Quick Overview
- The Pen Tablet Medium also supports both Windows and macOS, and it comes with a dedicated driver software that is known for its ease of use and customization options.
- It offers a decent set of features for the price, but it may not be the best choice for professionals or those seeking a premium experience.
- The Pen Tablet Medium is priced slightly higher than the RTE 100, but it offers a more premium experience with its superior design, larger active area, and advanced pen technology.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black and silver color scheme. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel, and the textured surface provides a comfortable grip. However, some users have reported that the plastic build feels a bit flimsy.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Pen Tablet Medium takes a more premium approach, with a sleek, modern design and a sturdy aluminum construction. Its larger active area provides ample space for drawing and the textured surface feels comfortable and grippy. The tablet also comes with a detachable pen holder, adding to its overall functionality.
Active Area and Pressure Sensitivity
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 features a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, providing enough space for most drawing tasks. It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is more than sufficient for capturing subtle brush strokes and nuances.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Pen Tablet Medium offers a larger active area of 13.3 x 8.3 inches, providing even more space for creative expression. Its pressure sensitivity also surpasses the RTE 100, boasting 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity with a higher resolution, resulting in a more responsive and accurate feel.
Pen and Buttons
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 comes with a lightweight, ergonomic pen that features two customizable buttons. The pen is comfortable to hold for extended periods, but some users have reported that the pen tip feels a bit scratchy.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Pen Tablet Medium’s pen is a standout feature. It boasts a premium design with a comfortable grip and a responsive, pressure-sensitive nib. The pen comes with a side switch that can be customized for various functions, and it also includes a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging.
Software and Compatibility
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes with Huion’s own driver software, which offers customization options for pen settings and shortcut keys. However, the software is not as user-friendly as some of its competitors.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Pen Tablet Medium also supports both Windows and macOS, and it comes with a dedicated driver software that is known for its ease of use and customization options. The software offers advanced features like pen pressure curves, customizable button assignments, and even the ability to create custom pen profiles.
Price and Value
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: The RTE 100 is priced competitively, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. It offers a decent set of features for the price, but it may not be the best choice for professionals or those seeking a premium experience.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Pen Tablet Medium is priced slightly higher than the RTE 100, but it offers a more premium experience with its superior design, larger active area, and advanced pen technology. If you are willing to invest a bit more, the Pen Tablet Medium provides excellent value for money.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of which tablet might be the better choice for you:
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious users, beginners, or those looking for a compact tablet for travel.
- Pros: Affordable, compact size, decent pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: Flimsy build, less responsive pen, basic software.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:
- Ideal for: Professionals, serious artists, or anyone looking for a premium drawing experience.
- Pros: Premium design, large active area, responsive pen, user-friendly software.
- Cons: Higher price point.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs
While the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 offers a good value proposition for beginners and casual users, the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium** shines for professionals and those seeking a premium drawing experience. Its larger active area, responsive pen, and user-friendly software make it a compelling choice for serious artists.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both tablets yourself, if possible. This will allow you to get a feel for the pen, the software, and the overall experience, helping you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the difference between the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium?
A: The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is a budget-friendly option with a smaller active area and a more basic pen, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a premium experience with a larger active area, a more responsive pen, and user-friendly software.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is a good starting point for beginners due to its affordable price and decent features. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium can also be a good choice for beginners who are willing to invest a bit more for a more enjoyable experience.
Q: Which tablet is better for professionals?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is generally preferred by professionals due to its larger active area, responsive pen, and advanced software features.
Q: Are there any other tablets worth considering?
A: There are many other excellent drawing tablets available, including the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro, the Wacom Intuos Pro, and the iPad Pro with Apple Pencil. It’s essential to compare features and prices to find the best tablet for your specific needs.
Q: How do I choose the right drawing tablet for me?
A: Consider your budget, the size of the active area you need, the features you require (such as pressure sensitivity, pen buttons, and software), and your level of experience. It’s also helpful to read reviews and compare different models before making a decision.
