Why the Wacom One 12 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium Debate is a Game-Changer for Artists

Essential Information

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, adopts a more sophisticated look with a brushed aluminum finish and rounded edges.
It also features a pressure-sensitive display, allowing you to see your strokes directly on the tablet’s surface, eliminating the need for a separate monitor.
The choice between the Wacom One 12 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

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 Wacom One 12 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium**. Both offer excellent features and functionalities, but each caters to different preferences and needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

Article Outline

Design and Build Quality
Active Area and Display
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Buttons and Customization
Software and Drivers

Design and Build Quality

The Wacom One 12 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium both boast sleek and modern designs, but their approach to aesthetics differs. The Wacom One 12 features a minimalist design with a black plastic frame and a textured surface. It’s lightweight and compact, making it portable and easy to store. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, adopts a more sophisticated look with a brushed aluminum finish and rounded edges. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the Wacom One 12, giving it a more premium feel.

Active Area and Display

The active area, or the drawing surface, plays a crucial role in the overall user experience. The Wacom One 12 offers a 11.6-inch active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. However, it lacks a built-in display, requiring you to use a separate monitor. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, boasts a larger 13.3-inch active area, making it ideal for those who prefer a more spacious drawing canvas. It also features a pressure-sensitive display, allowing you to see your strokes directly on the tablet’s surface, eliminating the need for a separate monitor.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens for a natural drawing experience. The Wacom One 12 comes with the Wacom One Creative Pen, which offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for nuanced strokes and a wide range of line weights. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, however, takes it a step further with its Pen 2. This pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing even greater accuracy and responsiveness. It also boasts a lower activation force, making it feel more natural and responsive.

Buttons and Customization

Both tablets offer a range of buttons and customization options to enhance user workflow. The Wacom One 12 comes with six customizable buttons on the pen and four express keys on the tablet. These buttons can be programmed to perform various functions, such as switching tools, undoing actions, or adjusting brush sizes. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium goes above and beyond with its customizable pen and the included Quick Keys. The Pen 2 has two side buttons, while the Quick Keys offer eight programmable buttons, providing even more flexibility and control.

Software and Drivers

The Wacom One 12 is compatible with Wacom’s proprietary software, Wacom Desktop Center. This software allows you to customize pen settings, manage express keys, and access various drawing tools. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, utilizes its own driver software, Xencelabs Control Panel. This software offers similar functionalities to Wacom Desktop Center, including pen customization, button programming, and driver updates.

Price and Value

The Wacom One 12 is generally more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists and designers. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, pressure-sensitive display, and advanced pen technology. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.

Wacom One 12 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: Which One to Choose?

The choice between the Wacom One 12 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

Choose the Wacom One 12 if:

You are on a tight budget.
You prefer a compact and portable tablet.
You are comfortable using a separate monitor for drawing.

Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:

You value a larger active area and pressure-sensitive display.
You prioritize pen accuracy and responsiveness.
You need a tablet with more customizable buttons and features.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison

While the Wacom One 12 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer compelling features, it’s essential to consider other factors beyond the comparison. Your drawing style, preferred software, and overall workflow all play a role in determining the ideal tablet for you.

For example, if you primarily work with digital painting software, the pressure-sensitive display of the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium might be a significant advantage. However, if you primarily work with vector-based software, the Wacom One 12’s affordability and portability might be more appealing.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right tablet is to try both options if possible. This will allow you to experience the differences firsthand and make an informed decision based on your personal preferences.