What to know
- While the smaller display of the G960S Plus might be a drawback for some, it offers a more compact and portable design, making it suitable for travel or limited workspace.
- 6 Pro boasts a reduced parallax compared to the G960S Plus, minimizing the gap between the pen tip and the cursor on the screen.
- If you prioritize a spacious drawing surface, a larger display, and a more immersive experience, the Artist 15.
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 Artist 15.6 Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two drawing tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Display Size and Resolution
The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro, as its name suggests, boasts a larger 15.6-inch display, making it an ideal choice for artists who prefer a spacious canvas. The display offers a 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution, providing crisp and vibrant visuals. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a smaller 8.7-inch display with a 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution.
While the smaller display of the G960S Plus might be a drawback for some, it offers a more compact and portable design, making it suitable for travel or limited workspace. Ultimately, the ideal display size depends on your individual workflow and preference.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both the Artist 15.6 Pro and the Star G960S Plus utilize XP-Pen’s advanced passive pen technology, offering a natural and responsive drawing experience. The pens boast 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control and nuanced strokes. This high level of pressure sensitivity enables artists to create subtle variations in line thickness and shading, enhancing the overall realism of their artwork.
Active Area and Screen-to-Pen Distance
The Artist 15.6 Pro features a larger active area of 14.17 inches, while the G960S Plus offers an active area of 6.9 inches. This difference in active area translates to a more spacious drawing surface on the Artist 15.6 Pro, allowing for greater freedom of movement and a more immersive drawing experience.
The screen-to-pen distance, also known as parallax, is another important factor to consider. The Artist 15.6 Pro boasts a reduced parallax compared to the G960S Plus, minimizing the gap between the pen tip and the cursor on the screen. This reduced parallax results in a more accurate and precise drawing experience, particularly for detailed work.
Features and Functionality
Both tablets offer a range of features that cater to the needs of digital artists. The Artist 15.6 Pro includes a built-in battery-free stylus, eight customizable shortcut keys, and a dial for quick and convenient access to various functions.
The Star G960S Plus also comes with a battery-free stylus, but it features six customizable shortcut keys and a single dial. The Artist 15.6 Pro’s additional shortcut keys and dial provide greater customization and efficiency for artists who frequently use specific functions.
Compatibility and Connectivity
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with popular drawing software. The Artist 15.6 Pro connects via USB-C, while the Star G960S Plus offers both USB-C and micro-USB connectivity options. This flexibility allows users to connect the tablets based on their preferred method and available ports.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. However, the Artist 15.6 Pro’s larger display, increased active area, reduced parallax, and additional shortcut keys justify the higher price tag for artists who prioritize a spacious and immersive drawing experience. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious artists who value portability and ease of use.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a spacious drawing surface, a larger display, and a more immersive experience, the Artist 15.6 Pro is the ideal choice. However, if portability, affordability, and a compact design are more important to you, the Star G960S Plus might be the better option.
The Final Word: Unlocking Your Creative Potential
Both the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent drawing tablets that cater to different needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can choose the tablet that aligns best with your workflow and artistic aspirations. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding artist, these tablets provide the tools you need to unlock your creative potential and bring your ideas to life.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Is the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro compatible with Photoshop?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is compatible with Adobe Photoshop and other popular drawing software.
Q: What is the difference between active and passive pen technology?
A: Active pens require batteries or a power source, while passive pens rely on electromagnetic resonance for functionality. Both technologies offer a responsive drawing experience.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus for gaming?
A: While the Star G960S Plus is primarily designed for drawing, it can be used for gaming, although it may not be as responsive as dedicated gaming tablets.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both the Artist 15.6 Pro and the Star G960S Plus come with a one-year warranty.
Q: Is there a difference in the pressure sensitivity between the two tablets?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of precision and control.
