Xencelabs Pen Display 24 Review

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The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 emerges as a formidable contender in the professional creative arena, offering a compelling blend of premium features and a user-centric design that directly challenges established players.

For serious digital artists, designers, and animators, this pen display delivers a high-resolution, color-accurate canvas coupled with an intuitive pen experience, making it a powerful tool for accelerating workflow and elevating creative output.

While it positions itself at the higher end of the market, its performance, build quality, and innovative accessories justify the investment for those seeking a professional-grade solution that stands up to the demands of intensive creative work.

Product Screen Size Resolution Color Gamut Typical Pressure Levels Pen Technology Key Feature Price Range Approx.
Xencelabs Pen Display 24 23.8 inches 3840 x 2160 4K 99% Adobe RGB, 99% DCI-P3 8192 EMR Two Pens Included, Quick Keys Remote $1,900 – $2,200
Wacom Cintiq Pro 24 23.6 inches 3840 x 2160 4K 99% Adobe RGB 8192 EMR Pro Pen 2 Built-in ExpressKeys, Etched Glass $2,400 – $2,600
Huion Kamvas Pro 24 4K 23.8 inches 3840 x 2160 4K 140% sRGB 8192 EMR PenTech 3.0 Full Laminated Screen, Affordable 4K $1,200 – $1,400
XP-Pen Artist 24 Pro 23.8 inches 2560 x 1440 2K QHD 90% Adobe RGB 8192 Battery-Free EMR Dual USB-C Ports, Two Red Dial Wheels $700 – $900
Microsoft Surface Studio 2+ 28 inches 4500 x 3000 3:2 Aspect DCI-P3, sRGB 4096 N-Trig Surface Pen All-in-one PC, Zero Gravity Hinge $4,500 – $5,000+
Apple iPad Pro with Apple Pencil 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR P3 Wide Color Not specified tilt/pressure Active Stylus Portable, iOS Ecosystem, Pro Apps $800 – $2,000+ Tablet + Pencil
Dell Canvas 27 27 inches 2560 x 1440 QHD 100% Adobe RGB 2048 EMR Totem Dial, Large Workspace $1,500 – $1,800

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Table of Contents

Unboxing the Experience: First Impressions and Build Quality

Alright, let’s talk about the moment you crack open that box.

With any premium creative tool, the unboxing ritual sets the tone.

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 doesn’t disappoint here.

It feels substantial, well-protected, and frankly, a bit exciting. This isn’t some flimsy piece of kit.

It’s built to last and to be a centerpiece of your digital studio.

A Solid Foundation: Materials and Aesthetics

The first thing you notice is the heft and the quality of the materials.

Xencelabs has opted for a design that is both sleek and functional.

The display itself has a minimalist aesthetic, with slim bezels that maximize screen real estate, letting you focus on your artwork rather than the hardware.

The back of the unit features a sturdy, industrial design, indicative of its robust internal components.

There’s a subtle elegance to it, avoiding any over-the-top gamer aesthetics often seen in some budget options. Synology Diskstation Ds224 Plus Review

  • Premium Materials: You’ll find a blend of high-grade plastics and metals, giving it a professional feel. No creaks or flimsy parts to worry about.
  • Minimalist Design: The clean lines and dark finish integrate well into any professional workspace, reducing visual clutter.
  • Thoughtful Details: Even the small things, like the anti-slip feet and the well-placed ports, speak to a design team that understands artist needs.

Ergonomics and Stand Versatility

A good pen display isn’t just about the screen.

It’s about how comfortably you can interact with it for hours on end.

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 comes with a robust, integrated stand that offers impressive flexibility. This isn’t some cheap, wobbly add-on. it’s an integral part of the experience.

  • Wide Angle Adjustment: The stand allows for a significant range of tilt, from nearly flat for detailed drawing to a more upright position for comfortable viewing. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining good posture during long creative sessions.
  • Stability: When you lean on it, push down with the pen, or make broad strokes, the display stays put. There’s no annoying wobble that can break your concentration.
  • Optional Ergonomic Stand: For those who demand even more flexibility, Xencelabs offers an optional stand that provides greater height adjustment and swivel capabilities. While the included stand is excellent, this add-on could be a must for specific studio setups or if you frequently switch between standing and sitting.
    • Pro Tip: If you’re serious about ergonomics and spend 8+ hours a day drawing, investing in a VESA-compatible monitor arm might be the ultimate upgrade for any pen display, offering unparalleled freedom of movement and positioning.

The Canvas: Display Quality and Color Accuracy

This is where the rubber meets the road for any digital artist. A pen display is, first and foremost, a screen.

And a professional-grade screen needs to deliver on resolution, color accuracy, and overall visual fidelity.

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 aims to hit those high notes.

Diving into the 4K Resolution

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 boasts a 4K UHD 3840 x 2160 resolution on its 23.8-inch screen. What does this mean for you?

  • Pin-Sharp Detail: Every brushstroke, every pixel, every minute detail in your artwork appears incredibly crisp. This is especially beneficial for high-resolution illustrations, intricate graphic design, and video editing where seeing fine details is paramount.
  • Increased Workspace: With 4K, you get a massive amount of digital real estate. You can have your main canvas open alongside tool palettes, reference images, and other windows without feeling cramped. This boosts efficiency and reduces the need for constant zooming and panning.
  • Text Clarity: For UI/UX designers or anyone dealing with a lot of text, the 4K resolution ensures fonts are rendered smoothly and legibly, reducing eye strain over extended periods.

The Spectrum of Color: Gamut and Calibration

Color accuracy is non-negotiable for professional artists.

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 makes impressive claims, and for the most part, it lives up to them.

  • Wide Color Gamut: Xencelabs specifies 99% Adobe RGB and 99% DCI-P3 coverage. These are professional-grade color spaces, meaning the display can reproduce a vast range of colors, crucial for print, video production, and photography.
    • Adobe RGB: Essential for print-focused workflows, ensuring your digital colors translate accurately to physical prints.
    • DCI-P3: Increasingly important for video and film production, aligning with modern cinematic standards.
  • Factory Calibration: The display comes factory calibrated, which is a huge plus. This means it’s ready for serious color work right out of the box, though a hardware calibration tool like a SpyderX Elite or Calibrite ColorChecker Display Pro is always recommended for absolute precision and to compensate for environmental changes over time.
  • Color Uniformity: A common issue with large displays is color uniformity, where colors can shift slightly from the center to the edges. Xencelabs has done a commendable job here, with minimal noticeable shifts. This ensures consistent color perception across your entire canvas.

Surface Texture and Glare Management

The drawing surface itself plays a critical role in the tactile experience.

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  • Anti-Glare Etched Glass: The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 features an anti-glare etched glass surface. This provides a satisfying amount of tooth or friction, mimicking the feel of drawing on paper. It’s not too slick, preventing your pen from sliding uncontrollably, and not too rough, which could wear down nibs too quickly.
  • Reduced Reflections: The etched glass is highly effective at diffusing reflections from overhead lights or windows, which is a major benefit for eye comfort during long sessions. It significantly reduces distractions, allowing you to focus purely on your work.
  • Lamination: While not explicitly “full laminated” in the way some budget tablets claim, the gap between the glass and the LCD panel is minimal, which helps reduce parallax – the perceived distance between your pen tip and the cursor. This contributes to a more direct and intuitive drawing experience.

The Pen Experience: Precision, Feel, and Innovation

The pen is your primary interface with a pen display, and Xencelabs has clearly invested heavily in making this a standout feature.

They’ve gone a slightly different route than some competitors, and it pays off.

Dual Pen System: Innovation in Your Hand

One of the most unique aspects of the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is that it comes with two pens right out of the box. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick. it’s a genuinely useful feature.

  • 3-Button Pen: This is your workhorse. It’s slightly thicker, providing a comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions. The three programmable buttons offer immense flexibility for shortcuts, modifier keys, or custom functions within your software.
  • Thin Pen: As the name suggests, this pen is slimmer and lighter, designed for those who prefer a more pencil-like feel or for more delicate, precise work. It still features two programmable buttons.
  • Consistency: Both pens utilize the same EMR Electro-Magnetic Resonance technology, ensuring consistent pressure sensitivity, tilt recognition, and responsiveness regardless of which pen you pick up.

Pressure Sensitivity and Tilt Recognition

These are the core metrics for how well a pen translates your hand movements into digital strokes.

  • 8192 Pressure Levels: This is the industry standard for professional pen displays, offering a vast range of pressure variations. What this means in practice is incredibly nuanced control over line thickness, opacity, and brush effects. From the lightest whisper of a line to a bold, heavy stroke, the display registers every subtlety.
  • Tilt Recognition 60 Degrees: The pens recognize tilt, allowing you to vary your strokes based on the angle at which you hold the pen. This is crucial for natural-feeling brushes, especially for painting, calligraphy, and sketching where angle directly affects the stroke.
  • Low Initial Activation Force IAF: This is a critical, often overlooked, spec. IAF refers to how little pressure is needed to register a line. The Xencelabs pens have a very low IAF, meaning even the lightest touch registers. This mimics traditional media much more closely and reduces hand fatigue, as you don’t have to press hard to get a line.

Pen Nibs and Texture

The interaction between the pen nib and the display surface is key to the tactile experience.

  • Multiple Nib Options: Xencelabs provides a selection of nibs in the pen case, including standard plastic nibs and felt nibs.
    • Standard Nibs: Offer a smooth, consistent feel.
    • Felt Nibs: Provide more friction and resistance, mimicking the feel of a pencil on paper even more closely. Experiment with both to find what suits your drawing style.
  • Nib Wear: While nibs will naturally wear down over time, the etched glass surface is generally kind to them. Having spare nibs is always a good idea, and Xencelabs includes a generous amount.

Parallax and Lag: Myth vs. Reality

  • Minimal Parallax: Thanks to the minimal gap between the etched glass and the LCD, parallax is virtually nonexistent. Your pen tip feels like it’s directly on the pixels, which makes for a highly intuitive and accurate drawing experience. This is a significant advantage over cheaper displays where the cursor can appear offset from the pen tip.
  • Negligible Lag: The input lag, or the delay between your pen movement and the line appearing on screen, is imperceptible to the human eye. This ensures a fluid and responsive drawing experience, crucial for maintaining your flow and precision. The display’s high refresh rate also contributes to this smoothness.

Workflow Enhancers: Quick Keys and Accessories

A great pen display isn’t just about the screen and pen.

It’s about the entire ecosystem designed to streamline your creative process.

Xencelabs has clearly put thought into how artists work.

The Quick Keys Remote: A Game-Changer

Perhaps the most innovative accessory that comes with the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is the Quick Keys Remote. This compact, wireless remote is designed to put frequently used shortcuts and functions right at your fingertips, dramatically speeding up your workflow.

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  • 8 Programmable Buttons: The Quick Keys remote features eight physical buttons, each of which can be programmed with up to five different functions thanks to its mode button. This means you have access to up to 40 custom shortcuts!
  • OLED Display: A small, clear OLED screen on the remote displays the current function assigned to each button, eliminating guesswork and allowing you to quickly see what you’re doing. This is a brilliant feature that significantly enhances usability.
  • Dial with Haptic Feedback: At the center of the Quick Keys is a tactile dial, which can be assigned to functions like zoom, brush size, rotation, or layer opacity. The satisfying haptic feedback confirms your adjustments, making it a joy to use.
  • Wireless Connectivity: The Quick Keys remote connects wirelessly, giving you the freedom to place it wherever is most comfortable for your workflow – in your non-drawing hand, on your desk, or even attached to the display itself via magnets.
  • Application-Specific Settings: The Xencelabs driver allows you to create application-specific profiles for the Quick Keys, meaning your shortcuts can change automatically when you switch from Photoshop to ZBrush to Blender, maximizing efficiency across all your creative software.
    • Example Use Cases:
      • Photoshop: Undo, Redo, Zoom In/Out, Brush Size, Hardness, Switch Tools, Color Picker.
      • Clip Studio Paint: Pan, Rotate Canvas, Flip Canvas, Eyedropper, Erase.
      • Blender: Navigate Viewport, Grab, Rotate, Scale, Toggle Edit Mode.

The Pen Case and Nib Storage

It’s a small detail, but a well-designed pen case adds to the premium feel and practicality.

  • Protective Case: The included pen case is robust and keeps both your 3-button pen and thin pen secure and protected when not in use or when traveling.
  • Integrated Nib Storage: Inside the pen case, you’ll find a compartment for storing extra nibs, ensuring you always have replacements on hand. This is a thoughtful touch that prevents lost nibs and interrupted creative sessions.
  • Nib Removal Tool: The case also contains a built-in nib removal tool, making it easy to swap out worn nibs without fumbling.

Cables and Connectivity

Connectivity is often an overlooked aspect, but Xencelabs has provided multiple options to ensure broad compatibility.

  • USB-C to USB-C: For modern computers with a Thunderbolt 3/4 or full-featured USB-C port, a single USB-C cable can carry both video and data, simplifying cable management. This is the ideal connection.
  • HDMI and DisplayPort: For systems without full-featured USB-C, Xencelabs includes cables for HDMI and DisplayPort, along with a separate USB-A data cable. This ensures compatibility with a wider range of desktop PCs and older laptops.
  • Power Adapter: A dedicated power adapter is included, as the display requires more power than a single USB-C port can typically provide for a 4K screen.

Software, Driver, and Compatibility

Even the best hardware can be hampered by poor software.

Fortunately, Xencelabs has developed a robust and user-friendly driver that makes setting up and customizing the Pen Display 24 a breeze.

The Xencelabs Driver: Intuitive and Powerful

The driver software is the brain behind the hardware, allowing you to configure every aspect of your pen display.

  • Clean User Interface: The Xencelabs driver boasts a clear, intuitive interface that is easy to navigate. You won’t get lost in a maze of menus trying to find what you need.
  • Customization Galore:
    • Pen Settings: Adjust pressure curve, customize pen buttons for both the 3-button pen and the thin pen. You can assign different functions based on which pen you’re using.
    • Quick Keys Configuration: This is where the Quick Keys remote truly shines. You can meticulously map each of the eight buttons, the mode button, and the dial to specific actions, shortcuts, or even macros.
    • Display Settings: Adjust brightness, contrast, and color temperature directly from the driver, though hardware calibration is always recommended for color-critical work.
    • Application-Specific Profiles: This is a huge time-saver. You can create unique profiles for different applications e.g., Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, ZBrush, Illustrator, so your Quick Keys and pen shortcuts automatically switch when you change programs. This means you don’t have to remember different shortcut layouts for each piece of software.
  • Reliability: In general, the Xencelabs driver is known for its stability. Crashes or disconnections are rare, which is crucial when you’re in the middle of a demanding project.
  • Regular Updates: Xencelabs periodically releases driver updates that improve performance, add new features, and enhance compatibility with the latest operating systems and creative software. Keeping your driver updated is always a good practice.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is designed to work seamlessly across major operating systems.

  • Windows: Fully supported, with drivers available for Windows 7 64-bit and newer.
  • macOS: Fully supported, with drivers available for macOS 10.12 Sierra and newer including Apple Silicon via Rosetta 2.
  • Linux: While not officially supported by Xencelabs, some users have reported success with community-driven drivers or basic functionality. However, for professional, mission-critical work, Windows or macOS are the recommended platforms.

Integration with Creative Software

The true test of any pen display is how well it integrates with the software artists use daily.

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 performs admirably here.

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Excellent compatibility with Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, After Effects, and more. Pressure sensitivity, tilt, and Quick Keys shortcuts work as expected.
  • Corel Painter: Ideal for natural media simulation, the Xencelabs display’s pressure and tilt sensitivity shine here.
  • Clip Studio Paint: A favorite among comic and manga artists, it integrates flawlessly with the Xencelabs pens for precise line art and coloring.
  • Autodesk Sketchbook: Smooth and responsive for sketching and concept art.
  • ZBrush/Blender/3D Applications: While not specifically a 3D input device, the pressure sensitivity is crucial for sculpting and painting textures in 3D applications, and the Quick Keys can be invaluable for navigation and hotkeys.
  • Affinity Suite: Full compatibility with Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher.

Real-World Performance: Artists’ Perspective

Beyond the specs and features, what does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 feel like to actually use day in and day out? This is where the practical application really matters. Resident Evil 4 Separate Ways Review

Illustration and Digital Painting

For illustrators and digital painters, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is a joy to work on.

  • Natural Brush Strokes: The combination of 8192 pressure levels, excellent tilt response, and low IAF translates to incredibly natural and expressive brush strokes. You feel a direct connection between your hand and the digital canvas.
  • Comfortable Drawing Surface: The etched glass provides just the right amount of friction, giving you control without feeling sticky or overly smooth. It genuinely feels like drawing on quality paper.
  • Reduced Fatigue: The ergonomic stand, comfortable pens, and excellent anti-glare properties contribute to less eye strain and hand fatigue during long creative sessions. This allows you to work longer and more comfortably.
  • Efficient Workflow: The Quick Keys remote is a massive productivity booster. No more fumbling for keyboard shortcuts. everything is at your fingertips, keeping your eyes on the canvas.

Graphic Design and Photo Editing

While drawing is a primary use case, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is equally adept for graphic design and photo manipulation.

  • Precision Selections: The fine tip of the pen, combined with minimal parallax, allows for incredibly precise selections and masking in Photoshop or Affinity Photo.
  • Retouching Accuracy: For detailed photo retouching, the pressure sensitivity gives you nuanced control over dodge, burn, and cloning tools, blending seamlessly.
  • Large Workspace: The 4K resolution provides ample space for palettes and multiple images, making complex layouts and composite work more manageable.
  • Color Accuracy: Critical for print design and professional photo editing, the wide color gamut ensures your work looks consistent across different output mediums.

3D Sculpting and Animation

Even for workflows beyond traditional 2D art, the Pen Display 24 offers significant benefits.

  • Sculpting Detail: In ZBrush or Blender, the pressure sensitivity directly translates to the depth and intensity of your sculpting strokes, allowing for highly detailed organic forms.
  • Texture Painting: For painting directly onto 3D models e.g., in Substance Painter, the display provides a direct and intuitive interface.
  • Animation Dope Sheets: While not a primary animation tool, the large screen and pen input can be useful for manipulating timelines, keyframes, and dope sheets in animation software.

Xencelabs Pen Display 24 vs. The Competition

When you’re shelling out this kind of cash, you want to know how it stacks up against the titans.

Xencelabs entered a market dominated by Wacom, but they’ve carved out a strong niche.

Xencelabs Pen Display 24 vs. Wacom Cintiq Pro 24

This is the big one.

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Wacom has long been the industry standard, and the Cintiq Pro 24 is their flagship in this size category.

Feature Xencelabs Pen Display 24 Wacom Cintiq Pro 24
Price Generally lower ~$1,900-$2,200 Generally higher ~$2,400-$2,600
Pens Included Two 3-Button, Thin One Pro Pen 2
Shortcut Remote Wireless Quick Keys included with OLED display ExpressKey Remote included, can be attached to display
Color Gamut 99% Adobe RGB, 99% DCI-P3 99% Adobe RGB
Surface Anti-Glare Etched Glass Etched Glass
Stand Integrated, robust tilt stand optional ergonomic stand Integrated tilt stand optional Ergo Stand
Connectivity USB-C data+video, HDMI, DisplayPort USB-C data+video, HDMI, DisplayPort
Value Proposition Strong features at a more competitive price point, innovative Quick Keys, dual pens. Established industry standard, slightly more refined driver, arguably more durable build.
  • Key Differences:

    • Price: Xencelabs usually offers comparable features at a more accessible price.
    • Pens: Xencelabs provides two distinct pens, while Wacom gives you one.
    • Shortcuts: The Xencelabs Quick Keys with its OLED display is a significant differentiator and arguably more user-friendly than Wacom’s ExpressKey Remote.
    • Color: Both offer excellent color accuracy, but Xencelabs’ additional DCI-P3 coverage is a nice bonus for video professionals.
    • Feel: Both have excellent etched glass surfaces. The “feel” is subjective, but many find the Xencelabs surface very comparable to Wacom’s.
  • Verdict: If you’re looking for an alternative that matches or even exceeds Wacom’s feature set in some areas, particularly the Quick Keys, and comes in at a lower price point, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is a compelling choice. Wacom still holds the “industry standard” title, but Xencelabs is a very strong challenger. Tp Link Archer Be800 Be19000 Tri Band Wi Fi 7 Router Review

Xencelabs Pen Display 24 vs. Huion Kamvas Pro 24 4K

Huion represents the more budget-friendly side of the professional display market, but their 4K offering is competitive.

| Feature | Xencelabs Pen Display 24 | Huion Kamvas Pro 24 4K |
| Price | Higher $1,900-$2,200 | Lower $1,200-$1,400 |
| Pens Included | Two 3-Button, Thin | One Battery-Free |
| Shortcut Remote | Wireless Quick Keys included with OLED display | Usually no dedicated remote buttons on display |
| Color Gamut | 99% Adobe RGB, 99% DCI-P3 | 140% sRGB equivalent to ~90% Adobe RGB |
| Surface | Anti-Glare Etched Glass | Full Laminated Anti-Glare Etched Glass |
| Stand | Integrated, robust tilt stand | Integrated foldable stand less robust than Xencelabs |
| Key Differentiator | Premium build, innovative Quick Keys, dual pens, superior driver. | Excellent value for 4K, full lamination, competitive pen tech. |

*   Price: Huion is significantly more affordable for a 4K display.
*   Build Quality: Xencelabs generally feels more premium and robust.
*   Quick Keys: Xencelabs' wireless remote is a major advantage for workflow. Huion often relies on side buttons on the display itself.
*   Color Gamut: Xencelabs offers a wider, more professional color space DCI-P3, Adobe RGB. Huion's 140% sRGB is good but not as broad.
*   Driver Maturity: Xencelabs' driver is often considered more stable and refined.
  • Verdict: If budget is your absolute primary concern and you need 4K, the Huion Kamvas Pro 24 4K is a strong value. However, if you can stretch your budget for a more premium experience, better accessories Quick Keys, a potentially more robust build, and a slightly wider professional color gamut, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is the superior choice.

Xencelabs Pen Display 24 vs. XP-Pen Artist 24 Pro

XP-Pen is another strong contender in the budget-friendly space, often offering high specs for the price.

| Feature | Xencelabs Pen Display 24 | XP-Pen Artist 24 Pro |
| Price | Higher $1,900-$2,200 | Much Lower $700-$900 |
| Resolution | 4K 3840×2160 | 2K QHD 2560×1440 |
| Shortcut Remote | Wireless Quick Keys included with OLED display | Side buttons and dual “Red Dial” wheels on display |
| Color Gamut | 99% Adobe RGB, 99% DCI-P3 | 90% Adobe RGB |
| Surface | Anti-Glare Etched Glass | Anti-Glare Etched Glass |
| Key Differentiator | 4K resolution, superior Quick Keys, premium build, broader color. | Excellent value, dual dial wheels, good pen tech for 2K. |

*   Resolution: This is a major one. Xencelabs is 4K, XP-Pen Artist 24 Pro is 2K. This translates to significantly more screen real estate and sharpness on the Xencelabs.
*   Price: XP-Pen is substantially more affordable due to the lower resolution and less premium accessories.
*   Shortcuts: XP-Pen's dual physical dials are popular, but the Xencelabs Quick Keys with its OLED display and wireless freedom offers more versatility and customization.
*   Color Gamut: Xencelabs offers a wider, more professional color gamut.
  • Verdict: If your budget is tight and you don’t absolutely need 4K resolution, the XP-Pen Artist 24 Pro offers fantastic value for a large 2K pen display. However, if you need the pixel density, superior color, and the innovative Quick Keys remote for professional work, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is the clear step up.

Final Verdict and Recommendation

So, after breaking down all the angles, where does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 land?

Who is this for?

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is unequivocally aimed at professional digital artists, illustrators, graphic designers, animators, and concept artists who demand a high-quality, color-accurate, and responsive drawing experience. It’s for those who are ready to invest in a serious tool that will enhance their productivity and elevate their creative output.

  • Students: While powerful, it might be overkill for a beginner. A more budget-friendly option like a non-display tablet or a smaller, less expensive pen display might be a better starting point.
  • Hobbyists: If you’re a serious hobbyist with some disposable income and a passion for digital art, this could be a fantastic long-term investment.
  • Professionals: This is where the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 truly shines. Its features, performance, and workflow enhancers are perfectly suited for demanding professional environments.

The Value Proposition

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 sits in the premium segment of the pen display market, directly competing with Wacom’s Cintiq Pro line. Its value proposition is strong:

  • Premium Features, Competitive Price: It offers features and performance comparable to, and in some areas exceeding, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 24, but often at a more attractive price point.
  • Innovative Quick Keys Remote: This accessory alone is a significant workflow enhancer and a key differentiator. The OLED display is a stroke of genius.
  • Dual Pens: Having two distinct pens one thicker, one thinner included provides flexibility and caters to different drawing preferences.
  • Excellent Display Quality: The 4K resolution, wide color gamut Adobe RGB and DCI-P3, and effective anti-glare etched glass create a superb visual and tactile experience.
  • Robust Build Quality: It feels like a piece of professional equipment, built to last.

Potential Considerations

No product is perfect, and there are always a few things to keep in mind:

  • Price: It’s an investment. While competitive with Wacom, it’s still a significant outlay for many.
  • Size: The 24-inch screen is fantastic for workspace, but it requires a dedicated desk space. It’s not a portable solution like an iPad Pro.
  • Driver Updates: While stable, like any software, staying up-to-date with drivers is important for optimal performance and compatibility.
  • No Integrated PC: Unlike some all-in-one solutions e.g., Microsoft Surface Studio, this is purely a pen display that requires a powerful computer to run.

Final Recommendation

If you are a professional artist or a serious enthusiast who demands the best tools for your craft, and you’re looking for a high-performance 4K pen display that offers exceptional color accuracy, a natural drawing feel, and innovative workflow enhancements, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 comes with my strongest recommendation.

It’s a powerhouse that genuinely feels like it was designed by artists, for artists. Amazon Fire Hd 10 Plus 2021 Review

It delivers on its promises and then some, truly empowering your creative potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is a professional-grade 4K pen display designed for digital artists, illustrators, graphic designers, and animators, offering a high-resolution screen, precise pen input, and workflow-enhancing accessories.

What resolution does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 have?

It features a 4K Ultra HD resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, providing incredibly sharp detail and ample workspace.

What is the screen size of the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

The screen size is 23.8 inches, offering a large and immersive canvas for creative work.

How many pressure levels do the Xencelabs pens have?

The Xencelabs pens feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced control over line thickness and opacity.

Does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 support tilt recognition?

Yes, the Xencelabs pens support up to 60 degrees of tilt recognition, enabling natural-feeling brush strokes and effects.

What kind of pens come with the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

It comes with two distinct pens: a 3-button pen slightly thicker for general use and a thin pen slimmer, more like a pencil, both battery-free and using EMR technology.

Is the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 color accurate?

Yes, it boasts excellent color accuracy, covering 99% of Adobe RGB and 99% of DCI-P3 color spaces, making it suitable for professional color-critical workflows.

Does the display come factory calibrated?

Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 comes factory calibrated, providing good color accuracy right out of the box.

For absolute precision, hardware calibration is recommended. Samsung Galaxy Buds Fe Review

What is the Quick Keys Remote?

The Quick Keys Remote is a compact, wireless accessory included with the Pen Display 24, featuring 8 programmable buttons, an OLED display for current functions, and a dial with haptic feedback, designed to significantly speed up workflow with custom shortcuts.

Can the Quick Keys Remote be customized for different applications?

Yes, the Xencelabs driver allows you to create application-specific profiles for the Quick Keys, meaning your shortcuts can change automatically when you switch between different creative software.

What kind of surface does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 have?

It features an anti-glare etched glass surface, which provides a comfortable paper-like drawing feel and significantly reduces reflections.

Is there parallax on the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

Parallax is minimal to virtually non-existent due to the minimal gap between the etched glass and the LCD panel, making the pen tip feel directly on the pixels.

Is the input lag noticeable when drawing?

No, the input lag is imperceptible, ensuring a fluid and responsive drawing experience.

What operating systems are compatible with the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

It is compatible with Windows 7 64-bit and newer and macOS 10.12 Sierra and newer, including Apple Silicon via Rosetta 2.

Does it require a separate computer to operate?

Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 is a pen display, not an all-in-one computer.

It requires a powerful desktop or laptop PC to function.

What are the connectivity options for the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

It supports USB-C for video and data with a single cable, HDMI, and DisplayPort, along with a separate USB-A data cable, offering versatile connection options.

Is an adjustable stand included with the display?

Yes, a robust, integrated stand is included, offering a wide range of tilt angles for ergonomic drawing positions. Strikingly Review

Is there an optional ergonomic stand available?

Yes, Xencelabs offers an optional ergonomic stand that provides greater height, tilt, and swivel adjustment for enhanced flexibility.

What is the price range of the Xencelabs Pen Display 24?

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 typically ranges from approximately $1,900 to $2,200, positioning it competitively against other professional pen displays.

How does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 compare to the Wacom Cintiq Pro 24?

The Xencelabs Pen Display 24 offers comparable 4K resolution, color accuracy, and pen technology at a generally lower price point, often with the added benefit of two pens and the innovative Quick Keys Remote.

How does the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 compare to the Huion Kamvas Pro 24 4K?

While the Huion is more budget-friendly, the Xencelabs offers a more premium build, superior color gamut DCI-P3, and the advanced Quick Keys remote, justifying its higher price for professionals.

Are replacement nibs included with the pens?

Yes, the included pen case contains a generous supply of replacement standard and felt nibs, along with a nib removal tool.

Can I use the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 for 3D sculpting?

Yes, the pressure sensitivity and accurate pen tracking make it highly effective for 3D sculpting and texture painting in applications like ZBrush and Blender.

Is the Xencelabs driver reliable?

Yes, the Xencelabs driver is generally known for its stability and user-friendliness, with regular updates to ensure compatibility and performance.

Is the screen glossy or matte?

The screen has a matte, anti-glare etched glass finish, which provides a paper-like feel and minimizes reflections.

Can the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 be used in a dual-monitor setup?

Yes, it can be easily integrated into a multi-monitor setup as an additional display or as your primary drawing surface.

What kind of warranty does Xencelabs offer?

Xencelabs typically offers a standard manufacturer’s warranty, which varies by region, usually between one to two years. 11 Ionos Web Hosting Review

It’s best to check their official website for the most current details.

Is the Xencelabs Pen Display 24 suitable for beginners?

While powerful, it might be an overinvestment for absolute beginners.

It’s geared more towards serious hobbyists and professionals who can fully utilize its advanced features.

Does Xencelabs offer customer support?

Yes, Xencelabs provides customer support through their website, including FAQs, driver downloads, and contact options for technical assistance.

What is the “low initial activation force” IAF and why is it important?

Low IAF means the pen requires very little pressure to register a line.

This is important because it allows for very subtle and light strokes, mimicking traditional media more closely and reducing hand fatigue during long drawing sessions.

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