Quick Overview
- On the other hand, the Wacom One by Wacom Medium adopts a more modern approach with a white plastic body and a subtle textured finish.
- However, the larger active area of the Wacom One by Wacom Medium allows for a higher pixel density, resulting in a smoother and more detailed drawing experience.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Huion W58 and the Wacom One by Wacom Medium. Both tablets offer excellent features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. But which one comes out on top? This in-depth comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium both boast a sleek and minimalist design, prioritizing functionality over extravagant aesthetics. The Huion W58 features a black plastic body with a textured surface, providing a firm grip. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it portable and easy to carry around. On the other hand, the Wacom One by Wacom Medium adopts a more modern approach with a white plastic body and a subtle textured finish. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the W58, but its sturdy build quality ensures durability.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface where your pen strokes are registered. A larger active area provides more space for creative expression, while a higher resolution delivers greater precision and detail. The Huion W58 offers an active area of 6.3 x 3.9 inches, while the Wacom One by Wacom Medium boasts a larger active area of 13.3 x 8 inches. This difference in size is significant, especially for users who prefer to work on a larger canvas or require more space for intricate details.
In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a respectable 5080 LPI (lines per inch), ensuring accurate and responsive pen strokes. However, the larger active area of the Wacom One by Wacom Medium allows for a higher pixel density, resulting in a smoother and more detailed drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The Huion W58’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle variations in line weight and brush strokes. The Wacom One by Wacom Medium also boasts 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness.
Both pens are battery-free and rely on electromagnetic resonance technology for accurate pen tracking. The Wacom One by Wacom Medium’s pen features a more ergonomic design with a textured grip, ensuring a comfortable and natural drawing experience. It also includes two side buttons that can be customized for various functions, enhancing workflow efficiency.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options, catering to different user preferences. The Huion W58 can be connected to your computer via a USB cable, while the Wacom One by Wacom Medium offers both USB and Bluetooth connectivity. The Bluetooth option provides wireless freedom, allowing you to draw without the hassle of tangled cables.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with your existing workflow. They also support various creative software applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Software and Drivers
Huion and Wacom both provide dedicated software and drivers for their respective tablets. Huion’s driver software offers basic customization options, including pen pressure sensitivity and button mapping. Wacom’s driver software, however, is more comprehensive and feature-rich. It provides advanced customization options, including pen pressure curves, pen tilt sensitivity, and customizable express keys.
Wacom’s software also includes a range of features that enhance productivity, such as the Wacom Desktop Center, which allows you to manage your tablet settings and access tutorials. Additionally, Wacom offers a subscription-based service called Wacom One Creative Pack, which provides access to a suite of creative software applications, including Clip Studio Paint, Corel Painter Essentials, and Autodesk SketchBook.
Price and Value
The Huion W58 is generally priced lower than the Wacom One by Wacom Medium, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the Wacom One by Wacom Medium offers a more comprehensive feature set and a larger active area, justifying its higher price tag. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and budget.
Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences.
Huion W58:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious users, beginners, and those who prioritize portability.
- Pros: Affordable, compact and lightweight, responsive pen, good pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: Smaller active area, basic software, limited customization options.
Wacom One by Wacom Medium:
- Ideal for: Professional artists, aspiring artists who want a larger drawing space, and users who prioritize features and customization.
- Pros: Larger active area, more ergonomic pen, advanced software, Bluetooth connectivity, extensive customization options.
- Cons: Higher price, slightly heavier and less portable.
The Verdict: A Matter of Perspective
Both the Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The Huion W58 stands out as a budget-friendly option for beginners and users who value portability, while the Wacom One by Wacom Medium caters to professional artists and those who prioritize a larger active area, advanced software, and extensive customization options. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
The Final Word: Beyond the Comparison
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal journey. While this comparison has highlighted the key differences between the Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium, it’s essential to consider your own artistic workflow, budget, and personal preferences. Experimenting with both tablets, if possible, can provide valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that empowers you to unleash your creativity and bring your artistic visions to life.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: What is the difference in pen feel between the two tablets?
A1: The Huion W58’s pen has a slightly more plastic feel, while the Wacom One by Wacom Medium’s pen offers a more premium and natural feel due to its textured grip and ergonomic design.
Q2: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range?
A2: Yes, there are other drawing tablets in the mid-range market, such as the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro and the Wacom Intuos Pro Small. These tablets offer similar features and price points to the Huion W58 and Wacom One by Wacom Medium, so it’s worth exploring those options as well.
Q3: Do I need to buy a screen protector for my tablet?
A3: While not strictly necessary, a screen protector can help protect your tablet’s screen from scratches and wear and tear. However, it’s important to choose a screen protector that’s compatible with your tablet and doesn’t interfere with its functionality.
Q4: Is there a learning curve for using a drawing tablet?
A4: While there is a slight learning curve, most drawing tablets are intuitive to use. It’s recommended to practice basic drawing techniques and get familiar with the pen pressure sensitivity and other features.
Q5: Can I use a drawing tablet with my smartphone or iPad?
A5: Some drawing tablets, like the Wacom One by Wacom Medium, offer Bluetooth connectivity and are compatible with certain smartphones and tablets. However, it’s important to check the compatibility specifications before purchasing.
