Quick Overview
- The active area is the responsive drawing surface of the tablet, and it’s a crucial factor in determining the overall experience.
- The Huion Inspiroy H1161 utilizes a USB connection for power and data transfer, while the XP-Pen Innovator 16 offers a USB-C connection for enhanced compatibility and faster data transfer.
- If you’re looking for an affordable and portable option with a large active area, the Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a solid choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you determine which one best suits your artistic needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 boast a sleek and modern design, prioritizing functionality and user comfort. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 features a black plastic construction with a textured surface, providing a firm grip during use. Its compact size and lightweight design make it portable and easy to transport. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, boasts a more premium feel with its aluminum alloy frame and black plastic accents. While slightly larger and heavier than the H1161, it feels robust and durable.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the responsive drawing surface of the tablet, and it’s a crucial factor in determining the overall experience. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 offers a generous 10×6.25 inch active area, providing ample space for creative expression. The XP-Pen Innovator 16 takes it a step further with a 15.6-inch active area, offering a more immersive and expansive drawing experience. Both tablets boast a resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch), ensuring precise linework and smooth transitions.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the artist’s primary tool, and both tablets offer impressive pen technology. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 comes with a battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for nuanced strokes and natural brush variations, mimicking the feel of traditional art tools. The XP-Pen Innovator 16 also features a battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness and precision. Both pens offer customizable side buttons for shortcuts and navigation.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a tablet without a display, meaning that you’ll need to rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback. This can be a drawback for some artists who prefer the immediacy of a screen-based experience. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, features a built-in 15.6-inch full HD display with a 178° viewing angle. This allows for a more direct and intuitive drawing experience, as you can see your strokes in real-time on the tablet itself. The Innovator 16 boasts a 72% NTSC color gamut, offering vibrant and accurate colors for a professional-grade experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer reliable connectivity options. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 utilizes a USB connection for power and data transfer, while the XP-Pen Innovator 16 offers a USB-C connection for enhanced compatibility and faster data transfer. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, and they work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Software and Features
Both Huion and XP-Pen offer dedicated software for customizing pen settings, assigning shortcut keys, and managing tablet settings. Huion’s software is user-friendly and intuitive, allowing for easy adjustments to pen pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and other parameters. XP-Pen’s software provides similar functionality, offering a comprehensive set of tools for fine-tuning the tablet’s performance to your liking.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Innovator 16, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. Its affordability doesn’t compromise on quality, as it delivers a solid drawing experience with a generous active area and responsive pen technology. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, while more expensive, offers a premium experience with its built-in display, larger active area, and enhanced color accuracy. The price difference reflects the additional features and capabilities offered by the Innovator 16.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable and portable option with a large active area, the Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a solid choice. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned artists who prioritize affordability and functionality. If you desire a more immersive and professional experience with a built-in display and enhanced color accuracy, the XP-Pen Innovator 16 is the better option. It’s a great choice for artists who value precision, versatility, and a screen-based workflow.
Final Verdict: Huion Inspiroy H1161 vs XP-Pen Innovator 16
Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 excels in its affordability, portability, and generous active area, making it ideal for budget-conscious artists. The XP-Pen Innovator 16 stands out with its built-in display, larger active area, and enhanced color accuracy, providing a more immersive and professional drawing experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Does the Huion Inspiroy H1161 have tilt support?
A: Yes, the Huion Inspiroy H1161 supports tilt functionality, allowing for natural brushstrokes and shading effects.
Q: Is the XP-Pen Innovator 16 compatible with Android devices?
A: The XP-Pen Innovator 16 is not officially compatible with Android devices. However, there are third-party apps and workarounds that may enable limited functionality on certain Android devices.
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is a pressure-sensitive input device that allows you to control a cursor on your computer screen. A drawing monitor, like the XP-Pen Innovator 16, combines a drawing tablet with a built-in display, providing a direct and immersive drawing experience.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range worth considering?
A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets in the mid-range category worth considering, such as the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro, the Wacom Intuos Pro Small, and the Huion Kamvas 13.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 are suitable for beginners. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 offers a more affordable option with a large active area, while the XP-Pen Innovator 16 provides a more immersive experience with its built-in display. The best choice for beginners depends on their budget and preferences.
