Highlights
- On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S adopts a more traditional design, featuring a larger active area and a slightly thicker profile.
- However, if you crave a larger active area, higher resolution, and enhanced pressure sensitivity for more detailed and expressive artwork, the XP-Pen Star G960S emerges as the winner.
- The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M excels in its portability and affordability, making it a great option for beginners and on-the-go artists.
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 Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and the XP-Pen Star G960S. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring artists, designers, and digital note-takers. But which one emerges as the ultimate victor? Let’s delve into a head-to-head comparison to determine the best fit for your creative journey.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M boasts a sleek and compact design, making it an ideal companion for travel or limited workspace. Its black and silver color scheme exudes a professional aesthetic. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S adopts a more traditional design, featuring a larger active area and a slightly thicker profile. Its black and red color combination adds a touch of vibrancy. Both tablets feature a sturdy build quality, ensuring durability for everyday use.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the tablet’s drawing surface, while resolution determines the level of precision and sensitivity. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offers a compact active area of 4.41″ x 2.65″, making it suitable for smaller drawings and tasks requiring finer control. Its resolution of 2048 LPI (Lines Per Inch) delivers decent accuracy. In contrast, the XP-Pen Star G960S boasts a larger active area of 6.3″ x 3.94″, providing ample space for larger drawings and more dynamic strokes. Its resolution of 5080 LPI surpasses the H320M, resulting in greater precision and sensitivity.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor for achieving natural and expressive strokes. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a good range for nuanced line variations. Its pen features a comfortable grip and two buttons for customization. The XP-Pen Star G960S takes pressure sensitivity to another level with 8192 levels and a reported response time of 233 PPS (Packets Per Second), ensuring smooth and accurate linework. Its pen also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and two programmable buttons, offering enhanced control and versatility.
Compatibility and Software
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M comes bundled with the latest version of Huion’s driver software, which offers customization options for pen settings, shortcut keys, and more. The XP-Pen Star G960S also provides comprehensive driver software with similar features. Both tablets support a wide range of creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
Price and Value
The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the XP-Pen Star G960S offers a more comprehensive feature set, including a larger active area, higher resolution, and enhanced pressure sensitivity. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget.
Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable price point
- Smooth and responsive drawing surface
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Lower resolution compared to the G960S
XP-Pen Star G960S: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large active area for spacious drawing
- High resolution for precise strokes
- Enhanced pressure sensitivity for nuanced linework
- Comfortable and responsive pen
Cons:
- Slightly higher price compared to the H320M
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The decision between the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and the XP-Pen Star G960S ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, affordability, and a compact drawing experience, the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M is a solid choice. However, if you crave a larger active area, higher resolution, and enhanced pressure sensitivity for more detailed and expressive artwork, the XP-Pen Star G960S emerges as the winner.
The Verdict: A Draw with Different Strengths
Both the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M and XP-Pen Star G960S offer excellent value for money, providing a solid foundation for digital art creation. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M excels in its portability and affordability, making it a great option for beginners and on-the-go artists. Conversely, the XP-Pen Star G960S stands out with its larger active area, higher resolution, and enhanced pressure sensitivity, catering to more advanced users and those seeking greater detail and precision.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s affordability and compact size make it a good starting point. However, if you’re willing to spend a little more, the XP-Pen Star G960S offers a more professional experience with its larger active area and higher resolution.
Q: Can I use these tablets for digital note-taking?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for digital note-taking. Their pressure sensitivity allows for natural handwriting, and the included software often features note-taking features.
Q: What is the difference between the pen buttons on each tablet?
A: Both tablets have two buttons on their pens. These buttons can be customized to perform various actions within your chosen software, such as switching tools, erasing, or zooming.
Q: Which tablet is better for drawing realistic art?
A: The XP-Pen Star G960S is generally considered better for realistic art due to its higher resolution and enhanced pressure sensitivity, which allow for more detailed and nuanced strokes.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets I should consider?
A: There are many other drawing tablets available, ranging from budget-friendly options to professional-grade models. Consider researching other popular brands like Wacom, XP-Pen, and Huion to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
