Quick summary
- Wacom One 12 is a more established player in the drawing tablet market, known for its reliable performance and widespread compatibility.
- The design and ergonomics of a drawing tablet play a crucial role in user comfort and productivity.
- Features a sleek and minimalist design, with a slightly textured surface for a better grip.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with popular options like the Gaomon M1220 and Wacom One 12. Both are known for their affordability and user-friendliness, but subtle differences can make one a better fit for your specific needs. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
The Contenders: Gaomon M1220 and Wacom One 12
Gaomon M1220 is a budget-friendly drawing tablet that has gained popularity for its excellent value proposition. It boasts a large active area, responsive pressure sensitivity, and a comfortable design.
Wacom One 12 is a more established player in the drawing tablet market, known for its reliable performance and widespread compatibility. It offers a sleek design, intuitive controls, and a smooth drawing experience.
Active Area and Resolution: Drawing Space and Precision
The active area is the surface of the tablet that registers your pen strokes. A larger active area provides more drawing space, while a higher resolution translates to greater precision.
Gaomon M1220: Offers a generous 10 x 6.25-inch active area, providing ample space for creative projects. Its resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensures smooth and accurate tracking.
Wacom One 12: Features a smaller 11.6-inch diagonal active area, but its 7864 LPI resolution surpasses the Gaomon M1220 in terms of precision.
Verdict: The Gaomon M1220 wins in terms of active area, offering more room for large-scale projects. However, the Wacom One 12 takes the lead in resolution, providing a more precise and detailed drawing experience.
Pressure Sensitivity: Capturing Nuances of Your Strokes
Pressure sensitivity allows the tablet to detect the force applied to the pen, translating it into varying line thicknesses and brush strokes.
Gaomon M1220: Supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and nuanced drawing experience.
Wacom One 12: Also boasts 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a similar level of detail and control.
Verdict: Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, making it difficult to choose a winner based on this feature alone.
Pen Technology: The Heart of Your Drawing Experience
The pen is the most crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, and its features significantly impact the drawing experience.
Gaomon M1220: Comes bundled with a battery-free pen that has two programmable buttons. The pen tip feels comfortable and responsive, offering a natural drawing feel.
Wacom One 12: Features a pressure-sensitive pen with two side buttons. The pen is known for its smooth and accurate tracking, providing a precise and controlled drawing experience.
Verdict: Both pens are well-regarded for their performance and responsiveness. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the type of creative work you do.
Design and Ergonomics: Comfort and User Experience
The design and ergonomics of a drawing tablet play a crucial role in user comfort and productivity.
Gaomon M1220: Features a sleek and minimalist design, with a slightly textured surface for a better grip. It has a built-in stand for adjusting the viewing angle.
Wacom One 12: Boasts a slim and modern design with a glossy black finish. It comes with a detachable stand for adjusting the viewing angle.
Verdict: Both tablets offer a comfortable and user-friendly design. The Wacom One 12’s sleek aesthetics might appeal to some, while the Gaomon M1220’s textured surface could provide a more secure grip.
Compatibility: Working Seamlessly with Your Software
Compatibility with different operating systems and software is essential for a smooth workflow.
Gaomon M1220: Supports Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux operating systems. It is compatible with most popular drawing software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Wacom One 12: Also supports Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems. It is widely compatible with various drawing software, including Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk SketchBook, and Corel Painter.
Verdict: Both tablets offer excellent compatibility with most popular operating systems and drawing software, ensuring a seamless workflow.
Price and Value: Finding the Best Deal
Price is often a major factor in purchasing decisions.
Gaomon M1220: Is significantly more affordable than the Wacom One 12, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
Wacom One 12: Generally carries a higher price tag, but its brand recognition and reliable performance justify the investment for many users.
Verdict: The Gaomon M1220 offers exceptional value for its price, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious artists. However, the Wacom One 12’s premium features and brand reputation might be worth the extra cost for some.
Which Drawing Tablet Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon M1220 and Wacom One 12 depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Gaomon M1220: Ideal for budget-conscious artists who prioritize a large active area and responsive pressure sensitivity.
Wacom One 12: A solid choice for artists seeking a premium drawing experience with precise tracking, reliable performance, and a sleek design.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that fits your workflow and creative style. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different options and find the one that inspires you to create your best work.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Is the Gaomon M1220 compatible with iPad?
A: No, the Gaomon M1220 is not compatible with iPad. It is designed for use with Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux operating systems.
Q: Does the Wacom One 12 come with software?
A: The Wacom One 12 comes bundled with a selection of software, including Corel Painter Essentials, Clip Studio Paint, and Wacom’s own creative software, Wacom Sketch.
Q: Are there any alternative drawing tablets in this price range?
A: Yes, there are other drawing tablets in the same price range as the Gaomon M1220 and Wacom One 12. Some popular alternatives include the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro and the Huion Kamvas 13.
Q: Is it possible to use the Gaomon M1220 or Wacom One 12 for photo editing?
A: While both tablets can be used for photo editing, they are primarily designed for drawing and sketching. For professional photo editing, a dedicated graphics tablet with more advanced features might be a better choice.
Q: What are the main differences between the Gaomon M1220 and the Wacom One 13?
A: The Wacom One 13 is a larger tablet with a 13.3-inch active area compared to the Wacom One 12’s 11.6-inch active area. The Wacom One 13 also features a higher resolution (1920 x 1080) and a slightly higher price tag.