Quick notes
- The VK1560 features a slim profile and a textured surface, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a slightly larger footprint with a more traditional tablet aesthetic.
- The Artist Pro 16, while more expensive, offers the added value of a built-in display, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and those seeking a more immersive drawing experience.
- The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, offers the convenience of a built-in display, a higher resolution, and a more premium build quality.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive comparison aims to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your artistic needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 boast a sleek and ergonomic design, prioritizing comfort during extended drawing sessions. The VK1560 features a slim profile and a textured surface, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a slightly larger footprint with a more traditional tablet aesthetic.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The VK1560’s plastic casing feels slightly less premium compared to the Artist Pro 16’s aluminum frame. However, both tablets are durable enough for everyday use.
Active Area and Resolution
The VK1560 offers a generous active area of 11.6 inches, providing ample space for detailed drawings and precise strokes. The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, boasts a slightly smaller active area of 10.6 inches. However, it compensates with a higher resolution of 5080 LPI compared to the VK1560’s 4000 LPI. This translates to greater precision and responsiveness, particularly for intricate details and fine lines.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize battery-free pressure-sensitive pens with a high level of sensitivity. The VK1560 features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Artist Pro 16 offers a slightly higher 8192 levels. This difference is barely noticeable in practical use, as both pens provide a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Display and Color Accuracy
The VK1560 is a pen tablet without a display, meaning you’ll need to rely on your computer screen for visual feedback. The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, equipped with a 15.6-inch IPS LCD screen with a 1920×1080 resolution. This provides a direct drawing experience, eliminating the need for constant screen switching.
The Artist Pro 16’s display boasts a 72% NTSC color gamut, offering decent color accuracy for most creative tasks. However, for professional work requiring high color fidelity, it might fall short.
Features and Connectivity
Both tablets offer a range of features to enhance your drawing experience. The VK1560 includes 8 customizable shortcut keys and a touch ring, allowing for quick access to frequently used commands. The Artist Pro 16 features 8 customizable shortcut keys and two touch strips, offering greater flexibility for personalized workflows.
Connectivity-wise, both tablets utilize USB-C ports, ensuring compatibility with modern devices. The VK1560 also includes an optional wireless module for a clutter-free setup.
Price and Value
The Veikk Studio VK1560 is generally more affordable than the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists, particularly those new to digital art. The Artist Pro 16, while more expensive, offers the added value of a built-in display, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and those seeking a more immersive drawing experience.
Choosing the Right Tablet
Ultimately, the best choice between the Veikk Studio VK1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Consider the VK1560 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You prefer a larger active area.
- You’re comfortable with using a pen tablet without a display.
Consider the Artist Pro 16 if:
- You’re willing to invest in a pen display tablet.
- You prioritize a direct drawing experience.
- You need a higher resolution for intricate details.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict is In!
Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 are excellent drawing tablets that cater to different needs and budgets. The VK1560 shines with its affordability, large active area, and customizable features. The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, offers the convenience of a built-in display, a higher resolution, and a more premium build quality.
The choice ultimately comes down to your individual priorities. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a generous active area, the VK1560 is a solid choice. If you value a direct drawing experience and are willing to spend a bit more, the Artist Pro 16 is a compelling option.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Is the Veikk Studio VK1560 compatible with macOS?
A: Yes, the VK1560 is compatible with macOS.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 come with a stand?
A: No, the Artist Pro 16 does not include a stand. It’s recommended to purchase a separate stand for optimal viewing angles.
Q: Can I use the VK1560 wirelessly?
A: Yes, the VK1560 can be used wirelessly with the optional wireless module.
Q: What is the difference between a pen tablet and a pen display tablet?
A: A pen tablet requires you to draw on the tablet surface while viewing your work on a separate computer screen. A pen display tablet incorporates a built-in screen, allowing you to draw directly on the display.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The VK1560 is more affordable, while the Artist Pro 16 offers a more intuitive drawing experience with its built-in display.