Quick Overview
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a thin profile and a black frame.
- If you prioritize a seamless and immersive drawing experience and are willing to invest in a display tablet, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget and prefer a more portable option, the Star G960s offers a compelling alternative.
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 XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Star G960s. Both offer impressive features and functionalities, but understanding their differences is crucial to making an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will explore the key aspects of each tablet, helping you determine which one best suits your artistic needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a thin profile and a black frame. Its active area of 11.6 inches offers ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Star G960s, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a larger, rectangular form factor. Its active area measures 8.5 inches, which might feel slightly cramped for users accustomed to larger drawing surfaces. However, its compact size makes it more portable and convenient for travel. Both tablets are lightweight and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor for artists, as it allows for nuanced strokes and varying line thicknesses. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing exceptional accuracy and responsiveness. Its battery-free pen, the PA2, features a comfortable grip and eight customizable buttons, enhancing workflow efficiency.
The XP-Pen Star G960s also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and natural drawing experience. Its pen, the P03, is lightweight and ergonomic, offering a comfortable grip and two customizable buttons. While both tablets offer comparable pressure sensitivity, the Artist 12 2nd Generation’s pen features more buttons, providing greater customization options.
Display and Resolution
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a display tablet, meaning it comes equipped with a built-in screen. This allows artists to draw directly on the display, offering a more immersive and intuitive experience. The tablet features a 1920×1080 resolution, delivering crisp and vibrant colors. Its laminated screen reduces parallax, minimizing the gap between the pen tip and the display.
The XP-Pen Star G960s, on the other hand, is a non-display tablet. This means it lacks a built-in screen and artists have to rely on their computer monitor for visual feedback. While this might seem less intuitive, it offers a more budget-friendly option. The tablet’s resolution is not directly relevant as it does not have a display.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer flexible connectivity options. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation can be connected to your computer via USB-C or HDMI, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. It also supports both Windows and macOS operating systems.
The XP-Pen Star G960s also supports USB connectivity, making it compatible with both Windows and macOS. However, it lacks HDMI connectivity, limiting its options for high-resolution displays.
Software and Features
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation comes bundled with XP-Pen’s driver software, which offers customizable settings for pen pressure, button mapping, and screen calibration. The driver also provides access to various features, including shortcut keys and gesture controls.
The XP-Pen Star G960s also includes XP-Pen’s driver software, offering similar customization options for pen pressure, button mapping, and screen calibration. It also supports shortcut keys and gesture controls, enhancing workflow efficiency.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is typically priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960s. This difference in price reflects the inclusion of a built-in display, which offers a premium drawing experience. However, the Star G960s provides a more budget-friendly option for artists who are comfortable working with a non-display tablet.
Final Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Star G960s depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a seamless and immersive drawing experience and are willing to invest in a display tablet, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice. Its built-in screen, high-resolution display, and advanced pen technology offer a premium drawing experience.
However, if you are on a tighter budget and prefer a more portable option, the Star G960s offers a compelling alternative. Its affordability, compact size, and responsive pressure sensitivity make it a suitable choice for casual artists and beginners.
Questions You May Have
Q1: What are the key differences between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Star G960s?
A1: The main difference lies in the presence of a built-in display. The Artist 12 2nd Generation is a display tablet, offering a more immersive drawing experience, while the Star G960s is a non-display tablet, relying on your computer monitor for visual feedback.
Q2: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A2: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is generally preferred by professionals due to its built-in display, which offers a more precise and intuitive workflow. However, the Star G960s can still be a viable option for professionals who prioritize portability and affordability.
Q3: Are both tablets compatible with Windows and macOS?
A3: Yes, both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Star G960s are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q4: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation without a computer?
A4: No, the Artist 12 2nd Generation requires a computer connection to function.
Q5: What is the warranty period for both tablets?
A5: Both tablets typically come with a one-year warranty. However, it’s always recommended to check the specific warranty details on the manufacturer’s website.
