Wacom Cintiq 16 (2019) Review: Is It Worth It?

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Wacom Cintiq 16 (2019), a pen display that's been making waves in the digital art community. If you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned pro, or just someone curious about taking your art to the next level, you've probably heard about Wacom. They're basically the gold standard when it comes to pen tablets and displays. But with so many options out there, is the Cintiq 16 the right choice for you? We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its features and performance to its pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision.

What is Wacom Cintiq 16 (2019)?

The Wacom Cintiq 16 (2019) is a pen display, which means it's a monitor that you can draw directly on using a stylus. Unlike a regular tablet where you draw on one surface and see your work on a separate screen, the Cintiq 16 combines the two. This allows for a more natural and intuitive drawing experience, mimicking the feel of traditional art mediums. It's designed to be an entry-level model in Wacom's Cintiq line, offering a more affordable option for artists who want to experience the benefits of drawing directly on a screen. It connects to your computer and mirrors your display, turning your screen into a canvas. The included Wacom Pro Pen 2 offers fantastic pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition, giving you precise control over your lines and strokes. Whether you're into digital painting, illustration, photo editing, or even 3D sculpting, the Cintiq 16 aims to provide a seamless and immersive creative experience. The Cintiq 16 boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD display, which provides ample space for creating detailed artwork. The screen has a matte finish, which reduces glare and gives a paper-like feel to the drawing surface. This is a huge plus for artists who are used to working with traditional media. It also features foldable legs, allowing you to adjust the drawing angle for comfortable use. The Cintiq 16 is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems and works seamlessly with popular creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. It's designed to be user-friendly, making it easy to set up and start creating right out of the box. With its combination of features and affordability, the Cintiq 16 is a popular choice for students, hobbyists, and professionals alike. It offers a gateway to the world of digital art, allowing you to explore your creativity in a new and exciting way. Whether you're sketching, painting, or designing, the Cintiq 16 provides the tools you need to bring your ideas to life.

Key Features of the Wacom Cintiq 16

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Wacom Cintiq 16 tick. Understanding its key features is crucial to determining if it aligns with your artistic needs and workflow. One of the standout features of the Cintiq 16 is its 15.6-inch Full HD display. The resolution is 1920 x 1080 pixels, which ensures your artwork looks crisp and detailed. While it's not a 4K display, the Full HD resolution is more than sufficient for most digital art tasks, especially for those just starting out. The display also boasts a wide color gamut, covering 72% of the NTSC color space. This means you'll get vibrant and accurate colors, which is essential for creating visually appealing artwork. The Cintiq 16 comes with the Wacom Pro Pen 2, which is renowned for its exceptional performance. It has 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing you to create incredibly fine lines and subtle shading. The pen also supports tilt recognition, which means it can detect the angle at which you're holding the pen. This allows you to vary the thickness and shape of your strokes, adding another layer of realism to your artwork. The Pro Pen 2 is battery-free, so you don't have to worry about charging it. It also comes with customizable side switches that you can program to perform specific actions, such as undo, redo, or brush size adjustment. This can significantly speed up your workflow and make your drawing experience more efficient. The Cintiq 16 features a matte screen surface that reduces glare and provides a tactile feel similar to drawing on paper. This is a major advantage for artists who are used to working with traditional media. The matte finish also helps to prevent fingerprints and smudges, keeping your screen clean and clear. The Cintiq 16 has integrated foldable legs that allow you to adjust the drawing angle. This is a simple but effective feature that can significantly improve your comfort while working. You can set the display at a variety of angles, allowing you to find the perfect position for your drawing style. The Cintiq 16 is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it a versatile choice for artists who use different platforms. It also works seamlessly with popular creative software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, Corel Painter, and more. This means you can use the Cintiq 16 with the tools you're already familiar with, without having to learn new software. Setting up the Cintiq 16 is a breeze. It connects to your computer via HDMI and USB, and the necessary cables are included in the box. The driver installation is straightforward, and Wacom provides comprehensive documentation and support to help you get started. The Cintiq 16 is also relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport if you need to work on the go. With its combination of high-quality display, precise pen input, and user-friendly design, the Cintiq 16 is a powerful tool for digital artists of all levels.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the Wacom Cintiq 16 to give you a balanced perspective. This will help you weigh the advantages against the disadvantages and determine if it's the right fit for your needs.

Pros:

  • Affordable Price: Compared to other pen displays in the Wacom Cintiq line, the Cintiq 16 is one of the most affordable options. This makes it a great entry point for artists who want to experience the benefits of drawing directly on a screen without breaking the bank.
  • Excellent Pen Performance: The Wacom Pro Pen 2 is a standout feature, offering 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition. This allows for precise and nuanced control over your lines and strokes, mimicking the feel of traditional art mediums. The pen is also battery-free, which is a huge convenience.
  • Good Image Quality: The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides crisp and detailed images with vibrant colors. While it's not a 4K display, the resolution is more than sufficient for most digital art tasks. The matte screen surface reduces glare and provides a paper-like feel.
  • User-Friendly Design: The Cintiq 16 is easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for beginners. It's compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems and works seamlessly with popular creative software.
  • Portable and Lightweight: The Cintiq 16 is relatively lightweight and easy to transport, making it a good option for artists who need to work on the go.

Cons:

  • Lower Resolution Compared to High-End Models: While the Full HD resolution is sufficient for most tasks, it's not as sharp as the 4K displays found on higher-end Cintiq models. This may be a concern for artists who work with very large canvases or require extremely fine detail.
  • No Express Keys or Touch Strip: The Cintiq 16 lacks physical express keys or a touch strip, which can slow down your workflow. You'll need to rely on keyboard shortcuts or purchase a separate accessory like the Wacom ExpressKey Remote.
  • Limited Stand Adjustability: The integrated foldable legs offer some adjustability, but they may not provide the ergonomic flexibility needed for long drawing sessions. You may want to consider purchasing a separate adjustable stand for more comfortable use.
  • Parallax Can Be Noticeable: Parallax, the perceived gap between the pen tip and the cursor, can be noticeable on the Cintiq 16. This can take some getting used to, especially if you're coming from traditional art mediums. However, most artists eventually adapt to it.
  • Build Quality Could Be Better: Some users have reported that the build quality of the Cintiq 16 feels a bit plasticky compared to higher-end models. While it's not a major issue, it's worth noting.

Overall, the Wacom Cintiq 16 offers a compelling combination of features and affordability. Its excellent pen performance, good image quality, and user-friendly design make it a great choice for aspiring artists and hobbyists. However, its lower resolution, lack of express keys, and limited stand adjustability may be drawbacks for some users. Consider your specific needs and budget when making your decision.

Who is This For?

The Wacom Cintiq 16 isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, so let's figure out who this pen display is really for. Understanding the target audience can help you determine if it aligns with your own needs and aspirations. This pen display is an excellent choice for aspiring digital artists who are just starting their journey. If you're transitioning from traditional art mediums or exploring digital art for the first time, the Cintiq 16 offers an accessible and intuitive way to get started. Its user-friendly design and affordable price point make it less intimidating than higher-end models. It's also a great tool for students studying art, design, or animation. The Cintiq 16 can help you develop your digital art skills and create professional-looking artwork without breaking the bank. It's compatible with the software used in most educational institutions, making it a seamless addition to your workflow. Hobbyists who enjoy creating art in their free time will also find the Cintiq 16 to be a valuable tool. Whether you're into digital painting, illustration, or photo editing, the Cintiq 16 can enhance your creative process and allow you to explore new techniques. It's also a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. The Cintiq 16 can be a good option for professional artists who need a portable and affordable pen display for on-the-go work. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it offers excellent pen performance and good image quality in a compact package. It's also a great backup display for professionals who want to have a reliable alternative to their main workstation. However, if you're a professional artist who requires the highest level of precision and detail, or if you rely heavily on express keys and advanced features, you may want to consider a higher-end Cintiq model. The Cintiq 16 may not be the best choice for users who require a large drawing surface. Its 15.6-inch display is sufficient for most tasks, but some artists may prefer a larger screen for more comfortable and immersive drawing. If you frequently work on large canvases or require a lot of screen real estate, you may want to consider a larger pen display. If you fall into any of these categories, the Wacom Cintiq 16 is definitely worth considering. It offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability that makes it a great choice for a wide range of users. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, the Cintiq 16 can help you take your digital art to the next level.

Alternatives to the Wacom Cintiq 16

Okay, so the Wacom Cintiq 16 is cool, but it's not the only option out there. If you're not 100% sold, let's peek at some alternatives that might tickle your fancy. Knowing the alternatives allows you to compare and contrast, ensuring you make the best decision for your specific needs and budget. Let's start with the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro. This pen display is often considered a direct competitor to the Cintiq 16, offering similar features at a slightly lower price point. It boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD display, 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and a battery-free pen. One of the main differences is that the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro includes eight customizable express keys and a red dial, which can speed up your workflow. However, some users have reported that the pen performance and color accuracy are not quite as good as the Cintiq 16. Another alternative is the Huion Kamvas Pro 16. This pen display also features a 15.6-inch Full HD display, 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and a battery-free pen. It includes six customizable express keys and a touch bar, providing more control over your software. The Huion Kamvas Pro 16 is known for its good color accuracy and wide viewing angles. However, like the XP-Pen, some users have reported that the pen performance is not quite as refined as the Wacom Pro Pen 2. If you're willing to spend a bit more, you might consider the Wacom Cintiq 22. This pen display offers a larger 21.5-inch Full HD display, providing more screen real estate for your artwork. It features the same Wacom Pro Pen 2 as the Cintiq 16, ensuring excellent pen performance. However, the Cintiq 22 is significantly more expensive than the Cintiq 16 and lacks built-in express keys. For those who prefer a more portable option, the iPad Pro with Apple Pencil is a compelling alternative. The iPad Pro offers a stunning Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, which provides a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Apple Pencil is known for its excellent pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition. The iPad Pro also offers a wide range of creative apps, such as Procreate and Affinity Photo. However, the iPad Pro and Apple Pencil are relatively expensive, and the drawing experience is different from a traditional pen display. Finally, if you're on a tight budget, you might consider a graphics tablet without a screen, such as the Wacom Intuos Pro. These tablets require you to draw on one surface and see your work on a separate screen. While they take some getting used to, they can be a great way to get started with digital art without breaking the bank. Ultimately, the best alternative to the Wacom Cintiq 16 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the size of the display you need, the importance of pen performance, and whether you prefer a portable or desktop solution. By comparing the alternatives, you can make an informed decision and choose the pen display that's right for you.

Final Verdict: Is the Wacom Cintiq 16 Worth It?

So, after all that, the big question remains: Is the Wacom Cintiq 16 worth it? Let's wrap things up and give you a final verdict to help you make up your mind. For aspiring digital artists and students, the Cintiq 16 is an excellent entry point into the world of pen displays. It offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability that makes it a great choice for those who are just starting out. The Wacom Pro Pen 2 provides a natural and intuitive drawing experience, and the Full HD display offers good image quality for most digital art tasks. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it provides a solid foundation for developing your digital art skills. For hobbyists, the Cintiq 16 is a fun and engaging tool that can enhance your creative process. Whether you're into digital painting, illustration, or photo editing, the Cintiq 16 can help you explore new techniques and create stunning artwork. Its user-friendly design and compatibility with popular creative software make it easy to get started, even if you have limited experience. For professional artists who need a portable and affordable pen display, the Cintiq 16 can be a good option. It's lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for working on the go. However, if you require the highest level of precision and detail, or if you rely heavily on express keys and advanced features, you may want to consider a higher-end Cintiq model. Ultimately, the value of the Wacom Cintiq 16 depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for an affordable and user-friendly pen display that offers excellent pen performance and good image quality, the Cintiq 16 is definitely worth considering. However, if you require a larger display, higher resolution, or more advanced features, you may want to explore other options. Before making a final decision, be sure to weigh the pros and cons, compare it to alternatives, and consider your budget. If you do your research and choose wisely, the Wacom Cintiq 16 can be a valuable tool that helps you unlock your creative potential and take your digital art to the next level. So, go forth and create! We hope this review has helped you on your journey.