GOODBYE WACOM and HELLO XENCELABS 👍 FINALLY a Pen Tablet that WORKS !!!

[@glyndewis]

✅ Grab a FREE PASS for the Lightroom Virtual Summit 2022 here bit.ly/lightroom-vs2022

[@photoshopcafe]

FWIW: If you turn off "Force Proportions" in the Wacom driver, it will do a perfect circle. With that option on, it maps to the screen shape, so corner matches corner.

[@glyndewis]

Colin I had Force Proportions OFF in the Wacom driver and it produced an oval, not a circle…that’s why I showed it after speaking with ex Wacom employees now at Xencelabs.

[@photoshopcafe]

@@glyndewis Gotcha. Great work on the thumbnail btw.

[@joekugelblitz4144]

@@glyndewis ... what happens, if I´m on a 16:10 display? Can you set the xencelabs tablet to work properly in that ratio? Cheers :o))

[@MauroSanna]

No, it has to be on.

[@sammybandi8003]

@@joekugelblitz4144 yeah if you have a 16:10 display and a 16:10 tablet it'll be fine, and if you have a display tablet well it matches up to what you draw

[@EngineFD223]

More competition in this space makes every brand better. I can see Wacom getting worried about their market share and finally start to get their act together. Driver issues have always been a nightmare for Wacom and I can't tell you how many times I've had to uninstall my tablet and reinstall it.

[@glyndewis]

Yeah nothing better for us consumers than competition between manufacturers. Interestingly though, Xencelabs is predominantly made up of ex Wacom employees

[@ZigUncut]

Glad for waco having competition but I've never had problems with my tablet... but my cintiq pro can be a real pain.

[@Chanson_Dada]

On the other hand, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve never had to uninstall mine.

[@jensenraylight8011]

i always got driver issues in the past and the sensitivity is become useless. but, it turn out, it because i use a cheap usb hub to connect my Wacom. once i connect to the outlet with reliable power, Wacom become my favorite, it really great to work with, everything just work here the thing, don't connect your wacom to your low power usb outlet, or it will start act up. and check if your pc usb outlet is still good, or not. if your wacom become flaky, most of the time it's because of the USB connection

[@davepidgeon9383]

I never update my drivers anymore. I have had so many issues with updating, its beyond frustrating

[@jackdexter3286]

You're not being fair here about the aspect ratio issue, using a 16:9 tablet on a 16:10 display would have the exact same issue, and arguably a 16:9 tablet is worse since most productivity people would use 16:10 display. Also, wacom even has a feature to adjust mapping on your display(instead of on your tablet), you have full control of screen, tablet active area, etc on wacom. Wacom probably have the best driver in terms of features, it has everything you can ask for, i haven't seen xencelabs' but i doubt it would be better. As for how easy it is to find, theres only 2 options on the driver, pen and mapping(3 with eraser if you have it), you would probably configure your pen button settings when first using your tablet and mapping is exactly beside the pen settings so idk why you think most people don't know about that. I mean if you're using photoshop/other editing software, you're probably savvy enough to navigate through wacom driver settings. For other issues, I don't know about bluetooth issues since i use wired. I think i had to reinstall driver once in a span of 8 months, although i very rarely use my tablet compared to a professional. I use my tablet below my keyboard so buttons are not a problem, but i imagine quick keys are still better. I'm not a wacom fanboy or anything, and i don't know much about xencelabs to have a fair judgement, but the only things you can conclude xencelabs being better at is portability since it uses bluetooth 5 and it has quick keys both with amazing battery life.

[@glyndewis]

You only have to look at the comments to see how many others suffer with awful Wacom drivers. 16:9 should be default. Wi-Fi is awful. Touch is annoying. Function keys no good for a left handed that has tablet to the side.

[@jackdexter3286]

@@glyndewis okay then xence is more portable and reliable. Touch and function keys subjective i dont understand your point for function keys, right handed people would have harder times going from ctrl z to tablet on the side if anything. Aspect ratio doesn't matter since you can adjust it, still dont understand why you'd prefer a 16:9 than a 16:10, most things scale down from 16:10 to 16:9 rather than scale up from 16:9 to 16:10. My point is, the video feels like it's not objective, all the reasons either applies to most other tablets, just preferences, or not true, and you make it look like its wacom's flaw and xencelabs' has everything better when it doesn't really have a difference. The only sure thing xencelabs is better at than wacom is being wireless and maybe consistent driver, although i don't have driver problems personally.

[@IanSayers]

Totally love it mate, very well explained. Now can't wait to see your Quick Keys for Photoshop nd Lightroom in detail. (next set of videos to come)

[@glyndewis]

Thanks Ian and yeah...definitely could put some set up videos together at some point if that will help folks to get even more from it

[@DestructivePixels]

That Quick Keys control looks to be a game-changer for us lefties! Whilst I still use my Wacom Pro, I have the small one so it's less of a stretch over but I've had all the same issues too; Especially re wireless connection. Even better, they don't sell the wireless kit for my series of tablet anymore so even if I wanted to, I couldn't fix it 🤬. Will have to look at giving these guys a try!

[@glyndewis]

Yeah totally mate...the Quick Keys for us lefties is so damn useful 👍🏻

[@alang253]

@@glyndewis I don't understand why lefties are having a problem? Wacom design is ambidextrous... I'm a lefty and always put my tablet in front of the keyboard and slightly to the side. I watched the clip where you tried to illustrate your problem and a righty would have similar issues.

[@glyndewis]

@@alang253 Not sure how you can answer for the issue that I experience to be honest

[@bruceborrowman4342]

Been using mine for a number of months now and to say I am impressed is an understatement. I am no pro, just a hobbyist but it has made my PS edits so much easier. Would recommend to anyone - hobbyist or pro.

[@glyndewis]

That's great to hear Bruce 👍🏻

[@johnheath8548]

Would be good to see a follow up after a few months of using the Xencelabs. Enjoyed the review.

[@glyndewis]

Cheers John

[@ryanmcgowan3061]

I've been a Wacom user since early 2000s, and a few months ago I bought a 13" Huion display tablet for about $400. The quality is amazing, and I have had zero issues with it, and I love using it. The relief of having a tablet that just works, and works so well is a bit emotional when you think about the last two decades of frustration and resistance you've dealt with having suddenly vanished. It would not surprise me if Wacom is gone in two years. They're in trouble.

[@glyndewis]

Great to hear you’re now using kit that works and works well. Totally understand what you say about the frustration too 👍🏻

[@tested211]

Not to downplay any problems with their products but Wacom as a company is doing very well indeed over the past couple of years. Whilst I suspect they are losing market share overall, the market is expanding rapidly. Also, much of Wacom's revenue comes from licensing tech to other companies rather than sales of their own product.

[@ryanmcgowan3061]

@@tested211 Perhaps so, but the driver issues with Wacom at this maturity level of a company was inexcusable. I have no intention of buying their products again after 20 years of loyalty, and I suspect I'm not alone.

[@ChromiumCastle]

You're blowing it way out of proportion lmao

[@ryanmcgowan3061]

@@ChromiumCastle I am not. I have had so many issues getting Wacom to work and stay working, I decided to go back to using a mouse. Which I couldn't stand.

[@ThomasLoyd]

OH MAN the fortuitousness of this video! I've been looking for a valid replacement for Wacom for the longest time! In fact, I quit using them and went back to "Brick Drawing" with my mouse because of how much Wacom just pissed me off. Thank you Glyn for sharing and XenceLabs for creating such an outstanding product!

[@glyndewis]

Glad to hear this is well timed Thomas 👍🏻

[@melty4204]

I really like that Wacom has some competition, at least in the screenless tablet space. But honestly, I have to side with Wacom on the proportion decision. Not all screens are 16:9, 16:10 is actually a really common aspect ratio for professional displays especially those meant for content creation. Not to mention that a lot of laptops go as far as a 3:2 aspect ratio. 16:10 might not be the most common ratio but it's a comfortable medium between most of the common ratios. Also I, and a lot of other people, would argue that 16:9 should absolutely not be the standard. It was meant for content consumption but not creation. squarer aspect ratos feel nicer for most things you do on a computer. My biggest criticism of my Cintiq is that it's not tall enough for how wide it is. I absolutely agree that forcing the correct proportions should be a default setting though. Kind of shocked that it isn't.

[@glyndewis]

Totally get what you're saying there...thanks for commenting

[@SparkySenor]

A really nice video Glyn. Well explained, especially the aspect ratio info which I wasn't aware of. Thanks a million

[@glyndewis]

You're welcome Michael...thanks for taking a look 👍🏻

[@SparkySenor]

@@glyndewis Hi Glyn, not sure if this is a DM, using a phone and only just noticed your message.

[@TimothyBennett]

wow looks amazing. Thanks Glyn

[@glyndewis]

I'm very happy with it 👍🏻

[@hindesite]

Your summary of the Intuos shortcomings was spot on. I was given one, it is virtually unusable. Wireless is a joke, touch is useless, and being a few years old the pen rubberised cover is sticky as hell and needs regular washing with alcohol. For something so expensive and industry standard, I was quite shocked.

[@glyndewis]

Looking at the comments you're not the only one there mate

[@CraigBergonzoni]

Dang, I'm sold. I need to try this. That separate Quick Keys device will be huge for my workflow.

[@glyndewis]

Craig, totally with you there...I get so much use out of the Quick Keys

[@nealtse9125]

I want to move away from Wacom, but they still have one exclusive feature, true barrel rotation on the stylus with their Art Pen. This makes painting a variety of marks much easier, and more organic like a real paintbrush. I've yet to find another tablet stylus that has that.

[@glyndewis]

Re the barrel rotation Neal, watch this pace is all I can / will say 😉

[@tested211]

nealtse9125 Yes!, a competitor offering a new pen with barrel rotation would be awesome!

[@DixonMarshall]

Pen barrel rotation is what keeps me with Wacom. But it's now mid-2024, and still not barrel rotation from Wacom competitors!

[@AmritAssi]

Can this be used to mark pdfs for digital note making ?

[@tongelsing8570]

Does it have a adjustable 'smoothing' function because I have a very shaking hand?

[@glyndewis]

Adjustable Pressure Sensitive, but as for smoothing, that's app specific and if you use Photoshop that's where you adjust the amount of smoothing required 👍🏻

[@Garstor]

Just ordered the medium bundle this morning. Can't wait to try it out. The Intuous Large doesn't fit well on my desk, making it very awkward to use - so I don't use it as often as I should.

[@glyndewis]

Nice one. I’m really happy with mine after using it for a while now. Solid kit.

[@andresmoraprince]

Hello! Xencelab has an on screen display like Wacom Cintiq?

[@glyndewis]

Watch this space 👍🏻

[@godzoookie]

As a fellow lefty I always was fighting the usb cord being on the opposite side of the express keys with Wacom Intous Pro (also had constant wireless connection problems). I am too stubborn to move my full tower to accommodate Wacom, so after 3 years I just bought this and hope it's as good as everyone says.

[@glyndewis]

I'm working on a 'longer term use' video but happy to say I'm still really loving this tablet 👍🏻

[@ArtBrain]

You can assign per-application functions in the Wacom as well.

[@glyndewis]

I gave up even trying with the driver issues

[@zeus.edwards2662]

been using wacom and never had problems with drivers. only problem i had was it with photoshop and it was a simple fix and knowing what windows ink is , i would love to try this new tablet but adobe shortcuts is wired in my brain for all the apps i use , lightroom indesign , photoshop , bridge,.... i jus tlove a keyboard. i love the idea of 2 pens but at the end of the day i will only pick one as my fav and the other will just sit in a drawer... nice bundle doh .. maybei'll give it a try in the future .

[@glyndewis]

Cheers

[@LucasPfaff]

hey man, thanks for the insights! Something I missed at 3:09 when you walked through the driver is the kind of projection-settings that Wacom offers (as seen on 6:47). I'm not after the single-display settings, but settings when you have two or more monitors. I saw there's a button assigned to switch displays (e.g.at 3:30), but it seems not possible to use the tablet on two monitors simultaneously? I also couldn't find this info on the Xencelabs website. Obviously this messes with the projection and circles won't be circles, but that doesn't matter all too much for this workflow. I'm using my Wacom like this for more than a decade, so the need to press a button to switch displays is a no-go here. Is this just not shown or simply not possible?

[@glyndewis]

Hi Lucas, Yeah you can attach more monitors (I believe up to 5) and then map where you want the tablet using the button on the tablet itself. You can also see how they're mapped but clicking on the preferences. Pressing the button on the tablet jumps from a different screen and set up. Xencelabs also have a video coming out on this very soon.

[@LucasPfaff]

@@glyndewis hi there, thanks for the answer! But this sounds like I HAVE to press a button to switch, and can not have multiple monitors be mapped at the same time? So the left monitor is on the left half while the right monitor is on the right half, for example?

[@DR-fy7qy]

I am ready now to purchase this tablet. Since you have had this tablet for at least five months now, has it continued to meet your expectations? Thanks in advance.

[@glyndewis]

Hey DR2...honestly I'm still very happy with it. Had no issues whatsoever with drivers / functionality etc... Working great. I do tend to just leave the tablet plugged in using the USB lead as it doesn't get in the way. The Quick Keys is proving very handy.

[@DR-fy7qy]

@@glyndewis Thanks for the response. This puts a great stamp of approval on this product. I was wondering if the Quick Keys were worth the extra cost. Now I am all in. Plan to order it very soon!

[@briantium]

Like a lot of other people, I’ve experienced driver issues with Wacom in the past, but I’ve found they have upped their game recently; no driver-related problems that I can remember in quite a while. This seems to have carried over to the multi-touch capabilities; there are still times when there seems to be a lag when I try to zoom in or something, but overall it’s very useful as a mouse replacement. But it is high time they update the Intuos Pro with Bluetooth 5.0. I think the Quick Key remote is intriguing in its own right, but I also think Wacom needs to update their ExpressKey Remote to have Bluetooth 5.0 like the Intuos Pro and an improved wheel. The final element that keeps me with Wacom is their on-screen button menu system, which if leveraged correctly can effectively negate a remote (plus you don’t have to look away from your screen to look at a remote). Here I am going on about Wacom in a Xencelabs review, but I guess that just shows Wacom is still the touch stone, lol.

[@wizardbrand1]

I've been using Wacom products since 1999 with Graphire 1. Their driver support has got worse and worse over time to point where I finally made the switch to a Huion and couldn't be happier. It's great to see more competition in the tablet market.

[@glyndewis]

Great to see you've found a brand that works well too and you're happy with and yeah totally agree about more competition 👍🏻

[@EricTobiasPhotography]

Nice vid. Do you know if it has the feature similar to the Radial Menu on the Wacom

[@glyndewis]

Cheers Eric. Re the Radial Menu...I know the one you mean but no it doesn't have that...on this model anyway. I tend to jump quickly to menu items using the Quick Keys.

[@geraldmcmullon2465]

My 24" screen is 1920x1200 as preferred for programming and development. Before 16:9 and 16:10 screens I used a 1600x1200 21" CRT and then 1600x1200 LCD. This all changed in going to 4K screens very few are different to the 16:9 3840x2160. My 65" 4K screen uses up to 4 pens at a resolution down to 1mm.

[@glyndewis]

Cool

[@nickwalton6238]

First off the ring tone at the start had me trying to answer my phone and shut down the video 🤣 . I’ve been frustrated with wacom for a while, flakey drivers - not great if your left handed and linked to pc, so turn off function keys. My first tablet was a cheaply £10 from Tesco and honestly was just as good as Wacom with all keys disabled. Consistent Bluetooth would be a game changer.$64m question, how much is it please?

[@glyndewis]

Honestly...when I was editing this, there were a couple of times I did check my phone 🤣

[@WoolyJumper5]

So useful Glyn, thank you.

[@glyndewis]

You're welcome David

[@ElitePortraits]

If i tell you that im still using wacom intuos M and it works flawless on my computer for my digital art and retouching that i don't need anything else , maybe you wouldn't believe it

[@glyndewis]

Not at all...I would believe it; there will always be people that don't have problems and always people that do...I was one that did 😉

[@MSSBy]

How's the weight of the quick keys? personally prefer more weight on these remotes so they dont go flying around the desk. These damn brands are quite annoying not showing the back of these devices like idk if they have rubber grips on them

[@glyndewis]

The weight is ok … not heavy, not too light. There is rubber on the back too thankfully.

[@stephen-bolton]

Too good to miss. Just bought one!

[@glyndewis]

Blimey you don't hang about Stephen 😃

[@stephen-bolton]

@@glyndewis :-) The wacoms (I've a medium and small) have been doing my head in for a while. For me, the not having to reach over to use the buttons is a huge plus.

[@gerry6144]

Very nice job Glen

[@glyndewis]

Cheers Gary 😉😃

[@ep1421]

Ok so after the hit piece, how does it actually work as a tablet? How is the precise, the control, the integration with apps, the feel of the pen on the tablet?

[@glyndewis]

I'll cover that in another video but safe to say after having had it for a couple of months it's solid, precise, works with every app I use ... Exactly what it (a Pen Tablet) should do 👍🏻

[@SilentTrip]

The white version look so good! I need to save up I'm tired of Wacom drivers not working for my old Intuos tablets

[@glyndewis]

Yeah agreed...that white one does look good; would make a nice change from everything being dark on the desk

[@rolandrick]

Does it also work with Bluetooth 4.x? On Macs (specially MBA M1, connected to Studio Display) the number of USB ports are pretty low to waste one for a dongle.

[@glyndewis]

Yes it does Roland

[@christopherz92]

General question for any existing XENCELABS users out there, since I couldn't find this info online: I've had the Quick Keys for a couple months now and love it. But I've noticed that the XENCELABS software eats up a good amount of my laptop battery - 8% in just 6 hours, according to Windows' battery monitor. I could maybe understand this if I was actually using the Quick Keys at the time, but this was on a non-editing day with the device sitting powered off on my desk. Has anyone else experienced this? It seems to be a recurring problem, so I've just resorted to disabling the software at startup. Any help would be appreciated.

[@glyndewis]

I'll ask about re this Zachary and will get a reply posted in here for you 👍🏻

[@christopherz92]

@@glyndewis Awesome, thank you!

[@grandpriy]

Love the circle test 👌🏽

[@glyndewis]

👍

[@artofjkelly]

I've needed a new tablet. I think you just sold me!

[@glyndewis]

I'm really happy with this one; no nasty surprises each day and the driver updates have worked fine

[@yoservs]

Hi does xenselabs have a pen display monitor? How do you rate it?

[@glyndewis]

Not just yet but all I can say, is ‘watch this space’ 😉

[@JH-pe3ro]

I have this bundle and have used it for a few months now. It is about as good as digital drawing can get; you might feel more "connected" with a screen tablet, but I've found that digital feels disconnected no matter what the device is(and I've tried a few over the years) because of the software lag, the large number of settings(canvas resolution, brushes, zoom levels, etc.), the aliased-and-smoothed line quality, and plastic-on-plastic/plastic-on-glass feeling. Nothing matches the immediate, tactile, consistent feedback of an actual brush or pen nib on good paper. So I make worse freehand lines digitally, but it's great to have the tools regardless, because digital speeds up so many of the other technical aspects; there are so many ways to get a perfect result quickly that you don't need the freehand to be great, and I've gradually learned to mix traditional and digital to get the results I'm after. Xencelabs is actually an Ugee tablet design, a company which actually operates a lot of tablet brands such as the well-known XP Pen. But it's not secretly just a budget tablet - the physical design is different, the build quality is higher, and you're getting way more accessories than any other offering. Ugee operates their brands as semi-independent entities, so Xencelabs has their own technical support(which is good). I've tested on Windows and Linux and while I was fine on Windows, I'd note that the Linux drivers do have some issues - inputs not registering until I flip the pen to the eraser and back, and the wireless occasionally spamming ghost input(which can be devastating if it goes past the undo buffer). It's tolerable when I switch to wired. This is hardly an unusual experience for Linux and unusual equipment, and they are still updating it regularly along with the other platforms.

[@glyndewis]

Cheers for that 👍🏻

[@vincemincevince]

good to know i bought one of these and i really like it

[@HartPhotoAndVideo]

I BOUGHT THIS BECAUSE OF YOU!!!! good tip.

[@glyndewis]

😃 Nice one … enjoy

[@AngelEyes_55]

Great video thank you. Just got my first tablet and quick keys today - wow it feels very odd having used just a mouse for PS and Ai programmes the last 20 years. I can see this is going to tame many weeks to get use to. Amazing quality hardware and presentation box, travel case, really impressed.

[@johnspijkers7368]

It looks nice, but the active area of the medium version is only slightly bigger then A5. I use the Wacom XL A3 tablet which has an active area of A3, close to the size of my monitor. That makes it very precise when drawing paths or making masks. As it is no longer made, I bought a second one as a reserve. I never had trouble with drivers; it only takes a bit of time before it becomes active after I start up my Mac.

[@glyndewis]

Cheers John

[@carletto0805]

Thank you, for your review. Are you still using after one year, or you returned back to wacom?

[@glyndewis]

Still using it 👍🏻

[@jkingimages]

Great video! This convinced me to make the switch. I absolutely love this tablet. Ordered a second one for travel gigs.

[@glyndewis]

That's great to hear...thanks 👍🏻

[@peterdavidson3681]

Hi thank you for this Video. I bought the deco pro mini after watching it. I have just tried it with my M1 Mac. I have to admit I'm struggling , probably my age (76) and it's just so completely different. I notice someone asked you about more videos & you have said there's a possibility of you doing some. In the meantime can you or any contributors recommend some video tutorials related to photo editing . I have looked but always the results seem to be about drawing with tablets. Thanks in anticipation Peter.

[@stew_redman]

I used to use a Wacom tablet, but it was awkward as my main monitor is 21:9. I now use a mouse and a large mousemat. I also have a gamepad (Razer Tartarus Pro) under my other hand - it has 20 user-definable keys, a joystick and thumbwheel. I'm used to it for playing games, but in Photoshop it speeds up my workflow tremendously. I can't imagine editing any other way now.

[@glyndewis]

That sounds like a great piece of kit there Stew

[@jshetley2]

So glad to see this video and know it's not just me! My Wacom disconnects, loses the pen, and so on all the time. The only solution has been to reboot the whole machine to get the pen back, which I can't edit without, and that is so frustrating. I hope Wacom is watching this video and fixes this driver issue!! In the meantime - I will check out this new tablet.

[@glyndewis]

Yeah it pretty much became unusable for me and as you say, so frustrating. Timing with this new one was unreal 😃

[@notdisclosed7053]

No need to reboot. If you are using Windows, type “services” from the start button, then “Wacom” in the list of services. Right click and select “restart”. It really should not happen, but having discovered this, it saves the frustration of rebooting every time it happens.

[@jshetley2]

@@notdisclosed7053 Well I am using a Mac. Any idea how to do this on a Mac?

[@notdisclosed7053]

@@jshetley2 sorry, no, I only use Windows. I tried googling restarting services on a Mac: it seems it can be done, but I do not have a Mac to test the suggestions - you might find it worthwhile doing this, and if services can be restarted in Windows without rebooting, I suspect this must be possible for Macs as well.

[@17curiosity17]

@@jshetley2 have you tried the "Driver check" feature in the Wacom Desktop Center? If you run the driver check, there's a button to "Restart driver", that usually fixes any and all problems for me!

[@frankandersen3223]

i just use an area of the size of the touchpad on a pc on my wacom because when you zoom you only use small movements but have you tried a XP-PEN artist 12" PRO

[@glyndewis]

The X-PEN wouldn't work for me as the display is the tablet as I understand it, and being left handed and a Lightroom user it means me reaching across my images to access and use the functions on the left side of the screen...which isn't ideal. Hopefully one days Adobe will make the interface adjustable.

[@ΧριστόφοροςΒραδής]

​@@glyndewis Well, your display is not your tablet... As Frank said, you have to use a small portion of the tablet surface to "represent" your display. Function keys in all tablets seem like a very handy feature - especially this separate keypad, but you soon realize that your computer's keyboard is much more efficient and practical.

[@frankandersen3223]

@@glyndewis I only use it in photoshop and the XP-pen is at tablet that is a screen but you still use your normal screen but on the XP-pen you retuch direct on the image

[@ΧριστόφοροςΒραδής]

@@frankandersen3223& @Glyn Dewis I apologize to both of you, I did not understand you were talking only for the X-PEN. I do not know how this product works. I just wanted to point out that the conclusion at 6:16 of this video is somehow misleading because this is not how wacom tablets work. You have to "map" your display at a small portion of the tablet surface. The software identifies your monitor size and scales the chosen area on the tablet surface accordingly. You do not work on the entire surface of the tablet. Dear Glyn, even if the xencelabs works this way -which would be great, it is not fair to compare the 2 products without mentioning that you have to map your display at one of them. You just trash it ! Don't get me wrong please, I am not a fanboy, it is great that wacom has some serious competition but you are talking about a product that many photographers, designers, retouchers use for many years now.

[@Everyday_Foreman]

Thanks for the information. I am a newby when it comes ot pin tablets and this helps a lot

[@glyndewis]

You’re welcome

[@jonglaser4468]

The best thing about Wacom is the express key remote. You can program individual shortcut keys(commands) for individual apps. And, those apps are active with their respective shortcuts only when they are active.And, I can use them directly on a screen that allows touch like the studio surface, wacom pro or a tablet. Can the quick keys do the same?

[@glyndewis]

Yeah kin d of the same but not the 'on screen' display Jon. It does have the display though unlike the Wacom Express Key Remote; so in both cases what one has there other doesn't 👍🏻

[@Kullervo456]

In the bluetooth section it was not clear to me if the peer-to-peer only functions when using the provided dongle?

[@glyndewis]

It's the dongle that makes it peer-to-peer unlike Wacom; this way no other bluetooth devices can interfere with the connection if you're using it that way.

[@andysmith5819]

Superb Glynn, just what I have been looking for. I have never been a fan of Wacom and the XP-Pen tablet I have been using just doesn't do the job and struggles with Mac connectivity. Based on your video I have ordered this xencelabs tablet and I trust it will get me back to using a tablet and improving the workflow. Love your videos and thanks for the easy to understand format you produce.

[@glyndewis]

That's fantastic to hear Andy...thank you 👍🏻

[@Takudayo]

How Does The Surface texture feel tho? I really like the surface texture of my intuos pro and have never changed the texture sheet once as an artist it feels great to have that grip. I would like to know how the Surface texture of xencelabs feels like!

[@glyndewis]

Trying to describe it in words…it feels very high quality…trying to remember what my Wacom was like when I first got it, but yes…feels very good surface to use

[@richietwinz6824]

This looks interesting, haven't used my Wacom Bamboo for ages so I might have to give this a go!

[@glyndewis]

I’m a couple of months-ish with this now and so far experiencing no issues. V happy.

[@jonponder3283]

Just brought the medium package, are you going to do a follow up video

[@glyndewis]

Yeah will be doing that v soon Jon 👍🏻

[@ep1421]

How long did you test this tablet? Is this a first look or have you been using it for sometime? You gave strong opinions, we have all experienced euphoria with ne gadgets only for frustrating niggles to set in.

[@glyndewis]

Had it for around 2 months now and honestly, noises...it just works. Use it mainly in Photoshop, Lightroom and Premiere Pro but also some general day to day stuff. I'll do a user and set up video at some point 👍🏻

[@JujuLand0]

Does Xencelabs auto force proportions? Asking because my screen is 16:10 ratio.

[@glyndewis]

Not Auto but you can change the proportions easily enough

[@nathanwolf5547]

You’ve really answered an important question for me. Why does my Wacom pad not trace embroidery designs accurately? It’s the aspect ratio! If I’m given a client design to digitise for embroidery it always ends up a mess because the tablet’s registration is wrong. I can think of quite a few useful shortcuts for the embroidery software as well as photography work and graphic design. I’ll have a look at their web site. I think you’ve sold this to me.

[@glyndewis]

Glad it's helped mate 👍🏻

[@lschiz-photography1765]

Excellent info and advice again. Not only that but funny, entertainning like the blue car drifting around the turn-about That was worth the watch alone 😂

[@glyndewis]

Cheers 😃

[@garrywilling3711]

excellent review, not heard of anyone talking about tracing paper images on the xencelabs, feel like that's a feature thats secretly quite good

[@RDBLOOMFIELDPHOTOGRAPHYLLC]

Hi Glyn, Love the video - I picked one up after I saw your initial blog post about this. Love the way it works in Photoshop and Lightroom. I see you have it setup for Premiere Pro as well - curious as to the settings you use in there as I am struggling to determine what the best way to set it up for that program would be. Do you think you could share screen captures of your settings? Thanks in advance! Ryan

[@glyndewis]

Hi Ryan...Yeah I'll definitely do that. I'll do a blog post showing it and also a 'set up' video if you think that would be useful 👍🏻

[@RDBLOOMFIELDPHOTOGRAPHYLLC]

@@glyndewis - that would be great! Much appreciated.

[@IanSayers]

@@glyndewis Very happy to help on this mate, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Audition and a lot more...

[@SteveArnoldus]

I might get lost in all these comments but thanks for this Glyn! I've been struggling with the same issues as you on my Wacom tab. I'll be checking out the Xencelabs very soon! Hope all is well with you brother! Cheers!

[@glyndewis]

Hey Big Man...Great to hear from you 😃 Yeah all good here thanks. Hope you're keeping well out there 👍🏻

[@J0n0sterman]

Just skimming through... at 6:00! Force proportions in your Wacom tablet mapping setting.

[@glyndewis]

Yeah but 16:9 should be default ; also no explanation of Force Proportions

[@J0n0sterman]

​@@glyndewis Yes I have a 16:9ish Wacom. It's nice tough you don't notice much difference. However, I still need to setup the mapping area properly when changing rig. Chose between : Full / portion or specific monitor. And obviousely force proportions. It's been like that for twenty plus years. 🙂

[@andycannon_photo679]

Hi Glyn. I have been using the Xenelabs medium bundle for a few months now, and of all the tablets ive used from Wacom to Xpen the Xencelab tablet is so lovely to use. My favourite part of the tablet Apart from the quick keys is the tappered base which doesnt cause my to wrist ache. the only fault with this tablet is that ive had to switch it off and on when the pen stops working, having seen your video it could be a timer problem so ive gone and set the timer on 'never' and ill see what happens...I Should read the instructions.

[@midollafun]

Did it work?

[@glyndewis]

Cheers Andy...keep me posted re the timer' thing

[@andycannon_photo679]

@@midollafun No it didnt unfortunately However it seems to be working once i switched of "windows ink"

[@andycannon_photo679]

@@glyndewis Hi Glen , things seem to be working fine apart from the stalling i also failed to mention that the three keys on the tablet weren't working either, I was about to email Xencelabs when i saw i had 'windows ink' on i switched this off and for the last few days everything has been working beautifully no stalling and i can use the tablets keys.

[@andycannon_photo679]

@@glyndewis Hi Glenn finally fixed My Xencelab tablet, after trying a few things and all failed, I reinstalled the program and all is well, after three weeks of solid use nothing has gone wrong... no stalling

[@KevinGoosie]

Great review! Been looking at different tablets like these for quite some time now. When you first started out by showing the separate function keys and that you can edit functions based on the application you are using, it brought me back to when I used to use a 3D Connexion Space Mouse for 3D CAD work. Having the driver switching automatically and that separate function key pad is amazing!!

[@glyndewis]

Glad the video was useful Kevin; thanks for taking a look 👍🏻

[@hannahimperialcannon]

Well explained and fun video. Thanks for sharing!

[@glyndewis]

Thanks Hannah 😃

[@rogerwalton8160]

excellent quick overview! Ive been using this set-up for a while now and agree with everything you say. The one thing I still need to do is to get the quick keys programmed for Lightroom. I had a detailed set-up of custom keys with my Wacom and it's the one thing I really miss as I haven't done it for quick keys yet. I'd be interested to see how you have yours set-up. Perhaps you might consider a video of this and, if you're feeling really generous, sharing a file of the settings.

[@glyndewis]

Roger, absolutely...I'll do a post about my set up and how and will look to put a video together too 👍🏻

[@TrevorDennis100]

I know at least one professional who has switched to Xencelabs , and I think I am about to do the same. As far as shortcuts go, I recently bought a Logitech G515 on which you can remap every key. I use the G515 in parallel with a Corsair K95 and use the G515 exclusively for single key shortcuts. Some of the Adobe waste the Function keys on redundant functions, so you can use them as shortcuts to trigger Actions (in Photoshop at least). It makes for a fast and smooth workflow. I'll have the G515 mounted above and behind my central monitor (I use three screens).

[@axl87]

I discovered this aspect ratio setting on my Huion tablet recently, i couldn't understand why it was still so difficult to make perfect circles after weeks of using it and for days i thought i just needed more training... I found the setting by mistake as well, it wasn't hidden but like you i don't understand why it's not default. I'd believe that many beginners fall into the trap.

[@glyndewis]

Absolutely...it's not s setting that you see mentioned, discussed or explained so there will undoubtedly be lots of people out there who are completely unaware of it

[@hoeksart8123]

Why on earth would you try to draw perfect circles on your tablet when you can create perfect circles in almost every software program?? It sounds so far fetched!

[@deuswulf6193]

@@hoeksart8123 Its a standard practice when training muscle memory for art. A lot of digital art techniques mirror dry media techniques, which is why practicing drawing circles and other shapes is part of the warmup or practice some artist go through, especially in the beginning.

[@glyndewis]

@@hoeksart8123 Is it really that hard for you to grasp when I even say WHY I was showing it as a circle? It was done to show distortion. A LOT of artists trace their art work. Geez 🤷‍♂️

[@hoeksart8123]

@@glyndewis No not all? Why so aggressive? The answer @DeusWulf gave before you, made sense to me. For testing and practicing it makes sense. But in normal use (like in this original comment) it sounded really strange to me. So Geez, sorry. Something’s not okay here…

[@vivahabbitvanassen7800]

Omg, how funny you are putting this out as I’m been fighting with my Wacom because I just updated my old computer to a new M1 and I was on line just this morning try to get this to work. Well I have to give this a look into. As always thanks timing is everything.

[@glyndewis]

Hope it helps 😉

[@av4464]

I'm still using the old silver wacom intuos. I "upgraded" to the intuos 2 and it was woefully inferior to the previous version, so I sent it back. I experience driver issues daily and shoestring tips when brushing, but I get by. I think I'll go with Xencelabs when I upgrade.

[@glyndewis]

It'll be worth taking a look for sure

[@timmykincaid]

I understand the problems with Wacom. Been dealing with them for years. Quick question, I am forever stuck with Wacom for one feature, rotation, will this tablet support twisting the pen to rotate the brush?

[@glyndewis]

Tim...I've asked about this and...I can't officially say other than watch this space ... you never know 😉

[@keyframer.]

Rotation is indeed supported via the Quick Keys dial in the Xencelabs driver software.

[@alisonmeier5826]

@@keyframer. Hi. Could you please link some documentation for this, as just looking at Xenlabs site, they say neither of the pens don't support brush rotation. That's as of April 21, 2021.

[@keyframer.]

@@alisonmeier5826 oh! Sorry. I thought you meant canvas rotation. My bad. But I’ll look for brush rotation.

[@alisonmeier5826]

@@keyframer. Thanks. That would be great. I can use the arrow keys on the keyboard I guess, just as you do in Photoshop? Not sure if or how the keyboard integrates with the tablet, though.

[@Trish12303]

I can totally relate to your frustration with the Wacom tablet!! I have experienced all the problems you spoke about. I got my Xencelab tablet today! I am looking forward to using it!!

[@bevcomptonphoto]

Thanks for this video! Really needed this as I’m debating the switch. Excellent job!😊

[@glyndewis]

Glad you like it Bev. Honestly...I'm so impressed with it...it just works! 😃

[@MichaelErkens]

I used to have a Wacom, but I currently use a XP-PEN display for more than a year now, only thing that bothers me with that thing are the buttons/dials, because it is a display I have to reach "high" to use them. So I just bought the separate remote you shown here in the video to see if that will work for me.... Also, about the aspect ratio, that is just a matter of display you are using, with my old computer (and with the wacom) I had an 16:10 display so that was no problem for me. Now with the XP-PEN it is also no problem, because the display IS the tablet :)

[@glyndewis]

Thanks for taking a look Michael. I've not used the XP-PEN and don't think I will to be honest if the display is the tablet. Reason being becauseI'm left handed and I use Lightroom I would have to reach across my image to use the controls on the left side of the screen. I tried this before when I had a Cintiq and it just wasn't workable for me. hopefully one day Adobe will listen to users and make the interface sections moveable in Lightroom as they are in Photoshop. As for the aspect ratio, II think every monitor I have and have had is 16:9 and I had to adjust my previous Wacom tablets every time 🤷‍♂️

[@MichaelErkens]

@@glyndewis the XP-PEN has controls on both sides, but the software isn't as good as wacom's, however, if all is well I will get the Xencelabs remote this week and I will give it a try

[@gorequillnachovidal]

will they ever make a bigger tablet?

[@glyndewis]

I imagine so yes

[@andrewdennes1608]

Thanks Glyn, this video appeared at just the right moment, as I want to get a pen tablet to use on Lightroom (CC) and Adobe Fresco. Hopefully it work on Windows 10 laptop.

[@glyndewis]

That's great to hear Andrew 👍🏻

[@jamesschei2640]

hey to all. Long time wacom user and decided to try. FYI if you want to save some dough. B+H has this for $305 usd and free shipping. just ordered mine and can't wait. Looking forward to any more videos on this. Thanks

[@glyndewis]

Thanks for sharing

[@anth5189]

I have always had trouble with Wacom's. I constantly had to look at the tablet to see where my hand was. I always seemed to end up near the edge of the tablet even though I was in the centre of the screen. I always ended up going back to the mouse. It would be nice to see a tablet that works.

[@glyndewis]

I'm really happy with this one...no issues so far

[@jroads323]

Glyn, I have an XP-PEN Artist 15.6 Pro tablet. It has its own display which is handy whether you use "mirror display" or "extend display." It also has programmable function buttons on the side which can be set independently for multiple apps, meaning as with the Xencelabs tablet you don't have to change any settings when changing apps. Set them once at initial setup and forget about it. Agreed with you there are now quality alternatives to WACOM, but as with everything else, what's good for the goose isn't always good for the gander. :) Great video!

[@glyndewis]

100% with you there John 👍🏻

[@davidrachlin3557]

My Wacom tablet does everything I want it to do with Photoshop. I am a digital artist and have no issues with the product.

[@glyndewis]

That’s great. Not the case for myself and a lot of others. The issues with Wacom (especially drivers and wireless) is rife across the internet and known by ex Wacom employees now at Xencelabs.

[@OlafGiermann]

That actually looks really good. Two pens, plus the remote and the whole concept … nice!

[@glyndewis]

Great piecer of kit mate and so reliable; perfect for you and all you do

[@ostelaymetaule]

Yes, might be handy for ambidexterous people. Anyway, i see no rotating pen sadly. Wacom are afaik the only ones who offer rotation sensor in their pen.

[@glyndewis]

@@ostelaymetaule geez…give them time…why expect a company to have EVERYTHING so soon after start up? Took Wacom years

[@glyndewis]

@@ostelaymetaule Rotation of Art Pen support by Wacom is discontinued too

[@Who.Said.Photography]

Glenn, buddy, have you tried this with dual monitors? Wacom was horid with dual monitors and PS.

[@glyndewis]

Bob..yes I have mate...no issues 👍🏻

[@valdemarcaballero5298]

MARVELOUS!!!!!! i need one of this!!!!!!! 😉

[@glyndewis]

It works really well..very happy with it after 4 weeks so far

[@matty2x468]

One question, having used wacom for years, does this one support a "Working" pen tilt? On windows. Now that would be a game changer. Windows and wacom for years have just dodged the issue by blaming each other for it not working.

[@glyndewis]

Matty it definitely supports Pen Tilt but as I'm on Mac, I'll get the Windows answer for you today and will post it back here once I get a reply 👍🏻

[@robmeijer3018]

Nice review, I am a Wacom user and never had the problems you have mentioned! Since you are lefthanded (I am Not) that could be a problem. I don't need a drawing glove and have customized all the buttons without a problem. Using THREE screens does bother the work either.... The extra keypad is unnecessary since instead I use my logi craft keyboard with programmed keys...... Only the ratio can be a plus but for the rest......

[@glyndewis]

Being left handed definitely isn't a problem. I don't use the glove.Drivers with the Wacom were the main pain for me. Gave up on the wireless. The Quick Keys is very handy.

[@Autofusionchannel]

Yeah I’ve used Wacom tablets for 13 years now and have never had an issue as well .

[@billbowman8747]

I used to use a large Intuos pen tablet with the wireless option for about 8-9 years. It was largely reliable but I too had some driver problems at times as well as some ergonomic issues. My Xencelabs medium tablet bundle is wonderful and dollar for dollar, a better value in my opinion. I don’t hate Wacom, they make good tablets, I just like using my Xencelabs tablet more and the quality is every bit as premium as Wacom. (Maybe more so.)

[@civotamuaz5781]

I have no resources to buy starter, then pro pad. I want one to accompany me for a while. Was thinking immediately about Wac int pro, but now i find out about these shortcomings. Are these gripes only about non screen variants with Wacom products in general? What do?

[@british31]

Sadly, I have gotten used to touch gestures on my Wacom. I recently moved from a bamboo to the pro model, and it's crazy how palm rejection ISN'T working well at all. As a video editor, I need to have the touch aspect, zoom into and out of timelines is handy when all I have to do is touch the pad with 2 fingers and swipe. Weirdly enough, the Bamboo was better at this than the pro model! Almost thinking about switching back!

[@glyndewis]

Now THAT is interesting to hear...the cheaper model working out better. Cheers Alex

[@889media]

Great video, but wished you talked a bit more about how it is in use. One thing that I liked with the Wacom compared to “just another” when I first tried it was that it felt way better. The pen was easy to use and little or non drag is felt when moving the pen across the tablet. Some cheaper models felt laggy and not as smooth. How is this tablet in use?

[@glyndewis]

Yeah I'll cover that in a mother video but after 2 months, safe to say it's exactly what I would want / expect ... feels great, works great, no lag, precise ...

[@889media]

@@glyndewis Awesome! Thank you, sir!

[@edwardkennedy2031]

I've turned off the touch function as well as having sooo many issues with software and drivers. Especially with issues in PS.

[@glyndewis]

Yeah I don't know if it was because I'm left handed that I always seem to activate stuff or swipe screens, but so annoying...turning it off was also the only option for me 🤷‍♂️

[@edwardkennedy2031]

@@glyndewis I know what you mean, I actually wrote a batch file (Windows) to restart the Wacom service, ity happens so. much. Definitely looking at the Xencelbs.

[@shadowhunter5348]

I’d prefer a pen tablet with wired and wireless options. I’d get fed up of recharging the devices all the time. Also are the rechargeable batteries replaceable?

[@glyndewis]

This can be used wired and wireless using the provided cable

[@shadowhunter5348]

@@glyndewis Thanks. I assume it would constantly charge the rechargeable battery and destroy it over a period of time? Unless you can remove the batteries and use it wired?

[@Kullervo456]

Is the device capable of being paired to multiple devices without the need to pair it each time you switch to new device? For example, switching between workstation and laptop.

[@glyndewis]

Yes indeed Eddie. If you wanted to use it wireless you would need to use the dongle. Also if you wanted to use the Quick Keys you'd just need to install the driver / software on each and you can export your settings from your main computer and import them onto the other devices so they are all in sync..if that makes sense

[@Kullervo456]

@@glyndewis Thank you. The reason why I asked is because I own an Intous Pro small. The tablet can only pair with one device at a time. If I want to switch it from my workstations over to my laptop using wireless I would need to go through the pairing process each time I swap devices which is very inconvenient.

[@ahmed.ea.abdalla]

does this work with ipads?

[@glyndewis]

I’ll find out and post a response here

[@ahmed.ea.abdalla]

@@glyndewis great!

[@ahmed.ea.abdalla]

@@glyndewis hey Glyn :) Just wanted to kindly remind you incase you were busy and forgot about this :) Have a nice day!

[@glyndewis]

@@ahmed.ea.abdalla Doesn’t work with iPads 👍🏻

[@ahmed.ea.abdalla]

@@glyndewis thanks for the reply! :)

[@larsmichael7162]

Do the nibs wear out as quickly as the Wacom ones?

[@glyndewis]

Can't answer that just yet Lars as I've only had it a few weeks. I'll do a longer term review a little later though.

[@DBimo]

your video pop's up, now i am interested!

[@glyndewis]

Nice one

[@Mr.right1821]

I’m a retoucher ( also left handed) , I also have all this issues, tablet crashing here and there, driver not working. But the most annoying part the lag! Definitely going to try this tablet, thanks for the review! Would be great to see a tutorial about the pressure sensibility vs the wacom

[@glyndewis]

Cheers Daniel. Yeah "ill be doing a longer term review in the next couple of weeks 👍🏻

[@syahaz7088]

Oh god the touch function issue hit home so much! 😂

[@glyndewis]

😃