Summary
- However, the Artist Pro 16TP takes things to the next level with a laminated IPS display featuring a higher resolution of 2560×1440 and a wider 92% DCI-P3 color gamut.
- If you’re looking for a cost-effective drawing tablet with a good balance of features and performance, the Artist 16 2nd Generation is an excellent choice.
- If you’re a professional artist or demanding user who needs the highest level of performance and features, the Artist Pro 16TP is the way to go.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Artist 16 2nd Generation and the Artist Pro 16TP feature a sleek and modern design. However, there are subtle differences in their build quality. The Artist 16 2nd Generation boasts a plastic housing, making it lighter and more portable. The Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, opts for a metal housing, giving it a more premium feel and enhanced durability. While the plastic construction of the Artist 16 2nd Generation might seem less robust, it’s still sturdy enough for everyday use.
Display Technology and Performance
The display technology is where these two tablets diverge significantly. The Artist 16 2nd Generation features a laminated IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution and a 120% sRGB color gamut. This combination provides vibrant colors and sharp visuals, making it suitable for a wide range of creative tasks. However, the Artist Pro 16TP takes things to the next level with a laminated IPS display featuring a higher resolution of 2560×1440 and a wider 92% DCI-P3 color gamut. This provides a more immersive and professional-grade experience, especially for color-critical work.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s latest generation of battery-free pens, offering a natural and responsive drawing experience. The Artist 16 2nd Generation boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing precise control and nuance in your strokes. The Artist Pro 16TP ups the ante with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, allowing for more expressive and realistic brush strokes. The tilt support adds another layer of control, enabling you to create natural shading effects by tilting the pen.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options, including HDMI and USB-C ports. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of computers, including Windows, macOS, and even Chromebooks. The Artist 16 2nd Generation also includes a mini-HDMI port, providing additional flexibility. However, it’s worth noting that the Artist Pro 16TP comes with a more robust power supply, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
Ergonomics and Features
Both tablets feature a comfortable and ergonomic design, with adjustable stands allowing you to customize the viewing angle. The Artist 16 2nd Generation includes six customizable shortcut keys and a touch bar, offering quick access to frequently used functions. The Artist Pro 16TP takes things further with eight customizable shortcut keys and a touch ring, providing even greater control and customization.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets are compatible with XP-Pen’s proprietary software, which offers a range of features, including pen customization, shortcut key mapping, and calibration settings. The software is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to configure the tablet to your preferences. However, the Artist Pro 16TP also includes a dedicated color calibration tool, allowing for more accurate and consistent color reproduction.
Price and Value
The Artist 16 2nd Generation is generally priced lower than the Artist Pro 16TP, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the Artist Pro 16TP offers a higher level of performance and features, justifying its slightly higher price tag. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
So, which tablet reigns supreme? The answer depends on your specific requirements.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective drawing tablet with a good balance of features and performance, the Artist 16 2nd Generation is an excellent choice. Its laminated display, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and versatile connectivity make it suitable for a wide range of creative tasks.
If you’re a professional artist or demanding user who needs the highest level of performance and features, the Artist Pro 16TP is the way to go. Its higher resolution display, DCI-P3 color gamut, tilt support, and additional shortcut keys provide a more immersive and professional-grade experience.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that fits your workflow and budget. Both the Artist 16 2nd Generation and the Artist Pro 16TP offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but the Artist Pro 16TP emerges as the clear winner for professionals and advanced users.
Remember to consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision. It’s also worth exploring other drawing tablets in the market to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
What People Want to Know
Q: Are these tablets compatible with Mac computers?
A: Yes, both the Artist 16 2nd Generation and the Artist Pro 16TP are compatible with macOS.
Q: Do these tablets require special drivers?
A: Both tablets require drivers to function properly. XP-Pen provides driver downloads for both Windows and macOS on their website.
Q: Can I use these tablets with Photoshop and other creative software?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with a wide range of creative software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
Q: What’s the difference between laminated and non-laminated displays?
A: A laminated display has a layer of glass directly on top of the screen, reducing parallax and providing a smoother drawing experience. Non-laminated displays have a gap between the glass and the screen, which can cause a slight lag or offset in your drawing.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: For beginners, the Artist 16 2nd Generation is a great starting point due to its affordability and user-friendly features. However, the Artist Pro 16TP offers a more professional experience and can be a good investment for aspiring artists.