Unveiling the Battle: XP-PEN Deco Pro SW vs G960S – Which is the Ultimate Drawing Tablet?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW and the XP-Pen Star G960S. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the ultimate choice for your creative endeavors? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences and similarities between these two models, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The XP-Pen Deco Pro SW boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a premium feel. Its compact footprint and slim profile make it perfect for travel or limited desk space. The tablet features a textured surface that provides excellent grip and a comfortable drawing experience.

The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a larger active area and a slightly thicker profile. Its plastic build feels sturdy and durable, making it suitable for everyday use. The textured surface is similar to the Deco Pro SW, offering good grip and control.

In terms of design:

• Deco Pro SW: Sleek, minimalist, compact, and portable.
• Star G960S: Traditional, larger active area, sturdy and durable.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area refers to the drawing surface where your stylus input is registered. The Deco Pro SW offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for detailed drawings. Its 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity combined with a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensure precise and responsive strokes.

The Star G960S features a slightly smaller active area of 8.5 x 5.31 inches, making it ideal for users with limited desk space. It also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a resolution of 5080 LPI, delivering a similar level of accuracy and responsiveness as the Deco Pro SW.

Active Area and Resolution Comparison:

• Deco Pro SW: 10 x 6.25 inches, 8192 pressure levels, 5080 LPI.
• Star G960S: 8.5 x 5.31 inches, 8192 pressure levels, 5080 LPI.

Stylus and Features

Both tablets come bundled with a battery-free passive stylus that offers a natural and comfortable drawing experience. The stylus features a comfortable grip and eight side buttons that can be customized to your preferences. The Deco Pro SW’s stylus is slightly heavier than the Star G960S’s stylus, providing a more substantial feel. Both styluses offer excellent responsiveness and accuracy, allowing for precise lines and detailed shading.

Stylus Features:

• Deco Pro SW: Battery-free passive stylus, 8 customizable side buttons, comfortable grip, heavier weight.
• Star G960S: Battery-free passive stylus, 8 customizable side buttons, comfortable grip, lighter weight.

Software and Compatibility

Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, allowing you to use them with a wide range of drawing software. The Deco Pro SW comes bundled with XP-Pen’s Artist 1.5 software, which offers features like pen customization, shortcut keys, and screen calibration. The Star G960S also includes the Artist 1.5 software, providing similar functionalities.

Software and Compatibility:

• Deco Pro SW: Compatible with Windows and macOS, bundled with Artist 1.5 software.
• Star G960S: Compatible with Windows and macOS, bundled with Artist 1.5 software.

Price and Value

The XP-Pen Deco Pro SW is generally priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Star G960S. However, its larger active area, more premium build quality, and bundled software make it a compelling value proposition for professional artists and serious hobbyists. The Star G960S, on the other hand, offers excellent value for its price, providing a solid drawing experience at a more affordable price point.

Price and Value:

• Deco Pro SW: Slightly higher price, larger active area, premium build quality, bundled software.
• Star G960S: More affordable price, smaller active area, durable build quality, bundled software.

Which Tablet is Right for You?

For professional artists and serious hobbyists who value a larger active area, premium build quality, and bundled software, the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW is the better choice. Its generous drawing space and advanced features provide a more immersive and professional drawing experience.

For budget-conscious users, casual artists, or those with limited desk space, the XP-Pen Star G960S offers excellent value for its price. Its solid build quality, responsive stylus, and reliable performance make it a great entry-level drawing tablet.

The Final Verdict: Beyond the Numbers

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a spacious drawing area, premium build quality, and advanced features, the Deco Pro SW is the winner. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with solid performance, the Star G960S is a great choice. Remember to consider your budget, drawing style, and intended use when making your decision.

Answers to Your Questions

1. What is the difference between the Deco Pro SW and the Star G960S?

The Deco Pro SW features a larger active area, a more premium build quality, and includes bundled software. The Star G960S is more affordable, offers a slightly smaller active area, and has a durable build quality.

2. Can I use the Deco Pro SW or Star G960S with my smartphone?

No, both tablets are designed for use with desktop computers and laptops. They are not compatible with smartphones.

3. Are the Deco Pro SW and Star G960S compatible with Photoshop and other drawing software?

Yes, both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

4. What is the warranty on the Deco Pro SW and Star G960S?

Both tablets come with a 1-year warranty.

5. Can I customize the buttons on the stylus?

Yes, both tablets allow you to customize the eight side buttons on the stylus to your preferences. You can assign different functions like shortcuts, brush selection, or zoom controls.