REVIEW – In the realm of digital art, the tools you choose can be just as crucial as your creative talent. That brings us directly to the XP-Pen Artist 22 Plus – the talk of the town in the art world.
This isn’t your average drawing screen; it’s like a portal into a whole new world of drawing. The star of the show? Its massive 22-inch dimensions. It’s not just big; it’s a vast canvas where your creativity can really go wild.
But what truly sets it apart is the X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus. Boasting an industry-leading 16K pressure level sensitivity, this stylus is the secret that makes drawing on the Artist 22 Plus feel almost like traditional pen-on-paper.
We’re always blown away by what XP-Pen brings to the table, so does the Artist 22 Plus retain that consistency? Stay tuned for our hands-on test of this massive beast of a tablet. We’ve got a lot to talk about.
Design and Build
The Artist 22 Plus is a substantial piece of kit, measuring 21.53 x 14.35 x 1.31 inches. Yeah, this isn’t just a tablet; it’s a full-fledged workspace.
It’s got a fantastic feel to it, with plenty of heft and exceptional balance, ensuring it remains stable under the enthusiastic strokes of a passionate artist.
Everything you need comes included in the box. You get all the cables you need, the stylus with extra tips, glove, microfiber cloth, instructions, etc.
Display and Aesthetics
The display itself is a thing of beauty. It renders images crisply, making it a pleasure to work on. The full-laminated screen reduces the dreaded parallax error, aligning the stylus tip with the cursor impeccably.
It’s like your artistic vision materializing in real time under your stylus. The spacious screen is ensconced in a sleek, black frame that looks both professional and stylish, fitting in seamlessly with a modern creative workspace.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Ergonomically, the Artist 22 Plus is a winner. This tablet is crafted for those marathon creative sessions. It’s got everything to keep you comfortable – like an adjustable stand and the cushy X-Inspo Wrist Rest.
You can tell it’s built solid, giving you the confidence that it’s going to stick around for the long haul. And it’s not just about performance; this tablet feels great to use, fitting into your creative flow like it was meant to be there.
The Artist 22 Plus is more than just a sum of its parts. It’s a well-thought-out device designed to meet and exceed the demands of creative professionals. With its impressive display and stylus, it stands as a testament to XP-Pen’s commitment to enhancing the digital art experience.
Display Characteristics
The Artist 22 Plus by XP-Pen boasts a sizeable canvas that opens up a world of creative possibilities. With a resolution of 1920 x 1080, it ensures that every detail of your artwork is crisp and clear, capturing the nuances of your creative vision.
It’s worth noting outright that the “22” in Artist 22 Plus isn’t the actual screen size here. This is understandably misleading to a degree. As we pointed out, the actual tablet size is just shy of 22 inches, coming in at 21.53 inches by 14.35 inches.
And when you factor in the bezel around the screen, you’re left with an actual drawing surface of 18.74 x 10.54 inches. It’s still a heck of a lot of screen real estate to work with, don’t get us wrong. And the quality of the screen is stellar on so many levels. There are several reasons for this, so let’s go over them below in detail.
Full-Lamination and Anti-Glare Properties
Perhaps the most notable feature of this display is its full lamination. This technology brings the screen and the glass together tightly, reducing the parallax error and ensuring that what you see is exactly where your pen touches.
This precision is crucial for artists who rely on fine detail. In addition, the anti-glare screen is a blessing for those long drawing sessions, reducing eye strain and making the creative process more comfortable.
130% sRGB Color Space and Color Accuracy
Color accuracy is paramount in digital art, and the Artist 22 Plus delivers on this front. It boasts a 130% sRGB native color space and an 8-bit color depth, translating to an impressive palette of 16.7 million colors.
Adding to this, the Artist 22 Plus comes with a built-in, adjustable stand, offering a range of viewing angles from 15° to 88°.
This flexibility allows artists to find their optimal working posture, reducing physical strain during long creative sessions.
And for even more convenience, it includes a handy pen clip for the stylus, keeping it within easy reach. Additionally, the tablet is VESA mount-compatible, offering more flexible working and viewing angles.
This compatibility allows artists to tailor their workspace to their specific needs, whether it’s desk-mounted or wall-mounted setups. When combined with the already incredible viewing display, you’re met with an exceptional user experience that encourages the highest creativity.
X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus Features
The X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus is shaking things up in the digital art scene. Straight out of XP-Pen’s innovation hub, this stylus is a standout for its incredible accuracy and touch sensitivity, giving the Artist 22 Plus a serious edge.
Loaded with the latest tech, it’s a delight to use, seamlessly bridging the gap between digital art and the classic feel of drawing by hand.
Working with it feels so natural, you might forget you’re using a digital tool. As with the screen, there are just as many features responsible for making the stylus the marvel that it is. Let’s explore.
16K Pressure Levels
With 16K pressure levels, the stylus offers an exceptional range of sensitivity, from the lightest touch to the firmest stroke. This sensitivity allows for an incredible depth of expression, capturing the slightest nuances in line weight and opacity.
Comparison with Previous Stylus Model
Compared to its predecessor, the X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus represents a significant leap forward. The increased pressure sensitivity and improved accuracy mean that artists can achieve a level of detail and realism that was previously unattainable with older models.
Tilt Functionality and Ergonomic Design
The stylus brings even more to the table with its tilt functionality. This feature adds an extra dimension of control and realism, especially when you’re working on shading and texturing.
It’s like having an extra set of skills at your fingertips. Its ergonomic design, including a cone-shaped, silica-gel grip, ensures comfort even during extended use. This thoughtful design minimizes fatigue and keeps the focus on creativity.
The Artist 22 Plus from XP-Pen is not just a tool; it’s a portal to a more immersive and intuitive artistic experience. With its high-resolution, color-accurate display and the revolutionary X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus, it stands as a testament to XP-Pen’s commitment to empowering artists with technology that echoes their creative spirit.
Interface and Connectivity
The Artist 22 Plus caters to modern connectivity needs with its versatile interface options. It includes both USB-C and HDMI ports, accommodating a range of devices and setups. The USB-C port, in particular, is a nod to the current trend of streamlined, single-cable solutions, offering a clutter-free workspace.
Compatibility with Operating Systems and Software
In terms of software compatibility, this device doesn’t disappoint. It supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 7 and later, macOS 10.10 and later, Chrome OS 88 and later, Android (USB3.1 DP1.2), and Linux.
The Artist 22 Plus really shines with its versatility. No matter what your creative niche is – be it digital illustration, animation, VFX, or design – this tablet fits right in. You can use it with the likes of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, too. It’s like it was made to slide effortlessly into your current setup and get along with all your favorite tools.
Response Rate and Accuracy
When it comes to the response rate and accuracy, the Artist 22 Plus is a standout performer. The device’s high report rate and precision, thanks to the X3 Pro Smart Chip, ensure that the lines are smooth and lag-free.
Screen Split and Video Mirroring
The screen split and video mirroring features take things up a notch. Imagine being able to juggle multiple tasks without breaking a sweat – that’s what you get with the Artist 22 Plus. It’s more than just a drawing board; it’s your all-in-one creative hub.
Need to pull up references, work with a team, or just chill with a video? This tablet’s got you covered, adding a whole new dimension to how you create and play.
A Note on the X3 Pro Roller Stylus
The XP-Pen Artist 22 Plus takes a significant leap forward in digital art technology with the introduction of the X3 Pro Roller Stylus.
This next-generation stylus, offered as an optional add-on, is a testament to XP-Pen’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of creative tools. The stylus is not just an accessory; it’s a powerful extension of the artist’s hand, enhancing functionality and performance.
Unique Roller Wheel and Dual Shortcut Keys
What’s probably the most notable difference between the X3 Pro Roller Stylus and the stock is its built-in scroll wheel. Its scroll wheel can be tweaked to suit your style perfectly, letting you zoom, rotate, and flip through your work like never before.
And those dual shortcut keys? They’re a godsend, putting your most-used functions right at your fingertips. It’s all about making your creative flow smoother and more natural – like the stylus is reading your mind.
Empowered by X3 Pro Chip Technology
At the core of the X3 Pro Roller Stylus is XP-Pen’s latest X3 Pro chip technology, complemented by the remarkable 16,384 pen pressure sensitivity. This technology ensures that every stroke, every detail, is captured with unparalleled precision.
Whether you’re sketching delicate lines or building up intense colors, the stylus responds with an impressive level of control and finesse.
With the X3 Pro Roller Stylus, artists can master advanced creations with ease. It’s not just about drawing; it’s about having precise and free control over every aspect of the creative process.
From intricate illustrations to complex 3D models, this stylus ensures that your artistic vision is translated onto the screen with accuracy and subtlety.
While the standard stylus that comes with the Artist 22 Plus is already a powerful tool, the X3 Pro Roller Stylus elevates the experience further.
It’s an optional add-on, but for artists looking to maximize their creative potential, it’s a worthwhile investment. It exemplifies XP-Pen’s commitment to providing artists with tools that are not just functional but inspirational.
Final Verdict
XP-Pen’s Artist 22 Plus is a stellar choice for digital artists seeking a blend of expansive workspace, precision, and ergonomic design. Its massive display brims with vibrant colors and sharp resolution, providing a canvas that both inspires and accommodates grand creative expressions.
Pros:
- Expansive 21.5-inch high-resolution display
- Exceptional 16K pressure-sensitive stylus
- Versatile USB-C and HDMI connectivity
- Broad compatibility with OS and software
Cons:
- Screen size slightly misleading
- Bezel reduces actual drawing area
The X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus elevates the drawing experience with its unmatched sensitivity and ergonomic comfort.
This tablet goes way beyond just impressing you with its specs. It’s like a breath of fresh air for your creative process.
Easy to use with its friendly interface and flexible in connecting with your devices, it’s not just another gadget – it’s a trusty sidekick for your art adventures. Basically, it’s the kind of top-notch tech that you’ll want as a staple in your artistic toolkit.
Meet Derek, “TechGuru,” a 34-year-old technology enthusiast with a deep passion for tech innovations. With extensive experience, he specializes in gaming hardware and software, and has expertise in gadgets, custom PCs, and audio.
Besides writing about tech and reviewing new products, Derek enjoys traveling, hiking, and photography. Committed to keeping up with the latest industry trends, he aims to guide readers in making informed tech decisions.