At a Glance
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation features a durable plastic housing, while the Deco Pro MW utilizes a combination of plastic and metal.
- The Deco Pro MW, with its affordable price point, offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious users who are willing to sacrifice the convenience of a built-in display.
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice for artists who prioritize a seamless and immersive drawing experience with a built-in display.
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 XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key differences, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Pro MW boast sleek, modern designs. The Artist 12 2nd Generation features a slim, minimalist profile with a black and silver color scheme. Its active area measures 11.6 inches diagonally, providing ample space for drawing. The Deco Pro MW, on the other hand, sports a more compact footprint with a circular design. It comes in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose one that complements your workspace. Its active area is slightly smaller at 10 inches diagonally.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The Artist 12 2nd Generation features a durable plastic housing, while the Deco Pro MW utilizes a combination of plastic and metal. Both tablets feel comfortable to use and are lightweight enough for easy portability.
Display and Resolution
The Artist 12 2nd Generation stands out with its built-in display, offering a more immersive drawing experience. Its 11.6-inch IPS display boasts a 1920×1080 resolution, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. The Deco Pro MW, however, is a pen display, meaning it lacks a built-in screen. Instead, it relies on your computer monitor for visual feedback. While this might seem like a drawback, it offers greater flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution. You can use any monitor you prefer, including larger displays for a more expansive canvas.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets offer pressure sensitivity, allowing for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied. The Artist 12 2nd Generation utilizes XP-Pen’s latest PA2 pen technology, featuring 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of sensitivity ensures precise control and natural-feeling strokes. The Deco Pro MW also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of precision.
The pens included with both tablets are comfortable to hold and feature customizable buttons for quick access to shortcuts. Both pens have a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Pro MW offer multiple connectivity options. The Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with a USB-C cable for easy connection to your computer. It also supports HDMI connectivity for those who prefer a wired connection. The Deco Pro MW, on the other hand, offers both USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity. This flexibility allows for wireless drawing, freeing you from the constraints of a cable.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems. They also work with a wide range of creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with dedicated software and drivers that enhance their functionality. XP-Pen’s driver software allows you to customize pen settings, configure shortcuts, and calibrate the tablet for optimal performance. The software also provides access to features like pen pressure curves and tilt sensitivity, allowing you to fine-tune your drawing experience.
Price and Value
The Artist 12 2nd Generation generally carries a higher price tag compared to the Deco Pro MW. However, its built-in display and advanced features justify the cost for those who prioritize a more immersive drawing experience. The Deco Pro MW, with its affordable price point, offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious users who are willing to sacrifice the convenience of a built-in display.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Artist 12 2nd Generation is an excellent choice for artists who prioritize a seamless and immersive drawing experience with a built-in display. Its high resolution and pressure sensitivity make it ideal for detailed work and professional applications.
The Deco Pro MW, on the other hand, is an affordable and versatile option for casual artists, students, and those who value flexibility. Its wireless connectivity and compatibility with a wide range of monitors make it a great choice for those who prefer a more portable and customizable setup.
Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are capable drawing tablets that offer a compelling user experience. The Artist 12 2nd Generation stands out with its built-in display, providing a more immersive and convenient drawing experience. However, the Deco Pro MW offers a more affordable and flexible solution, particularly for users who prefer a wireless setup. Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your budget, drawing style, and specific needs.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Does the Artist 12 2nd Generation support tilt sensitivity?
A: Yes, the Artist 12 2nd Generation supports tilt sensitivity, allowing for more nuanced brush strokes.
Q: Can the Deco Pro MW be used with a smartphone?
A: Yes, the Deco Pro MW can be used with Android smartphones that support OTG (On-The-Go) functionality.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both the Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Deco Pro MW come with a one-year warranty.
Q: Do I need any special software to use these tablets?
A: While both tablets work with most drawing software, XP-Pen’s driver software is recommended for optimal performance and customization.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Deco Pro MW might be a slightly more approachable option due to its lower price point, while the Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a more immersive experience for those willing to invest.
