Quick notes
- The H1161 features a black, rectangular body with rounded edges, while the Star G640 opts for a similar design with a subtle blue trim.
- The active area is the portion of the tablet that responds to your pen strokes, and it plays a crucial role in your drawing experience.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the H1161 and the Star G640 come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G640**. Both offer compelling features and affordability, but which one emerges as the ultimate champion? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640 boast a sleek and minimalist design. The H1161 features a black, rectangular body with rounded edges, while the Star G640 opts for a similar design with a subtle blue trim. Both tablets are lightweight and compact, making them portable and easy to store.
However, there are subtle differences in their build quality. The H1161 utilizes a plastic construction, which feels sturdy but might not be as premium as the Star G640’s aluminum frame. The Star G640’s metal frame adds a touch of sophistication and durability, making it feel more robust overall.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet that responds to your pen strokes, and it plays a crucial role in your drawing experience. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for detailed drawings and precise work. The XP-Pen Star G640, on the other hand, features a smaller active area of 6.3 x 3.93 inches, which might feel cramped for some users.
In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a respectable 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch). This translates to accurate and responsive pen tracking, ensuring smooth lines and precise control over your digital art.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the H1161 and the Star G640 come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens. The H1161’s pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced brushstrokes and dynamic line variations. The Star G640’s pen also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a similar level of responsiveness and control.
Both pens are battery-free, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries. However, the H1161’s pen features two side buttons that can be customized for various functions, while the Star G640’s pen only has one side button.
Driver Software and Compatibility
Both Huion and XP-Pen provide driver software that enables customization and configuration of your tablet’s settings. The Huion driver offers a user-friendly interface with options for pen pressure sensitivity, shortcut keys, and other settings. The XP-Pen driver also provides similar functionality, allowing you to personalize your tablet experience.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, making them accessible to a wide range of users. The H1161 also supports Android devices, offering flexibility for mobile creatives.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640 are both budget-friendly drawing tablets, making them attractive options for beginners and casual artists. The H1161 typically retails for a slightly lower price than the Star G640, making it a more affordable choice.
However, the price difference is minimal, and both tablets offer excellent value for their features and performance. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Huion Inspiroy H1161:
- Ideal for: Beginners, casual artists, and those seeking a larger active area.
- Pros: Large active area, affordable price, two side buttons on the pen.
- Cons: Plastic construction, no aluminum frame.
XP-Pen Star G640:
- Ideal for: Users seeking a compact and durable tablet with a premium build.
- Pros: Aluminum frame, lightweight and portable, excellent build quality.
- Cons: Smaller active area, only one side button on the pen.
Final Verdict: A Draw?
Ultimately, the decision between the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G640 comes down to your individual priorities. If you prioritize a large active area and affordability, the H1161 is a compelling choice. However, if you value a premium build, portability, and a more compact design, the Star G640 might be a better fit. Both tablets offer solid performance and value, making them excellent options for aspiring artists and digital creatives.
Beyond the Tablets: Exploring the World of Digital Art
Whether you choose the Huion Inspiroy H1161 or the XP-Pen Star G640, the journey of digital art is just beginning. There’s a vast world of software, techniques, and communities to explore. From learning the basics of drawing software like Adobe Photoshop or Clip Studio Paint to mastering advanced techniques like digital painting and animation, the possibilities are endless.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?
A: While both tablets support Windows and macOS, only the Huion Inspiroy H1161 is compatible with Android devices.
Q: Which software should I use with these tablets?
A: Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q: What are the differences between the pens included with each tablet?
A: The H1161’s pen has two side buttons while the Star G640’s pen has only one. Both pens offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and are battery-free.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other drawing tablets available, including models from Wacom, XP-Pen, and Huion. It’s essential to consider your budget, desired active area, and pen features when choosing a tablet.
Q: What are the benefits of using a drawing tablet over a mouse?
A: Drawing tablets provide a more natural and intuitive drawing experience, allowing for greater precision and control over your digital art. They also offer pressure sensitivity, which allows for dynamic brushstrokes and line variations.
