Highlights
- The Deco Pro SW’s compact size and portability make it a better choice for those who are constantly on the move.
- The Deco Pro SW features a high-resolution pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, providing a smooth and natural drawing experience.
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation utilizes a USB-C connection for data transfer and power supply, while the Deco Pro SW uses a USB-A connection.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW. Both tablets offer compelling features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one emerges as the champion in this head-to-head showdown? Let’s delve into their key differences, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Pro SW boast sleek and minimalist designs, fitting seamlessly into any workspace. The Artist 12 2nd Generation features a larger 11.6-inch active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. Its slim profile and textured surface offer a comfortable and ergonomic drawing experience. On the other hand, the Deco Pro SW comes with a more compact 10.6-inch active area, making it ideal for those with limited desk space. It also sports a sleek and modern design, with a textured surface and a sturdy build.
While both tablets offer excellent build quality, the Artist 12 2nd Generation’s larger active area and slim profile might appeal to users who prioritize spaciousness and comfort. The Deco Pro SW‘s compact size and portability make it a better choice for those who are constantly on the move.
Display and Pen Technology
The Artist 12 2nd Generation stands out with its integrated display, providing a direct and intuitive drawing experience. The 11.6-inch Full HD display offers vibrant colors and crisp visuals, making it ideal for detailed work and color-sensitive projects. The pen technology is also noteworthy, featuring 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, ensuring precise and responsive strokes.
In contrast, the Deco Pro SW is a pen display tablet without a built-in screen. It relies on a separate monitor for viewing your artwork. While this might seem like a drawback, it offers flexibility and affordability. The Deco Pro SW features a high-resolution pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, providing a smooth and natural drawing experience.
The choice between a display tablet and a pen display tablet ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize direct feedback and a seamless workflow, the Artist 12 2nd Generation’s display is a compelling advantage. However, if you prefer the flexibility of using your preferred monitor and value affordability, the Deco Pro SW’s pen display tablet setup might be more suitable.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Pro SW are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They come bundled with XP-Pen’s driver software, which offers customizable settings for pen pressure, tilt sensitivity, and other parameters. The software also includes a range of features like shortcut keys, customizable buttons, and a screen calibration tool.
In addition to XP-Pen’s driver software, both tablets are compatible with popular creative applications like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. They offer seamless integration with these software programs, ensuring a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Connectivity and Features
The Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Pro SW both offer reliable connectivity options. The Artist 12 2nd Generation utilizes a USB-C connection for data transfer and power supply, while the Deco Pro SW uses a USB-A connection. Both tablets come with a USB cable, allowing for a straightforward setup.
In terms of features, the Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with eight customizable shortcut keys, allowing for quick access to common commands. The Deco Pro SW, on the other hand, offers six customizable shortcut keys, providing a similar level of functionality. Both tablets also include a pen holder, which securely stores the pen when not in use.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are both priced competitively, making them attractive options for budget-conscious artists. The Artist 12 2nd Generation typically comes at a slightly higher price point than the Deco Pro SW due to its integrated display. However, its added functionality and immersive drawing experience might justify the extra cost for some users.
The Deco Pro SW offers excellent value for its price, providing a compelling alternative for artists who prioritize affordability and flexibility. Its pen display tablet setup allows for a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation if:
- You prioritize a direct and immersive drawing experience.
- You value a larger active area for spacious drawing.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for the integrated display.
- You need a tablet for professional-level work.
Choose the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW if:
- You prefer the flexibility of using your own monitor.
- You’re on a tighter budget.
- You prioritize portability and compact size.
- You’re a beginner or casual artist.
Wrapping It Up: Choosing the Perfect Drawing Companion
Both the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability. The Artist 12 2nd Generation’s integrated display provides a seamless and immersive drawing experience, while the Deco Pro SW’s pen display tablet setup offers flexibility and affordability. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Is the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation compatible with Android devices?
A: No, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is not compatible with Android devices. It is primarily designed for use with Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW come with a pen stand?
A: Yes, the Deco Pro SW comes with a pen stand that securely holds the pen when not in use.
Q: What is the difference between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro are both display tablets with similar features. However, the Artist 12 Pro offers a higher resolution display and a more advanced pen with higher pressure sensitivity.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW with a laptop?
A: Yes, the Deco Pro SW is compatible with laptops that have a USB-A port. You can connect the tablet to your laptop and use it with your preferred drawing software.
Q: What is the warranty period for XP-Pen tablets?
A: XP-Pen tablets typically come with a one-year warranty. However, the specific warranty period may vary depending on the model and region. It’s always recommended to check the manufacturer’s website for the latest warranty information.
