Summary
- Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus.
- Ultimately, the choice between the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boils down to your individual needs and priorities.
- While the Wacom Intuos Pro M and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent options, the drawing tablet market offers a wide range of choices.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both tablets offer impressive features and performance, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom Intuos Pro M boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a premium feel. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it portable and comfortable to use. The tablet’s surface is textured, providing a natural drawing experience. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a more traditional design with a larger active area. While it’s not as compact as the Intuos Pro M, it offers ample space for drawing and navigating. Both tablets feature durable construction and feel sturdy in hand.
Active Area and Resolution
The Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a smaller active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, making it suitable for drawing and sketching on the go. However, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boasts a larger active area of 11.6 x 7.3 inches, providing more space for detailed drawings and complex illustrations. Both tablets offer a high resolution of 5080 LPI, ensuring smooth and accurate lines.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Both tablets excel in pressure sensitivity, offering 8192 levels for both the Wacom Intuos Pro M and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. This allows for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes. The Wacom Intuos Pro M’s pen features a more ergonomic design with a textured grip, providing a comfortable and responsive feel. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus’ pen, while comfortable, lacks the same level of refinement as the Wacom pen.
Buttons and Customization
The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes equipped with eight customizable buttons, allowing for quick access to frequently used commands. These buttons can be programmed to perform various actions, enhancing workflow efficiency. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features six customizable buttons, offering fewer options for customization. Both tablets allow for pen tilt recognition, adding another layer of nuance to your drawings.
Software and Compatibility
Wacom Intuos Pro M users benefit from the comprehensive Wacom software suite, which includes the popular Wacom Desktop Center and Wacom Drivers. These software tools provide advanced customization options and seamless integration with popular creative applications. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also comes with its own driver software, offering basic functionality and compatibility with various drawing programs. However, the software lacks the extensive features and user-friendliness of the Wacom suite.
Price and Value for Money
The Wacom Intuos Pro M is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. While the Wacom tablet offers premium features and build quality, the XP-Pen tablet provides a more affordable alternative with comparable performance. The value proposition of each tablet depends on individual needs and budget constraints.
Wacom Intuos Pro M: The Premium Choice
The Wacom Intuos Pro M caters to professionals and serious hobbyists who prioritize precision, responsiveness, and a premium drawing experience. Its compact design, high resolution, and advanced software suite make it an excellent choice for artists who value portability and intuitive workflow.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The Budget-Friendly Option
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a compelling alternative for budget-conscious users who seek a large drawing area and high-performance features. Its affordability and impressive performance make it an attractive option for hobbyists and aspiring artists.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
Ultimately, the choice between the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boils down to your individual needs and priorities. If you value portability, premium features, and seamless software integration, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is the ideal choice. However, if affordability, a large drawing area, and high performance are your primary concerns, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a compelling alternative.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Wacom Intuos Pro M and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent options, the drawing tablet market offers a wide range of choices. Consider exploring other tablets from brands like Huion, XP-Pen, and even Wacom’s own lineup, depending on your specific needs and budget.
Final Thoughts: The Quest for the Perfect Drawing Companion
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal journey. It’s about finding the tool that complements your artistic style and workflow. Whether you opt for the premium features of the Wacom Intuos Pro M or the budget-friendly appeal of the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, remember that the most important factor is finding a tablet that inspires you to create.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What are the main differences between the Wacom Intuos Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a premium design, smaller active area, advanced software suite, and a more responsive pen. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a larger active area, more affordable price point, and comparable performance.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is more budget-friendly and offers a larger drawing area, making it a good choice for those starting out.
Q: Which tablet is better for professionals?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro M is generally preferred by professionals due to its premium features, software suite, and responsiveness.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are many other excellent drawing tablets available, including the Wacom Intuos Pro Small, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, and the Huion Kamvas Pro 13.
Q: How do I choose the right drawing tablet for me?
A: Consider your budget, desired active area, pressure sensitivity requirements, software needs, and personal preferences. Research different options and read reviews to find the tablet that best suits your needs.
