Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small vs XP Pen Star G960: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Drawing Tablet

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners navigating the world of digital art. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Star G960. Both offer attractive features and affordability, but which one truly emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision for your artistic journey.

Design and Build Quality

The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small boasts a sleek, compact design, making it ideal for travel and limited desk space. Its minimalist aesthetic complements any workspace. The XP-Pen Star G960, on the other hand, offers a larger active area, catering to those who prefer a more expansive drawing surface. While its design is functional, it lacks the sleekness of the Wacom.

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and durable. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small utilizes a textured plastic surface that provides a comfortable grip, while the XP-Pen Star G960 features a smooth, slightly textured surface. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal preferences and drawing style.

Active Area and Resolution

The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small features a 6.3 x 3.9-inch active area, which is sufficient for most drawing tasks. The XP-Pen Star G960, however, boasts a larger 8.7 x 5.4-inch active area, offering more room for detailed work and intricate designs.

In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a decent level of precision. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small has a resolution of 4000 LPI (lines per inch), while the XP-Pen Star G960 features a slightly higher resolution of 5080 LPI. However, the difference in resolution is barely noticeable in practical use, especially for beginners.

Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology

Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, allowing for varying line thickness and brush strokes. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The XP-Pen Star G960 also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering even greater nuance and control.

Both tablets come equipped with battery-free pens that utilize electromagnetic resonance technology. The Wacom pen is known for its comfortable grip and responsive performance, while the XP-Pen pen offers a slightly different feel and a more affordable replacement cost.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Both tablets offer wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, allowing for a clutter-free workspace. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small also supports USB connectivity, providing a wired alternative. The XP-Pen Star G960 relies solely on Bluetooth and USB for connectivity.

In terms of compatibility, both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small also supports Android devices with USB-C connectivity.

Software and Features

The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small comes bundled with a suite of software, including Wacom‘s own drawing software, Clip Studio Paint, and a 2-month subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud. The XP-Pen Star G960, on the other hand, does not include any bundled software.

Both tablets offer customizable features, such as pressure sensitivity settings, pen customization, and shortcut button programming. However, the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small provides a more comprehensive and user-friendly software experience.

Price and Value

The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960. However, the bundled software and brand reputation often justify the price difference for many users. The XP-Pen Star G960 offers exceptional value for its price, providing a feature-rich drawing tablet at an affordable cost.

The Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Match

Ultimately, the choice between the Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small and the XP-Pen Star G960 depends on your individual needs and preferences.

The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small excels in its compact design, user-friendly software, and bundled software offerings. It’s a great choice for beginners and casual artists who value convenience and ease of use.

The XP-Pen Star G960, on the other hand, offers a larger active area, higher pressure sensitivity, and a more affordable price point. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a more expansive drawing surface and a budget-friendly solution.

Beyond the Tablet: A Look at Accessories

Both tablets offer a range of optional accessories to enhance your drawing experience. These include:

• Pen Nibs: Both Wacom and XP-Pen offer a variety of pen nibs, each with its own unique texture and feel.
• Pen Holders: A pen holder provides a convenient place to store your pen when not in use.
• Gloves: Drawing gloves help prevent smudging and provide a smoother drawing experience.
• Screen Protectors: Screen protectors protect your tablet’s surface from scratches and wear and tear.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which tablet is better for beginners?

Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth Small offers a more user-friendly experience with bundled software, while the XP-Pen Star G960 provides a more affordable option with an expansive active area.

2. Can I use these tablets for photo editing?

Yes, both tablets can be used for photo editing, although they are primarily designed for drawing and illustration.

3. Do these tablets require drivers?

Yes, both tablets require drivers to be installed on your computer. Drivers can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

4. What is the difference between the Wacom Intuos and the Wacom Intuos Pro?

The Wacom Intuos Pro is a higher-end tablet with advanced features, including a larger active area, more pressure sensitivity levels, and customizable express keys.

5. How long do the batteries last in the pens?

Both tablets utilize battery-free pens, so battery life is not a concern.