Quick notes
- Two popular contenders in the market are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus.
- The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus pen also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness as the Xencelabs pen.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is the ideal choice for artists who value portability, a comfortable pen, and a premium build quality.
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 Star G960S Plus. 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, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a minimalist and sleek design. Its compact size makes it perfect for travel and limited desk space. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. The build quality is sturdy, with a robust plastic construction that feels durable.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a more traditional design with a larger active area. Its textured surface provides a good grip and feels slightly rougher than the Xencelabs tablet. The build quality is solid, with a plastic construction that feels slightly less premium than the Xencelabs.
Active Area and Resolution
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a compact active area of 5.5 x 3.6 inches. While this may seem small, it’s sufficient for most casual artists and digital note-taking. The tablet boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI, providing accurate and precise linework.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a much larger active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, making it ideal for detailed work and larger canvases. The tablet’s resolution is 5080 LPI, matching the Xencelabs in terms of precision.
Pen Features and Pressure Sensitivity
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen comes with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a natural and responsive drawing experience. The pen features a comfortable grip and two customizable buttons for shortcuts. The pen doesn’t require a battery or charging, making it convenient to use.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus pen also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness as the Xencelabs pen. The pen comes with two customizable buttons and features an ergonomic design for comfortable use. However, the pen requires a battery for operation, which can be a slight inconvenience.
Software and Compatibility
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is compatible with both Windows and macOS. It comes with a driver that offers customizable settings, including pen pressure sensitivity, button mapping, and screen calibration. The tablet also supports popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is also compatible with Windows and macOS. It comes with a driver that provides similar customization options to the Xencelabs driver. The tablet supports the same popular drawing software, ensuring compatibility with your preferred applications.
Price and Value
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. However, it offers a premium build quality, a more comfortable pen, and a streamlined design. The price justifies the overall value proposition, especially for users who prioritize portability and a minimalist aesthetic.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. It offers a larger active area, making it a good choice for artists who require more space for their creations. The lower price point provides a good value for budget-conscious users.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is the ideal choice for artists who value portability, a comfortable pen, and a premium build quality. Its compact size and minimalist design make it perfect for travel and limited desk space. The pen’s battery-free operation adds to its convenience.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is a great option for artists who need a larger active area for detailed work. Its affordability makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious users. However, the pen’s battery requirement and slightly less premium build quality may be drawbacks for some.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, active area requirements, pen features, and design preferences to make an informed decision.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a monitor tablet?
A: A drawing tablet is a device that translates pen strokes into digital input, while a monitor tablet combines a drawing tablet with a built-in screen. Drawing tablets are more affordable and portable, while monitor tablets offer a more immersive and direct drawing experience.
Q: Is a drawing tablet necessary for digital art?
A: While it’s possible to create digital art with a mouse, a drawing tablet provides a more natural and precise experience, allowing for greater control and detail.
Q: How do I connect a drawing tablet to my computer?
A: Most drawing tablets connect to computers via USB. Some tablets may also offer wireless connectivity options.
Q: What is pressure sensitivity, and why is it important?
A: Pressure sensitivity allows the pen to register varying levels of pressure, resulting in thicker or thinner lines depending on how hard you press. This feature enhances the natural feel of drawing and provides greater control over line weight.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are many other great drawing tablets available, such as the Wacom Intuos Pro, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro. Researching different options and comparing features is essential to find the perfect tablet for your needs.