Choosing the Right Tool: A Deep Dive into Huion HS64 vs XP Pen Deco Fun XS

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion HS64 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one truly stands out? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun XS share a similar minimalist design, emphasizing portability and practicality. Both tablets are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for travel or on-the-go sketching. The HS64 boasts a sleek black finish with a textured surface, providing a secure grip. The Deco Fun XS, on the other hand, comes in a vibrant red or blue, adding a touch of personality to your workspace.

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel solid and durable. The HS64’s plastic construction feels sturdy, while the Deco Fun XS features a more premium aluminum frame. However, both tablets are susceptible to scratches and scuffs, so a protective case is recommended for long-term use.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area, the portion of the tablet that responds to your stylus input, is a crucial factor in determining drawing comfort and precision. The Huion HS64 offers a generous active area of 6.3″ x 4″ (160 x 100mm), providing ample space for detailed drawings. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS, while compact, has a smaller active area of 5.7″ x 3.7″ (145 x 95mm).

When it comes to resolution, the HS64 boasts a higher resolution of 4000 LPI (lines per inch), resulting in smoother and more precise linework. The Deco Fun XS offers a resolution of 2540 LPI, which is still adequate for most drawing tasks.

Stylus and Pressure Sensitivity

Both tablets come equipped with battery-free pressure-sensitive styluses. The Huion HS64’s stylus features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced and responsive drawing experience. The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity as well, making it a close competitor in this regard.

The styluses themselves are comfortable to hold and have a natural pen-like feel. Both tablets offer side buttons on the stylus for customizable shortcuts, enabling efficient workflow.

Features and Software

The Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offer a similar set of features, including customizable hotkeys, multi-touch gestures, and compatibility with both Windows and macOS. Both tablets also support a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

The HS64 comes with a driver that allows for advanced customization, including pressure sensitivity settings, button mapping, and screen rotation. The Deco Fun XS also features a user-friendly driver with similar customization options.

Price and Value

Both the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are budget-friendly drawing tablets, making them attractive options for beginners and casual artists. The HS64 generally has a slightly higher price point, but its larger active area and higher resolution justify the cost for some users. The Deco Fun XS, with its compact size and vibrant color options, offers excellent value for the price.

The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Huion HS64 if:

• You prioritize a larger active area for comfortable drawing.
• You need higher resolution for detailed linework.
• You are willing to pay a slightly higher price for enhanced features.

Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS if:

• You prefer a compact and portable tablet.
• You are on a tighter budget.
• You appreciate the vibrant color options and sleek design.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison

While the Huion HS64 and XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are excellent choices in their own right, it’s important to consider other factors beyond this comparison.

• Your drawing style: If you primarily create intricate line art or detailed illustrations, the HS64’s larger active area and higher resolution might be more advantageous. If you prefer sketching and quick digital doodles, the Deco Fun XS’s compact size might be more suitable.
• Software compatibility: Ensure that the chosen tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try out both tablets if possible or read user reviews to get a better understanding of each tablet’s strengths and weaknesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use the Huion HS64 or XP-Pen Deco Fun XS with my smartphone?

A: Both tablets primarily work with computers, and while some models might offer limited smartphone compatibility, it’s not their primary focus.

Q2: Do I need a special pen to use these tablets?

A: Yes, both tablets come with their own battery-free pressure-sensitive stylus, which is necessary for drawing.

Q3: Are the styluses compatible with other tablets?

A: No, the styluses are specific to their respective tablets and are not interchangeable.

Q4: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?

A: While you can use these tablets for basic photo editing tasks, they are primarily designed for drawing and illustration. For professional photo editing, a dedicated graphics tablet with a higher resolution and pressure sensitivity might be more suitable.

Q5: What are the warranty terms for these tablets?

A: Both Huion and XP-Pen offer a standard warranty period for their products, typically one year. It’s important to check the specific warranty terms on their respective websites.