What To Know
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** offer responsive and accurate pens.
- Both the Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are excellent drawing tablets that offer a balance of features and affordability.
- However, if you prefer a premium design, portability, and a wider range of software features, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** might be the better option.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This detailed comparison will delve into the key differences, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both tablets boast a sleek and modern design, but there are subtle differences. The Gaomon PD1220 features a slightly larger active area at 11.6 inches compared to the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro’s** 10.6 inches. This extra space can be beneficial for larger drawings and more comfortable hand movements. However, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** compensates with its slimmer and lighter profile, making it more portable.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon PD1220 has a textured surface that provides decent grip, while the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** boasts a smooth, glass-like surface that feels more premium. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your individual preferences for size, weight, and surface texture.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** offer responsive and accurate pens. Both feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring smooth transitions between light and heavy strokes. However, there are some subtle differences in the pen design.
The Gaomon PD1220 pen is a bit heavier and has a slightly thicker barrel, which might feel more comfortable for some users. It also features two side buttons that can be customized for various functions. The **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** pen is lighter and has a more ergonomic design, with a single side button. Both pens offer a comfortable grip and precise control.
Display and Resolution
The Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are both drawing tablets, meaning they don’t have built-in displays. They rely on your computer monitor to display the drawing surface. While this might seem like a drawback, it allows for more affordable pricing and greater flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution.
Both tablets offer excellent compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and even Android devices. You can connect them via USB or even Bluetooth for a wireless experience.
Software and Features
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** offer a range of software features to enhance your drawing experience. **Gaomon** provides its own driver software with customizable pen settings, pressure sensitivity adjustments, and hotkey mapping. **XP-Pen** offers similar features with its driver, including customizable pen settings, pressure sensitivity adjustments, and a more extensive library of pre-set hotkey configurations.
Both tablets also come bundled with drawing software, with Gaomon offering OpenCanvas and **XP-Pen** offering Krita. While these software options provide a great starting point, you can always choose your preferred drawing software based on your individual needs and preferences.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are both priced competitively in the mid-range segment. The Gaomon PD1220 often comes at a slightly lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** offers a more premium feel with its sleek design and smooth glass surface.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a larger active area, the Gaomon PD1220 might be the better choice. However, if you value a premium design, portability, and a wider range of software features, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** might be more appealing.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are excellent drawing tablets that offer a balance of features and affordability. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize a larger active area and a budget-friendly option, the Gaomon PD1220 is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a premium design, portability, and a wider range of software features, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** might be the better option.
No matter which tablet you choose, both the Gaomon PD1220 and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** offer a great starting point for aspiring and professional artists alike.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The **Gaomon PD1220** offers a larger active area and a more affordable price point, making it a great entry-level option. However, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** provides a slightly more premium experience with its sleek design and smooth surface.
Q: Which tablet is better for professionals?
A: Both tablets can be used by professionals. The **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** might be more appealing due to its wider range of software features and its more premium feel. However, the **Gaomon PD1220** offers a larger active area and is still a capable tablet for professional use.
Q: Are both tablets compatible with macOS?
A: Yes, both the **Gaomon PD1220** and **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are compatible with macOS. They offer drivers for macOS, allowing you to customize pen settings and hotkeys.
Q: Can I use these tablets with Android devices?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used with Android devices. You can connect them via USB or Bluetooth for a wireless experience. However, compatibility and functionality may vary depending on the specific Android device and operating system.
Q: Which tablet has better pressure sensitivity?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing smooth transitions between light and heavy strokes. The difference lies in the pen design and the overall feel of the pressure sensitivity.