What to know
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, has a color gamut of 80% sRGB, which is still good for most drawing applications.
- 3 Pro, on the other hand, is a better choice for professional artists or those who require a more immersive drawing experience.
- The Artist 12 2nd Generation is a solid choice for beginners and budget-conscious artists, while the Artist 13.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro. Both offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two tablets to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 13.3 Pro share a similar design language, featuring a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. Both tablets boast a black, plastic construction, offering a sturdy and durable feel. However, the Artist 13.3 Pro slightly edges out the Artist 12 2nd Generation in terms of build quality. Its aluminum frame provides a more premium feel and adds to its overall stability.
Display Size and Resolution
The most significant difference between the two tablets lies in their display sizes. The Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with a 11.6-inch display, while the Artist 13.3 Pro boasts a larger 13.3-inch screen. This extra screen real estate on the Artist 13.3 Pro offers a more immersive drawing experience, especially for artists who prefer to work on larger canvases.
In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, providing crisp and detailed visuals. However, the Artist 13.3 Pro’s larger display size means that the pixels are slightly more spread out, resulting in a slightly less sharp image compared to the Artist 12 2nd Generation.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s latest generation of passive stylus technology. The Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 13.3 Pro come bundled with the XP-Pen PA2 pen, offering 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced strokes and a natural drawing experience. The pen also features tilt support, enabling you to create realistic shading effects by tilting the pen.
Color Gamut and Viewing Angles
While both tablets offer a decent color reproduction, the Artist 13.3 Pro comes out on top in this category. It boasts a wider color gamut of 120% sRGB, allowing for more vibrant and accurate colors. The Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, has a color gamut of 80% sRGB, which is still good for most drawing applications.
In terms of viewing angles, the Artist 13.3 Pro’s IPS panel provides wider viewing angles compared to the Artist 12 2nd Generation’s TN panel. This means that the colors on the Artist 13.3 Pro remain accurate even when viewed from different angles.
Connectivity and Ports
Both tablets offer similar connectivity options, including HDMI and USB-C ports. The Artist 12 2nd Generation also includes a mini-HDMI port, which provides added flexibility. Both tablets can be powered via USB-C, eliminating the need for an external power adapter.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is generally priced lower than the Artist 13.3 Pro. This makes the Artist 12 2nd Generation a more affordable option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Artist 13.3 Pro offers a more premium drawing experience with its larger display, wider color gamut, and better viewing angles. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
So, which tablet is right for you? The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a great option for beginners or artists who value affordability and portability. Its smaller size makes it easier to transport and store, and its 11.6-inch display is still large enough for most drawing tasks.
The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro, on the other hand, is a better choice for professional artists or those who require a more immersive drawing experience. Its larger display, wider color gamut, and better viewing angles make it a more versatile and powerful tool for creative work.
The Verdict: A Close Call
Both the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation and the Artist 13.3 Pro are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The Artist 12 2nd Generation is a solid choice for beginners and budget-conscious artists, while the Artist 13.3 Pro is a more premium option for professionals and those who prioritize a larger screen and better color accuracy. Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation or Artist 13.3 Pro with a Mac?
Yes, both tablets are compatible with macOS.
2. What software programs are compatible with these tablets?
Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of drawing software programs, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Krita.
3. Do these tablets come with a screen protector?
No, neither tablet comes with a screen protector. You may need to purchase one separately.
4. What is the difference between the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro (2nd Generation)?
The XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro (2nd Generation) features an updated pen with improved pressure sensitivity and a more ergonomic design. It also boasts a brighter display with a higher contrast ratio.
5. Are there any other tablets I should consider?
If you’re looking for a larger display size, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is a great alternative. If you’re on a tighter budget, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is a more affordable option.
