XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen) vs Huion Kamvas 16 (2021)
We compare the XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen) and Huion Kamvas 16 (2021) head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen)
Scored 8.9/10 in our testing
XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen)
Artists who want a quality pen display without the Wacom premium
Huion Kamvas 16 (2021)
Students and hobbyists who want an affordable pen display to start digital art
Score Breakdown
| XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen) | Category | Huion Kamvas 16 (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| 8.8/10 ✓ | Performance | 8.2/10 |
| 8.8/10 ✓ | Features | 8.3/10 |
| 8.5/10 ✓ | Ease of Use | 8/10 |
| 9.3/10 | Value | ✓ 9.5/10 |
| 8.9/10 ✓ | Overall | 8.5/10 |
Specs Comparison
| XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen) | Spec | Huion Kamvas 16 (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| 15.4" IPS, 1920x1080 | Display | 15.6" IPS, 1920x1080 |
| 127% sRGB | Color | 120% sRGB |
| X3 Smart Chip Stylus, 8192 levels | Pen | PW517, 8192 levels, tilt support |
| Full lamination | Lamination | Full lamination |
| USB-C (single cable on compatible devices) | Connectivity | USB-C + USB-A + HDMI |
XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen)
Pros
- + Significantly cheaper than Cintiq 16
- + Wider color gamut than Wacom
- + Single USB-C cable on compatible devices
- + Near-zero initial activation force
Cons
- − Driver support not as universal as Wacom
- − Build quality slightly below Wacom
- − Pen feel is good but not quite Wacom-level
Huion Kamvas 16 (2021)
Pros
- + Most affordable quality pen display
- + Tilt support for natural shading
- + Fully laminated display
- + 120% sRGB wide color gamut
Cons
- − Driver quirks on some systems
- − Pen pressure curve needs calibration
- − Stand sold separately
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen) comes out on top with an overall score of 8.9/10. The XP-Pen Artist 16 2nd Gen has closed the gap with Wacom dramatically. The X3 Smart Chip stylus offers excellent pressure sensitivity with virtually no initial activation force. The fully laminated display is sharp, and the 127% sRGB color gamut is wider than the Cintiq 16. Single USB-C connectivity on supported devices is a game-changer for desk cleanliness.
Buy the XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd Gen) on AmazonRead the full Best Drawing Tablets for Artists 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 5 products.