Main points
- The Wacom One 12 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame and a thin profile.
- The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, has a more utilitarian design with a thicker frame and a larger footprint.
- Both the Wacom One 12 and the XP-Pen Star G960S are excellent drawing tablets that offer a great value for the price.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for aspiring artists and digital illustrators. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the Wacom One 12 and the XP-Pen Star G960S. Both offer a compelling set of features, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Wacom One 12 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame and a thin profile. It’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel. The XP-Pen Star G960S, on the other hand, has a more utilitarian design with a thicker frame and a larger footprint. It feels more substantial but might be less portable. Both tablets have a textured surface that provides a comfortable drawing experience.
Active Area and Resolution
The Wacom One 12 features a 11.6-inch active area with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. This provides a spacious canvas for detailed drawings and a sharp, clear display. The XP-Pen Star G960S offers a slightly smaller active area of 10 x 6.25 inches with a resolution of 5080 LPI. While the resolution is higher, the smaller active area might limit your drawing space, especially for larger projects.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, with 4096 levels for the Wacom One 12 and 8192 levels for the XP-Pen Star G960S. This allows for a wide range of pressure variations, creating natural-looking lines and strokes. The Wacom One 12 uses the Wacom EMR technology, while the XP-Pen Star G960S utilizes the passive pen technology. Both technologies provide a smooth and responsive drawing experience, with the Wacom EMR being known for its accuracy and responsiveness.
Driver Support and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS, offering excellent driver support. The Wacom One 12 has a dedicated driver that provides customization options for pen settings, shortcuts, and more. The XP-Pen Star G960S also offers a driver with similar features, but the Wacom driver is generally considered to be more robust and user-friendly.
Features and Accessories
The Wacom One 12 comes bundled with a pen, pen holder, and a USB-C cable. It also supports optional accessories like a stand and a screen protector. The XP-Pen Star G960S includes a pen, pen holder, 8 replacement nibs, and a USB cable. It also offers a detachable stand for increased ergonomics.
Price and Value
The Wacom One 12 is generally priced higher than the XP-Pen Star G960S. However, the price difference is often justified by the larger active area, higher resolution, and brand recognition. The XP-Pen Star G960S offers a more budget-friendly option with similar functionality and performance.
Wacom One 12 vs XP-Pen Star G960S: Which One Should You Choose?
The best drawing tablet for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Choose the Wacom One 12 if:
- You prioritize a larger active area for more spacious drawing.
- You prefer a sleek and portable design.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for the Wacom brand and its reputation.
Choose the XP-Pen Star G960S if:
- You’re on a tight budget and looking for a cost-effective option.
- You prefer a more robust and substantial design.
- You’re satisfied with a smaller active area.
The Verdict: A Draw!
Both the Wacom One 12 and the XP-Pen Star G960S are excellent drawing tablets that offer a great value for the price. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and priorities.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are suitable for beginners, but the XP-Pen Star G960S might be a more budget-friendly option.
Q2: Do these tablets require a battery for the pen?
No, both tablets use passive pen technology, so the pen doesn‘t require a battery.
Q3: Can I use these tablets with smartphones or tablets?
No, these tablets are designed for use with computers only.
Q4: Are there any software limitations with these tablets?
Both tablets work with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q5: What is the difference between EMR and passive pen technology?
EMR (Electro-Magnetic Resonance) technology uses a magnetic field to track the pen’s position, while passive pen technology relies on pressure sensors on the tablet’s surface. EMR is generally considered to be more accurate and responsive.
