Huion Inspiroy H1161 vs XP-Pen Star G960S: The Ultimate Drawing Tablet Showdown!

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 budget-friendly segment are the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the XP-Pen Star G960S. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key specs, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Unveiling the Competitors: A Quick Overview

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s get a quick glimpse at the contenders:

Huion Inspiroy H1161: This drawing tablet boasts a spacious 10.6-inch active area and a pressure sensitivity level of 8192, making it a popular choice for both beginners and professionals.

XP-Pen Star G960S: This tablet offers a slightly smaller 9.5-inch active area but compensates with a higher resolution and a sleek, minimalist design. It also features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.

Active Area: Size Matters

The active area of a drawing tablet is the surface where your pen interacts with the tablet. A larger active area offers more room for creative expression, especially when working on intricate details or large-scale projects.

The Huion Inspiroy H1161 wins this round with its generous 10.6-inch active area. This spacious canvas provides ample room for drawing, sketching, and even painting without feeling cramped.

The XP-Pen Star G960S, with its 9.5-inch active area, is still a decent size for everyday use. However, it might feel slightly restrictive for those who prefer a larger working space.

Resolution and Pressure Sensitivity: Accuracy and Precision

Resolution and pressure sensitivity are crucial factors that determine the accuracy and responsiveness of your drawing tablet. Higher resolution translates to more precise pen movements, while higher pressure sensitivity allows for more nuanced strokes and shading.

Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and natural drawing experience. However, the **XP-Pen Star G960S** edges out with a higher resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) compared to the Huion’s 4000 LPI. This higher resolution translates to slightly more precise pen movements and a smoother drawing experience.

Design and Ergonomics: Comfort and Convenience

A drawing tablet should be comfortable to use for extended periods. The design and ergonomics play a significant role in determining the overall user experience.

The Huion Inspiroy H1161 sports a classic rectangular design with a textured surface that provides a good grip. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport. The pen holder is conveniently located on the side of the tablet.

The XP-Pen Star G960S boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a glossy finish. It’s also lightweight and compact, but the pen holder is located on the back of the tablet, which might not be as convenient for some users.

Included Accessories: Out-of-the-Box Value

Both tablets come with a decent set of accessories, including a pressure-sensitive pen, pen holder, and USB cable. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 also includes a pair of replacement pen nibs, while the **XP-Pen Star G960S** comes with a USB adapter.

Software Compatibility: Seamless Integration

Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** are compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. They also work seamlessly with Windows and macOS operating systems.

Price and Value: The Bottom Line

The Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** are both budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering excellent value for their price. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is generally slightly more affordable, while the **XP-Pen Star G960S** offers a higher resolution and a more premium design.

The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Huion Inspiroy H1161 if:

• You prioritize a large active area for comfortable drawing.
• You’re on a tighter budget.
• You prefer a classic design with a textured surface.

Choose the XP-Pen Star G960S if:

• You value a higher resolution for precise pen movements.
• You prefer a sleek and minimalist design.
• You’re willing to pay a slightly higher price for premium features.

Beyond the Comparison: A Final Thought

Both the Huion Inspiroy H1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** are excellent drawing tablets that offer a fantastic entry point into the world of digital art. They provide a smooth and responsive drawing experience, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned artists. Whether you choose the spacious canvas of the Huion or the precision of the XP-Pen, you’ll be well-equipped to unleash your creativity.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?

A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers. They don’t have native support for smartphones or tablets, but you might be able to connect them using a USB-C adapter.

Q: Do these tablets come with a screen protector?

A: Neither tablet comes with a screen protector. You might want to consider purchasing one separately to protect the drawing surface from scratches.

Q: What is the difference between active area and the tablet’s overall size?

A: The active area is the actual drawing surface, while the tablet’s overall size includes the bezels and any additional buttons or features.

Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?

A: Yes, these tablets can be used for photo editing. They offer precise pen control, making them suitable for tasks like retouching, cropping, and color correction.

Q: Are there any alternatives to these tablets?

A: There are many other drawing tablets available, both in the budget-friendly and premium segments. Some popular alternatives include the Wacom Intuos, the XP-Pen Artist 12, and the Huion Kamvas 13.