Drawing Tablet Showdown: Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 vs XP Pen Deco Fun XS – Which One Should You Buy?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with an overwhelming array of options. Two popular contenders often top the list for beginners and casual artists – the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS. Both tablets offer affordability and portability, but which one emerges as the champion in this head-to-head showdown? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS share a similar design philosophy, prioritizing compact size and lightweight construction. Both tablets boast a sleek, black aesthetic with a minimalist approach, making them ideal for travel or desk setups.

Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 features a slightly larger active area than the Deco Fun XS, measuring 6.3 x 3.9 inches. It comes with four customizable shortcut keys located on the top edge, offering convenient access to frequently used functions. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS: The Deco Fun XS boasts a slightly smaller active area at 6 x 3.9 inches. It lacks dedicated shortcut keys but compensates with a single, multi-function button located on the front. The tablet’s surface is smooth and slightly textured, providing a decent drawing experience.

Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy

Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect for digital artists, allowing for nuanced line variations and brush strokes. Both tablets offer a respectable level of pressure sensitivity, but there are some subtle differences.

Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is considered a standard level for entry-level tablets. This sensitivity translates to smooth transitions between light and heavy lines, offering a decent level of control.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS: The Deco Fun XS also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of accuracy and control as the RTE 100. Both tablets deliver a responsive and consistent drawing experience, making them suitable for various artistic styles.

Pen and Compatibility

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both tablets offer comfortable and responsive pens. Let’s explore their key features.

Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 comes with a passive pen that requires no battery or charging. The pen features two buttons, allowing for customizable shortcuts. The pen’s tip is smooth and responsive, providing a natural drawing experience.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS: The Deco Fun XS also features a passive pen with two buttons. Similar to the RTE 100, the pen is comfortable to hold and provides a smooth drawing experience. The pen’s tip is slightly more textured than the RTE 100’s, offering a slightly different feel.

Compatibility: Both tablets offer excellent compatibility with Windows and macOS operating systems. They work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

Software and Drivers

Both tablets come with accompanying software and drivers that enhance their functionality and provide customization options.

Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 comes with Huion’s driver software, which allows for customization of pen pressure, shortcut keys, and other settings. The driver is generally stable and user-friendly, offering a simple setup process.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS: The Deco Fun XS also comes with XP-Pen’s driver software, offering similar customization options as Huion’s driver. The XP-Pen driver is known for its stability and ease of use, providing a seamless integration with the tablet.

Price and Value

Both tablets offer excellent value for their price point, making them attractive options for budget-conscious artists.

Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 is generally priced slightly lower than the Deco Fun XS. Its larger active area and dedicated shortcut keys make it a compelling choice for artists who prioritize space and convenience.

XP-Pen Deco Fun XS: The Deco Fun XS is slightly more expensive than the RTE 100. Its compact size and multi-function button make it ideal for travel and portability.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet

Ultimately, the choice between the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 if:

• You prioritize a larger active area for more comfortable drawing.
• You prefer dedicated shortcut keys for quick access to functions.
• You’re on a tighter budget.

Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS if:

• You prioritize portability and a compact design.
• You prefer a multi-function button for quick access to functions.
• You’re willing to pay a slightly higher price for a smaller, more portable option.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

While the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are both solid choices for beginners and casual artists, there are other factors to consider before making a final decision.

• Drawing Style: Consider your preferred drawing style. If you primarily draw intricate details or require precise control, a tablet with higher pressure sensitivity or a larger active area might be more suitable.
• Software Compatibility: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your chosen drawing software. Most tablets work seamlessly with popular programs, but it’s always a good idea to check compatibility before making a purchase.
• Reviews and User Experience: Reading reviews from other users can provide valuable insights into the tablet’s performance and overall user experience.

The Final Word: A Tale of Two Tablets

Both the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offer excellent value for their price point, providing a solid entry point into the world of digital art. The RTE 100 excels in its larger active area and dedicated shortcut keys, while the Deco Fun XS boasts portability and a minimalist design. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What are the main differences between the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS?

A: The main differences lie in their active area size, shortcut keys, and price. The RTE 100 offers a larger active area and dedicated shortcut keys, while the Deco Fun XS is more compact and portable. The RTE 100 is generally priced lower than the Deco Fun XS.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both tablets are excellent choices for beginners. The RTE 100’s larger active area and dedicated shortcut keys can be more comfortable for beginners, while the Deco Fun XS‘s portability makes it ideal for on-the-go sketching.

Q: What is the best way to choose between these two tablets?

A: Consider your drawing style, budget, and portability needs. If you prioritize space and comfort, the RTE 100 is a good choice. If you value portability and a compact design, the Deco Fun XS is a better option.

Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones?

A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers and laptops. They are not compatible with smartphones.

Q: Can I use these tablets for gaming?

A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can be used for gaming, although they lack the precision and responsiveness of dedicated gaming tablets.