Quick notes
- The Artist Pro 16 features a minimalist aesthetic with a black, matte finish and a slightly angled design for improved ergonomics.
- The Artist Pro 16’s slim profile and sturdy construction lend it a premium feel, while the Star G960S Plus’ slightly thicker frame provides a more solid base.
- However, for those who prefer the immersive and responsive experience of a drawing tablet with a built-in display, the Artist Pro 16 emerges as the clear winner.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. But which one emerges as the victor in this digital duel? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Artist Pro 16 and the Star G960S Plus boast sleek designs that prioritize functionality and comfort. The Artist Pro 16 features a minimalist aesthetic with a black, matte finish and a slightly angled design for improved ergonomics. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a more vibrant red color option and a slightly thicker frame.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are robust and durable, constructed from high-quality materials. The Artist Pro 16’s slim profile and sturdy construction lend it a premium feel, while the Star G960S Plus’ slightly thicker frame provides a more solid base. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and aesthetic appeal.
Display and Resolution
One of the most significant differences between the two tablets lies in their display technology. The Artist Pro 16 features a vibrant 15.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, offering a crisp and detailed drawing experience. The Star G960S Plus, however, lacks an integrated display, relying on a separate monitor for visual feedback.
While the Star G960S Plus’ lack of a display might seem like a drawback, it also offers a significant cost advantage. This makes it an ideal option for budget-conscious artists who are comfortable working with a traditional pen-and-paper setup. However, for those who prefer the immersive and responsive experience of a drawing tablet with a built-in display, the Artist Pro 16 emerges as the clear winner.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize XP-Pen’s proprietary passive pen technology, which is known for its accuracy and responsiveness. The Artist Pro 16 comes with the XP-Pen P03 pen, featuring 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and customizable buttons. This level of sensitivity provides artists with a natural and nuanced drawing experience, enabling them to create intricate details and subtle strokes.
The Star G960S Plus also utilizes the XP-Pen P03 pen, offering the same 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. However, it lacks the customizable buttons found on the Artist Pro 16’s pen, which some users might find limiting.
Active Area and Drawing Experience
The Artist Pro 16 boasts a generous 15.6-inch active area, providing ample space for creative expression. The large active area allows for comfortable and precise drawing, even when working on complex projects. The Star G960S Plus features a smaller 10 x 6.25-inch active area, which might feel restrictive for users who prefer a more spacious canvas.
While the smaller active area might be a drawback for some, it also makes the Star G960S Plus more compact and portable. This makes it an excellent option for artists who frequently work on the go.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer reliable connectivity options. The Artist Pro 16 connects to your computer via a USB-C cable, ensuring a stable and high-speed data transfer. The Star G960S Plus also utilizes a USB-C connection, but it also includes a USB-A adapter for compatibility with older computers.
In terms of compatibility, both tablets work seamlessly with Windows and macOS operating systems. They are also compatible with a wide range of popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
Price and Value
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is priced slightly higher than the Star G960S Plus. However, it offers a more premium experience with its integrated display, larger active area, and customizable pen buttons. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, provides an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious artists. Its lack of a display and smaller active area are compensated by its lower price point.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Final Verdict
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a large active area, a vibrant display, and a premium drawing experience, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a tight budget and prefer a compact and portable option, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is a solid choice.
Beyond the Comparison
While we’ve delved into the key features and differences between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, it’s important to consider other factors that might influence your decision. These include:
- Your budget: Both tablets offer excellent value for their price, but the Star G960S Plus is significantly more affordable.
- Your workflow: If you prefer working with a separate monitor, the Star G960S Plus might be a better fit. However, if you value the immersive experience of a built-in display, the Artist Pro 16 is the way to go.
- Your drawing style: The Artist Pro 16’s large active area and customizable pen buttons are ideal for detailed and complex artwork. The Star G960S Plus’ smaller active area might be better suited for sketching and quick drawing.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. What are the key differences between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
The main differences lie in the display, active area, and pen features. The Artist Pro 16 has a built-in display, a larger active area, and customizable pen buttons, while the Star G960S Plus lacks a display, has a smaller active area, and lacks customizable pen buttons.
2. Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Star G960S Plus is a more affordable option, while the Artist Pro 16 offers a more immersive and intuitive drawing experience.
3. Can I use both tablets with my existing drawing software?
Yes, both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
4. Is the Star G960S Plus compatible with iPad?
No, the Star G960S Plus is only compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
5. What are the pros and cons of each tablet?
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- Pros: Built-in display, large active area, customizable pen buttons, high pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: More expensive than the Star G960S Plus.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:
- Pros: Affordable, compact and portable, high pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: No built-in display, smaller active area, no customizable pen buttons.
Ultimately, the choice between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this blog post, you can choose the drawing tablet that best fits your creative journey.
