What To Know
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation features a compact and portable form factor, making it ideal for artists on the go.
- 3 Pro takes it up a notch with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a battery-free pen, eliminating the need for charging.
- 3 Pro includes both a USB-C port and a mini HDMI port for connecting to a monitor.
Are you an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional looking for a reliable and affordable drawing tablet? XP-Pen has emerged as a leading brand in the digital art space, offering a diverse range of tablets catering to various needs and budgets. Two popular contenders, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro, have captured the attention of many artists.
This comprehensive comparison delves into the key features, performance, and overall value of each tablet to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize portability, screen size, or pressure sensitivity, we’ve got you covered.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 13.3 Pro boast a sleek and modern design. The Artist 12 2nd Generation features a compact and portable form factor, making it ideal for artists on the go. Its slim profile and lightweight construction allow for easy transport in a backpack or carrying case.
On the other hand, the Artist 13.3 Pro comes with a larger and more robust design. Its 13.3-inch display adds a touch of grandeur and provides ample drawing space. While it’s slightly heavier than the Artist 12, it remains portable enough for moderate travel.
Display Size and Resolution
The Artist 12 2nd Generation boasts a 11.6-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This full HD resolution delivers sharp and vibrant visuals, enhancing the overall drawing experience. The Artist 13.3 Pro takes it a step further with a 13.3-inch display and a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. This 2K resolution provides even greater detail and clarity, making it an excellent choice for artists who demand precision and realism in their artwork.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s latest pen technology, offering a natural and responsive drawing experience. The Artist 12 2nd Generation features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes. The Artist 13.3 Pro takes it up a notch with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a battery-free pen, eliminating the need for charging. The pen also features tilt support, enabling users to create expressive strokes with varying angles.
Display Technology and Color Gamut
The Artist 12 2nd Generation utilizes a laminated display, reducing parallax and offering a more natural drawing experience. It boasts a 72% NTSC color gamut, delivering vibrant and accurate colors. The Artist 13.3 Pro, however, features a laminated display with a wider 90% NTSC color gamut, providing even more vibrant and accurate colors. This makes it a better choice for artists who work with a wide range of colors and require precise color reproduction.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer a variety of connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with various devices. The Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with a USB-C port for connecting to your computer, while the Artist 13.3 Pro includes both a USB-C port and a mini HDMI port for connecting to a monitor. Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS, providing flexibility for artists using different operating systems.
Software and Drivers
XP-Pen provides dedicated software and drivers for both tablets, ensuring optimal performance and functionality. The software offers customizable features, such as pen pressure sensitivity settings, hotkey mapping, and screen calibration. It also provides access to a range of drawing brushes and tools, enhancing the creative workflow.
Price and Value
The Artist 12 2nd Generation is generally more affordable than the Artist 13.3 Pro, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Artist 13.3 Pro offers a significant upgrade in terms of display size, resolution, and color gamut, justifying its higher price tag.
Final Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, affordability, and a compact design, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice.
However, if you seek a larger screen, higher resolution, and a wider color gamut, the Artist 13.3 Pro provides a more immersive and professional drawing experience.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. What is the difference between the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 13.3 Pro?
The main difference lies in the display size, resolution, and color gamut. The Artist 13.3 Pro offers a larger 13.3-inch display with a 2K resolution and a wider 90% NTSC color gamut, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation features a smaller 11.6-inch display with a full HD resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut.
2. Are both tablets compatible with my computer?
Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS. However, it’s always recommended to check the specific system requirements before purchasing.
3. Is the Artist 13.3 Pro worth the extra cost?
The Artist 13.3 Pro offers a significant upgrade in terms of display size, resolution, and color gamut, making it a worthwhile investment for artists who prioritize these features. However, if you’re on a tight budget, the Artist 12 2nd Generation provides a solid drawing experience at a more affordable price.
4. Can I use both tablets with a single pen?
Yes, both tablets use the same XP-Pen pen, so you can use the same pen with both tablets.
5. Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are suitable for beginners, but the Artist 12 2nd Generation might be a better choice for those starting out due to its more affordable price. However, the Artist 13.3 Pro offers a more immersive and professional drawing experience, which can be beneficial for long-term growth.