Key points
- The RTE 100 features a sleek black finish with a textured surface, while the G960S Plus opts for a more conventional white design with a smooth surface.
- Both the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and nuanced drawing experience.
- The RTE 100 offers a budget-friendly option with decent features, while the G960S Plus provides a more premium experience with its larger active area, sturdy build, and slightly more ergonomic pen.
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 RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision for your artistic endeavors.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast compact and lightweight designs, making them portable and easy to use. The RTE 100 features a sleek black finish with a textured surface, while the G960S Plus opts for a more conventional white design with a smooth surface.
In terms of build quality, the G960S Plus feels slightly more robust, with a sturdy base and a solid pen holder. The RTE 100, while still well-constructed, might feel a bit more plasticky in comparison. Overall, both tablets are well-designed and offer a comfortable user experience.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the usable drawing surface, while the resolution dictates the tablet’s sensitivity and precision. The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 offers a smaller active area of 6.3 x 4 inches, compared to the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus’s larger 8.5 x 5.3 inches. This translates to more workspace for the G960S Plus, particularly for artists who prefer a larger canvas.
In terms of resolution, both tablets boast a respectable 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch). This ensures smooth and accurate linework, making them suitable for both sketching and detailed illustrations. However, the larger active area of the G960S Plus provides more room for intricate details.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect for any drawing tablet, enabling artists to control line thickness and brush strokes with varying pressure. Both the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and nuanced drawing experience.
The included pens also share similar features, including a comfortable grip, two programmable buttons, and a replaceable nib. However, the G960S Plus pen boasts a slightly more ergonomic design, with a textured grip that enhances control.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with popular creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. They also come with their respective driver software, which allows for customization of pen settings, pressure sensitivity, and button functions.
The Huion software is known for its user-friendliness and straightforward interface, while the XP-Pen software offers more advanced customization options. Ultimately, both software packages provide a smooth and efficient user experience.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. This makes the RTE 100 an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the larger active area and slightly more robust build quality of the G960S Plus might justify the higher price point for some users.
Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on individual needs and preferences. If portability and affordability are top priorities, the RTE 100 is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize workspace and build quality, the G960S Plus might be a better investment.
Final Verdict: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boils down to your specific needs and budget. The RTE 100 offers a budget-friendly option with decent features, while the G960S Plus provides a more premium experience with its larger active area, sturdy build, and slightly more ergonomic pen.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious artists
- Beginners looking for a basic drawing tablet
- Users who prioritize portability
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is ideal for:
- Artists who prefer a larger workspace
- Users who value build quality and ergonomics
- Those willing to invest in a slightly more expensive option
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?
A: Both the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are designed for use with computers and laptops. They are not compatible with smartphones or tablets.
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a graphics tablet?
A: Drawing tablets and graphics tablets are essentially the same thing. They are both input devices that allow you to control a computer cursor using a pen.
Q: What is the difference between an active area and a resolution?
A: The active area is the usable drawing surface of the tablet. The resolution dictates the tablet’s sensitivity and precision, with higher resolutions offering greater accuracy.
Q: Do these tablets come with a screen?
A: No, both the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are pen tablets, meaning they do not have a built-in screen. You will need to use them in conjunction with a computer monitor.
Q: What kind of pen nibs are compatible with these tablets?
A: Both tablets use standard pen nibs, which are widely available online and in art supply stores. You can experiment with different nibs to find the ones that best suit your drawing style.
