At a Glance
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, sports a more rugged design with a slightly thicker frame.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation pack impressive pen technology.
- It comes with a USB cable for wired operation and a wireless receiver for a clutter-free workspace.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both tablets offer compelling features, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specifications, performance, and user experience to help you make an informed decision.
Unveiling the Contenders: A Quick Overview
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are both 11.6-inch drawing tablets designed for artists, illustrators, and designers. They share several similarities, including:
- Active Area: Both boast a 10.6-inch active area, providing ample space for creative expression.
- Pressure Sensitivity: Both offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise line control and nuanced brush strokes.
- Resolution: Both boast a resolution of 5080 LPI, guaranteeing accurate and responsive pen movements.
- Report Rate: Both offer a report rate of 230 RPS, ensuring smooth and lag-free drawing experience.
However, subtle differences in their design, features, and overall performance set them apart. Let’s delve deeper into these distinctions to identify the best fit for your artistic needs.
Design and Build Quality: Ergonomics and Durability
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 boasts a sleek and minimalist design. Its black frame with a smooth, textured surface provides a comfortable grip. The tablet’s slim profile and lightweight construction make it portable and easy to transport. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, sports a more rugged design with a slightly thicker frame. It comes with a built-in stand that allows for multiple viewing angles, offering greater flexibility.
Both tablets feature a textured surface designed to reduce friction and improve pen accuracy. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s surface feels slightly smoother, providing a more fluid drawing experience. In terms of build quality, both tablets are robust and well-constructed, ensuring durability for long-term use.
Pen Performance: Accuracy, Sensitivity, and Responsiveness
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation pack impressive pen technology. Both pens feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, enabling you to achieve fine control over line thickness and brush strokes. They also offer tilt sensitivity, allowing for a more natural and expressive drawing experience.
The Huion pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with a textured grip that enhances control. It features two customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform various functions. The XP-Pen pen, while also comfortable, is slightly heavier. It also features two programmable buttons and a side switch that can be used for erasing or switching between tools.
In terms of responsiveness, both pens deliver accurate and lag-free performance. However, some users have reported a slight lag with the Huion pen, particularly when drawing at high speeds. The XP-Pen pen, on the other hand, consistently delivers a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Software and Compatibility: Seamless Integration and Driver Support
Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offer excellent software and compatibility. They are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems and work seamlessly with various creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Huion provides a user-friendly driver that offers customization options for pen settings, button assignments, and pressure sensitivity. XP-Pen also provides a comprehensive driver with similar customization features, along with additional tools for calibrating the tablet and managing pen settings.
Connectivity and Power: Wired vs. Wireless Options
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 relies on a USB connection for power and data transfer. It comes with a USB cable that connects to your computer, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, offers both wired and wireless connectivity options. It comes with a USB cable for wired operation and a wireless receiver for a clutter-free workspace.
The wireless functionality of the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation provides greater freedom of movement and eliminates the hassle of tangled cables. However, it requires a separate wireless receiver and batteries for the pen, which can add to the overall cost.
Price and Value: Budget-Friendly vs. Feature-Packed
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Its affordable price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, while slightly more expensive, offers additional features like wireless connectivity and a built-in stand, justifying its higher price tag.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize affordability and a basic drawing experience, the Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a solid choice. However, if you are willing to spend a bit more for added features and a more premium experience, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a worthy investment.
The Verdict: Choosing the Best Drawing Tablet for You
Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and performance. The choice between the two ultimately boils down to your individual preferences and priorities.
Choose the Huion Inspiroy H1161 if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You prioritize a lightweight and portable design.
- You prefer a wired connection and don’t mind the occasional lag.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation if:
- You are willing to spend a bit more for added features.
- You value wireless connectivity for a clutter-free workspace.
- You prioritize a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
While this comparison has highlighted the key differences between the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation, it’s important to consider other factors that may influence your decision. These include:
- Your experience level: Beginners may find the Huion Inspiroy H1161’s affordability and simplicity appealing, while experienced artists may appreciate the added features and performance of the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation.
- Your specific needs: If you primarily work on the go, the Huion Inspiroy H1161’s portability is a significant advantage. However, if you prefer a more stationary setup, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s built-in stand offers greater flexibility.
- Your creative workflow: Consider the software you use and the features that are most important to your workflow. Both tablets offer excellent compatibility, but the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s wireless functionality may enhance your workflow if you frequently work on projects that require movement.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right drawing tablet is to try them out yourself. Visit a local electronics store or explore online retailers that offer return policies. Experiment with both tablets and see which one feels more comfortable and intuitive for your drawing style.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What are the dimensions of the active area on both tablets?
A: Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation have a 10.6-inch active area.
Q: Do both tablets come with a screen protector?
A: Yes, both tablets include a screen protector to protect the display from scratches and wear.
Q: Can I use the pen with other drawing tablets?
A: The pens are compatible only with their respective tablets and cannot be used with other brands.
Q: What is the difference between the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is a higher-end tablet with a laminated screen, offering a more responsive and natural drawing experience. It also features a more advanced pen with additional buttons and a higher pressure sensitivity level.
