What To Know
- The Artist 24 follows a similar design language, employing a black plastic frame with a slightly curved display.
- However, the Artist 24 feels slightly more robust and premium, with a sturdier stand and a more solid feel overall.
- The Artist 24 is priced slightly higher than the PD156 Pro, but it offers better performance, a larger display, a more responsive pen, and additional features.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Artist 24**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive options for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specifications, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro boasts a sleek and modern design with a black plastic frame. It features a comfortable, ergonomic design with a slightly angled display, reducing strain on the wrist. The stand is adjustable, allowing for different viewing angles. The tablet’s overall build quality is solid, though some users have reported minor issues with the stand’s stability.
XP-Pen Artist 24: The Artist 24 follows a similar design language, employing a black plastic frame with a slightly curved display. The stand is also adjustable for comfortable viewing. However, the Artist 24 feels slightly more robust and premium, with a sturdier stand and a more solid feel overall.
Display
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro offers a 15.6-inch full HD (1920×1080) display with a 120% sRGB color gamut. The display is laminated, reducing parallax and providing a more natural drawing experience. However, the resolution is on the lower end compared to other tablets in its price range.
XP-Pen Artist 24: The Artist 24 steps up the game with a 23.8-inch full HD (1920×1080) display, offering more screen real estate for detailed artwork. It also boasts a wider 125% sRGB color gamut, delivering more accurate and vibrant colors. The display is laminated and features anti-glare technology, further enhancing the drawing experience.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro comes with a battery-free pen that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with customizable side buttons for shortcuts. However, some users have reported minor lag issues and a slightly less responsive pen compared to the Artist 24.
XP-Pen Artist 24: The Artist 24 utilizes a similar battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. It offers a slightly more responsive and precise pen experience, with minimal lag and excellent line accuracy. The pen also features customizable side buttons and a comfortable grip.
Connectivity and Features
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro offers multiple connection options, including HDMI and USB. It also includes a built-in SD card reader for convenient file storage. The tablet features a built-in anti-glare coating, but it doesn’t offer any additional features like screen rotation or customizable hotkeys.
XP-Pen Artist 24: The Artist 24 provides similar connectivity options, with HDMI and USB ports. It also includes a built-in SD card reader and a convenient pen holder. The tablet boasts additional features like screen rotation, customizable hotkeys, and a built-in screen protector.
Performance and Software
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro delivers decent performance, with smooth linework and minimal lag. However, the lower resolution and slightly less responsive pen can impact the overall drawing experience, especially for intricate details. The tablet works well with popular drawing software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
XP-Pen Artist 24: The Artist 24 excels in performance, offering smooth and responsive drawing with minimal lag. The larger display and higher resolution provide more space for detailed artwork, while the precise pen and wider color gamut enhance the overall drawing experience. The tablet is compatible with various drawing software and is well-suited for both casual and professional artists.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro is generally more affordable than the Artist 24, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, its lower resolution and slightly less responsive pen might compromise the overall drawing experience in the long run.
XP-Pen Artist 24: The Artist 24 is priced slightly higher than the PD156 Pro, but it offers better performance, a larger display, a more responsive pen, and additional features. The price premium might be justified for artists who prioritize quality and features.
The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Here’s a quick rundown:
Gaomon PD156 Pro:
- Pros: Affordable, comfortable design, laminated display, decent performance.
- Cons: Lower resolution, slightly less responsive pen, some stability issues with the stand.
- Best for: Budget-conscious artists, casual users, and beginners.
XP-Pen Artist 24:
- Pros: Larger display, higher resolution, wider color gamut, more responsive pen, additional features, sturdy build.
- Cons: More expensive than the PD156 Pro.
- Best for: Professional artists, serious hobbyists, and users who value performance and features.
Choosing Your Perfect Drawing Companion: A Final Thought
Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 24 offer compelling features and affordability. While the PD156 Pro is a budget-friendly option for beginners and casual users, the Artist 24 delivers superior performance and features for professional artists and serious hobbyists. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and drawing style to make the right decision for your artistic journey.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. What are the main differences between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 24?
The main differences lie in the display size and resolution, pen responsiveness, and additional features. The Artist 24 offers a larger display, higher resolution, more responsive pen, and additional features like screen rotation and customizable hotkeys. The PD156 Pro is more affordable but compromises on these aspects.
2. Which tablet is better for beginners?
The Gaomon PD156 Pro is a great option for beginners due to its affordability and user-friendly design. However, if you’re serious about pursuing art, the XP-Pen Artist 24 offers a better learning experience with its superior performance and features.
3. Can I use these tablets for professional work?
Yes, both tablets are capable of handling professional work. The XP-Pen Artist 24 is better suited for professional use due to its larger display, higher resolution, and more responsive pen.
4. Are these tablets compatible with Mac computers?
Yes, both tablets are compatible with Mac computers. However, you might need to install specific drivers for optimal performance.
5. What software do these tablets work with?
Both tablets are compatible with various drawing software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.