At a Glance
- The Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP features a resolution of 2,540 lpi, which is still respectable but falls short of the Intuos Pro Small’s accuracy.
- The choice between the Wacom Intuos Pro Small and the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- If you seek a spacious canvas and value for money, the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is an excellent option.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders, the Wacom Intuos Pro Small and the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP, offer distinct features and cater to different needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision for your creative journey.
Size Matters: Small vs. XL
The most apparent difference between these two tablets lies in their size. The Wacom Intuos Pro Small boasts a compact 6.5 x 4.0-inch active area, making it ideal for portability and limited desk space. This smaller size is perfect for on-the-go artists or those who prefer a more intimate drawing experience.
On the other hand, the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP flaunts a generous 15.6 x 9.7-inch active area, providing ample space for intricate illustrations, photo editing, or even digital painting. This expansive canvas is a dream for artists who work with large-scale projects or prefer a more immersive drawing experience.
Pressure Sensitivity: A Key Factor
Both tablets excel in pressure sensitivity, a crucial factor for digital artists. The Wacom Intuos Pro Small offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and precise control. This level of sensitivity enables you to create natural-looking lines, varying brush strokes, and subtle shading effects.
The Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP also boasts 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and accurate drawing experience. While slightly lower than the Intuos Pro Small, this level of sensitivity is still more than adequate for most digital art tasks.
Resolution and Accuracy: Defining Your Strokes
The Wacom Intuos Pro Small boasts a higher resolution of 5,080 lpi (lines per inch), offering exceptional accuracy and detail. This high resolution allows for finer control over your strokes, resulting in sharper lines and more precise detail.
The Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP features a resolution of 2,540 lpi, which is still respectable but falls short of the Intuos Pro Small’s accuracy. While it may not be as precise for intricate details, it still provides a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics
Both tablets offer a range of features designed to enhance your workflow. The Wacom Intuos Pro Small comes equipped with customizable ExpressKeys and Touch Ring, allowing you to assign shortcuts and control various functions with ease. It also supports multi-touch gestures for added convenience.
The Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP also includes ExpressKeys, but lacks the Touch Ring and multi-touch functionality. However, it features a dedicated Express View display, providing a visual representation of your active tools and settings.
Compatibility and Software: A Seamless Workflow
Both tablets offer excellent compatibility with various software applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. They also come bundled with a range of software, including Corel Painter Essentials and Wacom ArtRage.
However, the Wacom Intuos Pro Small enjoys an edge with its compatibility with the latest versions of Wacom software, including Wacom‘s driver, software, and creative apps. This ensures smooth integration and optimal performance.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance
The Wacom Intuos Pro Small is generally priced higher than the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP. This price difference is justified by its advanced features, higher resolution, and superior pressure sensitivity. However, the Intuos4 XL DTP offers excellent value for its size and functionality, especially for artists who prioritize a large drawing area.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Perfect Companion
The choice between the Wacom Intuos Pro Small and the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Wacom Intuos Pro Small excels in:
- Portability and compact size
- Higher resolution and accuracy
- Advanced features like Touch Ring and multi-touch gestures
- Compatibility with the latest Wacom software
The Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP shines in:
- Large drawing area for expansive projects
- Cost-effective option for budget-conscious artists
- Dedicated Express View display
Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your budget, artistic style, and workflow. If you prioritize portability, accuracy, and advanced features, the Wacom Intuos Pro Small is the superior choice. If you seek a spacious canvas and value for money, the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is an excellent option.
Final Thoughts: Your Artistic Journey Begins Here
Choosing the right drawing tablet is an important step in your artistic journey. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect companion to unleash your creativity and bring your visions to life. Whether you opt for the compact Wacom Intuos Pro Small or the expansive Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP, both tablets offer a gateway to a world of digital art possibilities.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What pen is compatible with both tablets?
A: Both tablets are compatible with the Wacom Pro Pen 2, known for its exceptional pressure sensitivity and natural feel.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Yes, both tablets are suitable for photo editing. The large active area of the Intuos4 XL DTP may be particularly beneficial for retouching and manipulating large images.
Q: Which tablet is best for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Wacom Intuos Pro Small offers a more intuitive user experience with its Touch Ring and multi-touch gestures, while the Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP provides a spacious canvas for experimentation.
Q: Are there any limitations to these tablets?
A: While both tablets offer excellent performance, they are not professional-grade tablets. They lack features like tilt sensitivity and express keys on the pen, which are often found in higher-end models.
Q: Can I use these tablets with a Mac?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
