibrate the pen pressure on both tablets?
Both tablets offer calibration options through their respective drivers. Refer to the user manuals for detailed instructions.
4. Can I customize the buttons on the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP?
Yes, the eight customizable buttons on the pen and tablet allow you to assign shortcuts and functions to streamline your workflow.
5. What is the warranty period for both tablets?
Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP come with a one-year warranty.