Key points
- The Deco Pro SW is a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious artists or those seeking a portable drawing tablet.
- Both the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are excellent drawing tablets that offer a seamless and intuitive drawing experience.
- The Deco Pro SW, while lacking a display, provides an affordable and portable option for casual artists and those who prefer a traditional pen-and-paper experience.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion?
This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 boasts a sleek and professional design, featuring a large 15.6-inch display that closely resembles a traditional drawing monitor. Its sturdy build and adjustable stand ensure stability and comfort during extended drawing sessions.
The Deco Pro SW, on the other hand, adopts a more compact and portable design. Its smaller 10.6-inch active area makes it ideal for travel or limited desk space. While its build is still solid, it lacks the heft and adjustability of the Artist Pro 16.
Display and Pen Performance
The Artist Pro 16’s 15.6-inch full HD display is a game-changer, offering a true-to-life color reproduction and wide viewing angles. Its laminated screen eliminates parallax, providing a more natural drawing experience. The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and 266 PPS reporting rate ensure smooth and responsive pen strokes.
The Deco Pro SW, lacking a display, relies on your computer monitor for visual feedback. While it offers a decent active area and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, its pen performance pales in comparison to the Artist Pro 16. The absence of a laminated screen can also lead to a noticeable parallax effect.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer robust connectivity options. The Artist Pro 16 comes with both HDMI and USB-C ports, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. The Deco Pro SW utilizes a USB-C connection, providing a swift and reliable connection to your computer.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android devices, making them versatile choices for digital artists.
Software and Features
The Artist Pro 16 comes bundled with a suite of drawing software, including OpenCanvas, Krita, and MediBang Paint. This gives users a solid starting point for their digital art journey.
The Deco Pro SW does not include any bundled software. However, it is compatible with popular drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16, with its larger display and advanced features, comes at a higher price point than the Deco Pro SW. While this may seem like a significant investment, the overall value it offers justifies the cost.
The Deco Pro SW is a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious artists or those seeking a portable drawing tablet.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Comparative Analysis
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
- Display: If you prioritize a screen-based drawing experience with accurate color reproduction and minimal parallax, the Artist Pro 16 is the clear winner.
- Portability: For artists who need a compact and portable drawing tablet, the Deco Pro SW is the better choice.
- Budget: The Deco Pro SW offers a more budget-friendly option compared to the Artist Pro 16.
- Software: The Artist Pro 16 comes bundled with drawing software, providing a convenient starting point for new users.
The Final Verdict: More Than Just a Drawing Tablet
Both the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are excellent drawing tablets that offer a seamless and intuitive drawing experience. However, the Artist Pro 16’s larger display, advanced features, and bundled software make it a more compelling choice for serious artists and professionals.
The Deco Pro SW, while lacking a display, provides an affordable and portable option for casual artists and those who prefer a traditional pen-and-paper experience. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and artistic goals.
Beyond the Comparison: A Look at the Future
The world of digital art is constantly evolving, and XP-Pen continues to innovate and push the boundaries of drawing technology. With the introduction of new models and features, future iterations of both the Artist Pro 16 and the Deco Pro SW are sure to offer even more compelling options for artists of all levels.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What are the dimensions of the Artist Pro 16 and the Deco Pro SW?
A: The Artist Pro 16 has a 15.6-inch active area with a total tablet size of 15.44 x 9.13 inches. The Deco Pro SW has a 10.6-inch active area with a total tablet size of 13.39 x 8.46 inches.
Q: Do both tablets support tilt sensitivity?
A: Yes, both the Artist Pro 16 and the Deco Pro SW support 60 levels of tilt sensitivity, adding a natural feel to your strokes.
Q: Can I use the Deco Pro SW with a mobile device?
A: Yes, the Deco Pro SW is compatible with Android devices via USB-C connection. However, the lack of a display might limit its functionality on smaller screens.
Q: What are some of the alternative drawing tablets available in the market?
A: Some popular alternatives include the Wacom Intuos Pro, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro. These tablets offer different features and price points, catering to various artistic needs.