What To Know
- The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black plastic exterior with a textured surface for a comfortable grip.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small takes a more sophisticated approach with a brushed aluminum finish and a slightly larger active area of 10.
- However, if you’re looking for a more premium experience with advanced features and a larger active area, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Two popular choices in the small tablet category are the Gaomon PD1320 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but they cater to different needs and preferences.
This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Gaomon PD1320 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, examining their key features, pros and cons, and ultimately helping you decide which one best suits your artistic journey.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black plastic exterior with a textured surface for a comfortable grip. It’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel or on-the-go sketching. The tablet’s active area measures 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small takes a more sophisticated approach with a brushed aluminum finish and a slightly larger active area of 10.6 x 6.6 inches. This subtle difference in size offers a bit more room for creative exploration. Both tablets come with a pen holder that conveniently attaches to the side of the tablet, keeping your pen readily available.
Pen Technology and Performance
Both tablets feature pressure-sensitive pens with excellent responsiveness and accuracy. The Gaomon PD1320 pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced line variations and expressive strokes. It also features tilt sensitivity, enabling you to create natural brushstrokes and shading effects.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small pen takes things a step further with 10,240 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering even greater precision and control. It also includes side buttons for quick access to shortcuts and customization, making it even more intuitive to use. Both pens are comfortable to hold and offer a balanced weight, minimizing hand fatigue during prolonged drawing sessions.
Software Compatibility and Driver Support
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small** are compatible with a wide range of software, including popular drawing applications like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. Both companies offer dedicated drivers for Windows and macOS, ensuring smooth operation and optimal performance.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1320 is generally more budget-friendly than the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small**. This makes it an attractive option for beginners or those on a tight budget. However, the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small** offers a premium experience with its higher-quality build, advanced pen technology, and additional features, justifying its slightly higher price point.
Gaomon PD1320: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable: The Gaomon PD1320 offers excellent value for its price.
- Lightweight and Portable: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around.
- Responsive Pen: The pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, providing accurate and expressive strokes.
- Wide Software Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of drawing software.
Cons:
- Basic Design: The plastic exterior may not feel as premium as some other tablets.
- Limited Buttons: The pen only has two buttons, which may not be sufficient for some users.
- No Pen Stand: The tablet doesn’t include a dedicated pen stand.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium Build Quality: The brushed aluminum finish and sturdy construction make it feel high-end.
- Advanced Pen Technology: The pen boasts 10,240 levels of pressure sensitivity, side buttons, and a comfortable grip.
- Larger Active Area: The slightly larger active area provides more room for drawing and sketching.
- Dedicated Pen Stand: The tablet comes with a convenient pen stand for easy storage.
Cons:
- Higher Price: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is more expensive than the Gaomon PD1320.
- No Tilt Sensitivity: The pen lacks tilt sensitivity, which may be a drawback for some artists.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, the Gaomon PD1320 offers excellent value for money. Its responsive pen and wide software compatibility make it a great starting point for digital art.
However, if you’re looking for a more premium experience with advanced features and a larger active area, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is an excellent choice. Its high-quality build, advanced pen technology, and dedicated pen stand elevate it to a professional level.
The Final Verdict: Beyond the Comparison
Ultimately, the best way to choose between the Gaomon PD1320 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small** is to try them out yourself. Visit a local electronics store or borrow a tablet from a friend to get a feel for their performance and ergonomics.
Remember, the most important factor is choosing a tablet that inspires you to create. Whether you opt for the budget-friendly Gaomon PD1320 or the premium Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, both offer a solid foundation for your artistic journey.
Popular Questions
Q1: Are both tablets compatible with smartphones or tablets?
A: While both tablets are designed for use with computers, they are not directly compatible with smartphones or tablets. However, you can use a USB-C to USB-A adapter to connect them to some Android devices.
Q2: Can I customize the buttons on the pens?
A: Yes, both tablets allow you to customize the buttons on their pens. You can assign different shortcuts and functions to the buttons to enhance your workflow.
Q3: What is the warranty period for each tablet?
A: Both Gaomon and Xencelabs offer a one-year warranty on their tablets.
Q4: Are there any other drawing tablets in a similar price range?
A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets in the same price range as the Gaomon PD1320 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Some popular options include the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro and the Huion Kamvas 13.
Q5: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1320 is a more affordable option, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a more premium experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget.