Impressive Verdict on Xencelabs PD24+: Color Precision, Sensitivity and Tactility Leave a Lasting Impression
The Xencelabs PD24+ has entered the pen display market as a formidable competitor to Wacom, offering a compelling option for digital artists and graphic designers. This 4K (3840 x 2160) display runs at 60Hz and 330cd/m2, providing a crisp and vibrant visual experience.
One of the standout features of the PD24+ is its large bezel, which is beneficial for a pen display as it prevents blocking parts of the screen while working. The display boasts excellent color accuracy, with 99% Adobe RGB, REC.709, and 93% DCI-P3 coverage, and Pantone and Skintone certification.
Setting up the PD24+ requires power and a USB-C cable, and while it functions well without the drivers, installing them provides access to additional features. The stand of the PD24+ is adjustable from 16-72 degrees, although it lacks height adjustment.
The interaction with the PD24+ is enjoyable and mishap-free, with no glitches or unregistered button presses. The drawing experience on the PD24+ is excellent, with minimal parallax and exceptional reaction to pressure. The PD24+ screen is covered by a good antiglare coating, which reduces glare effectively, and Calman Auto calibration is built-in for the best color accuracy.
The PD24+ comes with a Quick Keys remote and holder, dual pens and spare nibs, power supplies, cables, pen clamps, and a quick start guide. The Quick Keys remote offers customization and can be oriented in any direction, making it a versatile tool for artists. The pen case for the PD24+ holds both standard and slim pens, felt nibs, removal tool, and a USB dongle for the quick keys.
The PD24+ stand is sturdy and allows for weight leaning during extended drawing or 3D modeling sessions. The pen case for the Xencelabs PD24+ holds both standard and slim pens, felt nibs, removal tool, and a USB dongle for the quick keys. The user prefers to store the pen in one of the clips on the right side of the display rather than in the pen case.
The touch-sensitive circles at the top right of the screen can be set to open/close various things, providing convenient shortcuts for artists. The Quick Keys remote holder on the PD24+ can be slid around the perimeter of the screen for convenience.
While Wacom remains the safest and premium choice with a strong legacy and high precision, the Xencelabs PD24+, along with offerings from XPPen and Huion, are progressively closing the gap in terms of performance, features, and price competitiveness. The build quality of the PD24+ is generally good, with some slightly brittle and cheaper-feeling plastics.
In summary, for alternatives to Wacom's pen displays, XPPen (especially the Artist Pro series), Huion (Kamvas Pro series), and Xencelabs Pen Displays are the primary top-tier options widely recognized for their performance and value among digital artists and graphic designers.
- The PD24+ pen display is a favorable choice for digital artists and graphic designers, challenging Wacom's dominance in the market.
- The display's large bezel prevents blockage of the screen while working, improving the working experience.
- The PD24+ offers exceptional color accuracy, with 99% Adobe RGB coverage and Pantone and Skintone certification.
- To access additional features, drivers must be installed on the PD24+, which is compatible with USB-C.
- The stand on the PD24+ is adjustable for angle, but lacks height adjustment.
- The interaction with the PD24+ is smooth, with no glitches or unregistered button presses, providing a satisfying drawing experience.
- The PD24+ provides minimal parallax and exceptional reaction to pressure, making it perfect for digital art and graphic design.
- The PD24+'s anti-glare coating and built-in Calman Auto calibration ensure the best possible color accuracy.
- The PD24+ comes with accessories including dual pens, spare nibs, quick start guide, and a pen case that holds standard and slim pens, felt nibs, removal tool, and a USB dongle for the quick keys.
- As alternatives to Wacom, XPPen, Huion, and Xencelabs pen displays are recognized by digital artists and graphic designers for their performance, features, and value in the market.
