Highlights
- Both the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW boast a sleek and modern design, but there are subtle differences that set them apart.
- The Deco Fun L features a minimalist design with a predominantly black color scheme, while the Deco Pro MW offers a slightly more premium look with its silver accents and a black and silver color combination.
- The Deco Fun L’s plastic construction makes it slightly lighter, while the Deco Pro MW’s aluminum frame adds a touch of durability and a more premium feel.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. If you’re considering XP-Pen’s offerings, you’ve likely come across the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW. Both are popular choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive guide will dive deep into the features, pros, and cons of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW boast a sleek and modern design, but there are subtle differences that set them apart. The Deco Fun L features a minimalist design with a predominantly black color scheme, while the Deco Pro MW offers a slightly more premium look with its silver accents and a black and silver color combination.
The Deco Fun L comes in a larger size, offering a drawing area of 10 x 6.25 inches. This makes it a more comfortable choice for those who prefer a larger workspace. The Deco Pro MW, on the other hand, features a more compact size with a drawing area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches. This smaller size makes it more portable and ideal for users who are on the go.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and feel sturdy. The Deco Fun L’s plastic construction makes it slightly lighter, while the Deco Pro MW‘s aluminum frame adds a touch of durability and a more premium feel.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, allowing for a natural and responsive drawing experience. The Deco Fun L features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Deco Pro MW boasts 4096 levels. While the difference in pressure sensitivity levels might not be noticeable for casual users, professional artists might appreciate the finer control offered by the Deco Pro MW.
The pens included with both tablets are also quite similar. Both feature a comfortable grip and a responsive tip that accurately translates pen strokes onto the screen. The Deco Fun L’s pen comes with two side buttons, while the Deco Pro MW’s pen offers three side buttons, providing more customization options.
Features and Functionality
The Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW share some core features, but there are also some key differences that might sway your decision. Both tablets support multi-touch gestures, allowing for intuitive navigation and zooming within your chosen software. They also offer customizable hotkeys, letting you assign frequently used actions to specific buttons on the tablet.
One notable difference is the inclusion of a built-in screen protector on the Deco Pro MW. This helps protect the tablet’s surface from scratches and wear and tear, making it a more durable option for long-term use. The Deco Fun L, on the other hand, doesn’t come with a screen protector, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you’re concerned about scratches.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also come bundled with XP-Pen’s driver software, which allows you to customize settings, adjust pressure sensitivity, and configure hotkeys.
The Deco Fun L is compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. The Deco Pro MW also supports these popular software programs, making it a versatile option for various creative tasks.
Price and Value for Money
The Deco Fun L is generally priced lower than the Deco Pro MW, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Deco Pro MW offers a more premium experience with its enhanced features and build quality.
If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large drawing area, the Deco Fun L is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more durable and feature-rich tablet with a premium feel, the Deco Pro MW might be the better investment.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Decision Tree
To help you make the right choice, let’s break down the decision process into a simple tree:
- Budget:
- Limited budget: Choose the Deco Fun L.
- Higher budget: Consider the Deco Pro MW.
- Drawing Area:
- Larger drawing area: Go for the Deco Fun L.
- Compact and portable: Choose the Deco Pro MW.
- Features:
- Basic features: The Deco Fun L is sufficient.
- Premium features and build quality: Choose the Deco Pro MW.
- Pressure Sensitivity:
- Casual use: Both tablets offer ample pressure sensitivity.
- Professional use: The Deco Pro MW offers finer control with 4096 levels.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
While the above factors are crucial, there are a few other aspects to consider before making a final decision:
- Pen Tilt: If you’re an artist who relies on pen tilt for shading and brush strokes, the Deco Pro MW offers this feature. The Deco Fun L does not.
- Ergonomics: Both tablets offer comfortable grips, but the Deco Fun L’s larger size might be more comfortable for extended drawing sessions.
- Software Integration: Consider the software you use most frequently and ensure compatibility with both tablets.
- Reviews and User Feedback: Read reviews from other users to get a better understanding of real-world experiences with both tablets.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Drawing Tool
The XP-Pen Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW are both capable drawing tablets that can elevate your creative workflow. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a seasoned professional, or simply someone who enjoys digital art, these tablets provide a responsive and intuitive drawing experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the difference in the pen tip technology between the Deco Fun L and Deco Pro MW?
A: Both tablets use a similar pen tip technology, but the Deco Pro MW’s pen tip is slightly more responsive and offers a finer level of control, particularly when it comes to pressure sensitivity.
Q: Can I use both tablets with my iPad?
A: No, both the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro MW are designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. They are not compatible with iPads.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other excellent drawing tablets available, including the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro, the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and the Wacom Intuos Pro. Consider researching these options to find the best fit for your needs.
Q: What are the main advantages of using a drawing tablet over a touchscreen laptop?
A: Drawing tablets offer several advantages over touchscreen laptops, including:
- Natural Drawing Experience: The pen-on-tablet experience feels more natural and precise than drawing directly on a touchscreen.
- Increased Accuracy: Tablets offer a higher level of accuracy, making it easier to create detailed and intricate artwork.
- Ergonomics: Using a drawing tablet can be more comfortable for extended drawing sessions, as you don’t have to strain your wrist or hand.
- Pressure Sensitivity: Drawing tablets offer realistic pressure sensitivity, allowing you to control line thickness and brush strokes more effectively.
- Dedicated Drawing Area: Tablets provide a dedicated drawing area, freeing up screen space for your artwork.
Q: Is the Deco Fun L or Deco Pro MW better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Deco Fun L offers a more affordable entry point, while the Deco Pro MW provides a slightly more premium experience with its enhanced features and build quality. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and your level of commitment to digital art.