Key points
- The Deco Pro M’s pen features a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, while the Star G960S Plus’s pen boasts a more ergonomic design and a slightly heavier weight.
- The Star G960S Plus takes it a step further by offering a battery-free pen with tilt support and a programmable side switch, providing even more flexibility and control.
- The Star G960S Plus, while slightly more expensive, offers a larger active area and additional features, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more immersive and feature-rich drawing 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 Deco Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making it difficult to decide which one best suits your needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Deco Pro M and the Star G960S Plus boast a sleek and minimalist design. The Deco Pro M features a compact and portable design, making it ideal for artists on the go. Its textured surface provides a comfortable grip, while the eight customizable shortcut keys offer easy access to frequently used functions. On the other hand, the Star G960S Plus boasts a larger active area, providing more space for intricate drawings and detailed artwork. Its sleek black finish and integrated pen holder add to its aesthetic appeal.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is a crucial factor to consider, as it directly impacts the drawing experience. The Deco Pro M offers a generous 10 x 6.25-inch active area, providing ample space for creative expression. The Star G960S Plus, however, takes the lead with a massive 11.6 x 7-inch active area, offering even more room to maneuver and unleash your artistic potential. Both tablets feature a resolution of 5080 LPI, ensuring smooth and precise linework.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen technology plays a vital role in achieving a natural and responsive drawing experience. Both tablets utilize a pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and subtle variations in line weight. The Deco Pro M’s pen features a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, while the Star G960S Plus’s pen boasts a more ergonomic design and a slightly heavier weight.
Features and Functionality
Both tablets offer a range of features to enhance your creative workflow. The Deco Pro M features a built-in battery-free pen with tilt support, allowing for a more natural drawing experience. It also includes eight customizable shortcut keys and a single touch bar for quick access to frequently used commands. The Star G960S Plus takes it a step further by offering a battery-free pen with tilt support and a programmable side switch, providing even more flexibility and control. Additionally, it comes with a built-in screen protector, reducing the risk of scratches and protecting the surface.
Compatibility and Operating System Support
Both the Deco Pro M and the Star G960S Plus are compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Android, and Linux operating systems. This wide compatibility ensures that you can use the tablet with your preferred device and software. They also support a variety of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook, providing a seamless creative experience.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Deco Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are both priced competitively, offering excellent value for money. The Deco Pro M is generally more affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. The Star G960S Plus, while slightly more expensive, offers a larger active area and additional features, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more immersive and feature-rich drawing experience.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Deco Pro M if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize portability.
- You prefer a compact design with a comfortable grip.
- You need a tablet with a responsive pen and customizable shortcut keys.
Choose the Star G960S Plus if:
- You prioritize a large active area for detailed artwork.
- You need a tablet with a comfortable pen and a programmable side switch.
- You prefer a tablet with a built-in screen protector.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Deco Pro M and the Star G960S Plus are excellent choices, the drawing tablet market is vast. Consider exploring other options from XP-Pen and other brands to find the perfect fit for your needs. Factors to consider include:
- Active area size: Choose a tablet with an active area that suits your drawing style and preferred software.
- Pen technology: Look for a pen with pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and a comfortable grip.
- Features and functionality: Consider the availability of shortcut keys, touch bars, and other features that enhance your workflow.
- Price and value: Determine your budget and find a tablet that offers the best value for your money.
The Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are exceptional drawing tablets that cater to different needs and preferences. The Deco Pro M excels in portability and affordability, while the Star G960S Plus offers a larger active area and a more feature-rich experience. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and Star G960S Plus compatible with smartphones?
A: Both tablets can be connected to Android smartphones via a USB-C adapter. However, their functionality may be limited compared to using them with a computer.
Q2: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Deco Pro M’s smaller size and affordable price make it a good entry-level option, while the Star G960S Plus offers a larger active area and more features for those who want to explore more advanced drawing techniques.
Q3: Can I use the XP-Pen Deco Pro M or Star G960S Plus for digital painting?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with digital painting software and can be used for creating detailed and intricate artwork.
Q4: Do the tablets come with a drawing glove?
A: Neither tablet comes with a drawing glove. However, they are compatible with most standard drawing gloves.
Q5: Is there a warranty on the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and Star G960S Plus?
A: Yes, both tablets come with a one-year warranty.