Summary
- The XP-Pen Deco Pro M boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a compact footprint and a stylish black finish.
- The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers six customizable buttons, four on the tablet and two on the pen.
- The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a more affordable price point and a slightly larger active area, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users.
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 segment are the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build
The XP-Pen Deco Pro M boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a compact footprint and a stylish black finish. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to transport, while the textured surface provides a comfortable grip. The tablet’s active area is 10 x 6.25 inches, offering ample space for drawing and sketching.
On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a slightly larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing even more room for creative expression. Its design is more utilitarian, with a black plastic casing and a textured surface for grip. The tablet’s compact size makes it suitable for both desktop and laptop use.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Performance
Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and natural drawing experience. The Deco Pro M comes bundled with the XP-Pen Passive Pen, a battery-free pen with a comfortable grip and responsive tip. The pen boasts 60° tilt support, allowing for nuanced shading and brush strokes.
The Star G960S Plus also features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, but it utilizes the XP-Pen Battery-Free Pen with a more ergonomic design and improved tip accuracy. The pen also supports 60° tilt sensitivity, providing a similar level of precision and control as its counterpart.
Buttons and Customization
The Deco Pro M features eight customizable buttons, four on the tablet and four on the pen. These buttons can be programmed to perform various functions, such as switching between brushes, undoing actions, or activating shortcuts. The tablet also includes a dedicated scroll wheel for easy navigation.
The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers six customizable buttons, four on the tablet and two on the pen. This configuration provides ample customization options while maintaining a streamlined design. The tablet also includes a dedicated scroll wheel for smooth scrolling and navigation.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets connect to your computer via USB cable, ensuring a reliable and stable connection. They are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems, making them versatile options for a wide range of users. The Deco Pro M also supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless operation.
Software and Drivers
XP-Pen provides user-friendly software and drivers for both tablets, allowing you to customize pen settings, calibrate the tablet, and configure button functions. The software also offers a range of features, including brush customization, canvas rotation, and pressure sensitivity adjustments.
Overall Performance and User Experience
Both the Deco Pro M and the Star G960S Plus deliver a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The pressure sensitivity and pen performance are excellent, allowing for precise and nuanced strokes. The customizable buttons and scroll wheel provide a comfortable and efficient workflow.
However, the Deco Pro M’s Bluetooth connectivity and eight customizable buttons make it a slightly more versatile option for users who value wireless freedom and extensive customization. The Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a more affordable price point and a slightly larger active area, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize wireless freedom, extensive customization, and a sleek design, the XP-Pen Deco Pro M is an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a larger active area, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is a solid contender.
Beyond the Comparison: Choosing the Right Drawing Tablet
While the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and the Star G960S Plus are excellent options, it’s important to consider other factors when choosing a drawing tablet:
- Active Area: Choose a tablet with an active area that suits your drawing style and preferred canvas size.
- Pressure Sensitivity: Higher pressure sensitivity levels offer greater control and nuance in your strokes.
- Pen Performance: Look for a pen with a comfortable grip, responsive tip, and tilt support for a natural drawing experience.
- Buttons and Customization: Consider the number and placement of buttons and their customization options for a personalized workflow.
- Connectivity: Decide whether you prefer a wired connection or the flexibility of wireless operation.
- Software and Drivers: Ensure the tablet comes with user-friendly software and drivers for easy setup and configuration.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Creative Journey
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a significant investment, but it’s an investment that can empower your creativity and enhance your artistic journey. Whether you opt for the XP-Pen Deco Pro M or the Star G960S Plus, both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them excellent choices for aspiring artists and seasoned professionals alike.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What are the main differences between the XP-Pen Deco Pro M and the Star G960S Plus?
A: The Deco Pro M offers Bluetooth connectivity, eight customizable buttons, and a slightly smaller active area, while the Star G960S Plus features a larger active area, a more affordable price point, and a slightly different pen design.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners, but the Star G960S Plus is slightly more budget-friendly and offers a larger active area, making it a good starting point for new artists.
Q: Do these tablets work with Adobe Photoshop?
A: Yes, both tablets work seamlessly with Adobe Photoshop and other popular drawing software.
Q: Are there any other XP-Pen tablets worth considering?
A: XP-Pen offers a wide range of drawing tablets, including models with larger active areas, higher pressure sensitivity levels, and advanced features like wireless charging. It’s worth exploring their website to find the best option for your needs.
