Main points
- The Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer a few additional features and accessories to enhance the drawing experience.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a decent drawing area and pressure sensitivity, the Huion Inspiroy H420X is a solid choice.
- However, if you prioritize a larger drawing surface, higher resolution, and a more refined drawing experience, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is the better option.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast a compact and ergonomic design. The H420X features a sleek black finish with a textured surface, providing a comfortable grip. The G960S Plus, on the other hand, comes in a vibrant red with a smooth, glossy surface.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The H420X’s textured surface provides a more secure grip, while the G960S Plus’s smooth surface might be prone to slipping if your hands are sweaty. Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to personal preference.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface of the tablet, while the resolution determines the precision and detail your strokes will have. The Huion Inspiroy H420X offers a 4×3 inch active area with a resolution of 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch). This provides a decent drawing space and acceptable precision, suitable for casual drawing and sketching.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, however, takes the lead with a larger 6×4 inch active area and a higher resolution of 5080 LPI. This larger drawing surface offers more room for creative expression, while the higher resolution ensures finer details and smoother lines.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of drawing tablets, allowing for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the force applied. The Huion Inspiroy H420X boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a decent range for nuance and control.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, however, outperforms with an impressive 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity as well, but with a slightly better response time. Both tablets provide a comfortable and responsive pen experience, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced artists.
Driver Support and Compatibility
Compatibility and driver support are crucial for a seamless drawing experience. Both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. Both companies offer downloadable drivers for their tablets, providing customization options and ensuring smooth operation.
Additional Features and Accessories
The Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer a few additional features and accessories to enhance the drawing experience. The H420X comes with eight customizable shortcut keys on the tablet itself, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions. The G960S Plus, however, offers a more streamlined design without any shortcut keys.
Both tablets include a pen holder with replaceable nibs, providing a convenient storage solution and ensuring a smooth drawing experience. The G960S Plus also includes a pen stand with a built-in nib holder, offering a more elegant and organized solution.
Takeaways: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a decent drawing area and pressure sensitivity, the Huion Inspiroy H420X is a solid choice. Its compact size and eight customizable shortcut keys make it ideal for casual drawing and sketching.
However, if you prioritize a larger drawing surface, higher resolution, and a more refined drawing experience, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is the better option. Its larger active area and impressive pressure sensitivity make it suitable for more detailed artwork and professional use.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Which tablet has better pen accuracy?
Both tablets offer good pen accuracy, but the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus edges out with its higher resolution of 5080 LPI, providing slightly finer control and detail.
Q2: Are both tablets compatible with Photoshop and other drawing software?
Yes, both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. They function as a standard input device, allowing for seamless integration with various drawing programs.
Q3: Do these tablets require a battery for the pen?
No, both the Huion Inspiroy H420X and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus utilize passive pens that do not require batteries. This eliminates the need for charging and ensures a consistent drawing experience.
Q4: Are there any additional accessories available for these tablets?
Yes, both companies offer a range of accessories, including pen nibs, gloves, tablet stands, and more. These accessories can enhance the drawing experience and provide additional functionality.
Q5: Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are great for beginners, offering a user-friendly experience and basic functionality. However, the Huion Inspiroy H420X might be slightly more beginner-friendly due to its eight customizable shortcut keys, providing easy access to frequently used functions.
