Transforming Your Art: A Deep Dive into Huion Inspiroy H1161 and XP Pen Deco Fun XS – The Drawing Tablet Showdown

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS. Both offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specifications, performance, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS sport a sleek and minimalist design. The H1161 boasts a black, rectangular frame with rounded edges, while the Deco Fun XS features a more compact, circular design with a vibrant red trim. The H1161’s larger active area (10 x 6.25 inches) might feel more comfortable for those who prefer a larger drawing surface. However, the Deco Fun XS’s smaller active area (6.5 x 4 inches) offers greater portability for artists on the go.

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The H1161’s plastic construction feels slightly more robust, while the Deco Fun XS‘s lightweight design might feel a bit less substantial. Both tablets come with a textured surface that provides a comfortable drawing experience.

Pen Performance

The pen is the heart and soul of any drawing tablet, and both the H1161 and the Deco Fun XS offer decent performance. The H1161’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which translates to a more nuanced and responsive drawing experience. The Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity but with a slightly lower reporting rate (233 PPS) compared to the H1161 (266 PPS). This difference in reporting rate might be noticeable in fast-paced drawing sessions, where the H1161 might feel slightly more responsive.

Both pens come with a comfortable grip and two customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform specific actions. The H1161’s pen also features a built-in eraser, while the Deco Fun XS requires a separate eraser.

Software and Compatibility

Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The H1161 comes with Huion’s driver software, which offers customization options for pen pressure, button mapping, and other settings. The Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, utilizes XP-Pen’s driver software, which provides a similar range of customization features.

Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. However, it’s worth noting that the H1161 offers a slightly broader compatibility with other software, including Krita and Autodesk Maya.

Price and Value

The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are both priced competitively, making them attractive options for budget-conscious artists. The H1161 generally retails for a slightly higher price point compared to the Deco Fun XS. However, its larger active area, higher reporting rate, and additional features like the built-in eraser might justify the price difference for some users. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Tablet for You

Here’s a breakdown of which tablet might be the better choice for you:

Huion Inspiroy H1161:

• Best for: Artists who prioritize a large active area, high reporting rate, and a built-in eraser.
• Pros: Larger active area, higher reporting rate, built-in eraser, wider software compatibility.
• Cons: Slightly higher price point, less portable.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:

• Best for: Artists who value portability, a compact design, and an affordable price point.
• Pros: Compact and portable, affordable, sleek design.
• Cons: Smaller active area, lower reporting rate, separate eraser required.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The H1161 excels in terms of its larger active area, higher reporting rate, and built-in eraser, making it a great choice for artists who prioritize precision and responsiveness. The Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, shines in its portability, sleek design, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for artists on the go or those with a tighter budget. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use these tablets for digital painting?

A: Yes, both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are well-suited for digital painting. Their pressure sensitivity and responsiveness allow for precise brush strokes and blending.

Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones?

A: No, both the H1161 and the Deco Fun XS are primarily designed for use with computers. They are not compatible with smartphones.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both tablets are great for beginners. The H1161 offers a larger active area and a more responsive pen, which might be beneficial for learning the fundamentals of drawing. However, the Deco Fun XS‘s smaller size and affordability make it an attractive option for those starting out.

Q: Do these tablets require special drivers?

A: Yes, both tablets require dedicated drivers for optimal performance. The drivers can be downloaded from the respective manufacturers‘ websites.

Q: What are the key differences between the H1161 and the Deco Fun XS?

A: The key differences lie in their active area, reporting rate, pen features, and price. The H1161 offers a larger active area, higher reporting rate, built-in eraser, and a slightly higher price point. The Deco Fun XS features a smaller active area, lower reporting rate, separate eraser, and a more affordable price.