1. Introduction
The XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is the latest addition to the market of digital drawing tablets, and it has quickly gained attention among professionals in the creative industry. With its sleek design, advanced features, and improved functionality, this tablet promises to enhance the creative workflow of artists, designers, and photographers. In this in-depth review, we will examine the key features of the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 from a professional's perspective, evaluating its performance, usability, and value for money. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, this review will help you make an informed decision about whether the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is the right choice for you.
Overview of the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2
The XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is a digital drawing tablet that offers a wide range of features and capabilities to enhance the creative workflow of professionals in the creative industry. With its sleek design and advanced functionality, this tablet has gained attention and popularity among artists, designers, and photographers.
The specs are one of the distinctive features of the Deco Pro Gen 2
One of the standout features of the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is its sleek and intuitive design. The tablet is slim and lightweight despite its size. It has a large drawing area that provides ample space for artists to unleash their creativity and create detailed and intricate artwork. The tablet also features a customizable touch wheel and eight customizable shortcut keys, allowing artists to personalize their workflow and access their most-used tools and functions with ease.
The packing is very well thought out. A very sturdy box includes an array of extras distributed by categories.
Instructions, artist gloves, cables, the extra dial, and the beautiful metal pen box are a joy to take out the boxes for the first time.
In terms of functionality, the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 offers exceptional precision and sensitivity. It is equipped with a battery-free pen that provides a natural drawing experience with precise control and an amazing 16k pressure sensitivity! The pen also features tilt support, allowing artists to create dynamic and expressive brush strokes.
The XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is compatible with major creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Corel Painter, making it versatile and suitable for a wide range of artistic pursuits. It also offers wireless connectivity, allowing artists to work freely without the limitations of cables.
On the software side, it was quite easy to download the drivers and start customizing all the buttons and functions available for the tablet, pen, and X-Remote. Here we can have a look at the menus.
Furthermore, the tablet offers a seamless and intuitive user experience. It has a customizable shortcut interface and user-friendly driver software that allows artists to customize and optimize their workflow according to their preferences. The tablet also supports multi-touch gestures, making navigation and zooming in and out of the workspace effortless.
3. Design and Build Quality/Precision
The design and build quality of a digital drawing tablet can greatly impact the overall user experience and durability of the device. The curved and ergonomic design is a blessing for the wrists and the overall posture on the desk.
The chassis structure seems to be quite robust, with a solid feel when grabbed. Has the perfect wait to stand still on a desk while using it for big editing jobs.
When it comes to the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2, both the design and build quality have been carefully crafted to meet the needs and preferences of professionals in the creative industry.
Here we can see the Deco Pro Gen 2 XLW paired with an iMac 5k 27` being the perfect combo for this screen size and above.
The Deco Pro Gen 2 boasts a sleek and intuitive design that immediately catches the eye. Its slim and lightweight form factor makes it extremely portable and easy to carry around, whether you're working in the studio or on the go. The tablet's sleek grey/black finish gives it a professional and modern aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye.
In terms of ergonomics, the Deco Pro Gen 2 has been designed with comfort in mind. Its large drawing area provides ample space for artists to create their artwork without feeling cramped. The tablet is also equipped with eight customizable shortcut keys and a touch wheel, strategically placed to ensure easy access to frequently used tools and functions. These customizable features allow artists to personalize their workflow and optimize their productivity.
The curvy ends of its front side are a delight and quite ergonomic since it allows the wrists to be relaxed. We agree with the brand when they state that the X-Edge Wrist Rest smoothly and seamlessly integrates with the work area to provide a more relaxed and natural posture for your wrist. So you can work through hours. And in our case, it is quite true.
When it comes to building quality, the Deco Pro Gen 2 does not disappoint. It feels solid and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The tablet is made from high-quality materials that not only enhance its durability but also give it a premium look and feel. The drawing surface is smooth and responsive, ensuring accurate and precise pen input.
The XP-Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is equipped with a battery-free pen that is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The pen also features tilt support, allowing artists to create natural and dynamic brush strokes with ease. The pen's build quality is excellent, with sturdy construction that ensures it can withstand the demands of daily use.
X3 Pro stylus features a replaceable silica-gel grip to suit different needs. Dual shortcut buttons to improve work efficiency. And felt nibs and a tail eraser for a natural pen-on-paper experience. Stay on top of every stroke. In fact, the eraser is a unique feature that some brands don't include on their pens, and trust us it makes a huge difference.
In conclusion, the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 excels in precision and accuracy, offering artists the tools they need to create detailed and precise artwork. Whether you're a professional artist or an aspiring creative, this digital drawing tablet will enhance your artistic endeavors and provide you with a seamless and enjoyable drawing experience.
4. Functionality and Features
The XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 is not only a highly precise and accurate digital drawing tablet, but it also offers a range of functionality and features that make it a versatile tool for artists and designers. Here are some of the key functions and features of this advanced drawing tablet:
1. Programmable Shortcut Keys: The Deco Pro Gen 2 comes equipped with ten customizable shortcut keys, allowing artists to assign frequently used functions or tools to these buttons for quick access. This feature eliminates the need to navigate through menus or use keyboard shortcuts, streamlining the creative process and increasing productivity.
2. Touch Wheel: In addition to the shortcut keys, the Deco Pro Gen 2 also features a touch wheel that can be customized to perform various functions. The touch wheel provides another intuitive way to adjust brush sizes, zoom in and out, or scroll through menus, offering artists more control and flexibility in their workflow. Can be connected to a Deco Pro (Gen 2) flexibly via cable or Bluetooth. It allows quick changes in any position or angle.
3. Multifunctional Dial: The multifunctional dial on the drawing tablet allows artists to perform various actions, such as adjusting brush opacity or scrolling through layers. With its smooth rotation and precise control, the dial provides a tactile and efficient way to make adjustments while working on a creative project.
4. The pen is well thought out and has a premium feel. As we said previously, the inclusion of a tip on the top that works as a rubber creates a superior workflow. Pair it with a surface that seems to be like drawing in paper and you get the best of both worlds.
Here we have an example of how good the strokes are and how those 16K pressure levels help us while drawing or editing complex images as we did.
5. Pricing and Value for Money
When considering a professional-grade digital drawing tablet like the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2, pricing and value for money play a significant role. Today's prices are 189 euros for the XLW (large for 27' screens and above), 144 euros for the MW (small), and 162 euros for the LW (medium). Artists and designers want to invest in a tablet that offers the best features and performance without breaking the bank. Here's a closer look at the pricing and value-for-money aspects of the Deco Pro Gen 2.
1. Competitive Pricing: The Deco Pro Gen 2 comes at a competitive price point compared to its counterparts in the market. It offers advanced features and functionality at a more affordable price, making it accessible to a wide range of artists and designers, from beginners to professionals. The tablet's pricing is justified considering its quality, performance, and longevity.
2. Premium Features at Affordable Price: Despite its competitive pricing, the Deco Pro Gen 2 doesn't compromise on features and performance. It provides a premium drawing experience with high responsiveness, accuracy, and pressure sensitivity levels. Artists can achieve professional-level artwork without spending a fortune on a drawing tablet.
3. Long-Term Durability: The tablet's sturdy build quality and durable materials ensure longevity and reliability. Investing in the Deco Pro Gen 2 means owning a drawing tablet that will withstand heavy usage and daily wear and tear. Its durability contributes to the tablet's overall value for money, as artists can rely on its performance for years to come.
4. Comprehensive Package: The Deco Pro Gen 2 offers a comprehensive package that includes various accessories and software. This value-added package adds to the overall value for money. The tablet comes with a battery-free pen, pen holder, spare nibs, USB-C cable, and a drawing glove. Additionally, XP Pen provides user-friendly software that enhances the drawing experience and allows for personalized customization.
5. Customer Satisfaction and Positive Reviews: Customer satisfaction and positive reviews are strong indicators of value for money. The Deco Pro Gen 2 has garnered positive feedback from artists and designers who have praised its performance, features, and affordability. Artists who have invested in the tablet feel they have received excellent value for their money, considering the tablet's capabilities and price.
6. Future-Proof Investment: The Deco Pro Gen 2's compatibility with multiple devices and operating systems ensure that artists can use it for years to come without worrying about compatibility issues. The tablet's versatility makes it a future-proof investment, providing value for money in the long run.
In conclusion, the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 offers competitive pricing and excellent value for money. It provides premium features, durability, and a comprehensive package without a hefty price tag. Artists and designers can confidently invest in the Deco Pro Gen 2 knowing that they are getting a high-quality drawing tablet that will meet their artistic needs and expectations.
6. Pros and Cons
Before making a purchase decision, it is essential to consider the pros and cons of the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2 drawing tablet. Here is a comprehensive look at the advantages and disadvantages of this professional-grade tablet:
Pros:
1. High Precision and Responsiveness: The Deco Pro Gen 2 offers a highly accurate and responsive drawing experience. With its advanced pen technology, artists can achieve precise lines and strokes, resulting in professional-level artwork.
2. Pressure Sensitivity: The tablet's 16k high-pressure sensitivity levels allow for better control over brush strokes and line thickness. This feature enhances the artists' ability to create detailed and dynamic artwork.
3. Customizable 10 Express Keys and Dial Wheel: The Deco Pro Gen 2 provides customizable express keys and a dial wheel, allowing artists to conveniently access frequently used functions and shortcuts. This customization enhances workflow efficiency and streamlines the creative process.
4. Sleek and Ergonomic Design: The tablet's sleek and slim design, combined with its ergonomic features, ensures a comfortable drawing experience even during long creative sessions. The tablet's large active drawing area provides ample space for artistic expression.
5. Compatibility with Multiple Devices and Operating Systems: The Deco Pro Gen 2 is compatible with various devices, including Windows, Mac OS, and Android. Artists can seamlessly connect the tablet to their preferred device without compatibility issues.
Cons:
1. On our tests we only got a couple of software glitches that we are been told will be addressed on the next driver version that is about to come.
2. Despite the amazing feeling of the pen we would love to get a stand for it. The metallic box that comes with it works also as a solid pouch, but a solution to get the pen in place would be great.
It is important to consider these pros and cons based on individual preferences and artistic needs when evaluating the XP Pen Deco Pro Gen 2. Despite some limitations, the tablet offers numerous advantages that make it a valuable tool for artists and designers seeking professional-grade drawing experience.
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