Key points
- The inclusion of eight customizable shortcut keys and a dial on the tablet’s surface adds a layer of convenience and control.
- The Gaomon M1220 is a straightforward drawing tablet with a focus on providing a basic yet reliable drawing experience.
- The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 offers a more comprehensive feature set with its eight shortcut keys and a dial, allowing for greater control and efficiency.
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 category are the Gaomon M1220 and the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200. Both offer a range of features, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. This comprehensive comparison delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon M1220: The Gaomon M1220 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, with a black, plastic construction that feels sturdy and durable. The tablet is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. The active area is 10 x 6.25 inches, offering ample space for drawing and sketching. The overall design is functional and practical, focusing on providing a comfortable drawing experience.
Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200: The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 takes a slightly different approach, incorporating a more modern and visually appealing design. The tablet features a sleek, black plastic casing with a textured surface that adds a touch of sophistication. The active area is slightly smaller at 9.8 x 6.1 inches, but still provides sufficient space for most drawing tasks. The inclusion of eight customizable shortcut keys and a dial on the tablet’s surface adds a layer of convenience and control.
Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy
Gaomon M1220: The Gaomon M1220 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and nuanced drawing experience. The pen tip is smooth and responsive, allowing for precise line work and subtle shading. The accuracy of the tablet is generally good, with minimal lag and jitter.
Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200: The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a smooth and accurate drawing experience. The pen tip feels slightly more firm than the Gaomon M1220, but it still provides a responsive and accurate drawing experience. The accuracy of the tablet is comparable to the Gaomon M1220, offering a smooth and lag-free drawing experience.
Pen Features and Ergonomics
Gaomon M1220: The Gaomon M1220 pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with a balanced design that feels natural in the hand. It features two programmable buttons that can be customized to perform various actions, such as switching brushes or erasing. The pen tip is replaceable, allowing for continued use without compromising accuracy.
Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200: The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 pen is also lightweight and ergonomically designed, featuring a textured grip that enhances comfort during long drawing sessions. It features two programmable buttons, similar to the Gaomon M1220, allowing for customizable shortcuts. The pen tip is replaceable, ensuring a long lifespan for the pen.
Software and Compatibility
Gaomon M1220: The Gaomon M1220 is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, offering broad compatibility with popular drawing software such as Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Illustrator. It also comes with a driver that allows for customization of pen pressure sensitivity, button functions, and other settings.
Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200: The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 also offers excellent compatibility, supporting Windows and macOS operating systems. It works seamlessly with popular drawing software and comes with a driver that allows for customization of various settings, including pressure sensitivity, shortcut keys, and dial functionality.
Additional Features and Considerations
Gaomon M1220: The Gaomon M1220 is a straightforward drawing tablet with a focus on providing a basic yet reliable drawing experience. It lacks additional features like shortcut keys or a dial, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer a more customizable setup.
Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200: The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 offers a more comprehensive feature set with its eight shortcut keys and a dial, allowing for greater control and efficiency. The customizable shortcut keys can be assigned to various actions, such as brush selection, zoom, or canvas rotation, while the dial can be used for precise control over brush size, opacity, or other settings.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
Gaomon M1220: The Gaomon M1220 is a solid choice for budget-conscious artists who prioritize a simple and straightforward drawing experience. Its accurate pressure sensitivity, comfortable pen, and wide compatibility make it a reliable option for beginners and seasoned artists alike.
Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200: The Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 is a more feature-rich option, offering a greater level of control and customization. Its eight shortcut keys, dial, and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for artists who prefer a more streamlined and efficient workflow.
The Final Word: Beyond the Specs
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable tablet with excellent pressure sensitivity, the Gaomon M1220 is a solid choice. However, if you value a more customizable and feature-rich experience, the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 might be a better fit.
What People Want to Know
Q: What are the main differences between the Gaomon M1220 and the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200?
A: The primary difference lies in the additional features offered by the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200, such as its eight shortcut keys and a dial, which provide greater control and customization. The Gaomon M1220 focuses on providing a basic yet reliable drawing experience.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners, offering a user-friendly experience and accurate pressure sensitivity. The Gaomon M1220’s simplicity might be more appealing to beginners who are just starting out, while the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200’s additional features can help accelerate the learning process.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with all drawing software?
A: Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. They work seamlessly with most software and offer a smooth drawing experience.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: Professional artists may prefer the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 due to its customizable shortcut keys and dial, which can streamline workflows and enhance efficiency. However, the Gaomon M1220 is still a viable option for professionals who prioritize a simple and reliable drawing experience.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both tablets typically come with a one-year warranty, providing peace of mind in case of any manufacturing defects or malfunctions.