At a Glance
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a black and red color scheme.
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, featuring a built-in 11.
- While the VK1560 Pro doesn’t have a display, you can connect it to a high-resolution monitor for a similar visual experience.
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 Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for artists, designers, and illustrators. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro boasts a sleek and modern design with a black and silver color scheme. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a black and red color scheme. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the VK1560 Pro, but still remains relatively portable.
Both tablets have a sturdy build quality, with a solid base and a smooth, textured surface for comfortable drawing. The VK1560 Pro’s surface is slightly rougher than the Artist 12’s, which some users might find more appealing for pen pressure sensitivity.
Active Area and Resolution
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro offers a generous active area of 11.6 inches, providing ample space for creative expression. It has a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), which translates to precise and accurate linework. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation features a slightly smaller active area of 10.6 inches, but still offers a comfortable drawing experience. It boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI, matching the VK1560 Pro in this aspect.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets come equipped with battery-free pressure-sensitive pens. The VK1560 Pro’s pen offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Artist 12’s pen offers 8192 levels as well. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced and natural brush strokes, making it feel like drawing on paper.
The VK1560 Pro’s pen features a more ergonomic design with a textured grip, providing a comfortable and secure hold. The Artist 12’s pen also has a comfortable grip, but it might feel slightly thinner than the VK1560 Pro’s pen for some users.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro is a pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in display. This means you’ll need to connect it to a separate monitor for viewing your work. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, featuring a built-in 11.6-inch LCD screen. This offers a direct drawing experience, eliminating the need for a separate monitor.
The Artist 12’s display boasts a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, offering a crisp and clear viewing experience. It also features a color gamut of 72% NTSC, providing accurate color reproduction. While the VK1560 Pro doesn‘t have a display, you can connect it to a high-resolution monitor for a similar visual experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer a variety of connectivity options. The VK1560 Pro comes with a USB Type-C cable for connection to your computer. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems. The Artist 12 2nd Generation also utilizes a USB Type-C cable for connection and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android.
Software and Drivers
Both Veikk and XP-Pen offer downloadable drivers for their tablets. These drivers provide customization options for pen pressure settings, shortcut keys, and other features. The drivers are generally user-friendly and easy to install.
Price and Value
The Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro is typically priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. The Artist 12, while slightly more expensive, offers the added convenience of a built-in display, which can be a significant advantage for some users.
Pros and Cons
Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro:
Pros:
- Large active area
- High resolution
- Comfortable pen design
- Affordable price
Cons:
- No built-in display
- Rougher surface compared to Artist 12
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation:
Pros:
- Built-in display
- Accurate color reproduction
- Comfortable pen
Cons:
- Smaller active area compared to VK1560 Pro
- Higher price
The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large active area, the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro is a solid choice. However, if you value the convenience of a built-in display and accurate color reproduction, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a better option.
Beyond the Comparison: A Look at Other Features
Both tablets offer additional features that might influence your decision. The VK1560 Pro includes a handy pen holder and a set of eight customizable shortcut keys. The Artist 12 2nd Generation also features eight customizable shortcut keys, along with a textured pen holder and a screen protector.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Drawing Tool
Choosing a drawing tablet is not just about technical specifications. It’s about finding a tool that complements your creative workflow and inspires your artwork. Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are capable drawing tablets that can elevate your artistic journey. Consider your individual needs, budget, and workflow to make the best decision for your creative endeavors.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Do I need a separate monitor for the Veikk Studio VK1560 Pro?
A: Yes, the VK1560 Pro is a pen tablet, so you’ll need to connect it to a separate monitor to view your work.
Q: What is the difference between a pen tablet and a pen display tablet?
A: A pen tablet is a device with a drawing surface that you use with a pressure-sensitive pen. You view your work on a separate monitor. A pen display tablet has a built-in LCD screen, allowing you to draw directly on the screen.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation with a Mac?
A: Yes, the Artist 12 2nd Generation is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: How do I customize the shortcut keys on the tablets?
A: You can customize the shortcut keys using the downloadable drivers provided by Veikk and XP-Pen.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both Veikk and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their tablets.
