What To Know
- The display is a crucial factor for any drawing tablet, as it directly impacts the accuracy and responsiveness of your strokes.
- The pen technology is the heart of any drawing tablet, as it determines the precision and responsiveness of your strokes.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a solid set of features, the Gaomon PD1161 is a great choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your artistic needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1161 and XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro sport a sleek and modern design, offering a comfortable drawing experience. The Gaomon PD1161 features a black and silver color scheme, while the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro comes in a classic black finish. Both tablets are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for artists on the go.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and durable. The Gaomon PD1161 boasts a sturdy aluminum alloy body, while the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro utilizes a robust plastic frame. Both tablets feel solid and reliable in hand, ensuring a long lifespan even with frequent use.
Display
The display is a crucial factor for any drawing tablet, as it directly impacts the accuracy and responsiveness of your strokes. The Gaomon PD1161 features a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut. The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro, on the other hand, boasts a larger 15.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution and a 80% NTSC color gamut.
The larger screen size of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro offers a more immersive drawing experience, especially for those who work on large canvases. The wider color gamut of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro also allows for a more vibrant and accurate color reproduction, which is beneficial for artists working with intricate details and colors.
Pen Technology
The pen technology is the heart of any drawing tablet, as it determines the precision and responsiveness of your strokes. Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro utilize battery-free pressure-sensitive pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for a natural and nuanced drawing experience, enabling artists to create precise lines and subtle shading.
The Gaomon PD1161 pen features eight customizable buttons, while the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro pen offers six customizable buttons. These buttons can be programmed to perform various actions, such as erasing, switching tools, or adjusting brush size, enhancing workflow efficiency.
Driver and Software
Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer dedicated drivers and software that provide a range of customization options and features. The Gaomon driver provides a user-friendly interface for configuring pen pressure sensitivity, button assignments, and screen calibration. The XP-Pen driver offers similar features, along with additional options for customizing shortcut keys and screen brightness.
Both drivers are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro offer a variety of connectivity options. The Gaomon PD1161 features a USB-C port for data transfer and power, while the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro includes both USB-C and HDMI ports. This versatility allows for greater flexibility in connecting to different devices.
Both tablets are compatible with various creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1161 and XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro are both priced competitively within the mid-range segment. The Gaomon PD1161 typically retails for a lower price point than the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro. However, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro offers a larger display, wider color gamut, and additional connectivity options, justifying its slightly higher price tag.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a solid set of features, the Gaomon PD1161 is a great choice. If you prioritize a larger screen size, wider color gamut, and enhanced connectivity, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is worth considering.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro depends on your individual preferences and artistic needs.
Choose the Gaomon PD1161 if:
- You’re on a tighter budget.
- You prefer a smaller and more portable tablet.
- You don’t require a wide color gamut for your workflow.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro if:
- You prioritize a larger screen size for immersive drawing.
- You need a wider color gamut for accurate color reproduction.
- You value the added connectivity options.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling combination of features and affordability. The Gaomon PD1161 is a solid choice for budget-conscious artists, while the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro provides a more premium experience with its larger display, wider color gamut, and enhanced connectivity. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual preferences and artistic needs.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is a device that allows you to control a cursor on your computer screen using a pen. It doesn’t have its own display, so you see your artwork on your computer monitor. A drawing monitor, on the other hand, has a built-in display, allowing you to draw directly onto the screen.
Q: Is there a significant difference in pen pressure sensitivity between the two tablets?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is considered a high level of sensitivity. The difference in pen pressure sensitivity between the two tablets is negligible and likely won’t be noticeable for most users.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my iPad or smartphone?
A: No, these tablets are designed for use with computers and are not compatible with iPads or smartphones.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1161 offers a more affordable starting point, while the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro provides a more immersive and professional experience. The choice ultimately depends on your budget and preferences.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other drawing tablets available on the market. Some other popular options include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro, and the Wacom One Creative Pen Display. It’s recommended to research and compare different tablets to find the best fit for your needs.