Summary
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comes bundled with the Pen 2, a pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
- However, it offers a premium build quality, a more responsive pen, and a dedicated driver with advanced customization options.
- While it may lack some of the premium features found in the Xencelabs tablet, it still offers a decent drawing experience and a large active area.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices that frequently come up in discussions are the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Star G640. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a minimalist design, focusing on functionality over flashy aesthetics. Its compact size makes it perfect for travel or limited desk space. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, offering a comfortable drawing experience. The build quality is solid, with a sturdy construction that feels durable.
XP-Pen Star G640:
The XP-Pen Star G640 leans towards a more traditional design with a black plastic frame and a textured surface. It’s slightly larger than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, providing a more spacious drawing area. The build quality is decent, but it feels less premium than the Xencelabs offering.
Active Area and Resolution
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small features a smaller active area of 6.5 x 4 inches, ideal for users who prefer a more compact drawing experience. Its resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch) provides excellent precision and responsiveness.
XP-Pen Star G640:
The XP-Pen Star G640 boasts a larger active area of 10 x 6 inches, catering to those who need more space for their artwork. However, its resolution is slightly lower at 4000 LPI, which might result in a slightly less precise drawing experience compared to the Xencelabs tablet.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comes bundled with the Pen 2, a pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. It offers a natural and responsive drawing experience, mimicking the feel of traditional pen and paper. The pen features customizable side buttons for shortcuts and a comfortable ergonomic design.
XP-Pen Star G640:
The XP-Pen Star G640 utilizes the passive pen, which has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen feels comfortable to hold and offers good responsiveness. However, it lacks the customizable side buttons found on the Xencelabs pen.
Software and Compatibility
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes with a dedicated driver that allows for customization of pen settings and shortcut keys. The tablet also supports popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
XP-Pen Star G640:
The XP-Pen Star G640 is also compatible with both Windows and macOS systems. It offers a driver with basic customization options for pen settings. The tablet works seamlessly with various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Krita.
Price and Value for Money
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Star G640. However, it offers a premium build quality, a more responsive pen, and a dedicated driver with advanced customization options. For users who prioritize precision and a comfortable drawing experience, the Xencelabs tablet provides excellent value for money.
XP-Pen Star G640:
The XP-Pen Star G640 is more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. While it may lack some of the premium features found in the Xencelabs tablet, it still offers a decent drawing experience and a large active area. It’s a great option for budget-conscious users who are just starting out with digital art.
Pros and Cons of Each Tablet
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small:
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Smaller size, ideal for travel and limited desk space
- Highly responsive pen with customizable side buttons
- Excellent pressure sensitivity
- Dedicated driver with advanced settings
Cons:
- Higher price
- Smaller active area
XP-Pen Star G640:
Pros:
- More affordable price
- Larger active area
- Good pressure sensitivity
- Wide compatibility
Cons:
- Less premium build quality
- Passive pen without customizable side buttons
- Basic driver with limited settings
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- If you prioritize precision, a comfortable drawing experience, and a premium build quality, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is the better choice. Its responsive pen, excellent pressure sensitivity, and dedicated driver with advanced customization options make it a great investment for serious digital artists.
- If you’re on a budget and need a larger active area for your artwork, the XP-Pen Star G640 is a solid option. It offers a decent drawing experience at a more affordable price.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
While this comparison has highlighted the key differences between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Star G640, it’s important to consider other factors that might influence your decision. For example, you might want to explore other tablets in the same price range or consider the specific software you plan to use.
Remember, the best drawing tablet is the one that best suits your individual workflow and artistic needs.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets similar to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and XP-Pen Star G640?
A: Yes, there are many other drawing tablets available in the market. Some popular alternatives include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, and the Wacom Intuos Pro Small. These tablets offer various features and price points, so it’s essential to compare them based on your requirements.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?
A: Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small and the XP-Pen Star G640 are primarily designed for use with computers. However, some drawing tablets are specifically designed for mobile devices, providing a more portable drawing experience.
Q: What are some tips for choosing a drawing tablet?
A: Here are some tips for choosing a drawing tablet:
- Consider your budget: Drawing tablets come in a wide range of prices, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping.
- Think about your needs: Determine the size of the active area, pressure sensitivity, and pen technology that best suit your workflow.
- Read reviews: Look at reviews from other users to get a better understanding of the pros and cons of different tablets.
- Try before you buy: If possible, try out different tablets in a store or at a friend’s place to see which one feels most comfortable for you.
Q: Is it necessary to buy a drawing tablet?
A: While drawing tablets offer a more natural and precise drawing experience compared to using a mouse, they are not strictly necessary for digital art. You can create amazing artwork using a mouse or even your finger on a touchscreen device. However, a drawing tablet can significantly enhance your workflow and creative potential.
