Home Tech XP Pen vs Wacom – Which is the Better One?

XP Pen vs Wacom – Which is the Better One?

Are you an aspiring digital artist or a seasoned professional looking to take your creative journey to the next level?💁

In today’s digital era, graphics tablets have revolutionized how artists express their imagination and bring their ideas to life.

As you dive into graphic design, illustration, or photo editing, you’ll inevitably come across two prominent contenders vying for your attention: XP Pen and Wacom.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the XP Pen vs Wacom debate, dissecting the strengths and weaknesses of each brand’s graphics tablet.

We’ll shed light on the features, performance, and user experience offered by both manufacturers, allowing you to decide when to choose the perfect tool to amplify your artistic prowess.

So, whether you’re a digital art enthusiast seeking your first graphics tablet or a seasoned professional looking to upgrade your current setup, join us as we unravel the secrets behind the XP Pen and Wacom rivalry, guiding you toward the ultimate choice that aligns with your artistic vision and aspirations.

Get ready to dive deep into graphics tablets as we compare and contrast XP Pen and Wacom devices’ innovation, functionality, and sheer artistic potential.

Let’s embark on this thrilling journey together and discover which brand will claim the title of your ultimate creative companion.

Before comparing, I will briefly introduce XP Pen and Wacom.

What is Wacom?

Wacom is a Japan-based digital company that manufactures superfine graphic or art pens and tablets. The company was founded in 1983 and headquartered in Kazo, Japan.

The company launched its first cordless pen tablet in 1983, bringing daily innovations.

XP Pen vs Wacom

Wacom provides the best quality and high-tech pen computers, pen displays, pen tablets, smart pads, Stylus, and three different apps and services that every designer, artist, or professional might need while working with its products.

What is XP-PEN?

XP-Pen is a well-known company in the field of digital graphic tablets. It was founded in 2005 in Japan and started developing digital graphic tablets as a research and development project.

XP Pen vs Wacom 1

By 2018, the company successfully made its presence in various countries and had an impressive impact, especially on Asian, European, and North American digital markets. 

It sold its most popular deco series in more than 100 countries and has gained much popularity amongst artists and creators in the digital market.

We will compare both Wacom and XP-Pen based on the various parameters. Let us have a look.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Web Interface

Both have a user-friendly interface with different shortcuts to help customers or users looking for graphic or artistic tablets.

Users can easily find pictures, designs, or illustrations uploaded by those using graphics tablets on the company’s website.

This feature is available on the “Discover” option on the Wacom website. In contrast, on the XP-Pen website, you can find amazing designs or artwork by the users of XP-Pen graphics tablets and pens under the “Explore” option.

Wacom Discover vs XP-Pen Explore: Wacom’s Discover has a wide number of options where you can discover various designs along with an informative blog about how to make a particular 3d design or how to draw hands or how to do photo editing along with recommendations of the best-related graphics or drawing tablet.

On the other hand, XP- Pen’s Explore option recommends the most suitable graphic tablet and pen you need for a particular work.  

XP Pen vs Wacom – Design

Although every model has a different design, the basic design remains the same, whether Wacom or XP-Pen.

The basic design of almost every drawing or graphic tablet model is the same, but you will find some differences in both of the company’s products. Let us compare 2 different models Cintiq 16 by Wacom and Artist 15.6 Pro by XP-Pen.

XP Pen vs Wacom 2
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Cintiq 16 by Wacom is a very simply designed Graphics and drawing tablet with just a clear, simple screen on the front, whereas the other hand, Artistic 15.6 Pro by XP-Pen has front shortcut buttons and a simple, clear screen on the front.

XP Pen vs Wacom - Which is the Better One?
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Artistic 15.6 Pro has a fully laminated display with a tablet stand, whereas the other side Cintiq 16, comes with a pen but does not have a laminated display. Cintiq 16 has a 1.9 kg weight, whereas Artistic 15.6 Pro is lighter than 1.5 kg.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Pressure Sensitivity

Pressure sensitivity is the feature that helps digital tablets sense thick or thin lines that you draw.

You might be thinking that if you buy a graphic tablet with more pressure sensitivity, you will get much better results.

But this isn’t true in all cases; you might not notice much difference between the pressure levels unless you work highly professionally.

Both Wacom and XP-Pen manufacture graphic tablets with different pressure sensitivity. Let’s compare Wacom Intuos(4096 Pressure levels) with XP Pen Deco 01 V2 (8192).

You will find that Wacom manufactures more products with fewer pressure levels than XP-Pen, but Wacom graphic tablets are more smooth and effective.

Resistance to Scratches

You can work comfortably only if your tablet and stylus are smooth. But a smooth tablet means more scratches after using it for a long time.

Most graphic tablets are made up of plastic, and so is the stylus nib; while working for hours daily, the nib of the stylus might slip due to friction and moisture.

Wacom uses a superfine technique to avoid this by keeping small waves or jumps on the tablet surface to prevent the stylus from slipping and hence avoid scratches in long-term use.

On the other hand, XP-Pen has no such waves or bump-like texture on its tablet surface. So here, Wacom graphic tablets are more resistant to scratches than XP-Pen drawing or graphics tablets.

Display

The display is crucial when buying a drawing or graphic tablet. Very large or very small displays can both be uncomfortable while working.

Wacom and XP-Pen have a wide range of options available in display and offer 4k HD displays.

Let us compare Wacom Cintiq 16($650) and XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro($400). Now here, if we look at the prices, Cintiq 16 is quite expensive compared to Artist 15.6 Pro, so everyone might think that Cintiq would be more superfine.

Wacom Cintiq 16 Review + SKETCH!

But, here is the reality, Artist 15.6 Pro has a laminated 15.6 inches display with 84% Adobe RGB whereas Cintiq 16 also has a 15.6 inches display.

Still, it is a non-laminated display with 75% Adobe RGB coverage, whereas XP-Pen has more color gamete and takes over Wacom.

XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro review

XP Pen vs Wacom – Working Area

Apart from the display, the working area is equally important when buying a drawing or graphics tablet.

A very large or very small working area can create problems if you are not experienced; Wacom and XP-Pen have different models with different working areas, also called active areas.

Wacom mostly has three sizes of tablets, small, medium, and large. Sizes range between 7.9”x6.3” to 32”, but not all the models have size options.

On the other hand, XP-Pen has a variety of graphics and drawing tablets ranging between 4.8”x3” to 23.8 inches working area. XP-Pen has more options than Wacom, and you can also find more features with a bigger working area tablet.

We recommend avoiding going with huge or tiny if you’re a newbie unfamiliar with withdrawing or graphic tablets. A moderate drawing or graphic tablet is ideal for most people’s needs.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Performance

Apart from all other aspects, performance stays the topmost priority of every customer. Performance is accurately measured by analyzing how the device works long-term and how many defects resistance it is even after using it for a long time.

Drawing or working on a Wacom tablet gives a fine and smooth experience. Wacom is an older company with limited variety but focuses on providing the best quality and performance.

Most of the models in Wacom come with smooth anti-glare glass that gives extra protection and smooth working. On the other hand, XP-Pen has a lot of variety in a reasonable price range but lags in performance.

Drawing using an XP-Pen is typically fine but lacks Wacom’s easy premium precision. XP-Pen software is notorious for being unreliable, subject to crashes, and requiring a long time to install.

There’s no escaping the reality that it’s a considerably less pleasant experience overall.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Features

Both XP-Pen and Wacom tablets come with a different bunch of features. Both companies make graphics and drawing tablets, each with strengths and weaknesses.

While XP-Pen tablets are typically less expensive and have more functionality than Wacom tablets, Wacom tablets have a more luxurious and robust design and greater brand awareness.

Usually, the XP-Pen stylus is known to have more pressure levels than the Wacom stylus and is much lighter in weight. XP-Pen stylus is known to have more functions and dual buttons as compared to Wacom.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Shortcut Buttons

Shortcut buttons are the most crucial for any drawing or graphics tablet. More shortcut buttons mean more fast and more handy work.

Buttons can be quite attractive for anyone looking to buy a drawing or graphics tablet.

Compared to all Wacom tablets, the XP-Pen tablet has more shortcut buttons. More shortcut buttons imply less effort.

One advantage for the XP-Pen tablet users is that they get dial buttons and wheel rollers in almost all the completely absent models in Wacom tablets.

Ultimately, the number, kind, and location of shortcut buttons on a tablet define how useful it is. The Wacom tablet usually has four shortcut buttons; on the other hand, the XP-Pen tablet usually has six to eight shortcut buttons and a roller.

Shortcut buttons allow you to depend much less on the keypad and improve your productivity by allowing you to work more quickly. So clearly, in terms of shortcut buttons, XP-Pen wins the race against Wacom.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Pen Holder

Every company does not provide a pen holder, but it is equally necessary for the long life of the stylus or drawing or graphics tablet.

Wacom vs XP-Pen in terms of pen holder is a win-win situation for XP-Pen because Wacom doesn’t have a pen holder in any of its models at all.

XP-Pen Deco series has an extra advantage of a pen holder that helps to get the stylus in place and saves it from rolling or sliding when placed on any surface to avoid damage.

Not only does this XP-Pen pen holder come with inbuilt nibs, making it very easy to change or replace a nib whenever you want. 

So clearly here, XP-Pen takes over Wacom concerning Pen Holder.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Driver Software

While using the tablet for the first time, driver software is the utmost priority, as you can only use it after the drivers are installed properly.

Driver software is one of the most crucial things when working on a drawing tablet.

Wacom is known to provide easy-to-install and update driver software.  On the other hand, XP-Pen sometimes gets glitches when someone tries to install a driver for the first time or update.

Wacom tablets have a clear win over XP-Pen regarding driver software and are known to be handy and easy to update and install.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Warranty

Both Wacom and XP-Pen provide a minimum 1-year product warranty to their customers. Wacom offers different product warranties and depends on region and market.

Wacom offers more warranty on some products than XP-Pen and is also compatible with more systems and software than XP-Pen.

Although both Wacom and XP-Pen are on some pages regarding the warranty, somewhat Wacom takes over XP-Pen.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Build Quality

The overall quality of the product is something that matters the most. Wacom has been known to provide superior superfine quality for years and is a much more experienced and older brand than XP-Pen.

XP-Pen also makes good quality products that last longer. Still, Wacom is known to provide superior and premium build quality and has much heavier products. So build quality is much heavier on Wacom’s side compared to XP-Pen.

XP Pen vs Wacom – Cost

Everyone has their budget and wants pocket-friendly devices. Wacom has superior, heavy-range drawing tablets that might cost you much and look expensive.

On the other hand, XP-Pen manufactures more pocket-friendly or cost-effective products with more features than Wacom.

You can get a much more effective stylus sensitivity and a good quality display at a reasonable price in XP-Pen, but to get the same, you might have to spend around $500-$600 in Wacom.

So clearly, here, XP-Pen is more cost-effective as compared to Wacom.

Battle of the Drawing Tablets – XP Pen vs Wacom Compared

Feature Comparison XP-Pen Wacom
Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology
Pen Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity
Pen Tilt Support Yes, up to 60 Degrees Yes, up to 60 Degrees
Pen Accuracy ±0.3mm ±0.25mm
Active Drawing Area Varies based on the model Varies based on the model
Display Available in some models Available in some models
Resolution Up to 5080 LPI Up to 5080 LPI
Report Rate Up to 266 RPS Up to 266 RPS
Compatibility Windows, Mac OS, Android, Linux Windows, Mac OS, Android
Express Keys Varies based on the model Varies based on the model
Wireless Connectivity Available in some models Available in some models
Price Range $20 – $600+ $70 – $2600+

XP-pen vs Wacom vs huion:-

Wacom, Huion, XP-Pen, and other firms produce graphic tablets and accompanying gear for digital art and design.

The ideal option for you will rely on your unique needs and preferences among the goods offered by all three firms, which range in features and pricing points.

Wacom is a well-known company for creating high-quality graphics tablets and other gear.

Most digital art and design professionals utilize Wacom products, which are frequently regarded as some of the best in the business. Wacom’s products, however, are typically more expensive than those made by some other companies.

A few more recent businesses, Huion and XP-Pen, are well known for making high-quality graphics tablets and accompanying gear at more reasonable prices. Both businesses provide a wide choice of goods with various features and pricing points, and their goods are typically regarded as being good buys.

Your particular needs and financial situation determine whether Wacom, Huion, or XP-Pen is your best option.

Finding the product best suited to your needs requires investigating and comparing the features and costs of the various items supplied by these companies.

Feature Comparison XP-Pen Wacom Huion
Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology
Pen Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity
Pen Tilt Support Yes, up to 60 Degrees Yes, up to 60 Degrees Yes, up to 60 Degrees
Pen Accuracy ±0.3mm ±0.25mm ±0.5mm
Active Drawing Area Varies based on the model Varies based on the model Varies based on the model
Display Available in some models Available in some models Available in some models
Resolution Up to 5080 LPI Up to 5080 LPI Up to 5080 LPI
Report Rate Up to 266 RPS Up to 266 RPS Up to 266 RPS
Compatibility Windows, Mac OS, Android, Linux Windows, Mac OS, Android Windows, Mac OS, Android
Express Keys Varies based on the model Varies based on the model Varies based on the model
Wireless Connectivity Available in some models Available in some models Available in some models
Price Range $20 – $600+ $70 – $2600+ $20 – $800+

XP-pen vs huion:-

In general, XP-Pen and Huion are renowned for creating premium graphics tablets and other gear at lower prices than certain other brands.

You should be able to select a product from an either firm that suits your demands and budget because both companies provide a large range of items with various features and pricing ranges.

The accessibility of their items is one possible distinction between the two businesses. Huion’s goods could be more challenging to locate in some areas, whereas XP-Pen has a bigger distribution network and is more widely available in many countries.

Your particular needs and financial situation will ultimately determine whether XP-Pen or Huion is better for you.

Finding the product best suited to your needs requires investigating and comparing the features and costs of the various items supplied by these companies.

Feature Comparison XP-Pen Huion
Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) Technology
Pen Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity
Pen Tilt Support Yes, up to 60 Degrees Yes, up to 60 Degrees
Pen Accuracy ±0.3mm ±0.5mm
Active Drawing Area Varies based on the model Varies based on the model
Display Available in some models Available in some models
Resolution Up to 5080 LPI Up to 5080 LPI
Report Rate Up to 266 RPS Up to 266 RPS
Compatibility Windows, Mac OS, Android, Linux Windows, Mac OS, Android
Express Keys Varies based on the model Varies based on the model
Wireless Connectivity Available in some models Available in some models
Price Range $20 – $600+ $20 – $800+

XP-pen vs Wacom one:-

A specific model of graphics tablet made by Wacom is called the Wacom One. It is a mid-range tablet that is intended for usage by beginners and amateurs and is often regarded as offering good value for the money.

A wide drawing surface, good pressure sensitivity, and a battery-free pen are just a few characteristics the Wacom One offers that consumers might find appealing.

Another firm that provides various graphics tablets with various capabilities and price points is XP-Pen. While XP-Pen doesn’t directly compete with the Wacom One with a product, it does sell several tablets with features and comparable costs.

Your particular needs and financial situation will determine whether the Wacom One or an XP-Pen tablet is better for you.

Features XP-Pen Wacom One
Price Generally lower Higher
Drawing Surface Varies by model 13.3″ or 16″
Resolution Varies by model 1920 x 1080
Pressure Sensitivity Up to 8192 levels Up to 4096 levels
Pen Technology Passive or Battery Battery
Pen Tilt Some models support Supported
Express Keys Varies by model Yes, 4 customizable keys
Compatibility Windows and Mac Windows and Mac
Display Type Varies by model LCD
Display Color Gamut Varies by model NTSC 72%
Refresh Rate Varies by model 60Hz
Screen Protection Tempered Glass Anti-Glare Film
Connectivity USB or Wireless USB-C or HDMI
Stand Included Some models include Yes, built-in
Size/Weight Varies by model 13.4″ x 8.5″ x 0.6″, 1.2 lbs.
Warranty Varies by model 1 year

Finding the product best suited to your needs requires investigating and comparing the features and costs of the various goods supplied by these companies.

XP Pen deco vs wacom intuos

Wacom Intuos is a better choice if you prioritize a natural drawing experience and higher pen pressure sensitivity. XP-Pen Deco might be a better fit if you want a tablet with programmable keys and a lower price point.

here’s a table comparing some of the key features of the XP Pen Deco and Wacom Intuos graphics tablets:-

Feature XP Pen Deco Wacom Intuos
Price range $59.99 – $299.99 $79.95 – $399.95
Pen pressure sensitivity 8192 levels 4096 levels
Pen tilt sensitivity Yes Yes (depending on model)
Active area 6 x 4 inches to 15.6 x 9 inches 7.9 x 6.3 inches to 16.8 x 11.2 inches
Wireless connectivity Yes (depending on model) Yes (depending on model)
Multi-touch support No Yes (depending on model)
Compatibility Windows, Mac, Android Windows, Mac, Android
Included software Yes (depending on model) Yes (depending on model)
Shortcut buttons Yes Yes
Scroll wheel Yes (depending on model) Yes (depending on model)

XP pen vs Huion vs Ugee vs Wacom

Wacom is known for its high-end and professional-grade tablets; Huion and XP-Pen offer a good balance of quality and affordability, while Ugee offers affordable options for beginners and intermediate artists.

Here is a comparison table on XP-Pen, Huion, Ugee, and Wacom:-

Feature XP-Pen Huion Ugee Wacom
Price Range $40 – $600 $30 – $1000 $50 – $500 $80 – $4000+
Pen Pressure 8192 – 8192+ levels 2048 – 8192+ levels 2048 – 8192+ levels 1024 – 8192+ levels
Screen Resolution 1080p – 4K 1080p – 4K 1080p – 4K 1080p – 4K
Screen Size 10 – 24 inches 10 – 27 inches 10 – 21.5 inches 13 – 32 inches
Pen Tilt Support Yes Yes Yes Yes
Express Keys Yes Yes Yes Yes
Compatibility Windows, Mac, Android Windows, Mac, Android Windows, Mac, Android Windows, Mac
Wireless Connectivity Yes, some models Yes, some models Yes, some models Yes, some models
Build Quality Good Good Good Excellent
Brand Reputation Good Good Good Excellent

📗FAQ’s

Is Wacom Better Than XP-Pen?

Wacom is a well-known company for creating high-quality graphics tablets and other gear. Most digital art and design professionals utilize Wacom products, which are frequently regarded as some of the best in the business.

XP-Pen is a recent business with a solid reputation for creating high-quality graphics tablets and associated devices at more reasonable prices. Products from XP-Pen are well-liked by many customers and are typically considered good value for the money.

The user’s demands and preferences determine which pen is “better,” Wacom or XP-Pen.
Finding the company best suited to your needs requires researching each and comparing the features and costs of their products.

Is The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP Worth It? 

In general, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP is a reputable graphics tablet with many characteristics that may be interesting to users, such as a sizable drawing area, a high-resolution display, and good pressure sensitivity.

Compared to other competing graphical tablets on the market, it is inexpensive.

There are other graphical tablets out there, though; they might provide different features or greater performance for specific customers.

Finding the graphics tablet best suited to your needs requires some research and comparison of the features and costs of several graphics tablets.

Is The XP-Pen A Chinese Company?

Indeed, XP-Pen is a Chinese business with its main office in Shenzhen. XP-Pen, a pioneer in the production of graphics tablets and other tools for digital art and design, was established in 2005. Professionals and fans frequently utilize the company’s items because of their high quality and low prices.

How Long Does A Wacom Pen Nib Last?

The longevity of a Wacom pen nib is affected by several variables, including the pen’s particular model and usage.

In general, Wacom pen nibs are made to be strong and ought to last a very long period under normal use.

It is important to remember that pen nibs are a consumable good and will ultimately wear out with use. The tablet’s surface, the pressure applied to the pen, and how frequently the pen is used can all affect how quickly a pen nib wears out.

With typical use, some users may discover that their pen nibs last for several years or more, but others may discover that they need to change their nibs more frequently. If your pen nib needs to be replaced because it has worn out, keeping a stock of replacement nibs on hand is a good idea.

Overall, how long a Wacom pen nib lasts depends on the particular usage conditions. To guarantee a fluid and responsive sketching experience, it is a good idea to keep an eye on the state of your pen nib and replace it as required.

Is Huion Or XP Pen Better?

In general, Huion and XP-Pen are both renowned for creating premium graphics tablets and other gear at more competitive prices than some other brands.

You should be able to select a product from either firm that suits your demands and budget because both companies provide a large range of items with various features and pricing ranges.

Does XP-PEN Need Screen Protector?

To prevent scratches and other damage to the screen of a graphics tablet or other device with a display, it is generally a good idea to install a screen protector.

This can be particularly crucial for graphics tablets that are frequently used or transported in bags or other protective cases.

It’s a good idea to consider using a screen protector to safeguard the display screen of your graphics tablet, even if XP-Pen often does not include one with its products.

Many screen protectors available are made expressly for use with graphics tablets and provide high levels of protection against scuffs and other damage. Some screen protectors can have other advantages, such as lowering glare or enhancing the display’s overall aesthetic.

Overall, your requirements and tastes will determine whether or not you require a screen protector for your XP-Pen graphics tablet.

It is a good idea to consider applying a screen protector if you are worried about safeguarding your tablet’s screen from scuffs or other damage.

The Verdict

In conclusion, regarding the XP Pen vs Wacom debate, both brands offer high-quality drawing tablets catering to different types of users.

Wacom is known for its premium quality tablets, while XP Pen offers affordable yet reliable options for beginners and intermediate artists.

Choosing between the two brands will ultimately depend on your needs and budget. If you’re a professional artist who requires top-of-the-line technology, Wacom is likely your best choice. However, XP Pen is a great option if you’re starting out or on a budget.

Regardless of which brand you choose, both offer excellent drawing tablets to help take your art to the next level. With the right tablet and some practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning digital masterpieces.