Introduction
As more and more artists embrace digital media, styluses for tablets have become an essential tool for many. Apple and Microsoft have responded accordingly by introducing their own premium tablet styluses: the Apple Pencil and the Microsoft Surface Pen. This blog post aims to provide an unbiased comparison of the two in terms of digital art.
Apple Pencil vs. Microsoft Surface Pen: Hardware
The first thing that comes to mind is the hardware. A stylus must have an outstanding build quality and should be comfortable to use. The Apple Pencil is sleek, slim and has a matte finish that provides a comfortable grip. In contrast, the Microsoft Surface Pen has a chunkier feel and a metal-coated finish.
Apple Pencil has replaced its previous model with a second-generation Apple Pencil that features wireless charging and improved pairing. It also features a touch sensor that allows users to switch between tools without tapping the iPad’s screen.
The Surface Pen has a few features that the Apple Pencil lacks, such as the eraser button on its end. Additionally, the Surface Pen has an adjustable tip feature, which allows the user to adjust the pen-tip’s hardness to mimic real-world pens better.
Both styluses are very sensitive and feel natural to use, with different writing and sketching modes. Their pressure sensitivity makes them capable of registering the slightest variation in lines, depending on the artist’s hand.
Drawing Experience
The most important aspect of any drawing tool is the quality of drawing it facilitates. The Apple Pencil is a clear winner here, with an almost in-app delay. The Surface Pen has a slight but noticeable delay when compared with the Apple Pencil – enough to make the difference for a fine-tuned artist.
However, the Surface Pen does offer better control for shading and layering, due to its pressure sensitivity feature. Furthermore, the Surface Pen’s tilt shading feature allows the user to shade in a more natural way than with the Apple Pencil.
Battery Life
Both styluses boast exceptional battery life, which makes them both convenient and practical for artists. The Apple Pencil, however, wins this category, with an extensive battery life of 12 hours on a single charge, while the Microsoft Surface Pen has a battery life of 10 hours.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Apple Pencil and the Microsoft Surface Pen are highly capable styluses for digital art. They have unique features, and each will appeal to different users based on their preferences. However, the Apple Pencil’s almost in-app delay and extended battery life make it the perfect stylus for digital artists who prefer speed, fluidity, and ease of use.
Overall, it’s hard to go wrong with either stylus, and it ultimately comes down to preference. If you’re looking for more control and versatility, the Surface Pen is the stylus for you. On the other hand, if swift, fluid movements are a priority, the Apple Pencil is unbeatable.