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XP Pen Star G960S Plus Review | 66 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£55
Avg. price in US: ~$60
Type: pen tablet
Active drawing area: 34839 mm²
Resolution: N/A
Pen pressure levels: 8192
Report rate: 220 RPS

XP Pen Star G960S Plus review. Compare 66 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among drawing tablets and if it is worth buying.

6.2

Good

6.2

Good

?

9.0
Kids
Score components:
45.0%
9.8
Weight
45.0%
10
Price
10.0%
0.6
Counted score

No image

No image

Best prices in UK

N/A~ £55

Best rankings

#41 in Best Drawing Tablets For Beginners
#42 in Best XP-Pen Drawing Tablets
#54 in Best Cheap Drawing Tablets
#166 in Best Drawing Tablets For PC
#167 in Best Drawing Tablets
#167 in Best Drawing Tablets With Pen

Verdict

The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is a budget-friendly graphics tablet featuring a 9 x 6 inch active area, 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and 60 degrees of tilt support for a natural drawing experience. Its standout characteristic is the PH2 battery-free stylus, which includes a dedicated digital eraser at the end and a customizable side button, alongside 5080 LPI resolution and four physical shortcut keys on the tablet itself. Major pros include wide compatibility with Windows, Mac, Android, and Chrome OS, a paper-like surface texture, and a high-performance stylus that requires no charging. On the downside, some users find the shortcut buttons to be quite loud, the pen button can be prone to falling off if dropped, and its larger footprint compared to smaller portable models may be less convenient for travel.

Technical Specifications of XP Pen Star G960S Plus

Overall score

6.2

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the drawing tablet.

When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Form Factor

6.7

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Type

What it is: Identifies whether the device is a screenless pen tablet or a pen display with its own built-in screen.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a screenless setup and direct on-screen drawing, because the device type changes how you position your hand, eyes, and workspace.

Importance: LOW

pen tablet

Display

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet itself includes an integrated screen instead of relying only on an external monitor.

When it matters: When you are deciding whether you want to draw directly on the tablet instead of looking at a separate monitor.

Importance: LOW

Compatibility

What it is: Shows which operating systems or platforms the tablet officially supports for drivers, software, and core input functions.

When it matters: When you need the tablet to work reliably with your current computer, phone, or creative software environment without driver problems.

Importance: LOW

Windows / macOS / Linux / ChromeOS / Android

Wireless capability

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet can operate without a constant wired connection to the host device.

When it matters: When you want a cleaner desk, easier repositioning, or more flexibility for mobile use without a permanent cable tether.

Importance: LOW

Weight

What it is: Measures the total mass of the tablet, which affects portability, desk stability, and carrying comfort.

When it matters: When you move the tablet between rooms, carry it in a bag, or want it to feel stable without being cumbersome on the desk.

Importance: LOW

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Display & Color

4.3

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Active drawing area

What it is: Represents the usable surface where pen input is detected for drawing, writing, or navigation.

When it matters: When you want enough working space for broad arm movements, long strokes, or detailed retouching without feeling cramped.

Importance: HIGH

Screen size

What it is: Measures the diagonal size of the built-in display, usually in inches, for pen display models.

When it matters: When you work directly on a pen display and need enough room for menus, canvas space, and hand placement at the same time.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Resolution

What it is: Shows the total number of display pixels available across the panel and defines image detail.

When it matters: When you want interface elements, brush edges, and artwork details to look clean on a built-in display.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Pixel density

What it is: Measures how many pixels are packed into each inch of the display, affecting sharpness and fine detail.

When it matters: When you are sensitive to visible pixels while drawing fine lines, reading small text, or checking detailed artwork.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Typical brightness

What it is: Represents the usual screen luminance the display can sustain in normal operation, usually measured in nits.

When it matters: When you work in bright rooms and need the display to remain clearly visible without washing out.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Pen & Input

8.0

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Stylus included

What it is: Indicates whether a compatible drawing pen is included in the box rather than sold separately.

When it matters: When you want to start drawing immediately and avoid paying extra for a compatible pen after buying the tablet.

Importance: HIGH

Pen technology

What it is: Identifies the stylus input technology used, such as EMR, AES, active, or passive implementations.

When it matters: When you compare drawing feel, charging needs, and compatibility between different pen systems.

Importance: HIGH

Pen pressure levels

What it is: Shows how many distinct pressure steps the stylus can register while drawing or writing.

When it matters: When you vary line weight and brush intensity often, because more pressure steps can give finer control over stroke response.

Importance: HIGH

Pen resolution

What it is: Measures the positional precision of the pen input system, commonly expressed in lines per inch.

When it matters: When you need accurate cursor placement for detailed illustration, masking, or careful selection work.

Importance: HIGH

Report rate

What it is: Shows how often the pen position is reported to the system, which influences cursor responsiveness.

When it matters: When you want pen tracking to feel snappy during fast strokes, handwriting, or quick gesture-based work.

Importance: HIGH

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Connectivity

4.4

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Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet supports Bluetooth for wireless connection to compatible devices or accessories.

When it matters: When you want wireless pairing with accessories or a less cable-heavy setup around the tablet.

Importance: LOW

USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB-C) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports for high-speed data, charging, or display-related connections.

When it matters: When you want modern high-bandwidth Type-C connections for data, charging, or display-oriented accessories.

Importance: LOW

USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB-C) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports used for general data, charging, or accessory links.

When it matters: When you need flexible Type-C connectivity for everyday data links, charging, or accessory support.

Importance: LOW

USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB-A) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for high-speed data transfer and peripheral connection.

When it matters: When you plan to connect fast external storage or peripherals directly and want enough high-speed Type-A ports.

Importance: LOW

USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB-A) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports for standard high-speed peripheral and storage connections.

When it matters: When you still use standard USB-A devices and want enough direct ports without carrying a hub.

Importance: LOW

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Controls & Extras

3.9

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N. of express keys

What it is: Counts the programmable shortcut keys built into the tablet for quick access to commands.

When it matters: When you rely on shortcut-heavy workflows and want more actions accessible on the tablet without reaching for the keyboard.

Importance: LOW

N. of dials

What it is: Counts the physical dials or rotary controls available for shortcuts, zoom, brush size, or similar functions.

When it matters: When you want physical rotary controls for zoom, brush size, timeline scrubbing, or other actions you repeat constantly.

Importance: LOW

Stand included

What it is: Indicates whether a separate stand is included to support the tablet at adjustable working angles.

When it matters: When you want an ergonomic drawing angle right away and do not want to budget for a separate stand after purchase.

Importance: LOW

Fold-out legs

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet has built-in fold-out legs for basic angle adjustment on a desk.

When it matters: When you want a quick built-in way to tilt the tablet without buying a separate stand first.

Importance: LOW

Pen stand included

What it is: Indicates whether a dedicated holder or stand for the stylus is included in the package.

When it matters: When you want the stylus stored safely on the desk instead of rolling around or getting misplaced between sessions.

Importance: LOW

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XP Pen Star G960S Plus vs the average drawing tablet

Why is XP Pen Star G960S Plus better than the average drawing tablet?

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Has pen eraser
XP Pen Star G960S Plus includes a pen eraser, while the average drawing tablet does not. 19% of drawing tablets include a pen eraser.
What it is: Indicates whether the stylus includes an eraser function, often on the back end of the pen.
When it matters: When you like flipping the pen over to erase naturally instead of switching tools on screen or with shortcuts.
Importance: LOW
XP Pen Star G960S Plus includes a pen eraser, while the average drawing tablet does not. 19% of drawing tablets include a pen eraser.
148 mm slimmer body
XP Pen Star G960S Plus is narrower than the average drawing tablet (209.5 mm vs 357.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 357.5 mm wide.
What it is: Measures the tablet body from side to side and helps define the desk space it occupies.
When it matters: When you are checking whether the tablet will physically fit on your desk, beside a keyboard, or inside a carrying sleeve.
Importance: LOW
XP Pen Star G960S Plus is narrower than the average drawing tablet (209.5 mm vs 357.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 357.5 mm wide.209.5 mm vs 357.5 mm
35.4% lighter design
XP Pen Star G960S Plus is lighter than the average drawing tablet (488 g vs 755 g). The average drawing tablet weighs 755 g.
Tablet only; separate stand excluded.
What it is: Measures the total mass of the tablet, which affects portability, desk stability, and carrying comfort.
When it matters: When you move the tablet between rooms, carry it in a bag, or want it to feel stable without being cumbersome on the desk.
Importance: LOW
XP Pen Star G960S Plus is lighter than the average drawing tablet (488 g vs 755 g). The average drawing tablet weighs 755 g.488 g vs 755 g
148 mm slimmer body
XP Pen Star G960S Plus is narrower than the average drawing tablet (209.5 mm vs 357.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 357.5 mm wide.
35.4% lighter design
XP Pen Star G960S Plus is lighter than the average drawing tablet (488 g vs 755 g). The average drawing tablet weighs 755 g.
Has pen eraser
XP Pen Star G960S Plus includes a pen eraser, while the average drawing tablet does not. 19% of drawing tablets include a pen eraser.

Why is XP Pen Star G960S Plus worse than the average drawing tablet?

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Older release
XP Pen Star G960S Plus was released earlier than the average drawing tablet.
April 2020.
5,925 mm² smaller work area
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a smaller active drawing area than the average drawing tablet (34,839 mm² vs 40,764 mm²). The average drawing tablet offers an active drawing area of 40,764 mm².
228.6x152.4 mm.
10.2% heavier pen
XP Pen Star G960S Plus includes a heavier pen than the average drawing tablet (14.6 g vs 13.25 g). The average drawing tablet pen weighs 13.25 g.
1 fewer pen buttons
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has fewer pen buttons than the average drawing tablet (1 vs 2). The average drawing tablet pen has 2 buttons.
5.6% lower report rate
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a lower report rate than the average drawing tablet (220 RPS vs 233 RPS). The average drawing tablet has a report rate of 233 RPS.
No pen stand included
XP Pen Star G960S Plus does not come with a pen stand, while the average drawing tablet does. 59.3% of drawing tablets come with a pen stand.
2 fewer express keys
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has fewer express keys than the average drawing tablet (4 vs 6). The average drawing tablet has 6 express keys.
10.2% heavier pen
XP Pen Star G960S Plus includes a heavier pen than the average drawing tablet (14.6 g vs 13.25 g). The average drawing tablet pen weighs 13.25 g.
What it is: Measures the mass of the stylus itself, which affects long-session comfort and handling feel.
When it matters: When hand comfort matters during long drawing sessions and you are sensitive to how heavy a stylus feels over time.
Importance: HIGH
XP Pen Star G960S Plus includes a heavier pen than the average drawing tablet (14.6 g vs 13.25 g). The average drawing tablet pen weighs 13.25 g.14.6 g vs 13.25 g
1 fewer pen buttons
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has fewer pen buttons than the average drawing tablet (1 vs 2). The average drawing tablet pen has 2 buttons.
What it is: Counts the programmable buttons available directly on the stylus.
When it matters: When you like putting undo, modifier keys, or tool switches directly on the pen to reduce keyboard reach.
Importance: MEDIUM
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has fewer pen buttons than the average drawing tablet (1 vs 2). The average drawing tablet pen has 2 buttons.1 vs 2
5.6% lower report rate
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a lower report rate than the average drawing tablet (220 RPS vs 233 RPS). The average drawing tablet has a report rate of 233 RPS.
What it is: Shows how often the pen position is reported to the system, which influences cursor responsiveness.
When it matters: When you want pen tracking to feel snappy during fast strokes, handwriting, or quick gesture-based work.
Importance: HIGH
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a lower report rate than the average drawing tablet (220 RPS vs 233 RPS). The average drawing tablet has a report rate of 233 RPS.220 RPS vs 233 RPS
5,925 mm² smaller work area
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a smaller active drawing area than the average drawing tablet (34,839 mm² vs 40,764 mm²). The average drawing tablet offers an active drawing area of 40,764 mm².
228.6x152.4 mm.
What it is: Represents the usable surface where pen input is detected for drawing, writing, or navigation.
When it matters: When you want enough working space for broad arm movements, long strokes, or detailed retouching without feeling cramped.
Importance: HIGH
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a smaller active drawing area than the average drawing tablet (34,839 mm² vs 40,764 mm²). The average drawing tablet offers an active drawing area of 40,764 mm².34839 mm² vs 40764 mm²
No pen stand included
XP Pen Star G960S Plus does not come with a pen stand, while the average drawing tablet does. 59.3% of drawing tablets come with a pen stand.
What it is: Indicates whether a dedicated holder or stand for the stylus is included in the package.
When it matters: When you want the stylus stored safely on the desk instead of rolling around or getting misplaced between sessions.
Importance: LOW
XP Pen Star G960S Plus does not come with a pen stand, while the average drawing tablet does. 59.3% of drawing tablets come with a pen stand.
4.45x less popular
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a lower popularity than the average drawing tablet (1.00 vs 4.450).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the drawing tablet.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has a lower popularity than the average drawing tablet (1.00 vs 4.450).1 vs 4.45
2 fewer express keys
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has fewer express keys than the average drawing tablet (4 vs 6). The average drawing tablet has 6 express keys.
What it is: Counts the programmable shortcut keys built into the tablet for quick access to commands.
When it matters: When you rely on shortcut-heavy workflows and want more actions accessible on the tablet without reaching for the keyboard.
Importance: LOW
XP Pen Star G960S Plus has fewer express keys than the average drawing tablet (4 vs 6). The average drawing tablet has 6 express keys.4 vs 6
Older release
XP Pen Star G960S Plus was released earlier than the average drawing tablet.
April 2020.
What it is: States the month and year when the drawing tablet model was officially launched or became available.
When it matters: When you care about buying a more recent model with newer hardware, longer software relevance, or a fresher pen generation.
Importance: LOW
XP Pen Star G960S Plus was released earlier than the average drawing tablet.2,020 vs 2,021

Display & Color

Controls & Extras

Graphic comparison of XP Pen Star G960S Plus and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about XP Pen Star G960S Plus?

Excellent value for price, often considered better than entry-level Wacom models
Paper-like textured surface provides a satisfying drawing and writing feel
Large 9x6 inch active working area provides ample space for creative work
PH2 stylus includes a digital eraser that mimics a traditional pencil
Battery-free stylus with 8,192 levels of pressure and 60-degree tilt support
Compatibility with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS
Easy setup with stable and intuitive drivers for most users

What customers dislike about XP Pen Star G960S Plus?

The pen is very thin and lightweight, which some users find difficult to grip or low-quality
Limited number of shortcut keys (only 4 physical buttons)
Pen sensitivity can sometimes feel too strong or require adjustment in settings
The tablet surface and plastic buttons can scratch relatively easily
Physical pen button is flush with the barrel, making it awkward to press
Difficult to draw perfect circles manually due to aspect ratio or mapping quirks in some setups

Expert reviews

the-gadgeteer.com

29/06/2020

Summary of the review

XP-Pen Star G960S PlusGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Digitizer Tablet review

The reviewer praised several aspects of the device, highlighting its lightweight design, highly responsive stylus, and the broad compatibility with multiple applications. They also appreciated the inclusion of useful accessories like ten replacement pen nibs and a pen clipper, alongside its excellent value for money. Performance-wise, the software setup is straightforward, and the built-in eraser functions flawlessly across different applications. However, the review notes one main drawback: the package lacks a physical stylus holder or stand to keep the desk organized. Overall, the tablet outperformed expectations for its low price point, making it a highly recommended choice for everyday digital inking and basic design work. If you'd like, I can provide more details on how to configure the custom button settings or look into similarly priced alternatives that include a stylus stand.

makeuseof.com

22/07/2020

Summary of the review

XP-Pen G960S Plus Review: Entry Level Graphics Tablet in the Age of Affordable Touchscreens

The XP-Pen G960S Plus is an affordable, entry-level, screenless graphics tablet that provides an accessible entry point into digital art for under $100. It features a 9 x 6-inch working area that supports multiple orientations and connects to Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, and Android devices via included USB adapters. The highlight of the bundle is the passive, battery-free PH2 stylus, which resembles a traditional pencil, includes a functional eraser end, and delivers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity alongside 60 degrees of tilt for natural brush effects. In performance comparisons, it easily outperforms similarly priced competitors like the Wacom Intuos by offering a larger active area, a more comfortable pen, and double the pressure sensitivity. Despite these solid technical specifications, the review highlights several notable drawbacks, ultimately framing the tablet as a novelty item likely to end up forgotten in a drawer. A major limitation is the software driver, which only allows basic, system-wide shortcut configurations rather than application-specific hotkeys. Furthermore, using the device with an Android phone or tablet feels counter-intuitive and difficult because there is no visible screen cursor,...

tumblr.com

22/07/2020

Summary of the review

XP-Pen G960S Plus Review: Entry Level Graphics Tablet in the Age of Affordable Touchscreens Would you like me to look for a technical comparison betwe...

The XP-Pen G960S Plus is a budget-friendly, screenless graphics tablet featuring a 9 x 6 inch working area and four customizable shortcut keys. Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Chrome OS, it connects via USB and supports major software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Krita, and Microsoft Office. The standout feature of this bundle is the PH2 passive stylus, which mimics a traditional pencil, requires no battery, features a functional eraser end, and delivers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity alongside 60 degrees of tilt for natural line variation. When compared to its closest price competitor, the Wacom Intuos, the XP-Pen offers a larger drawing surface, double the pressure sensitivity, and a much more comfortable pen experience for under $100. Despite these strong specifications, the review highlights several usability flaws that make the tablet feel like a novelty device destined for storage. While the stylus itself performs flawlessly, the tablet component suffers from a steep disconnect between drawing on a blank slate and viewing the art on a separate monitor. This issue is heavily amplified on Android, where the absence of a...

note.com

26/11/2021

Summary of the review

XP-Pen Star G960S Graphics Tablet Review - Notes

The XP-PEN Star G960S is a budget-friendly, lightweight, and solidly built graphics tablet that stands out by offering premium features like 60-degree tilt recognition and Android compatibility (version 6.0 and above). It features a 9 x 6-inch active area with a scratch-resistant matte surface, four customizable express keys, and an ultra-slim, battery-free EMR stylus that mimics the feel of a traditional pencil. The tablet provides a smooth, highly responsive drawing experience across various systems—including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android—making it a highly versatile tool for digital art, 3D sculpting, and online teaching. The main advantages (pros) of the tablet include its exceptional value for money, highly responsive 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and the inclusion of micro-USB and USB-C adapters for immediate mobile use. It competes closely with premium alternatives like the Wacom Intuos Pro, yet offers unique Android connectivity that Wacom lacks. On the downside (cons), the reviewer noted that the button on the stylus feels a bit loosely attached. Additionally, Mac users might face a multi-step installation process for driver permissions and occasional software glitches, whereas the device...

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