Essential Information
- The Deco Fun S offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious artists, but its lack of a display may be a deal-breaker for some.
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice for artists who prioritize a direct drawing experience, a larger active area, and a built-in display.
- If you prioritize a direct drawing experience, a larger active area, and a built-in display, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is the clear winner.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Fun S. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key differences, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a slim profile and a black and silver color scheme. Its active area measures 11.6 inches diagonally, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, offering a comfortable drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Deco Fun S, on the other hand, adopts a more compact and portable design. Its smaller active area of 10.6 inches may appeal to users who prioritize portability. The tablet’s plastic construction feels sturdy enough for everyday use, but it lacks the premium feel of the Artist 12 2nd Generation.
Display and Resolution
The Artist 12 2nd Generation is a pen display tablet, meaning it features an integrated screen. Its 11.6-inch IPS display boasts a 1920×1080 resolution, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals. The display’s anti-glare coating minimizes reflections, ensuring a comfortable drawing experience even in brightly lit environments.
The Deco Fun S, being a standard drawing tablet, lacks a built-in display. Users need to rely on their computer monitor for visual feedback. This can be a drawback for artists who prefer a direct drawing experience, as it can lead to parallax issues.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s latest pen technology, offering 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes, mimicking the feel of traditional drawing tools. The pens are lightweight and ergonomically designed, providing a comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions.
The Artist 12 2nd Generation’s pen features a battery-free design, eliminating the need to charge or replace batteries. The Deco Fun S’s pen also boasts a battery-free design, ensuring uninterrupted drawing sessions.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Artist 12 2nd Generation connects to your computer via a USB-C cable, offering a reliable and stable connection. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android devices.
The Deco Fun S also connects via USB-C, providing a secure and efficient connection. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android devices.
Software and Features
Both tablets include XP-Pen’s driver software, which allows you to customize pen settings, calibrate the tablet, and access various drawing tools. The software also offers a range of shortcuts and hotkeys, enhancing productivity and streamlining your workflow.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is priced slightly higher than the Deco Fun S. However, its integrated display and larger active area justify the price difference. The Deco Fun S offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious artists, but its lack of a display may be a deal-breaker for some.
Who Should Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation?
The Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice for artists who prioritize a direct drawing experience, a larger active area, and a built-in display. Its high resolution and anti-glare coating ensure a visually appealing and comfortable drawing experience.
Who Should Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun S?
The Deco Fun S is a suitable option for artists who prioritize portability and affordability. Its compact design and competitive price make it an attractive choice for beginners or artists on a budget. However, its lack of a display may be a drawback for those who prefer a direct drawing experience.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Fun S ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a direct drawing experience, a larger active area, and a built-in display, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is the clear winner. However, if you value portability and affordability, the Deco Fun S is a worthy contender.
The Final Word: Choosing Your Artistic Companion
Both the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Fun S offer excellent value for their respective price points. The Artist 12 2nd Generation excels in its direct drawing experience and larger active area, while the Deco Fun S shines in its portability and affordability. Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation with my iPad?
A: No, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is not compatible with iPads. It is designed for use with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android devices.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Deco Fun S come with a pen holder?
A: Yes, the Deco Fun S comes with a pen holder that can be attached to the tablet or your desk.
Q: What is the warranty on both tablets?
A: Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Fun S come with a one-year warranty.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation for photo editing?
A: Yes, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is suitable for photo editing, as its pen pressure sensitivity and display provide precise control and visual feedback.
Q: Is the XP-Pen Deco Fun S compatible with Linux?
A: While XP-Pen does not officially support Linux, some users have reported success in using the Deco Fun S with Linux distributions. However, compatibility may vary depending on the specific distribution and driver availability.
