Highlights
- Two popular contenders in the affordable range are the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium.
- The Huion Inspiroy H420X vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium debate is a common one among artists and designers seeking reliable and affordable drawing tools.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium features a more streamlined approach with two customizable buttons on the pen and two side buttons on the tablet.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the affordable range are the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Both offer decent features and performance, but each caters to slightly different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which drawing tablet best suits your artistic journey.
The Huion Inspiroy H420X vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium debate is a common one among artists and designers seeking reliable and affordable drawing tools. While both tablets offer a smooth drawing experience and a range of features, their strengths lie in different areas. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right choice.
Design and Build Quality
Huion Inspiroy H420X: The H420X boasts a sleek and compact design, making it easy to transport and store. Its plastic build is lightweight and feels durable enough for everyday use. The tablet surface is textured for a slightly grippy feel, which some users might find helpful for maintaining control.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium takes a more premium approach with its sleek aluminum construction. It feels robust and sturdy, exuding a professional vibe. The tablet surface is smooth and offers a comfortable drawing experience. The medium size provides ample drawing space, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.
Active Area
Huion Inspiroy H420X: The H420X offers a smaller active area of 6.3 x 3.9 inches. This might be sufficient for basic drawing and sketching, but it can feel cramped for more complex projects or users with larger hands.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a larger active area of 8.75 x 5.5 inches. This generous space allows for more comfortable and natural drawing, especially for detailed work and multi-layered projects.
Pen Technology
Huion Inspiroy H420X: The H420X comes equipped with the PW100 pen, which features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This offers a decent level of sensitivity for most users, allowing for subtle pressure variations in line thickness and brush strokes.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium utilizes the Pen 2, which also features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. However, what sets it apart is its excellent pressure sensitivity and smooth, responsive feel. The Pen 2 feels more natural and precise, offering a superior drawing experience.
Buttons and Features
Huion Inspiroy H420X: The H420X offers six customizable buttons on the pen itself, allowing for quick access to commonly used functions. The tablet also includes eight express keys, which can be programmed to suit your workflow.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium features a more streamlined approach with two customizable buttons on the pen and two side buttons on the tablet. These buttons can be programmed to your liking, offering a more minimalist and efficient workflow.
Software and Compatibility
Huion Inspiroy H420X: The H420X supports both Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes bundled with Huion’s driver software, which allows for customization of pen settings and express keys. The tablet is compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also supports Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes with its own driver software, which offers advanced customization options for pen settings, tablet buttons, and even the display of the pen cursor. The tablet is compatible with a wide range of creative software, including popular options like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Price and Value
Huion Inspiroy H420X: The H420X is priced very competitively, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. Its affordability makes it a great entry-level drawing tablet for beginners or those who are unsure about committing to a more expensive option.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium sits in a slightly higher price range than the H420X. However, it offers a premium build quality, a larger active area, and a more refined drawing experience, justifying its price tag for users who value these features.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Huion Inspiroy H420X vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium
The choice between the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
- Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, the H420X is an excellent choice. It offers a solid drawing experience at an affordable price.
- Active Area: If you need a larger active area for drawing complex projects or working with larger canvases, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the better option.
- Pen Technology: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s Pen 2 offers a more refined and precise drawing experience, making it ideal for users who prioritize accuracy and control.
- Build Quality and Design: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s premium aluminum construction and sleek design exude a professional feel and provide a more robust and durable experience.
- Software and Features: Both tablets offer decent software and customization options, but the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s driver software provides more advanced features and control.
Beyond the Comparison: Other Factors to Consider
While this comparison focuses on the Huion Inspiroy H420X and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, it’s essential to consider other factors that might influence your decision:
- Your Drawing Style: If you primarily engage in sketching and quick drawings, the H420X might be sufficient. However, if you focus on detailed work, complex illustrations, or intricate digital painting, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s larger active area and refined pen technology will be more beneficial.
- Your Skill Level: Beginners might find the H420X a good starting point, while more experienced artists might appreciate the superior drawing experience and features offered by the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium.
- Your Workflow: Consider the number of buttons you need and how you prefer to customize your drawing tools. The H420X offers more buttons, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium prioritizes a more minimalist approach.
- Your Budget: Ultimately, your budget will play a significant role in your decision. The H420X offers excellent value for its price, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium represents a premium investment.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Fit
Both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are capable drawing tablets that can enhance your creative process. The H420X provides a solid and affordable option for beginners and casual users, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium caters to more demanding artists who prioritize precision, comfort, and premium quality.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that aligns with your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Carefully consider the factors discussed above and choose the tablet that will empower you to unleash your artistic potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Huion Inspiroy H420X come with a screen protector?
A: No, the Huion Inspiroy H420X does not come with a screen protector. You can purchase one separately if you wish to protect the tablet surface.
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, not tablets.
Q: What is the difference between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium has a larger active area of 8.75 x 5.5 inches compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s active area of 6.25 x 3.88 inches. The larger active area provides more drawing space and comfort for detailed work.
Q: Can I use the Huion Inspiroy H420X with my Android phone?
A: While the H420X is primarily designed for use with computers, it might be compatible with some Android devices through a USB-C to USB-A adapter. However, compatibility might vary depending on the specific phone model and Android version.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners, the Huion Inspiroy H420X or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium?
A: For beginners, the Huion Inspiroy H420X is a good starting point due to its affordability and solid drawing experience. However, if you’re serious about pursuing digital art and have a slightly higher budget, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more refined and enjoyable drawing experience.
