Summary
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a purely pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in display.
- This means you’ll need to use it with a separate monitor, which can be an advantage for some users as it allows for a larger workspace and eliminates parallax issues.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes bundled with a free version of Clip Studio Paint, which is a popular choice for digital artists.
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 Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Innovator 16. Both tablets offer impressive features and cater to different needs. In this blog post, we’ll delve into a comprehensive comparison, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a clean, white finish. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller desks, while its lightweight construction allows for easy portability. The tablet features a smooth, textured surface that provides a comfortable drawing experience.
On the other hand, the XP-Pen Innovator 16 adopts a more traditional design with a black finish. It comes with a larger active area, making it more suitable for professional artists or those who prefer a spacious workspace. While heavier than the Xencelabs, the Innovator 16’s sturdy build ensures durability and stability.
Pen Performance
Both tablets offer excellent pen performance, but there are subtle differences. The Xencelabs Pen boasts a natural, responsive feel with low latency, making it feel almost like drawing on paper. Its pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels provides exceptional accuracy and control. The pen also features customizable side buttons for added functionality.
The XP-Pen Innovator 16’s pen also provides a smooth, responsive drawing experience with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. However, some users might find its pen slightly heavier than the Xencelabs pen. The Innovator 16’s pen also includes two customizable side buttons.
Display and Features
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a purely pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in display. This means you’ll need to use it with a separate monitor, which can be an advantage for some users as it allows for a larger workspace and eliminates parallax issues.
The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, is a pen display, featuring a 15.6-inch full HD screen. This provides a more immersive drawing experience, as you can see your artwork directly on the tablet. The Innovator 16 also offers features like anti-glare coating and adjustable stand for optimal viewing angles.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes bundled with a free version of Clip Studio Paint, which is a popular choice for digital artists.
The XP-Pen Innovator 16 also supports a wide range of software. It comes with a bundled driver that offers customizable settings for pen pressure, button mapping, and other features.
Price and Value
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is generally more expensive than the XP-Pen Innovator 16. This is due to its premium build quality, advanced features, and the bundled software. However, the Innovator 16 offers excellent value for money, especially considering its built-in display.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:
- You prioritize pen performance and accuracy.
- You prefer a minimalist, portable design.
- You’re comfortable using a separate monitor.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for quality.
Choose the XP-Pen Innovator 16 if:
- You need a built-in display for a more immersive experience.
- You require a larger active area.
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
- You value the convenience of a single device.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 are exceptional drawing tablets that offer unique advantages. The Xencelabs excels in pen performance and design, while the Innovator 16 shines with its built-in display and affordability. The best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Beyond the Comparison: Taking Your Art to the Next Level
No matter which tablet you choose, remember that the key to creating exceptional artwork lies in practice and experimentation. Explore different drawing techniques, experiment with different software, and most importantly, have fun!
Questions You May Have
Q: Is the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium compatible with macOS?
A: Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is compatible with both Windows and macOS.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Innovator 16 have a screen protector?
A: The XP-Pen Innovator 16 comes with a built-in screen protector.
Q: What is the difference between a pen tablet and a pen display?
A: A pen tablet is a pressure-sensitive input device that doesn’t have a built-in screen. You need to connect it to a separate monitor to see your artwork. A pen display, on the other hand, has a built-in screen, allowing you to draw directly on the tablet’s surface.
Q: Can I use the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium with my smartphone?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is not compatible with smartphones. It is designed for use with computers.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are other excellent drawing tablets available in the market. Some popular options include the Wacom Intuos Pro, the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro.
