Main points
- If you prioritize portability, a comfortable drawing experience, and a minimalist design, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a great option.
- However, if you require a larger active area, a built-in display, and a more affordable price point, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP is a compelling choice.
- Its pen display provides a direct drawing experience, eliminating the need for a separate monitor, and its lower price makes it an attractive….
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 Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Both offer impressive features and performance, but cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a focus on functionality. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it portable and easy to transport. The tablet surface is smooth and textured, providing a comfortable drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, features a larger and more robust design. Its larger active area provides ample space for intricate drawings and detailed work. The tablet’s plastic construction feels durable and sturdy, though it may be slightly heavier than the Xencelabs.
Pen Performance and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets offer exceptional pen performance and pressure sensitivity. The Xencelabs Pen Medium features a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing precise control and responsiveness. The pen has a comfortable grip and a balanced weight, making it feel natural and intuitive to use.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring accurate line variation and subtle shading. Its pen boasts a sleek and ergonomic design, with customizable buttons for shortcuts and ease of use.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a pen tablet, meaning it does not have a built-in display. This allows for greater portability and affordability. Users can connect the tablet to any compatible display, giving them the flexibility to work on their preferred monitor.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, however, is a pen display, featuring a 15.6-inch IPS LCD screen with a 1920×1080 resolution. This provides a direct drawing experience, eliminating the need for a separate monitor. The display offers vibrant colors and accurate color reproduction, making it ideal for professional artists and designers.
Software and Features
Both tablets come with compatible software for customization and functionality. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a dedicated driver with customizable pen settings, button mapping, and pressure sensitivity adjustments. It also includes a handy software utility for creating custom shortcuts and managing tablet settings.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP includes the XP-Pen Artist software, which provides similar features to the Xencelabs driver. It allows for pen customization, button mapping, and pressure sensitivity adjustments. Additionally, it offers features like screen rotation, color calibration, and shortcut management.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium connects to your computer via USB-C, offering a reliable and fast connection. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS, making it a versatile option for various operating systems.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also utilizes a USB-C connection for seamless connectivity. It is compatible with Windows and macOS, offering broad compatibility for most users.
Price and Value
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. However, it offers a premium build quality, a comfortable pen, and a minimalist design. The absence of a display makes it a more affordable option for users who prefer to work on their existing monitors.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, despite its lower price point, provides a larger active area, a built-in display, and a more feature-rich software experience. Its affordability makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious artists and designers.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, a comfortable drawing experience, and a minimalist design, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a great option. Its compact size and battery-free pen make it ideal for travel and on-the-go work.
However, if you require a larger active area, a built-in display, and a more affordable price point, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP is a compelling choice. Its pen display provides a direct drawing experience, eliminating the need for a separate monitor, and its lower price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
While this comparison focuses on the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, it’s important to consider other factors beyond the technical specifications. Your personal drawing style, preferred software, and budget all contribute to your decision.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that fits your workflow, enhances your creativity, and inspires you to create beautiful art.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium with my iPad?
A: No, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is designed for use with computers and is not compatible with iPads.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP have any lag?
A: The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP features a low latency display, minimizing lag and providing a smooth drawing experience.
Q: Can I customize the buttons on both tablets?
A: Yes, both tablets allow you to customize the buttons on the pen and the tablet itself for shortcuts and ease of use.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a straightforward and intuitive experience, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP provides a direct drawing experience with its built-in display.
Q: Are there any other pen tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are many other excellent pen tablets on the market, including the Wacom Intuos Pro, the Huion Kamvas Pro 16, and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro. It’s recommended to research and compare different options based on your needs and budget.
