What To Know
- Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 boast a sleek and minimalist design, making them aesthetically pleasing and compact enough for most workspaces.
- The Artist 12 sports a similar design, with a black plastic body and a sleek, modern aesthetic.
- Both pens offer a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, providing a natural and intuitive drawing experience.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the specifications, performance, and overall value of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 boast a sleek and minimalist design, making them aesthetically pleasing and compact enough for most workspaces.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 features a black plastic exterior with a textured surface that provides a firm grip. It has a slim profile and a slightly curved design, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12 sports a similar design, with a black plastic body and a sleek, modern aesthetic. It has a slightly larger footprint than the PD1220, but it’s still relatively compact. The tablet also features a textured surface for a comfortable grip.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed, offering a solid feel under your hand. However, the Gaomon PD1220 might have a slight edge due to its slightly more robust construction.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area and resolution are crucial factors influencing the precision and responsiveness of a drawing tablet. Let’s see how the two contenders stack up:
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 offers a generous active area of 11.6 inches, providing ample space for detailed drawings and comfortable navigation. Its resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensures accurate pen strokes and smooth transitions, making it suitable for both casual and professional artists.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12 also boasts a spacious active area of 11.6 inches, mirroring the PD1220. However, it has a slightly higher resolution of 5080 LPI, offering even greater precision and detail in your artwork.
While both tablets provide a similar active area, the Artist 12’s slightly higher resolution might be a deciding factor for artists who prioritize precision and detail.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen and its pressure sensitivity are crucial for a natural and intuitive drawing experience. Here’s a breakdown of the pens offered by each tablet:
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes, replicating the fluidity of traditional drawing tools. The pen has two customizable buttons that can be programmed for various functions, enhancing workflow efficiency.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12 also includes a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, matching the PD1220. This ensures a smooth and responsive drawing experience, with precise control over line weight and brush strokes. The Artist 12’s pen also features eight customizable buttons, offering greater flexibility and customization compared to the PD1220.
Both pens offer a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, providing a natural and intuitive drawing experience. However, the Artist 12’s pen has an edge with its eight customizable buttons, allowing for more personalized workflows.
Drivers and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. They offer dedicated drivers that provide customization options for pen settings, button mapping, and screen calibration.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220’s drivers are generally stable and easy to use, offering a straightforward interface for configuring the tablet’s settings. The drivers support various software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12’s drivers are also known for their stability and ease of use, providing a user-friendly interface for customizing the tablet’s settings. The drivers are compatible with various software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Both tablets offer seamless compatibility and reliable drivers, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Accessories and Extras
Both tablets come with essential accessories to enhance your drawing experience. However, the Artist 12 offers a slightly more comprehensive package.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 includes the drawing tablet, a battery-free pen, a pen holder, eight replacement nibs, a USB cable, a quick start guide, and a driver CD.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12 comes bundled with the drawing tablet, a battery-free pen, a pen holder, 10 replacement nibs, a glove, a USB cable, a quick start guide, and a driver CD.
While both packages provide the essentials, the Artist 12’s inclusion of a glove and additional nibs adds value for artists who need extra comfort and convenience.
Price and Value
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are budget-friendly options, offering excellent value for their price. However, the Artist 12 might have a slight edge in terms of overall value.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is usually priced slightly lower than the Artist 12, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious artists. Its features and performance make it a great entry-level drawing tablet.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12 is priced slightly higher than the PD1220, but its additional features, including the eight-button pen and glove, justify the price difference. It offers excellent value for its price, making it a compelling choice for both beginners and experienced artists.
Choosing the best tablet ultimately depends on your budget and priorities. If you’re on a tight budget, the PD1220 offers a great value proposition. If you’re willing to spend a little more for additional features and value, the Artist 12 is a solid investment.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious artists who prioritize a spacious active area, accurate pen strokes, and a comfortable drawing experience. Its battery-free pen and customizable buttons add to its appeal.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The Artist 12 is a more versatile option, offering greater precision, a more customizable pen, and additional accessories like a glove. It’s a great choice for artists who need a little more flexibility and control in their workflow.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a spacious active area and a comfortable drawing experience, the Gaomon PD1220 is a solid choice. If you’re willing to spend a little more for additional features and value, the XP-Pen Artist 12 is a compelling option.
Beyond the Comparison: What Else to Consider?
While this comparison focuses on the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12, it’s essential to consider other factors when choosing a drawing tablet:
- Software Compatibility: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- Screen Size: Choose a tablet size that fits your workspace and drawing style.
- Pen Features: Consider the pen’s pressure sensitivity, button customization, and overall comfort.
- Additional Features: Explore features like tilt sensitivity, express keys, and touch sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use these tablets for digital painting?
A: Absolutely! Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are excellent for digital painting. Their pressure sensitivity and active area allow for precise brush strokes and blending.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with iPad?
A: These tablets are designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. They are not compatible with iPads.
Q: Do I need to install drivers for these tablets?
A: Yes, you need to install drivers for both tablets to ensure proper functionality and customization.
Q: What’s the difference between a drawing tablet and a Wacom tablet?
A: Wacom is a popular brand known for its high-quality drawing tablets. Gaomon and XP-Pen offer more affordable alternatives with comparable features.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are great for beginners. The Gaomon PD1220 is a more affordable option, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 offers a more comprehensive package. Choose the one that fits your budget and needs.