What To Know
- Both the Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L are designed to provide a comfortable and ergonomic drawing experience.
- The tablet itself is a bit thicker compared to the Deco Fun L.
- You prefer a larger active area for a more comfortable and natural drawing experience.
Are you a budding artist, illustrator, or graphic designer looking for the perfect drawing tablet to enhance your creative workflow? XP-Pen offers a wide range of tablets, making it challenging to choose the right one. Today, we’re comparing two popular models: the XP-Pen Artist 12 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the key differences, features, pros, and cons of each tablet to make an informed decision.
Design and Dimensions
Both the Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L are designed to provide a comfortable and ergonomic drawing experience. However, there are subtle differences in their design and dimensions.
XP-Pen Artist 12:
- Dimensions: 11.8 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches
- Active Area: 10.6 x 6.3 inches
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- Design: Features a sleek black design with a matte finish. The tablet itself is a bit thicker compared to the Deco Fun L.
XP-Pen Deco Fun L:
- Dimensions: 11.8 x 6.7 x 0.2 inches
- Active Area: 10 x 6 inches
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Design: Offers a more compact and lightweight design with a glossy black finish. The tablet is thinner and more portable than the Artist 12.
Pen Technology
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s proprietary passive pen technology, which doesn’t require batteries or charging. However, there are some differences in pen sensitivity and pressure levels.
XP-Pen Artist 12:
- Pen Sensitivity: 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Pen Features: Includes 8 customizable buttons, tilt support, and a pen holder.
XP-Pen Deco Fun L:
- Pen Sensitivity: 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Pen Features: Includes 6 customizable buttons and tilt support.
The Artist 12 boasts higher pressure sensitivity, offering greater control and nuance in your strokes. This makes it ideal for artists who demand a more precise and expressive drawing experience. The Deco Fun L, while offering fewer pressure levels, still provides a responsive and comfortable drawing experience for most users.
Display and Resolution
The Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L are both drawing tablets, meaning they don’t have built-in displays. Instead, they rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback. However, the Artist 12 offers a larger active area, providing more space for your creative endeavors.
XP-Pen Artist 12:
- Active Area: 10.6 x 6.3 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
XP-Pen Deco Fun L:
- Active Area: 10 x 6 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
The Artist 12’s larger active area allows for more comfortable and natural drawing, especially for those who prefer a larger canvas. The Deco Fun L’s smaller active area might be suitable for users with limited desk space or who prefer a more compact setup.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer seamless connectivity and compatibility with various operating systems.
XP-Pen Artist 12:
- Connectivity: USB cable
- Compatibility: Windows 7/8/10/11, macOS 10.10 or later, Chrome OS, Android 6.0 or later
- Additional Features: Includes a USB-C port, allowing for quick and easy connection to modern devices.
XP-Pen Deco Fun L:
- Connectivity: USB cable
- Compatibility: Windows 7/8/10/11, macOS 10.10 or later, Chrome OS, Android 6.0 or later
- Additional Features: Offers a USB-A port for traditional connection.
Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
Pros and Cons
XP-Pen Artist 12:
Pros:
- Higher pressure sensitivity for greater control and precision
- Larger active area for a more comfortable and natural drawing experience
- Includes 8 customizable pen buttons for efficient workflow
- USB-C port for fast and easy connectivity
Cons:
- More expensive than the Deco Fun L
- Slightly thicker and heavier compared to the Deco Fun L
XP-Pen Deco Fun L:
Pros:
- More affordable than the Artist 12
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Offers 6 customizable pen buttons for essential shortcuts
- USB-A port for traditional connectivity
Cons:
- Lower pressure sensitivity compared to the Artist 12
- Smaller active area might feel cramped for some users
Choosing the Right Tablet: The Verdict
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 if:
- You prioritize high pressure sensitivity for precise and expressive drawing.
- You prefer a larger active area for a more comfortable and natural drawing experience.
- You need a tablet with multiple pen buttons for efficient workflow.
- Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun L if:
- You’re on a budget and looking for an affordable option.
- You prefer a compact and portable drawing tablet.
- You primarily use basic drawing techniques and don’t require the highest pressure sensitivity.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
- Software Compatibility: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- Driver Updates: Regularly update the tablet drivers to ensure optimal performance.
- Pen Customization: Explore the pen customization options to personalize your drawing experience.
Final Thoughts: The Journey of a Creative Mind
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a crucial step in your artistic journey. The XP-Pen Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L offer different features and benefits to cater to various needs and preferences. By carefully considering your requirements and budget, you can select the tablet that will empower your creativity and enhance your artistic expression.
Common Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 or Deco Fun L with my iPad?
A1: No, these tablets are designed for use with computers running Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, or Android. They are not compatible with iPads.
Q2: What is the difference between the XP-Pen Artist 12 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?
A2: The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro features a built-in screen, allowing for a more direct and intuitive drawing experience. The Artist 12, on the other hand, is a standard drawing tablet that relies on your computer monitor for visual feedback.
Q3: How do I customize the pen buttons on the XP-Pen Artist 12 and Deco Fun L?
A3: You can customize the pen buttons using the XP-Pen driver software. This allows you to assign different shortcuts and functions to each button, based on your preferences and workflow.
Q4: What are the best drawing software options for using with these tablets?
A4: Popular drawing software options include Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The specific software you choose will depend on your artistic style, workflow, and budget.