Highlights
- Two popular contenders in the small tablet category are the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small.
- It features a textured surface for enhanced grip and a compact footprint, making it ideal for travel and limited desk space.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small adopts a more premium approach, with a sleek aluminum body and a matte finish.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the small tablet category are the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both offer a compact design and a smooth drawing experience, but they differ in various aspects. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body. It features a textured surface for enhanced grip and a compact footprint, making it ideal for travel and limited desk space. The tablet is lightweight and feels sturdy, though some users have reported a slight flex in the active area.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small adopts a more premium approach, with a sleek aluminum body and a matte finish. The tablet feels robust and high-quality, exuding a sense of durability. Its compact size and lightweight design make it portable, while the minimalist aesthetic adds a touch of elegance.
Active Area and Resolution
The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 offers a smaller active area of 6.3 x 3.9 inches, which might feel cramped for some users, especially those accustomed to larger tablets. The resolution of 4000 LPI (Lines Per Inch) provides decent accuracy and responsiveness.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts a slightly larger active area of 7.9 x 5.1 inches, offering more space for creative expression. This larger area is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a more natural drawing experience. The tablet also boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, resulting in enhanced precision and smoother lines.
Pen Technology and Features
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens with tilt support, providing a more natural drawing experience. The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a wide range of line thickness and brush strokes. It comes with two side buttons that can be customized for various functions.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small pen boasts a higher pressure sensitivity of 10,240 levels, providing even greater accuracy and control. It also features a unique side switch that allows users to toggle between pen and eraser functionality without having to change pens. The pen is designed for comfort and balance, with a textured grip that prevents slipping.
Software and Compatibility
The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes with drivers that offer customization options for pen settings and button assignments. The tablet also supports various drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small also offers compatibility with both Windows and macOS. It comes with its own proprietary software, **Xencelabs Driver**, which provides a streamlined interface for customizing pen settings, button assignments, and other preferences. The tablet is compatible with a wide range of popular drawing software, ensuring seamless integration into your creative workflow.
Pros and Cons
Huion Inspiroy RTE 100
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Compact and portable design
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Customizable side buttons
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Lower resolution compared to Xencelabs
- Plastic build quality
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Larger active area
- Higher resolution for precise drawing
- Comfortable and balanced pen
- Unique side switch for pen/eraser toggle
- Dedicated software for customization
Cons:
- Higher price compared to Huion
- No included pen stand or carrying case
Which Tablet is Right for You?
The best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a compact design, the **Huion Inspiroy RTE 100** is a solid choice. Its affordable price point and basic features make it suitable for beginners and casual users.
However, if you prioritize precision, comfort, and premium build quality, the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small** is worth considering. Its larger active area, higher resolution, and advanced pen technology provide a more professional drawing experience.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
While the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comparison offers valuable insights, it’s essential to remember that the ultimate choice depends on individual preferences and usage scenarios. Consider factors like your budget, the type of artwork you create, and your desired level of precision.
Don’t hesitate to explore other drawing tablets in the market and read user reviews to gain a broader perspective. Ultimately, the best tablet is the one that empowers you to unleash your creativity and achieve your artistic goals.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: While both tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for photo editing tasks like retouching and masking. However, their precision might not be as crucial for photo editing as it is for drawing.
Q: Do these tablets require a specific driver to work?
A: Yes, both tablets require drivers to be installed for proper functionality. The drivers provide essential settings for pen customization, button assignments, and other tablet-specific options.
Q: What is the difference between pressure sensitivity and resolution?
A: Pressure sensitivity refers to the tablet’s ability to detect different levels of pressure applied to the pen, resulting in varying line thickness. Resolution, on the other hand, determines the accuracy and detail of the lines drawn on the tablet.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or iPad?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers. They are not compatible with smartphones or iPads without additional hardware or software.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both Huion and Xencelabs offer a standard warranty period for their tablets. Check the manufacturer’s website for specific warranty details and terms.
