What to know
- Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Wacom One 12.
- The Wacom One 12 also supports Windows and macOS operating systems and is compatible with a wide range of creative software.
- The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is generally more affordable than the Wacom One 12, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
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 category are the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Wacom One 12. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the intricacies of each tablet, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 boasts a sleek and minimalist design. Its black plastic construction feels sturdy and durable, although it might not exude the same premium feel as its competitor. The tablet is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for portability. It features eight customizable shortcut keys on the side, offering easy access to frequently used functions.
Wacom One 12: The Wacom One 12, on the other hand, adopts a more modern aesthetic with its white and gray color scheme. It feels more premium in hand, thanks to its textured plastic surface and a sturdy build quality. The tablet is slightly larger than the RTS 300, offering more drawing space. It features four customizable express keys on the top, which are conveniently placed for easy access.
Active Area and Resolution
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, which provides ample space for drawing and sketching. It boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and precise strokes.
Wacom One 12: The Wacom One 12 takes the lead in this category with a larger 11.6-inch active area, offering a more immersive drawing experience. It features a resolution of 4000 LPI, which is slightly lower than the RTS 300 but still delivers accurate and responsive strokes.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 comes bundled with a pressure-sensitive pen that supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for a wide range of line weights and shading effects. The pen features two side buttons for customization and is comfortable to hold for extended periods.
Wacom One 12: The Wacom One 12 also includes a pressure-sensitive pen with 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. While this is slightly lower than the RTS 300, it still provides a good level of control and responsiveness. The pen is known for its comfortable grip and balanced weight distribution.
Driver Support and Software
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: Huion offers decent driver support for the Inspiroy RTS 300, providing access to customization options for pen settings, shortcut keys, and tablet settings. The drivers are generally stable and reliable.
Wacom One 12: Wacom is renowned for its excellent driver support and software. The Wacom One 12 comes bundled with Wacom’s driver software, which offers a comprehensive range of customization options, including pen settings, express key mapping, and calibration tools. The software is highly regarded for its stability and user-friendliness.
Features and Compatibility
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. It supports various creative software applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
Wacom One 12: The Wacom One 12 also supports Windows and macOS operating systems and is compatible with a wide range of creative software. It offers additional features like a built-in stand for comfortable viewing angles and a USB-C connection for convenient connectivity.
Price and Value
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300: The Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is generally more affordable than the Wacom One 12, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
Wacom One 12: The Wacom One 12 is priced slightly higher than the RTS 300, reflecting its premium build quality, larger active area, and advanced features.
Pros and Cons
Huion Inspiroy RTS 300:
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Ample active area
- High pressure sensitivity
- Customizable shortcut keys
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Less premium build quality
- Lower resolution compared to Wacom One 12
Wacom One 12:
Pros:
- Larger active area
- Premium build quality
- Excellent driver support and software
- Comfortable pen
- Built-in stand
Cons:
- Higher price
- Lower pressure sensitivity compared to RTS 300
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Wacom One 12 are solid drawing tablets that offer a compelling combination of features and affordability. The best choice for you ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large active area and high pressure sensitivity, the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 is an excellent option. Its affordability, ample drawing space, and responsive pen make it a great choice for beginners and casual artists.
However, if you’re looking for a premium drawing experience with a larger active area, excellent driver support, and a comfortable pen, the Wacom One 12 is the way to go. Its robust build quality, comprehensive software, and user-friendly design make it a great choice for professional artists and those seeking a more immersive drawing experience.
Beyond the Comparison: What Else to Consider
When choosing a drawing tablet, it’s essential to consider factors beyond just the technical specs. Here are a few additional points to keep in mind:
- Your budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a tablet.
- Your skill level: If you’re a beginner, a budget-friendly tablet like the RTS 300 might be sufficient. However, if you’re a professional artist, you might benefit from the more advanced features of the Wacom One 12.
- Your preferred software: Ensure that the tablet you choose is compatible with the software you intend to use.
- Your drawing style: Consider your preferred drawing style and the features that are most important to you.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Battle of the Tablets
The battle between the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Wacom One 12 is a testament to the growing accessibility and quality of drawing tablets. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them excellent choices for artists of all levels. By carefully considering your individual needs and preferences, you can choose the tablet that best suits your creative journey.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 or Wacom One 12 with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers and are not compatible with smartphones.
Q: Which tablet has better driver support and software?
A: Wacom is known for its excellent driver support and software, offering a wide range of customization options and a user-friendly interface.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range I should consider?
A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets in the same price range, including the XP-Pen Artist 12, the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro, and the UGEE M708.
Q: Which tablet is best for beginners?
A: Both the Huion Inspiroy RTS 300 and the Wacom One 12 are suitable for beginners. However, the RTS 300’s affordability and large active area make it a more attractive option for those starting out.
Q: Which tablet is best for professional artists?
A: The Wacom One 12, with its premium build quality, excellent driver support, and larger active area, is a better choice for professional artists.