Quick summary
- The Artist 12 features a compact and portable design with a black and silver color scheme, making it ideal for artists on the go.
- The Artist 12 is a display tablet, meaning it has a built-in screen that allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s surface.
- The Artist 12 also features a mini HDMI port for connecting to an external display, while the Deco Fun L relies on a separate monitor for viewing your artwork.
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 segment are the XP-Pen Artist 12 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L. Both offer impressive features and a smooth drawing experience, but each caters to different needs and preferences.
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of both tablets, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and key differentiators to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a budding artist, a seasoned professional, or simply looking for a user-friendly tool for digital art, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to find the perfect match.
Design and Build Quality
Both the XP-Pen Artist 12 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L boast sleek and modern designs, prioritizing user comfort and functionality. The Artist 12 features a compact and portable design with a black and silver color scheme, making it ideal for artists on the go. Its active area measures 11.6 inches diagonally, providing ample space for creative expression.
The Deco Fun L, on the other hand, adopts a larger, more ergonomic design with a wider active area of 10 x 6.25 inches. This larger canvas is perfect for those who prefer a more expansive drawing space. While both tablets feature a textured surface for a natural pen-on-paper feel, the Deco Fun L’s slightly rougher surface might feel more familiar to traditional artists.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The heart of any drawing tablet lies in its pen technology. Both the Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L utilize battery-free passive pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of sensitivity ensures accurate line variations and a natural, responsive drawing experience.
The Artist 12’s pen boasts a slightly lighter weight and a more balanced design, offering a comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions. The Deco Fun L’s pen, while heavier, features a textured grip that provides a more secure hold.
Display and Viewing Experience
The Artist 12 is a display tablet, meaning it has a built-in screen that allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s surface. This eliminates the need for a separate monitor and provides a more immersive drawing experience. The 11.6-inch IPS display boasts a 1920 x 1080 resolution, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals.
The Deco Fun L, on the other hand, is a pen tablet without a display. It requires a separate monitor to view your artwork. This might seem like a drawback, but it allows for greater flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution. You can choose a monitor that best suits your needs and budget.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L offer a variety of connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with various devices. They both connect to your computer via USB cable and support Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems. The Artist 12 also features a mini HDMI port for connecting to an external display, while the Deco Fun L relies on a separate monitor for viewing your artwork.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come bundled with XP-Pen’s proprietary software, which provides a range of customization options for pen settings, shortcut keys, and more. The software is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to configure the tablets to your liking.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 12 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L are both budget-friendly options, offering excellent value for their price. The Artist 12 typically retails for slightly higher than the Deco Fun L, but its built-in display justifies the price difference.
If you’re looking for a complete drawing solution with a display, the Artist 12 is a compelling choice. However, if you prefer a more affordable option and already have a suitable monitor, the Deco Fun L provides an excellent alternative.
Who Should Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12?
The XP-Pen Artist 12 is ideal for:
- Beginners: Its built-in display makes it easy to learn and get started with digital art.
- Travelers: Its compact and portable design makes it perfect for taking on the go.
- Artists who value immersion: The display eliminates the need for a separate monitor, creating a more immersive drawing experience.
- Those who prefer a larger active area: The 11.6-inch display offers ample space for intricate details and complex compositions.
Who Should Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun L?
The XP-Pen Deco Fun L is a great choice for:
- Budget-conscious artists: It offers excellent value for its price, providing a high-quality drawing experience without breaking the bank.
- Those with a dedicated monitor: If you already have a suitable monitor, the Deco Fun L eliminates the need for a separate display.
- Artists who prefer a larger active area: The 10 x 6.25-inch active area offers ample space for drawing and sketching.
- Those who prioritize portability: The Deco Fun L is more compact and lightweight than the Artist 12, making it easier to transport.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you value a seamless, immersive drawing experience, a built-in display, and a larger active area, the XP-Pen Artist 12 is a fantastic choice. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, prefer a more compact design, and already have a suitable monitor, the XP-Pen Deco Fun L is a great alternative.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 or Deco Fun L with my iPad?
A: No, both tablets are designed for use with Windows, macOS, and Android devices. They do not support iOS devices like iPads.
Q: What is the difference between a display tablet and a pen tablet?
A: A display tablet has a built-in screen, allowing you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s surface. A pen tablet requires a separate monitor to view your artwork.
Q: Do I need to buy any additional software to use these tablets?
A: No, both tablets come bundled with XP-Pen’s proprietary software, which provides a range of customization options. However, you can use them with other drawing software as well.
Q: Is the pen pressure sensitivity on both tablets the same?
A: Yes, both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring accurate line variations and a natural drawing experience.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both the Artist 12 and the Deco Fun L come with a one-year warranty.
