What To Know
- The Gaomon PD1320 features a minimalist aesthetic with a black frame and a smooth, matte finish.
- The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, adopts a more robust design with a slightly thicker frame.
- If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large active area and high resolution, the Gaomon PD1320 is a solid choice.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Innovator 16**. Both offer compelling features and competitive prices, making it difficult to decide which one emerges as the victor. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 boast sleek and modern designs. The Gaomon PD1320 features a minimalist aesthetic with a black frame and a smooth, matte finish. It’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, adopts a more robust design with a slightly thicker frame. It’s available in both black and white color options, offering a more professional look. Both tablets offer a comfortable and ergonomic design, ensuring a pleasant drawing experience.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface that responds to your pen input. The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a generous 13.3-inch active area, providing ample space for intricate drawings and detailed illustrations. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, however, takes it a step further with a spacious 15.6-inch active area, offering even more room for creative freedom.
In terms of resolution, the Gaomon PD1320 offers a 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) resolution, ensuring accurate and responsive pen strokes. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, however, surpasses this with a 5080 LPI resolution, providing even greater precision and detail.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens, offering a natural and responsive drawing experience. The Gaomon PD1320’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and brush strokes. The XP-Pen Innovator 16 also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of control and accuracy.
Buttons and Express Keys
The Gaomon PD1320 features eight customizable express keys on the side of the tablet, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions. The XP-Pen Innovator 16 takes it a step further with 10 customizable express keys, providing even greater control and flexibility. Both tablets also include a touch ring or scroll wheel for navigating menus and adjusting settings.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Gaomon PD1320 doesn’t come with a built-in display, meaning you’ll need to connect it to a computer monitor. However, it supports a wide range of resolutions and color profiles. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, features a built-in 15.6-inch LCD display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut. This makes it ideal for artists who prefer a direct drawing experience on the tablet screen.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 offer seamless connectivity. They connect to your computer via USB cable, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Software and Drivers
Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer dedicated software and drivers for their tablets. These programs provide customization options for pen settings, express keys, and other features. Both software packages are user-friendly and offer a smooth setup experience.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1320 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Innovator 16, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the XP-Pen Innovator 16 offers a more premium experience with its built-in display and additional features, justifying its slightly higher price tag.
Gaomon PD1320 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Large active area
- High resolution
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Customizable express keys
Cons:
- No built-in display
- Limited color accuracy
XP-Pen Innovator 16 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Built-in display
- Large active area
- High resolution
- Excellent color accuracy
- Customizable express keys
Cons:
- Higher price than the Gaomon PD1320
The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large active area and high resolution, the Gaomon PD1320 is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a direct drawing experience on a built-in display and value color accuracy, the XP-Pen Innovator 16 is the superior option.
A Final Thought: Beyond the Features
While technical specifications are crucial, remember that the “best” drawing tablet is subjective. It’s essential to consider your drawing style, preferred software, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the most important factor is finding a tablet that feels comfortable and intuitive to use, allowing you to unleash your creativity without any limitations.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1320 or XP-Pen Innovator 16 with my iPad or Android tablet?
A: No, both tablets are designed for use with computers running Windows or macOS operating systems. They are not compatible with mobile devices.
Q: What is the difference between 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and 4096 levels?
A: 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity provide a higher degree of precision and control over line thickness and brush strokes compared to 4096 levels. This is especially noticeable when using brushes that require subtle variations in pressure.
Q: Can I use a custom pen with these tablets?
A: While both tablets are compatible with their respective pens, some third-party pens may not work properly. It’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s specifications for compatible pens.
Q: Do these tablets come with a screen protector?
A: The Gaomon PD1320 doesn’t come with a screen protector, as it doesn’t have a built-in display. The XP-Pen Innovator 16, on the other hand, usually includes a screen protector to protect its LCD display.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their tablets. However, the specific terms and conditions may vary depending on the retailer and region. It’s always advisable to check the manufacturer’s website or contact customer support for detailed warranty information.