Highlights
- The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus differ significantly in their design and build quality.
- The Artist Pro 16 boasts a sleek, modern design with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel.
- The Artist Pro 16 features a USB-C port for power and data transfer, while the Star G960S Plus utilizes a USB-A connection.
Choosing the perfect 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 Star G960S Plus. Both boast impressive features and affordability, making them attractive options for artists of all levels. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision for your creative journey.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus differ significantly in their design and build quality. The Artist Pro 16 boasts a sleek, modern design with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel. Its slim profile and minimalist aesthetic make it a stylish addition to any workspace. On the other hand, the Star G960S Plus adopts a more traditional design with a plastic frame. While it might not be as visually appealing as the Artist Pro 16, it remains a sturdy and functional option.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area of a drawing tablet directly impacts the drawing experience. The Artist Pro 16 offers a generous 15.6-inch active area, providing ample space for intricate details and large-scale projects. The Star G960S Plus, however, features a smaller 10×6.25-inch active area, which might feel cramped for some artists, especially those accustomed to larger drawing surfaces.
In terms of resolution, both tablets excel. The Artist Pro 16 boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the Star G960S Plus offers 5080 LPI as well. This high resolution ensures accurate linework and precise control, translating your hand movements onto the screen with exceptional fidelity.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens with excellent sensitivity levels. The Artist Pro 16’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle nuances and variations in line thickness and brush strokes. The Star G960S Plus also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similarly responsive and precise drawing experience.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Artist Pro 16 stands out with its built-in display, offering a vibrant and immersive drawing experience. Its 15.6-inch IPS LCD screen boasts a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels and a color gamut of 85% NTSC, delivering accurate colors and sharp details. This eliminates the need for a separate display, simplifying your setup and enhancing your workflow.
The Star G960S Plus, however, lacks a display, requiring you to connect it to an external monitor. While this might seem like a drawback, it offers flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution. You can choose a monitor that best suits your needs and preferences.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options. The Artist Pro 16 features a USB-C port for power and data transfer, while the Star G960S Plus utilizes a USB-A connection. Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS, providing broad compatibility for various operating systems.
Software and Drivers
Both XP-Pen tablets come bundled with driver software that enables customization and configuration. The software allows you to adjust pen pressure sensitivity, customize button assignments, and calibrate the tablet for optimal performance.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is priced at a higher point compared to the Star G960S Plus. This price difference is justified by the Artist Pro 16’s advanced features, including its built-in display, larger active area, and premium build quality. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising on essential drawing features.
The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is ideal for:
- Artists who prioritize a premium drawing experience with a built-in display.
- Professionals and enthusiasts who require a large active area for detailed work.
- Those who value a sleek and modern design.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is suitable for:
- Budget-conscious artists seeking a reliable and affordable drawing tablet.
- Beginners who are comfortable using an external monitor for their drawing setup.
- Artists who prefer a smaller and more portable tablet.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Features
Both tablets offer additional features that enhance the drawing experience:
- Customizable Buttons: Both tablets feature customizable buttons on the pen and tablet itself, allowing you to assign shortcuts for frequently used commands.
- Tilt Sensitivity: The Artist Pro 16 and the Star G960S Plus both support tilt sensitivity, enabling you to create brush strokes with varying angles and shading.
- Ergonomic Design: Both tablets prioritize comfort and ergonomics, providing a comfortable drawing experience for extended periods.
Final Thoughts: Your Creative Journey Begins Here
Whether you choose the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 or the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, both tablets offer a compelling entry point into the world of digital art. The Artist Pro 16 provides a premium and immersive experience, while the Star G960S Plus delivers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best suits your individual needs, artistic style, and budget.
Questions You May Have
Q1: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 with my existing monitor?
A: No, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 has a built-in display and does not require an external monitor.
Q2: What is the difference between the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus and the regular XP-Pen Star G960S?
A: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features an upgraded pen with improved sensitivity and a more ergonomic design.
Q3: Are there any alternative drawing tablets in the same price range as the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
A: Yes, other popular options in the same price range include the Huion H610 Pro and the Wacom Intuos Small.
Q4: Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 come with a pen stand?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 includes a pen stand that can hold the pen and extra nibs.