What To Know
- The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, features a larger and more robust design, with a textured surface that provides a firm grip.
- Both the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer excellent value for their price points, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
- The XP-Pen Star G640 is perfect for users who prioritize portability and affordability, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus caters to those who need a larger active area, a more advanced stylus, and greater customization options.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer compelling features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, helping you make an informed decision.
Active Area and Dimensions: A Tale of Two Sizes
The first and most noticeable difference between the two tablets is their active area and overall dimensions. The XP-Pen Star G640 boasts a compact 6.5 x 4-inch active area, making it ideal for travel or limited desk space. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a larger 9.5 x 5.9-inch active area, providing more room for detailed drawings and comfortable hand movements.
While the G640’s smaller size might be appealing for portability, the G960S Plus’s larger active area allows for a more natural drawing experience, particularly for users who prefer a larger canvas.
Pen Pressure Sensitivity: Precision and Control
Both tablets feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring smooth and responsive strokes. This high level of sensitivity allows for nuanced control over line thickness and brush pressure, offering a more realistic and expressive drawing experience. The pressure sensitivity of both tablets is comparable, making it a tie in this aspect.
Stylus Technology: A Closer Look
The XP-Pen Star G640 comes bundled with the passive XP-Pen P01 stylus, which requires no battery or charging. While it offers a comfortable grip and responsive performance, it lacks pressure sensitivity and tilt support. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, however, includes the battery-free XP-Pen P03 stylus, which features pressure sensitivity and tilt support. This allows for more nuanced control over line thickness and brush strokes, adding an extra layer of realism to your artwork.
Buttons and Customization: Streamlining Your Workflow
The XP-Pen Star G640 features four customizable buttons on the tablet, allowing you to personalize your workflow and execute common actions with ease. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus takes it a step further with eight customizable buttons, offering even greater flexibility and control. These buttons can be programmed to perform a variety of functions, such as switching brushes, undoing actions, or activating shortcuts, making your drawing process more efficient.
Compatibility and Connectivity: Seamless Integration
Both the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer wide compatibility with Windows and macOS operating systems. They connect to your computer via USB cable, ensuring a reliable and stable connection. The ease of setup and compatibility make both tablets suitable for a wide range of users, regardless of their operating system preference.
Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Preference
The XP-Pen Star G640 sports a sleek and compact design, making it a perfect choice for users who prioritize portability. Its black finish and minimalist design blend seamlessly into any workspace. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, features a larger and more robust design, with a textured surface that provides a firm grip. While both tablets offer a comfortable and ergonomic design, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Pricing and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The XP-Pen Star G640 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the G960S Plus offers a larger active area, a more advanced stylus, and additional customizable buttons, justifying its slightly higher price tag. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and specific needs.
The Verdict: A Case for Both Tablets
Both the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer excellent value for their price points, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The XP-Pen Star G640 is perfect for users who prioritize portability and affordability, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus caters to those who need a larger active area, a more advanced stylus, and greater customization options.
Beyond the Features: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
When making your final decision, consider the following factors:
- Drawing style: If you primarily sketch or draw simple illustrations, the XP-Pen Star G640 might be sufficient. However, if you work on detailed drawings or require precise control, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more comfortable and versatile experience.
- Travel needs: The XP-Pen Star G640’s compact size makes it an ideal travel companion. If you frequently work on the go, the G640’s portability might be a deciding factor.
- Budget: The XP-Pen Star G640 is a more budget-friendly option, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a higher level of features and performance at a slightly higher price.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus both offer compelling features and value, but the G960S Plus emerges as the clear winner for users who prioritize a larger active area, advanced stylus features, and greater customization options.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Is the XP-Pen Star G640 compatible with iPad?
A: No, the XP-Pen Star G640 is designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. It is not compatible with iPad or other tablets.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus require drivers?
A: Yes, both the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus require drivers to be installed on your computer. These drivers can be downloaded from the XP-Pen website.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Star G640 with Photoshop?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Q: Is the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus suitable for professional artists?
A: While the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers excellent features and performance, it might not be the ideal choice for professional artists who require a higher level of precision and sensitivity. However, it is a fantastic option for aspiring artists, hobbyists, and students.
Q: What are the main differences between the XP-Pen Star G640 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is a larger and more advanced drawing tablet with a full HD display and a more sophisticated stylus. It is designed for professional artists and users who need a more immersive drawing experience. The XP-Pen Star G640 is a more budget-friendly option that focuses on portability and ease of use.