Quick summary
- The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a thicker frame and a black plastic exterior.
- However, the Kamvas 12 edges out the **G960S** with its laminated display, which eliminates the parallax effect, resulting in a more natural and responsive drawing experience.
- However, its laminated display, responsive pen technology, and bundled software make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize a more natural and seamless drawing experience.
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 Kamvas 12 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S**. Both tablets offer excellent value for money, but they differ in several key aspects. This comprehensive comparison aims to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Kamvas 12 boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a black plastic body with a thin profile. Its 11.6-inch display sits comfortably on a stand, offering multiple viewing angles. The tablet itself is lightweight and portable, making it suitable for both studio and on-the-go use.
The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional design with a thicker frame and a black plastic exterior. It comes with a detachable stand, allowing you to adjust the display angle to your liking. While not as sleek as the Kamvas 12, the G960S still feels sturdy and well-constructed.
Display and Resolution
Both tablets offer a 11.6-inch display with a full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This provides a crisp and detailed viewing experience, making it ideal for intricate artwork and precise linework. However, the Kamvas 12 edges out the **G960S** with its laminated display, which eliminates the parallax effect, resulting in a more natural and responsive drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The Kamvas 12 comes equipped with the PW500 pen, which boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for a high degree of precision and control, enabling you to create subtle variations in line thickness and brush strokes. The pen also features side buttons that can be customized for various functions.
The G960S utilizes the PA2 pen, which also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. While the pen responds well to pressure changes, it might not feel as natural or as responsive as the PW500. The G960S pen lacks side buttons, which might be a drawback for users who rely on them for shortcuts.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer multiple connectivity options, including HDMI and USB-C ports. This allows you to connect them to a wide range of devices, including laptops, desktops, and even smartphones. They are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems, making them suitable for a diverse range of users.
Software and Features
The Kamvas 12 comes bundled with a suite of software, including Huion’s own drawing software, Sketch, as well as OpenCanvas and MediBang Paint. These software options provide a solid foundation for beginners and offer a range of tools and features for digital artists.
The G960S doesn’t come with any pre-installed software. However, it is compatible with a wide range of industry-standard drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. This flexibility allows you to choose the software that best suits your workflow and artistic preferences.
Price and Value
The Huion Kamvas 12 is generally priced slightly higher than the **XP-Pen Star G960S**. However, its laminated display, responsive pen technology, and bundled software make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize a more natural and seamless drawing experience.
The G960S, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features. Its lower price point makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious artists and beginners.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
Both the Huion Kamvas 12 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** are excellent drawing tablets that offer impressive value for money. The final decision ultimately boils down to your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Huion Kamvas 12 if:
- You prioritize a natural and responsive drawing experience.
- You prefer a laminated display that eliminates parallax.
- You value the bundled software and its range of features.
Choose the XP-Pen Star G960S if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You are comfortable with using third-party drawing software.
- You prefer a more traditional design with a detachable stand.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Huion Kamvas 12 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** are great choices, they are not the only options available. Other popular drawing tablets in the same price range include:
- XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro: Offers a similar feature set to the Kamvas 12, including a laminated display and a responsive pen.
- Wacom One Creative Pen Display: A well-regarded option from Wacom, known for its quality and reliability.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Canvas for Your Creativity
The journey to find the perfect drawing tablet is a personal one. Consider your budget, your artistic needs, and your preferred features to make an informed decision. Whether you choose the Huion Kamvas 12, the **XP-Pen Star G960S**, or another option, remember that the most important factor is finding a tool that inspires you to create.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display?
A: A drawing tablet is a device that allows you to control a cursor on your computer screen using a pen. A pen display, on the other hand, has a built-in screen that allows you to draw directly onto the tablet surface.
Q: What is parallax and why is it important?
A: Parallax is the difference between the position of the pen tip on the tablet surface and the corresponding cursor position on the screen. A laminated display eliminates this effect, resulting in a more natural and responsive drawing experience.
Q: Do I need to buy additional software for these tablets?
A: The **Huion Kamvas 12** comes with bundled software, while the **XP-Pen Star G960S** does not. You can use third-party drawing software with both tablets.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The **Huion Kamvas 12** offers a more intuitive experience with its laminated display and bundled software, while the **XP-Pen Star G960S** provides a more affordable option.
