Bosto BST-X5(16/256) All in one Pen Computer Review
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I think that when it comes to graphics tablets, I basically keep my finger on the pulse when it comes to new and interesting solutions entering the market. And this time it was time to get in touch with the new All in One graphics tablet from Bosto. We received the Bosto BST-X5 (16/256) Graphic Tablet for review.
This is an All-in-One model equipped not only with a screen but also an installed operating system. How did it work in practice?
First impressions
The Bosto BST-X5 (16/256) graphic tablet attracts attention with its minimalist and aesthetic design, successfully fitting into the style of most graphic designers' desks. The screen is surrounded by an approximately 5-centimeter frame made of the same material, which ensures comfortable use of the equipment and natural hand guidance.
The tablet can be used both flat and slightly tilted, thanks to the extendable and retractable legs. The device itself is quite heavy, so it stands stably on the desk.
The set also includes a pen. Visually, it closely resembles the competition's solutions, but it is made entirely of plastic and is slightly lighter.
The display spec supports 16.7 million colors with 120% sRGB coverage. The image quality displayed on the screen is very good, which allows you to achieve a natural feeling while working.
The screen of the tablet I tested was slightly scratched. Although this is a demonstration model, it is worth bearing in mind that over time the screen will show signs of use. If you tend to press the pen too hard, it is worth considering additional screen protection. The scratches are visible mainly when the display is off and do not interfere with work when the screen is on.
Technical Specifications
Bosto BST-X5 (16/256) is a 15.6-inch graphics tablet with Full HD resolution (1920x1080), offering 16.7 million colors with 120% sRGB coverage. It is equipped with 16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD and Windows 11 Pro. The stylus supports 16,384 LPS (pressure sensitivity levels) and tilt angles up to 60 °. The tablet has HDMI, USB, USB-C, mini Jack, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi ports.
It is a standalone device that combines the functions of a graphics tablet and a computer, so you don't have to connect it to a computer to work on it. It is compatible with graphics programs available in Windows, such as Photoshop, CorelDRAW, GIMP, Krita ,ZBrush and others.
Bosto BST-X5 (16/256) is a device powered by a power supply that is permanently connected to the mains. So you won't be able to use it without access to the mains. However, Bosto offers a second version of this tablet (BST-X5 (16/512)), which has a built-in battery.
Experience with use
In practice, especially at first contact, the Bosto BST-X5 (16/256) tablet performed surprisingly well.
The first start-up is similar to the first start-up of a laptop. After logging in, we only install the software we want to use and we are ready to work. There is no need to load additional drivers to use the pen correctly.
The biggest advantage of this device is the great pen performance and reading of its pressure. The 16,384 LPS (levels of pressure sensitivity) and 5080 LPI (lines per inch) resolution described in the specification actually provide a realistic user experience and make a big impression, especially for a product in this price range.
The biggest downside to this device from my perspective is theoretically its most important function, the built-in operating system. The idea of having a system and not having to connect to a computer is certainly tempting and potentially convenient, but with this size of equipment and its (very attractive for such devices) price, it is difficult to expect impressive speed or parameters that will cope with more demanding graphic programs.
In fact, it's not as bad as it sounds. You just have to remember that it won't be a device for working on a dozen or so tabs and in a few programs, which will really replace a desktop computer, but rather a drawing device (preferably on a single tab), which could in some cases replace, for example, drawing on an iPad.
In everyday work, the tablet proved to be great for drawing (even on large formats, but on a single card) and simple photo retouching. However, the more cards we open and expect more complicated operations (blurring, using new, taxing Photoshop functions), the worse it copes.
A few years ago I tested a similar solution from the competition and a great option there was the ability to seamlessly transform an All-in-One tablet into a regular screen device with the ability to connect to a computer. This would allow remote work on smaller files and use something more powerful when we really need performance.
Summary
The Bosto BST-X5 (16/256) tablet will be perfect especially for drawing enthusiasts. Thanks to the very well-prepared stylus support, creating on it will be a pleasure. For a price of just over $699, we get not only a screen, but also equipment with the Windows operating system, which is an ideal solution for people entering the market or students who do not yet have their own computer and do not want to limit their time for drawing.
The tablet is currently available for $699 on the manufacturer's website and in most popular electronics stores.
