What To Know
- The Gaomon M106K Pro features eight customizable buttons on the pen and two on the tablet, providing a wealth of options for assigning shortcuts and functions.
- The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers six customizable buttons on the pen and four on the tablet, offering a slightly more limited but still versatile set of options.
- Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the Gaomon M106K Pro and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both tablets offer a compelling mix of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor? This in-depth comparison delves into their key aspects, helping you make an informed decision for your creative journey.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast a sleek and minimalist design, making them aesthetically pleasing additions to any workspace. The Gaomon M106K Pro features a black, glossy finish, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus comes in a more understated matte black.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon M106K Pro’s plastic body feels slightly more robust, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a thinner plastic casing. However, both tablets are adequately durable for everyday use.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area, the portion of the tablet that responds to pen input, is a crucial factor in determining the overall drawing experience. The Gaomon M106K Pro boasts a spacious 10 x 6.25 inches active area, providing ample room for creative exploration. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, offers a slightly smaller active area of 9.8 x 6.1 inches.
While the difference in size may seem negligible, it can be noticeable for users who prefer a larger drawing space. The Gaomon M106K Pro’s larger active area provides a more immersive and comfortable drawing experience, especially for those who work with intricate details or prefer a more natural hand movement.
Both tablets offer a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and precise linework. This resolution provides a high level of detail and accuracy, allowing for subtle nuances in your strokes to be captured.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen technology is a defining aspect of any drawing tablet, directly impacting the responsiveness and accuracy of your strokes. Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus feature battery-free, pressure-sensitive pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes, enabling you to create nuanced and expressive artwork.
The Gaomon M106K Pro’s pen feels slightly heavier and has a more traditional pen-like feel, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus’s pen is lighter and more ergonomic. Both pens offer a comfortable grip and a smooth, responsive drawing experience.
Buttons and Functionality
Both tablets offer a set of customizable buttons on the pen and the tablet itself. The Gaomon M106K Pro features eight customizable buttons on the pen and two on the tablet, providing a wealth of options for assigning shortcuts and functions. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers six customizable buttons on the pen and four on the tablet, offering a slightly more limited but still versatile set of options.
The buttons on both tablets are responsive and easy to access, allowing for quick and efficient workflow. You can customize these buttons to perform actions like switching brushes, undoing strokes, or invoking specific software features, enhancing your productivity and streamlining your creative process.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. They also work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
The Gaomon M106K Pro comes with its own driver software, which offers customization options for pen settings, button assignments, and other tablet-specific settings. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also features its own driver software, providing similar customization options. Both drivers are intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to fine-tune your tablet settings to your preferences.
Price and Value
Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus fall within the budget-friendly category of drawing tablets. The Gaomon M106K Pro is typically priced slightly lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus.
In terms of value, both tablets offer excellent features and performance for their price point. The Gaomon M106K Pro’s larger active area and more customizable buttons make it a compelling option for users who prioritize drawing space and functionality. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, provides a more compact and portable solution with a slightly more affordable price tag.
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Gaomon M106K Pro if:
- You prioritize a larger drawing area for a more immersive experience.
- You require a greater number of customizable buttons for shortcuts and functions.
- You prefer a more traditional pen feel with a slightly heavier weight.
- You are looking for a tablet with a slightly lower price point.
Choose the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus if:
- You prefer a more compact and portable tablet.
- You are looking for a lighter and more ergonomic pen.
- You are on a tighter budget.
Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Titans
Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are exceptional drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of performance and affordability. The Gaomon M106K Pro excels in its larger active area, greater button customization, and traditional pen feel, making it a great choice for professional artists and those who prioritize a spacious drawing experience. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, provides a more compact and portable solution with a lighter pen and a slightly more affordable price tag, making it an excellent option for beginners and those who value portability. Ultimately, the best tablet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
A: The key differences lie in the active area size, number of customizable buttons, and pen weight. The Gaomon M106K Pro offers a larger active area, more buttons, and a heavier pen, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is more compact, has fewer buttons, and features a lighter pen.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus might be slightly more beginner-friendly due to its lower price point and more compact size.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with Android devices?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for Windows and macOS, but some models may offer limited compatibility with Android devices. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for specific details.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Yes, these tablets can be used for photo editing, although they are primarily designed for drawing and sketching. They can be used for tasks like retouching, color correction, and adding special effects.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each tablet?
A:
Gaomon M106K Pro:
Pros: Larger active area, more customizable buttons, traditional pen feel.
Cons: Slightly heavier pen, may be less portable.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:
Pros: More compact and portable, lighter pen, more affordable.
Cons: Smaller active area, fewer customizable buttons.