Quick Overview
- Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 12 Pro share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and minimalist look.
- The Pro version offers a more premium feel, with a slightly heavier construction and a more robust stand.
- The Pro version offers **eight customizable buttons** on the pen and **eight express keys** on the tablet, providing even more flexibility and control.
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 XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro. Both offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 12 Pro share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and minimalist look. The drawing surface is made of a textured, anti-glare film that provides a comfortable and natural drawing experience. However, there are some subtle differences in their overall construction:
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: This model boasts a lightweight and portable design, making it ideal for artists on the go. The tablet itself is made of sturdy plastic, while the stand is a simple, adjustable, and foldable design.
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro: The Pro version offers a more premium feel, with a slightly heavier construction and a more robust stand. The stand is also adjustable and allows for multiple viewing angles.
Display and Screen Size
Both tablets feature a 11.6-inch display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing a spacious canvas for your artwork. The screen technology is where the main difference lies:
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: This model utilizes a **IPS LCD** display, which offers good color accuracy and viewing angles. However, the color gamut is limited compared to the Pro version.
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro: The Pro version features a **laminated IPS LCD** display with a wider color gamut (92% NTSC), resulting in more vibrant and accurate colors. The laminated screen also eliminates the parallax effect, providing a more natural drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets come equipped with a battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen that offers a natural and responsive drawing experience. However, there are some differences in their pen technology:
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The pen features **8192 levels of pressure sensitivity**, providing a wide range of pressure response for subtle strokes and expressive lines.
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro: The Pro version boasts **8192 levels of pressure sensitivity** with **tilt support**, allowing you to create more nuanced strokes and effects. This feature is particularly useful for artists who rely on pen tilt for shading and brush strokes.
Other Features and Connectivity
Both tablets offer a range of features and connectivity options:
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: This model includes **two customizable buttons** on the pen and **six express keys** on the tablet, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions. It also features **USB-C connectivity** for a faster and more stable connection.
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro: The Pro version offers **eight customizable buttons** on the pen and **eight express keys** on the tablet, providing even more flexibility and control. It also features **USB-C connectivity** and includes **a free carrying case**, making it more convenient for travel.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is generally more affordable than the Artist 12 Pro. However, the Pro version offers a significant upgrade in features, including a wider color gamut, tilt support, and more customizable buttons. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your budget and specific needs.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation:
- Best for: Budget-conscious artists, beginners, or those who prioritize portability.
- Pros: Affordable price, lightweight and portable design, good color accuracy, responsive pen.
- Cons: Limited color gamut, no tilt support, fewer customizable buttons.
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro:
- Best for: Professionals, serious hobbyists, or those who value color accuracy, tilt support, and customization.
- Pros: Wider color gamut, tilt support, more customizable buttons, premium build quality, included carrying case.
- Cons: Higher price.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Final Thought
Choosing between the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 12 Pro ultimately boils down to your individual needs and budget. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize portability, the 2nd Generation is a solid choice. However, if you value color accuracy, tilt support, and customization, the Pro version offers a significant upgrade in features and performance.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation or Artist 12 Pro with a Mac?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: What software is compatible with these tablets?
A: Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and more.
Q: Do I need a special driver to use these tablets?
A: Yes, you will need to download and install the appropriate driver for your operating system from the XP-Pen website.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Yes, these tablets can be used for photo editing tasks such as retouching, cropping, and color correction.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both tablets come with a one-year warranty.
