Huion Inspiroy H420X vs XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The Definitive Drawing Tablet Duel You Can’t Afford to Miss!

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 H420X and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both tablets offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boast a sleek and modern design. The Huion Inspiroy H420X features a compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable. Its black and silver aesthetic gives it a professional look. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, is slightly larger and heavier but still remains manageable for travel. It comes in a stylish black finish with a silver trim.

In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and feel sturdy. The Huion Inspiroy H420X features a textured surface that provides a good grip, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with a smooth surface that feels comfortable to touch. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation has a slight edge in terms of build quality due to its slightly thicker frame and more robust construction.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area refers to the working space on the tablet that translates to the screen. The Huion Inspiroy H420X offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, which is slightly smaller than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s 11.6 x 6.5-inch active area. This difference can be significant for artists who prefer a larger working space.

The resolution, measured in lines per inch (LPI), determines the tablet’s sensitivity and precision. The Huion Inspiroy H420X boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a higher resolution of 5080 LPI. This higher resolution translates to smoother lines and more accurate strokes, especially for intricate details.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens to replicate the natural feel of drawing on paper. The Huion Inspiroy H420X’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and shading. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a comparable level of accuracy and responsiveness.

The pens themselves have different features. The Huion Inspiroy H420X’s pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with two side buttons for customization. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s pen, on the other hand, features a slightly heavier design and a more ergonomic grip. It also includes eight customizable buttons, providing greater flexibility for shortcuts and commands.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Both tablets offer multiple connectivity options. The Huion Inspiroy H420X connects to your computer via USB cable, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation provides both USB and Type-C connectivity. This versatility makes the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation more compatible with a wider range of devices.

In terms of compatibility, both tablets work seamlessly with Windows and macOS operating systems. They are also compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.

Display and Screen Features

The Huion Inspiroy H420X is a tablet without a display, meaning you’ll be drawing on the tablet’s surface while viewing your work on the computer screen. This setup can be a bit challenging for beginners, as it requires some getting used to.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. This allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s screen, providing a more immersive and natural drawing experience. The display offers vibrant colors, accurate color reproduction, and a wide viewing angle, making it ideal for professional and creative work.

Price and Value for Money

Both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are priced affordably, making them attractive options for budget-conscious artists. The Huion Inspiroy H420X is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation.

However, considering the additional features offered by the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, such as the display, its slightly higher price tag is justified. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.

Which Tablet is Right for You?

The choice between the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation boils down to your preferences and priorities.

Huion Inspiroy H420X is a good choice for:

• Budget-conscious artists who prioritize affordability.
• Beginners who are new to drawing tablets and want a simple and easy-to-use device.
• Artists who prefer portability and want a compact and lightweight tablet.

XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better option for:

• Artists who prefer working directly on a screen and want a more immersive drawing experience.
• Professional artists who require a higher level of precision and detail.
• Artists who need a larger active area for their artwork.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Drawing Companion

Both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offer compelling features and value for money. The Huion Inspiroy H420X is a budget-friendly option for beginners and artists who prioritize portability, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation caters to professionals and those seeking a more immersive drawing experience with its display. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Questions You May Have

1. What are the main differences between the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation?

The main difference lies in the display. The Huion Inspiroy H420X is a tablet without a display, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation features a 11.6-inch IPS display. This difference significantly impacts the drawing experience, with the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offering a more immersive and natural feel.

2. Which tablet is better for beginners?

Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Huion Inspiroy H420X is slightly simpler to use due to its lack of display, making it easier for beginners to get started. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s display can provide a more intuitive and engaging learning experience.

3. Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?

Both tablets primarily connect to computers via USB or Type-C. While there might be some workarounds, they are not designed for direct smartphone connectivity.

4. Do these tablets come with software?

Both tablets include driver software for Windows and macOS, allowing you to customize settings and use the tablets with various drawing applications. However, they do not typically come bundled with specific drawing software.

5. What are the pros and cons of each tablet?

Huion Inspiroy H420X:

• Pros: Affordable, portable, lightweight, simple to use.
• Cons: No display, smaller active area, fewer pen buttons.

XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation:

• Pros: Display, larger active area, more pen buttons, versatile connectivity.
• Cons: More expensive, heavier, not as portable.