Highlights
- The VK1560 Pro uses a passive pen that doesn’t require batteries or charging, while the Innovator 16 utilizes a battery-free, passive pen with eight customizable buttons.
- Both the VK1560 Pro and the Innovator 16 are compatible with Windows and macOS, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
- The Innovator 16, with its built-in display, offers a premium experience and is suitable for professional artists and those who value the convenience of a combined drawing surface and monitor.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and the XP-Pen Innovator 16. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion for digital artists? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and XP-Pen Innovator 16 share a sleek, modern design. Both tablets have a black, minimalist aesthetic that complements any workspace. The VK1560 Pro features a slightly thicker profile compared to the Innovator 16, but both feel sturdy and well-constructed.
The VK1560 Pro boasts an ergonomic design with slightly rounded edges, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The Innovator 16, on the other hand, has a more rectangular shape with sharper corners. While still comfortable, it might not be as ergonomic for some users.
Active Area and Resolution
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and XP-Pen Innovator 16 both offer a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for intricate drawings and detailed work. This is a significant advantage over smaller tablets, allowing for more natural hand movements and a more immersive drawing experience.
The resolution of the drawing surface is another crucial factor. The VK1560 Pro boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the Innovator 16 offers a slightly higher resolution of 5080 LPI. This difference is negligible in practice, as both tablets provide excellent precision and responsiveness.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets feature pressure sensitivity levels of 8192, allowing for nuanced strokes and precise control over line thickness and brush pressure. This high level of sensitivity is essential for digital artists who want to achieve a natural and expressive feel in their artwork.
The VK1560 Pro uses a passive pen that doesn’t require batteries or charging, while the Innovator 16 utilizes a battery-free, passive pen with eight customizable buttons. The VK1560 Pro’s pen is comfortable to hold and features two programmable buttons, providing shortcuts for frequently used functions. The Innovator 16’s pen, with its additional buttons, offers greater customization and efficiency, especially for users who rely heavily on shortcuts.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro is a tablet-only device, meaning it lacks a built-in display. Users need to rely on their computer monitor for visual feedback. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, however, is a display tablet, offering a 15.6-inch IPS LCD screen with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut. This allows for a more immersive and direct drawing experience, as you can see your artwork directly on the tablet’s screen.
While the Innovator 16’s display is impressive, it’s important to note that its color accuracy might not be as high as dedicated drawing monitors. For professionals who require precise color representation, a dedicated monitor might be a better option.
Software and Compatibility
Both the VK1560 Pro and the Innovator 16 are compatible with Windows and macOS, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The VK1560 Pro comes with Veikk’s driver software, which offers basic customization options, including pen pressure sensitivity and button mapping. The Innovator 16, on the other hand, comes with XP-Pen’s driver software, which is more feature-rich and allows for more extensive customization of pen settings, shortcut keys, and other tablet features.
Pricing and Value
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro is generally more affordable than the XP-Pen Innovator 16. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users, especially those who are new to digital art or don’t require a display tablet. The Innovator 16, with its built-in display, offers a premium experience and is suitable for professional artists and those who value the convenience of a combined drawing surface and monitor.
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro:
- Best for: Budget-conscious users, those who prefer a minimalist design, and those who don’t require a built-in display.
- Pros: Affordable, ergonomic design, large active area, responsive pen.
- Cons: No built-in display, basic driver software.
XP-Pen Innovator 16:
- Best for: Professional artists, those who value a built-in display, and those who prefer a more customizable experience.
- Pros: Built-in display, large active area, responsive pen, extensive driver software.
- Cons: More expensive than the VK1560 Pro, color accuracy might not be as high as dedicated drawing monitors.
Beyond the Comparison: Other Factors to Consider
While the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and XP-Pen Innovator 16 are excellent choices, it’s essential to consider other factors that might influence your decision:
- Your Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a drawing tablet. The VK1560 Pro is more budget-friendly, while the Innovator 16 offers a premium experience but comes at a higher price.
- Your Drawing Style: Consider your preferred drawing style and how much you rely on shortcuts and customization. The Innovator 16’s pen with eight customizable buttons might be beneficial for artists who use shortcuts frequently.
- Your Workspace: If you have limited desk space, a tablet-only device like the VK1560 Pro might be a better choice. If you have ample space, the Innovator 16’s built-in display can enhance your workflow.
- Your Experience Level: If you’re new to digital art, the VK1560 Pro’s affordability and ease of use might be a good starting point. Experienced artists might appreciate the advanced features and customization options offered by the Innovator 16.
The Final Word: A Journey of Artistic Discovery
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 offer excellent features and value. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can select the tablet that best complements your artistic journey and empowers you to create stunning digital masterpieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro with my iPad?
A: No, the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro is designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. It is not compatible with iPads or other mobile devices.
Q2: Does the XP-Pen Innovator 16 have any lag or screen flicker?
A: The XP-Pen Innovator 16 is generally known for its smooth performance and minimal lag. However, some users might experience slight screen flicker depending on their system configuration and software drivers.
Q3: Can I use the pen pressure sensitivity with different drawing programs?
A: Yes, both tablets support pen pressure sensitivity across various drawing programs, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Q4: Do I need a special pen for these tablets?
A: No, both tablets come with their own dedicated pens, which are included in the package. You don’t need to purchase separate pens.
Q5: Can I use both tablets with my laptop?
A: Yes, both the VK1560 Pro and the Innovator 16 are compatible with laptops that run Windows or macOS operating systems.
