What to know
- The larger active area of the Artist Pro 16TP makes it a better choice for artists who prefer working on a larger scale.
- The choice between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
- If you’re a professional artist or enthusiast seeking a premium drawing experience with a built-in display, the Artist Pro 16TP is the clear winner.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both tablets offer impressive features and value for money, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP boasts a sleek and modern design with a slim profile. Its sturdy build quality feels premium, making it a reliable companion for everyday use. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a slightly thicker profile. While still sturdy, it doesn’t exude the same premium feel as the Artist Pro 16TP.
Active Area and Screen Size
The Artist Pro 16TP offers a generous active area of 15.6 inches, which is almost the size of a standard A4 paper. This expansive canvas allows for greater freedom and precision in your artwork. The Star G960S Plus, while still offering a sizable active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, falls short compared to the Artist Pro 16TP. The larger active area of the Artist Pro 16TP makes it a better choice for artists who prefer working on a larger scale.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both the Artist Pro 16TP and the Star G960S Plus feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise and nuanced strokes. The pens included with both tablets are lightweight and comfortable to hold, providing a natural drawing experience. The Artist Pro 16TP’s pen, however, boasts a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries. The Star G960S Plus’s pen, on the other hand, requires a battery to function.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Artist Pro 16TP stands out with its built-in display, providing a direct feedback experience for artists. The 15.6-inch IPS display offers vibrant colors and accurate color reproduction, making it ideal for professional work. The Star G960S Plus, being a pen display, lacks a screen, requiring you to rely on your computer monitor for feedback. While this might not be a deal-breaker for some, the direct feedback offered by the Artist Pro 16TP’s display can significantly enhance the creative process.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer multiple connectivity options, including USB-C and HDMI. They are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with your existing setup. The Artist Pro 16TP also supports the use of an optional stand, allowing for greater flexibility in positioning the tablet.
Software and Features
XP-Pen provides dedicated software for both tablets, offering customization options for pen settings, shortcut keys, and other features. The Artist Pro 16TP’s software is more comprehensive, with advanced features like screen mirroring and color calibration. The Star G960S Plus’s software is more basic but still provides essential customization options.
Price and Value for Money
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, with its built-in display and advanced features, comes at a higher price point compared to the Star G960S Plus. However, its premium features and overall performance justify the price tag for professional artists and enthusiasts. The Star G960S Plus offers a more budget-friendly option, making it an excellent choice for beginners and casual users.
The Verdict: Finding the Right Fit
The choice between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re a professional artist or enthusiast seeking a premium drawing experience with a built-in display, the Artist Pro 16TP is the clear winner. Its larger active area, battery-free pen, and advanced software features make it a powerful tool for creating high-quality artwork.
However, if you’re a beginner or casual user on a tighter budget, the Star G960S Plus offers an excellent value proposition. Its affordable price, comfortable pen, and responsive surface make it a great starting point for exploring the world of digital art.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the key differences between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
A: The Artist Pro 16TP is a pen display with a built-in screen, while the Star G960S Plus is a drawing tablet that requires a separate monitor. The Artist Pro 16TP also offers a larger active area, battery-free pen, and more advanced software features.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Star G960S Plus is a better choice for beginners due to its more affordable price and user-friendly design.
Q: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP with my Mac?
A: Yes, both the Artist Pro 16TP and the Star G960S Plus are compatible with macOS.
Q: What is the maximum resolution supported by the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP?
A: The Artist Pro 16TP supports a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus come with a stand?
A: No, the Star G960S Plus does not come with a stand. You can purchase a separate stand if needed.