Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Huion HS64 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium – Which is the Drawing Tablet of Your Dreams?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a multitude of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Huion HS64 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. But how do they stack up against each other? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Huion HS64 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boast sleek and modern designs. The Huion HS64 features a compact and portable design, making it ideal for on-the-go artists. Its black and red color scheme gives it a more budget-friendly aesthetic. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, offers a larger active area and a more premium feel, with a minimalist white and silver design. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the HS64, but still manageable for travel.

In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed. The Huion HS64 has a plastic body, which feels sturdy but might not be as durable as the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, which features a metal body. The Xencelabs tablet also boasts a textured surface, providing a more comfortable grip and preventing accidental slippage.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area of a drawing tablet refers to the surface where your pen input is registered. The larger the active area, the more space you have for drawing and the more realistic the experience feels. The Huion HS64 offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a larger 13.3 x 8.25-inch active area. This provides a more immersive drawing experience and allows for greater precision and detail.

In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a high level of accuracy. The Huion HS64 has a resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch), while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a slightly higher resolution of 8192 LPI. This translates to smoother lines and more responsive pen input.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The pen technology is crucial for a natural and responsive drawing experience. Both tablets come with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The Huion HS64’s pen has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers 10,240 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for more nuanced strokes and a wider range of line weights, making it easier to express your artistic vision.

The pens themselves also differ in features. The Huion HS64 pen has two buttons, while the Xencelabs pen has three buttons. The Xencelabs pen also features an eraser on the top of the pen, eliminating the need for a separate eraser tool. Both pens are ergonomic and comfortable to hold for extended periods.

Software and Compatibility

Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of software, including popular drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The Huion HS64 comes with a driver that allows for customization of pen settings and tablet functionality. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also offers a driver with advanced customization options, including the ability to create custom profiles for different software.

In addition to the driver, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also includes a dedicated software called “Control Panel.” This software provides a more intuitive interface for customizing pen settings, creating shortcuts, and managing tablet preferences.

Price and Value

The Huion HS64 is generally more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, higher resolution, and advanced pen technology. The price difference reflects the added features and overall quality of the Xencelabs tablet.

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 the key factors to consider:

Huion HS64:

• Best for: Budget-conscious artists, beginners, and those who prioritize portability.
• Pros: Affordable, compact design, good pressure sensitivity.
• Cons: Smaller active area, less premium build quality.

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Best for: Professional artists, those who demand a high level of precision and accuracy, and those who prioritize comfort and ergonomics.
• Pros: Larger active area, higher resolution, premium build quality, advanced pen technology, dedicated software.
• Cons: More expensive than the Huion HS64.

Beyond the Basics: A Look at Other Features

Both tablets offer additional features that might influence your decision. The Huion HS64 includes a built-in screen protector, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes with a carrying case for added protection. The Xencelabs tablet also offers a limited warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment.

Final Thoughts: Your Artistic Journey Awaits

The Huion HS64 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are both excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and enjoyable drawing experience. The Huion HS64 is a great option for beginners and budget-conscious artists, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a more premium choice for professional artists who demand the best. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the features you prioritize, and the type of artwork you create to make an informed decision.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use the Huion HS64 or Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium with my smartphone or tablet?

A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers. They do not have built-in Bluetooth connectivity or support for mobile devices.

Q: Does the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium come with a pen stand?

A: Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium includes a sleek and stylish pen stand to keep your pen organized and easily accessible.

Q: Can I customize the pen buttons on both tablets?

A: Yes, both tablets allow for customization of the pen buttons through their respective drivers. You can assign different functions to the buttons, such as shortcuts, brush selection, and more.

Q: Is the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium compatible with Mac computers?

A: Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is compatible with both Windows and macOS computers.

Q: What is the difference between the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small?

A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a larger active area (13.3 x 8.25 inches) compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small (6.5 x 4 inches). The larger active area provides more space for drawing and a more immersive experience.