Quick notes
- The VK1200 features a minimalist design with a black plastic casing, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a more premium feel with a metallic gray frame.
- If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable pen tablet with a simple design, the Veikk Studio VK1200 is a solid choice.
- However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more and prioritize a screen-based drawing experience, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 offers a more immersive and professional workflow.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options flooding the market. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This detailed comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Veikk Studio VK1200 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 boast sleek and modern designs, but there are subtle differences in their build quality. The VK1200 features a minimalist design with a black plastic casing, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a more premium feel with a metallic gray frame.
The VK1200’s active area is slightly smaller at 11.6 inches compared to the Artist Pro 16’s 15.6 inches. This difference can be significant for artists who require ample drawing space. The Artist Pro 16’s larger active area provides more room for intricate details and allows for a more natural drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens for a more natural and responsive drawing experience. The VK1200’s pen offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a slightly higher 8,192 levels. This difference is subtle and unlikely to be noticeable for most users.
The VK1200’s pen features a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging. The Artist Pro 16’s pen also operates without batteries but requires a USB-C connection to the tablet for power. The Artist Pro 16’s pen offers more buttons, including a side switch and two buttons on the top, providing greater customization for shortcuts and tools.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Veikk Studio VK1200 is a pen tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in display. This means you’ll need to rely on your computer monitor for feedback while drawing. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, is a drawing monitor, featuring a 15.6-inch LCD display with a 1920×1080 resolution.
The Artist Pro 16’s display offers a vibrant and responsive experience, allowing for precise drawing and color accuracy. However, the VK1200’s lack of a display can be a drawback for some artists, especially those who prefer the immediate feedback of drawing directly on the screen.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options. The VK1200 connects to your computer via a USB cable, while the Artist Pro 16 supports both USB-C and HDMI connections. This flexibility allows you to connect the Artist Pro 16 to a wider range of devices, including laptops and desktops with different port configurations.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with your existing workflow. The Artist Pro 16 also supports Android devices, making it a more versatile option for artists who prefer mobile drawing.
Software and Drivers
Both Veikk and XP-Pen offer dedicated software and drivers for their tablets, providing essential customization and configuration options. The Veikk software allows you to adjust pressure sensitivity, customize pen buttons, and configure other settings. The XP-Pen software offers similar features, including customizable shortcuts, pen calibration, and screen rotation options.
Price and Value
The Veikk Studio VK1200 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. This affordability makes the VK1200 an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Artist Pro 16’s added features, including the built-in display and higher resolution, justify its slightly higher price tag.
Veikk Studio VK1200 vs XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: Which is Best for You?
The best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable pen tablet with a simple design, the Veikk Studio VK1200 is a solid choice. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more and prioritize a screen-based drawing experience, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 offers a more immersive and professional workflow.
The Verdict: It’s a Tie!
Ultimately, both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 offer excellent value for their respective price points. The VK1200 excels in affordability and simplicity, while the Artist Pro 16 shines with its immersive display and advanced features. The best choice for you depends on your budget, drawing preferences, and desired level of immersion.
What People Want to Know
Q: Is the Veikk Studio VK1200 compatible with Android devices?
A: No, the VK1200 is only compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 come with a screen protector?
A: Yes, the Artist Pro 16 typically includes a screen protector in the package.
Q: What is the difference between a pen tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A pen tablet only has a pressure-sensitive surface, requiring you to use your computer monitor for feedback. A drawing monitor features a built-in display, allowing you to draw directly on the screen.
Q: Are the pens for both tablets compatible with other brands?
A: No, the pens are designed for specific tablet models and are not compatible with other brands.
Q: What software is recommended for use with these tablets?
A: Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
