Quick notes
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, boasts a more advanced driver with features like pen pressure curve adjustment, customizable shortcut keys, and even the ability to create custom pen profiles.
- The HS611 provides a budget-friendly option with a decent feature set, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small delivers a premium experience with a focus on comfort, precision, and software versatility.
- However, if you’re willing to invest in a more premium experience with a focus on comfort and precision, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a worthy contender.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can feel like navigating a labyrinth of options. Two popular choices in the small tablet category are the Huion HS611 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both offer a compact footprint and a range of features, but which one is the perfect fit for your artistic needs? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion HS611 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are both designed for portability and ease of use. The HS611 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic exterior. It features eight customizable shortcut keys and a textured surface for enhanced grip. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, opts for a more premium look with a brushed aluminum finish and rounded edges. It offers a single customizable side button, but lacks dedicated shortcut keys.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The HS611, however, feels slightly more plasticky compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. The latter’s aluminum casing gives it a more robust and professional feel.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the tablet’s drawing surface, while the resolution dictates the tablet’s sensitivity and precision. The Huion HS611 offers a smaller active area of 6.3 x 4 inches compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s 7.9 x 5.1 inches. This difference might be crucial for artists who prefer a larger working space.
In terms of resolution, the HS611 boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a higher resolution of 8192 LPI. This means the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small can detect more pressure levels and provide a smoother, more responsive drawing experience.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion HS611 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come with their own unique offerings. The HS611’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is decent but falls short of the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s 8192 levels.
The Xencelabs Pen is also praised for its ergonomic design, featuring a comfortable grip and a balanced weight distribution. It includes two side buttons for customizable shortcuts, and its pen nibs are replaceable. The HS611’s pen is more basic in design and has a fixed nib.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Huion HS611 comes bundled with the Huion Driver, which offers basic customization options for pen settings and shortcut keys. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, boasts a more advanced driver with features like pen pressure curve adjustment, customizable shortcut keys, and even the ability to create custom pen profiles.
Price and Value
The Huion HS611 is generally priced lower than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, despite its higher price tag, offers a more premium experience with its superior build quality, pen, and software.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Huion HS611 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Huion HS611 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You need a tablet with customizable shortcut keys.
- You prefer a smaller active area.
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small if:
- You prioritize build quality and premium features.
- You value a larger active area and higher resolution.
- You enjoy a comfortable and ergonomic pen.
The Final Verdict: Beyond the Surface
Both the Huion HS611 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are capable drawing tablets with their own strengths and weaknesses. The HS611 provides a budget-friendly option with a decent feature set, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small delivers a premium experience with a focus on comfort, precision, and software versatility.
The ideal choice depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable entry-level tablet, the Huion HS611 is a solid option. However, if you’re willing to invest in a more premium experience with a focus on comfort and precision, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a worthy contender.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Huion HS611 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small in terms of pressure sensitivity?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, but the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is generally considered to have a more responsive and accurate pressure curve.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is often favored by professional artists due to its premium build quality, ergonomic pen, and advanced software features.
Q: Can I use the Huion HS611 or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small with my iPad?
A: No, both tablets are designed for use with computers running Windows or macOS.
Q: Are there any other small drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, other popular small drawing tablets include the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, the Wacom One Small, and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Huion HS611 is a good starting point due to its affordability, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a more premium experience that can grow with your skills.
