Highlights
- The VK1200 features a sleek black finish with rounded edges, while the Deco Fun XS comes in a vibrant red with a more angular design.
- The Veikk Studio VK1200 offers a larger active area of 10 x 6 inches, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS has a smaller active area of 6.
- The VK1200’s pen features a comfortable grip and a well-balanced weight, while the Deco Fun XS’s pen has a slightly more lightweight feel.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With a plethora of options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the **XP-Pen Deco Fun XS**. Both offer excellent value for money, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their features, performance, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS boast a compact and portable design, making them ideal for travel or limited desk space. The VK1200 features a sleek black finish with rounded edges, while the Deco Fun XS comes in a vibrant red with a more angular design.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The VK1200’s surface is smooth and responsive, while the Deco Fun XS’s textured surface offers a slightly more tactile experience. The overall design and build of both tablets are excellent for their price point.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that is sensitive to pressure and movement. The Veikk Studio VK1200 offers a larger active area of 10 x 6 inches, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS has a smaller active area of 6.3 x 3.9 inches. This difference in size can significantly impact your drawing experience, especially if you prefer a larger canvas or work with intricate details.
Both tablets boast a high resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), providing accurate and precise input. However, the VK1200’s larger active area allows for more natural hand movements and better overall control.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, as it allows you to vary line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied. The Veikk Studio VK1200 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS provides 8192 levels as well.
Both tablets come with passive pens that require no batteries or charging. The VK1200’s pen features a comfortable grip and a well-balanced weight, while the Deco Fun XS’s pen has a slightly more lightweight feel. Both pens offer a responsive and accurate drawing experience, with minimal lag or jitter.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They work seamlessly with various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
The VK1200 comes with a driver that offers customizable settings, including pressure sensitivity, pen calibration, and button mapping. The Deco Fun XS also has a driver with similar customization options. Both drivers are user-friendly and easy to navigate.
Performance and User Experience
The performance of both tablets is impressive, considering their price point. The VK1200’s larger active area and smooth surface provide a more comfortable and natural drawing experience. The pen glides effortlessly over the tablet, offering accurate and responsive input.
The Deco Fun XS, despite its smaller active area, also delivers a smooth and enjoyable drawing experience. The textured surface provides a slightly more tactile feel, which some users may prefer. However, the smaller canvas might feel limiting for some artists, especially those who work on larger projects.
Price and Value
Both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are budget-friendly options, making them accessible to artists of all levels. The VK1200 is slightly more expensive than the Deco Fun XS but offers a larger active area and a more premium feel.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a larger canvas and a more comfortable drawing experience, the VK1200 is a better choice. However, if you’re looking for a compact and portable tablet with a more affordable price tag, the Deco Fun XS is a solid option.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Wins?
Choosing between the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
The VK1200 excels in:
- Larger active area for a more natural drawing experience
- Premium build quality and design
- Comfortable and well-balanced pen
The Deco Fun XS stands out with:
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable price point
- Textured surface for a tactile drawing experience
If you are:
- A beginner artist who needs a large canvas for drawing
- A professional artist who values a comfortable and natural drawing experience
- Looking for a tablet with a premium feel
The Veikk Studio VK1200 is the better choice.
If you are:
- A casual artist who prefers a compact and portable tablet
- On a tight budget
- Looking for a tablet with a textured surface
The XP-Pen Deco Fun XS is a great option.
The Final Word: Beyond the Specs
While specs and features are important, the best drawing tablet is ultimately the one that feels most comfortable and intuitive for you. Both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS offer excellent value for money and are capable of producing high-quality artwork. Take the time to try out both tablets, if possible, to see which one feels more natural and enjoyable for your individual workflow.
What You Need to Know
Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones or tablets?
A: No, both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are designed for use with computers only.
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a touchscreen monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is an input device that translates pen strokes into digital signals, while a touchscreen monitor allows you to interact with the screen directly. Drawing tablets offer a more precise and natural drawing experience, especially for artists who prefer using a pen.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Veikk Studio VK1200 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun XS are excellent options for beginners. The VK1200’s larger active area might be more comfortable for learning, while the Deco Fun XS’s affordability makes it a great entry point. Ultimately, the best tablet for beginners depends on their individual needs and preferences.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each tablet?
Veikk Studio VK1200:
Pros:
- Larger active area
- Premium build quality
- Comfortable pen
Cons:
- More expensive than the Deco Fun XS
XP-Pen Deco Fun XS:
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Compact and portable
- Textured surface
Cons:
- Smaller active area
