What To Know
- On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more traditional design with a larger active area.
- The Star G960S Plus, despite its higher price, offers a larger active area, higher resolution, and wireless connectivity, making it a more versatile and feature-rich option.
- If you’re on a tight budget, need a portable tablet, and prioritize comfort over precision, the Deco Fun XS might be a good choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the wide variety of options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two drawing tablets, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for various users.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS boasts a compact and minimalist design, making it ideal for portability and limited desk space. Its lightweight construction and slim profile allow for easy carrying in a bag or backpack. The tablet’s surface is made of a smooth, textured material that provides a comfortable drawing experience.
On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more traditional design with a larger active area. Its robust build quality and slightly thicker profile make it feel more substantial and durable. The tablet’s surface is also textured, but it’s slightly rougher than the Deco Fun XS, providing a more tactile feedback.
Active Area and Resolution
The Deco Fun XS features a 6.5 x 4-inch active area, which is relatively small compared to other drawing tablets. This smaller size might be restrictive for some users, especially those accustomed to larger drawing surfaces. The tablet’s resolution is 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch), providing decent accuracy and line smoothness.
The Star G960S Plus, however, offers a much larger active area of 9.6 x 6.4 inches, making it more suitable for detailed drawings and multi-tasking. Its resolution of 5080 LPI surpasses the Deco Fun XS, offering even greater accuracy and line precision.
Pen Pressure Sensitivity and Features
Both tablets feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for a wide range of line thickness and shading variations. The Deco Fun XS‘s pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with two programmable buttons that can be customized for various functions.
The Star G960S Plus’s pen, on the other hand, is slightly heavier and has a more traditional feel. It also includes two customizable buttons and a built-in eraser, adding to its versatility.
Compatibility and Connectivity
Both drawing tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems and support a wide range of drawing software. The Deco Fun XS connects to your computer via USB cable, while the Star G960S Plus offers both USB and wireless connectivity options. The wireless functionality allows for greater freedom of movement and a clutter-free workspace.
Price and Value for Money
The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS is priced significantly lower than the Star G960S Plus, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, its smaller active area and lower resolution might not be ideal for professional artists or those who require more precision.
The Star G960S Plus, despite its higher price, offers a larger active area, higher resolution, and wireless connectivity, making it a more versatile and feature-rich option.
Advantages and Disadvantages
XP-Pen Deco Fun XS
Advantages:
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable price
- Comfortable pen
Disadvantages:
- Small active area
- Lower resolution
- Wired connectivity only
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
Advantages:
- Large active area
- High resolution
- Wireless connectivity
- Built-in eraser
Disadvantages:
- Higher price
- Heavier pen
Choosing the Right Tablet for Your Needs
The best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget, need a portable tablet, and prioritize comfort over precision, the Deco Fun XS might be a good choice. However, if you require a larger drawing surface, higher resolution, wireless connectivity, and more versatility, the Star G960S Plus is the better option.
The Final Verdict: More Than Just a Drawing Tool
Ultimately, the choice between the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is subjective. Both tablets offer excellent value for money and can significantly enhance your digital drawing experience. The key is to consider your individual needs and budget to make an informed decision. Remember, a drawing tablet is more than just a tool; it’s an extension of your creativity and artistic expression.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS or Star G960S Plus with an iPad?
A: No, these tablets are designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. They are not compatible with iPads or other tablets.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Deco Fun XS is more affordable and offers a comfortable drawing experience. The Star G960S Plus provides a larger active area and more features, but it’s also more expensive.
Q: Can I use the Star G960S Plus wirelessly without a dongle?
A: Yes, the Star G960S Plus supports wireless connectivity via Bluetooth. You don’t need a separate dongle.
Q: What is the difference between the XP-Pen Star G960S and the Star G960S Plus?
A: The Star G960S Plus is an upgraded version of the Star G960S. It features a larger active area, higher resolution, and wireless connectivity.
Q: Are the pens for these tablets compatible with other XP-Pen tablets?
A: The pens for the Deco Fun XS and Star G960S Plus are not compatible with other XP-Pen tablets. You will need to use the pen that comes with your specific tablet.