Quick Overview
- The Deco Fun L features a plastic body, while the Deco Pro SW boasts a more premium aluminum build.
- Both the XP-Pen Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro SW are capable drawing tablets that offer excellent performance and value for money.
- The Deco Fun L excels in its affordability and large active area, while the Deco Pro SW boasts a premium build, additional buttons, and bundled software.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices from XP-Pen, the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro SW, often leave artists pondering which one best suits their needs. This detailed comparison will delve into the features, pros, and cons of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro SW boast sleek and modern designs, but their construction materials differ. The Deco Fun L features a plastic body, while the Deco Pro SW boasts a more premium aluminum build. This difference in materials impacts the overall feel and durability of the tablets.
The Deco Fun L, despite its plastic construction, feels sturdy and lightweight, making it portable. However, the Deco Pro SW’s aluminum body exudes a sense of quality and robustness, offering a more premium feel. The Deco Pro SW also boasts a slightly smaller footprint, making it more space-saving on your desk.
Active Area and Pressure Sensitivity
The active area is the tablet’s responsive surface where you draw. The Deco Fun L offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, while the Deco Pro SW boasts a slightly smaller 9.8 x 6.1 inches. This difference might be negligible for some, but those who prefer a larger drawing space might find the Deco Fun L more appealing.
Both tablets feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, enabling them to accurately translate the pressure of your strokes into digital lines. This sensitivity ensures smooth transitions from light to heavy lines, adding nuance and realism to your artwork.
Pen and Buttons
Both tablets come bundled with a battery-free, passive pen that offers a comfortable grip and responsive feel. The Deco Fun L’s pen features six customizable buttons, while the Deco Pro SW includes eight customizable buttons. This difference allows for greater control and efficiency, especially for users who rely heavily on pen shortcuts.
Compatibility and Software
Both the Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro SW are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
However, the Deco Pro SW comes with a bundled software suite, including the XP-Pen Artist software and OpenCanvas 7, which offers additional features and tools for artists.
Price and Value
The Deco Fun L generally sits at a lower price point compared to the Deco Pro SW. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Deco Pro SW offers a more premium build, additional buttons, and bundled software, justifying its slightly higher price tag.
Deco Fun L: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large active area
- Affordable price
- Lightweight and portable
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Comfortable pen with six customizable buttons
Cons:
- Plastic construction
- No bundled software
Deco Pro SW: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Aluminum construction
- Premium feel
- Eight customizable buttons
- Bundled software suite
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Comfortable pen
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Higher price
Choosing the Right Tablet
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- For budget-conscious artists who prioritize a large active area: The Deco Fun L is an excellent choice.
- For artists who value a premium build, additional buttons, and bundled software: The Deco Pro SW is the way to go.
- For artists who prioritize portability: The Deco Fun L’s lightweight design makes it ideal.
- For artists who prefer a smaller footprint on their desk: The Deco Pro SW’s compact design is more space-saving.
The Final Verdict: A Powerful Choice for Every Artist
Both the XP-Pen Deco Fun L and the Deco Pro SW are capable drawing tablets that offer excellent performance and value for money. The Deco Fun L excels in its affordability and large active area, while the Deco Pro SW boasts a premium build, additional buttons, and bundled software. The choice ultimately comes down to your individual needs and budget.
Top Questions Asked
1. Are the pens compatible with other XP-Pen tablets?
No, the pens are not compatible with other XP-Pen tablets.
2. Can I use the Deco Fun L or Deco Pro SW with my smartphone?
No, both tablets are designed for use with computers.
3. What is the warranty on these tablets?
Both tablets come with a one-year warranty.
4. Can I customize the pen buttons?
Yes, you can customize the pen buttons to your liking using the included software.
5. Do these tablets require drivers?
Yes, both tablets require drivers to function properly. You can download the latest drivers from the XP-Pen website.