Key points
- It features a textured surface for better grip and a single button on the top for switching between pen modes.
- The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a rectangular shape and a glossy black finish.
- If you prioritize a larger drawing space and a higher resolution for precision, the XP-Pen Star G960S might be a better choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion HS610 and the XP-Pen Star G960S. Both tablets offer a decent active area, pressure sensitivity, and compatibility with various operating systems. But which one comes out on top? This in-depth comparison will explore the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion HS610 boasts a minimalist design with a sleek black finish and rounded edges. It features a textured surface for better grip and a single button on the top for switching between pen modes. The tablet is surprisingly lightweight and compact, making it portable and easy to take with you on the go.
The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a rectangular shape and a glossy black finish. It has eight customizable buttons on the side, offering more flexibility for shortcuts and customization. The tablet is slightly heavier and larger than the HS610, but still manageable for travel.
Both tablets have a solid build quality and feel durable. However, the HS610’s compact size and lightweight design might appeal to users who prioritize portability, while the G960S’s larger size and customizable buttons might suit those who prefer a more traditional and feature-rich experience.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the drawing surface on the tablet where your pen interacts. A larger active area provides more space for your creative endeavors, while a higher resolution offers greater precision and detail.
The Huion HS610 comes with a 6.3 x 4-inch active area, providing ample space for drawing, sketching, and digital painting. Its resolution is 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch), which is standard for budget-friendly drawing tablets.
The XP-Pen Star G960S offers a slightly larger active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, making it ideal for users who prefer a more expansive canvas. It also boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, resulting in smoother lines and greater accuracy.
If you prioritize a larger drawing space and a higher resolution for precision, the XP-Pen Star G960S might be a better choice. However, the Huion HS610’s compact size and sufficient resolution can still cater to many users’ needs.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of drawing tablets, enabling you to create varying line widths, brush strokes, and shading effects. Both tablets offer a decent level of pressure sensitivity, but there are some differences in their pen features.
The Huion HS610 features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is considered standard for the price point. Its pen has two buttons for shortcuts and a comfortable grip. It also includes a pen holder to keep your pen organized.
The XP-Pen Star G960S also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness. Its pen features a slightly different design with a textured grip and a single button for shortcuts. It also includes a pen holder and a set of replacement nibs.
Ultimately, both tablets offer a comparable pressure sensitivity experience. The choice between the two might come down to personal preference for pen design and button layout.
Software Compatibility and Driver Support
Both the Huion HS610 and the XP-Pen Star G960S are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support various popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Huion provides drivers for both Windows and macOS, offering customization options for pen settings, button mapping, and tablet settings. XP-Pen also provides drivers with similar features and compatibility.
Both tablets offer seamless integration with popular software and reliable driver support, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free user experience.
Pros and Cons
Huion HS610
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable price point
- Comfortable pen with two buttons
- Decent pressure sensitivity
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Cons:
- Smaller active area compared to the G960S
- Lower resolution than the G960S
- Limited customization options
XP-Pen Star G960S
Pros:
- Larger active area for more drawing space
- Higher resolution for greater precision
- Eight customizable buttons for shortcuts
- Comfortable pen with textured grip
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than the HS610
- Heavier and larger than the HS610
- Limited pen button functionality
Final Verdict: Which Drawing Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Huion HS610 and the XP-Pen Star G960S ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize portability, a budget-friendly price, and a comfortable pen with two buttons, the Huion HS610 is a solid option. Its compact size and sufficient active area make it suitable for casual drawing, sketching, and digital painting.
However, if you desire a larger drawing space, a higher resolution for greater detail, and more customizable buttons, the XP-Pen Star G960S is the better choice. Its larger active area and eight customizable buttons offer more flexibility and precision for professional and serious artists.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Huion HS610 and XP-Pen Star G960S are excellent choices in the budget-friendly segment, the drawing tablet market offers a wide range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Consider exploring other tablets with features like:
- Larger active areas: For artists who require a more expansive canvas.
- Higher resolution: For greater precision and detail in their artwork.
- More pressure sensitivity levels: For more nuanced and expressive brush strokes.
- Advanced pen features: Like tilt support, eraser functionality, and customizable buttons.
- Wireless connectivity: For a more clutter-free and portable experience.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a graphics tablet?
A: Drawing tablets and graphics tablets are essentially the same thing. They are both input devices used for digital art, design, and other creative tasks. The term “drawing tablet” is often used for tablets specifically designed for artistic purposes, while “graphics tablet” is a broader term encompassing tablets used for various graphic-related tasks.
Q: Can I use the Huion HS610 or XP-Pen Star G960S for photo editing?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing and sketching, they can also be used for photo editing. The pressure sensitivity and active area are sufficient for basic photo editing tasks like cropping, resizing, and applying simple filters. However, for more advanced photo editing, a dedicated graphics tablet with a higher resolution and more features might be preferable.
Q: Do I need a special pen for these tablets?
A: Both the Huion HS610 and the XP-Pen Star G960S come with their own dedicated pen. These pens are specifically designed for use with the tablets and offer pressure sensitivity and other features. You can also purchase replacement nibs for these pens when needed.
Q: Is it possible to use these tablets with a smartphone or tablet?
A: No, these tablets are designed for use with desktop computers. They connect to your computer via USB and do not have Bluetooth or other wireless connectivity options for smartphone or tablet use.
