Comparison Huion Kamvas Pro 12 vs XP-PEN Artist 12

The number of control keys provided in the design of the tablet.

Each of these keys is responsible for a specific function, while the set of these functions can be configured: in some models they can be selected manually, in others the functionality of the keys changes automatically, depending on the currently active application. Anyway, additional keys allow the user to perform various actions without looking up from the tablet — this can be very convenient in the midst of the work process, when you don’t want to change the pen to the mouse again or reach for the keyboard. And the more control keys — so, respectively, more additional actions can be performed using the tablet. On the other hand, with relatively simple tasks, the abundance of additional buttons can hinder and confuse the user rather than help.

The most modest modern tablets provide up to 5 control keys ; the most popular option is from 6 to 10 keys, and in advanced models this number can reach 15 or even more.

The presence in the kit of a special stand that allows you to change the height of the installation and/or the angle of inclination of the installed tablet. Such a stand makes using the device more convenient: it can be raised above a tabletop that is too low, set at an angle that is most comfortable for the hand, etc.

The contrast of the screen set in the graphic display (see "Type").

This setting describes the brightness ratio between the brightest white and darkest black that the screen is capable of reproducing. The larger the first number, the higher the contrast and the better the image as a whole. However note that the contrast ratio of modern graphic displays usually ranges from 400:1 to 3000:1 — this is generally noticeably lower than that of computer monitors, especially professional ones. So the final control of the result is still best done on the monitor. On the other hand, if you are going to work professionally with graphics on a tablet display, it makes sense to look for a model with high contrast.

The range of colors that can be displayed on a graphics tablet screen. The parameter is indicated as a percentage relative to the coverage of the NTSC color space. The larger the color gamut, the wider the capabilities of the screen and the better the quality of its color rendition, which is extremely important when working with graphic materials.

NTSC is one of the first color models, launched in 1953 for color television. And it is still used to describe and compare matrices. The NTSC model covers a larger range of colors than the standard sRGB used in computer technology, so even a relatively small number of percentages corresponds to a fairly wide coverage. For example, a value of 72% or more according to NTSC is considered a decent indicator for use in design and graphics.

The model of the pen that comes with the device. Allows you to understand which one is used and learn more fully its full characteristics. In this case, in the case of a replacement, you will already be aware of which accessory is needed for the purchase. However, nothing prevents you from replacing the existing one with a more advanced one, of course, if the graphics tablet itself allows you to work with a different pen model.

The height within which pen movements above the working surface are recorded by the tablet electronics even in the absence of direct contact.

Many tablets allow you to work in a "non-contact" way — without directly touching the stylus to the work surface. Thanks to this, it is possible, for example, with a raised pen to bring the cursor in the graphics editor to the desired point and turn on the drawing mode by touching the tablet with the stylus. And the greater the maximum reading height, the more convenient it is to use this mode, the less demanding the tablet is for the accuracy of movements. In many modern models, this parameter exceeds 10 mm.

The presence of an eraser function in the pen — that is, the ability to use the pen not only for drawing a picture, but also for erasing it. Directly the role of the eraser is most often played by the second end of the pen, opposite to the “drawing” one; however, in some models, this function is implemented purely in software — by enabling a special pen mode.

The number of control keys provided on the pen. These keys can be used for various purposes — for example, changing the type or size of the brush for painting, switching colours, turning on the eraser mode, etc. The more keys — the more options the artist can switch on the fly without getting into the settings of the graphic editor, and the more advanced, usually, this pen is.

- Mouse. Availability of a computer mouse included with the tablet. Note that such an accessory can be useful even if you already have a mouse: tablet mice are usually specialized models that are distinguished by high accuracy and/or advanced functionality and are well suited for working with graphics. However, it wouldn’t hurt to clarify the specific capabilities of the mouse separately.

— Replaceable pen nibs. The use of such accessories is connected with two points. Firstly, the stylus tip is usually made quite soft so that when working with the tablet, it is the pen that is erased, not the touch surface. Secondly, specialized tips are produced for styluses that allow you to simulate the sensations of using various artistic tools - felt-tip pens, brushes, etc. Accordingly, the delivery package may include both spare tips of the same standard type and tips of different designs; This point should be clarified separately. However, in any case, such a set will be useful for those who draw often and a lot.

— Pen holder. In accordance with the name, this device is used to secure the pen during non-working hours - so that the stylus does not get lost and is always in a clearly defined place. Note that the holder can be made either as a part on the tablet body (for example, a hinge), or as a separate device that can be mounted in a convenient place on the tab...le. In addition, it can have seats not only for the pen, but also for replaceable nibs for it, if they are provided in the kit (see above).

- Glove. The kit includes a special glove made of lycra or other similar material. The glove reduces friction between the hand and the active area of the graphics tablet, providing a smooth glide while working and helping to avoid hand marks. As a rule, such “clothes” are designed for two fingers (little finger and ring finger). And the fingers that hold the pen for drawing remain free.

- USB receiver. A device found in models with wireless or combined connections. Such a receiver is connected to the USB port of a computer or laptop, and communication via a radio channel is carried out through it. However, this accessory can also be found in Bluetooth models - in them it plays the role of an adapter for equipment that is not equipped with its own Bluetooth modules.