Quick summary
- The G960S Plus comes with a sleek, black finish and a slightly thicker profile compared to the Deco Pro MW.
- However, the Star G960S Plus, despite being slightly more expensive, offers a larger active area and a higher resolution, making it a better choice for users who require more space and detail in their artwork.
- However, if you prioritize a larger active area, higher resolution, and a more traditional design, the Star G960S Plus might be a better fit.
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 XP-Pen Deco Pro MW and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Deco Pro MW boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black, textured surface that provides a firm grip. Its compact size (10 x 6.25 inches) makes it ideal for smaller workspaces. The tablet features eight customizable shortcut keys on the side, offering convenient access to frequently used functions.
On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus adopts a more conventional design with a larger active area (9.5 x 5.6 inches). It also features eight customizable shortcut keys, but they are positioned on the top edge of the tablet, which may be less intuitive for some users. The G960S Plus comes with a sleek, black finish and a slightly thicker profile compared to the Deco Pro MW.
Pen Technology and Performance
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s latest passive pen technology, offering a natural, pressure-sensitive drawing experience. The Deco Pro MW’s pen (P03) boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing precise control and responsiveness. It also includes tilt support, allowing you to create nuanced strokes with varying angles. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with two programmable side buttons for additional functionality.
The Star G960S Plus also features a pressure-sensitive pen (P01) with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. However, the pen is slightly heavier than the P03, and its side buttons are not programmable.
Active Area and Resolution
The Deco Pro MW offers a smaller active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, making it suitable for users who prioritize portability and space-saving. The tablet’s resolution is 5080 LPI, providing a smooth and detailed drawing experience.
The Star G960S Plus, with its larger active area of 9.5 x 5.6 inches, offers more room for creative exploration. It boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, delivering even finer detail and precision.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets connect to your computer via USB cable, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. They are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS, offering wide-ranging compatibility for diverse user setups.
Software and Driver Support
XP-Pen provides comprehensive driver and software support for both tablets. The drivers offer customization options for pen pressure, shortcut keys, and other settings. The software includes features like a screen calibration tool, a customizable pen settings panel, and a pressure sensitivity test tool.
Price and Value for Money
The XP-Pen Deco Pro MW is generally priced more affordably than the Star G960S Plus. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability without compromising on quality.
However, the Star G960S Plus, despite being slightly more expensive, offers a larger active area and a higher resolution, making it a better choice for users who require more space and detail in their artwork.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the choice between the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a portable, budget-friendly tablet with excellent pen performance, the Deco Pro MW is a solid option. However, if you prioritize a larger active area, higher resolution, and a more traditional design, the Star G960S Plus might be a better fit.
Beyond the Comparison: Embracing Your Creative Journey
Choosing the right drawing tablet is just the first step in your creative journey. With a powerful tool in hand, you can explore countless artistic possibilities, from digital painting and sketching to graphic design and animation. Don’t be afraid to experiment, push your boundaries, and discover your unique artistic voice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW or Star G960S Plus with my smartphone or tablet?
A: While both tablets connect to computers via USB cable, they are not directly compatible with smartphones or tablets. However, you can connect them to your Android device using an OTG adapter.
Q: Do the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW and Star G960S Plus come with a screen protector?
A: Neither tablet comes with a screen protector. You can purchase a separate screen protector to protect your tablet from scratches and wear.
Q: Are the shortcut keys on the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW and Star G960S Plus customizable?
A: Yes, both tablets allow you to customize the function of their shortcut keys through the XP-Pen driver software.
Q: What is the difference between the P01 and P03 pens?
A: The P01 pen is included with the Star G960S Plus, while the P03 pen is included with the Deco Pro MW. Both pens offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. However, the P03 pen is lighter and has programmable side buttons, while the P01 pen is slightly heavier and its side buttons are not programmable.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Deco Pro MW‘s compact size and affordable price make it an excellent entry-level option, while the Star G960S Plus offers a larger active area for those who want more space to work.
