Quick notes
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer impressive pen technology.
- The lack of a display can be a drawback for some artists who prefer the immediacy of drawing directly on a screen.
- While both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent drawing tablets, they represent just a fraction of the vast landscape of digital art tools.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for artists, designers, and digital creatives.
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast sleek, ergonomic designs. The Veikk Studio VK1560 features a black, minimalist aesthetic with a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip. Its active area is 10 x 6.25 inches, offering generous space for creative exploration.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, comes in a stylish black and red color scheme. It also boasts a textured surface, providing a secure grip during extended use. Its active area is slightly smaller at 9.5 x 5.5 inches, but still provides ample space for most drawing tasks.
Both tablets are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for artists who prefer to work on the go. However, the Veikk Studio VK1560 edges out slightly in terms of build quality, showcasing a more robust construction that feels more premium.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer impressive pen technology.
The Veikk Studio VK1560 utilizes a passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes, mimicking the feel of traditional art tools. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, featuring two customizable buttons for shortcuts.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also employs a passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. Its pen is slightly heavier than the Veikk Studio VK1560’s, but still comfortable for extended use. It also features two customizable buttons for added functionality.
While both pens offer a similar level of pressure sensitivity, some users might find the Veikk Studio VK1560’s pen slightly more responsive and accurate, especially for fine detail work.
Display and Resolution
The Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are both drawing tablets, not displays. Therefore, they do not have built-in screens. Instead, they rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback.
The lack of a display can be a drawback for some artists who prefer the immediacy of drawing directly on a screen. However, it also makes these tablets more affordable and portable.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support a wide range of creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
The Veikk Studio VK1560 comes with its own driver software, offering customization options for pen settings, pressure sensitivity, and shortcut buttons. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also includes its own driver software, providing similar customization features.
Price and Value
Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering excellent value for their price. The Veikk Studio VK1560 is generally slightly more expensive, but its superior build quality and pen responsiveness might justify the price difference for some users.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option without compromising on essential features.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Veikk Studio VK1560:
- Pros:
- Superior build quality
- More responsive and accurate pen
- Larger active area
- Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:
- Pros:
- Affordable
- Stylish design
- Comfortable pen
- Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Pen might feel slightly less responsive
If you prioritize:
- Build quality and pen responsiveness: Veikk Studio VK1560
- Affordability and stylish design: XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
While both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent drawing tablets, they represent just a fraction of the vast landscape of digital art tools.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Explore your needs: Consider your budget, drawing style, and preferred software before making a decision.
- Try before you buy: If possible, try out different tablets at a local store to get a feel for their responsiveness and comfort.
- Read reviews: Check online reviews from other artists to gain insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that fits your workflow and inspires your creativity.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Are these tablets suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely! Both the Veikk Studio VK1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are great options for beginners. Their affordability and user-friendly features make them ideal for learning digital art.
Q: Do these tablets require special software to work?
A: While they come with their own drivers for customization, they are compatible with most standard drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?
A: These tablets are primarily designed for use with computers. However, some models might offer limited compatibility with certain Android devices.
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a display tablet?
A: A drawing tablet uses your computer monitor for visual feedback, while a display tablet has a built-in screen that allows you to draw directly on the surface. Display tablets offer a more immersive experience but are typically more expensive.