Quick notes
- The Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring sleek, modern looks and a minimalist approach.
- The Gaomon M1220 features a sturdy plastic frame, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 utilizes a more premium aluminum frame, adding to its overall durability and aesthetics.
- If you are looking for a budget-friendly drawing tablet with a built-in screen and a compact design, the Gaomon M1220 is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with a plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike.
This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring sleek, modern looks and a minimalist approach. Both tablets sport a black finish, contributing to their professional appearance.
The Gaomon M1220 boasts a compact design, making it ideal for users with limited desk space. It features an 8.5 x 5.3-inch active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, offers a larger 15.6-inch active area, catering to artists who prefer a more expansive workspace.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and durable. The Gaomon M1220 features a sturdy plastic frame, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 utilizes a more premium aluminum frame, adding to its overall durability and aesthetics.
Display Technology and Performance
The Gaomon M1220 is a pen display tablet, meaning it features a built-in LCD screen. The screen boasts a 1080p resolution, offering clear and vibrant visuals for your artwork. The tablet also supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, enabling precise and nuanced strokes.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16, being a drawing tablet, does not have a built-in screen. Instead, it relies on your computer monitor for display. However, it features a larger 15.6-inch active area, providing a more immersive drawing experience. The Artist Pro 16 also supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth and responsive performance.
Pen Technology and Functionality
Both tablets come with highly responsive and pressure-sensitive pens. The Gaomon M1220’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a natural and intuitive drawing experience. It also includes tilt support, allowing you to create expressive strokes with varying angles.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16’s pen boasts similar features, including 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. The pen also features a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets 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 M1220 comes bundled with a driver CD and offers a range of customization options for pen settings and screen calibration. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 also features a comprehensive driver suite, allowing users to personalize their drawing experience.
Connectivity and Portability
The Gaomon M1220 connects to your computer via a USB cable, providing a stable and reliable connection. It is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 also utilizes a USB connection, but it is slightly larger and heavier than the Gaomon M1220. However, it still remains relatively portable and can be easily carried in a dedicated carrying case.
Price and Value
The Gaomon M1220 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists who are looking for a good quality drawing tablet without breaking the bank.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16, while more expensive, offers a larger active area, a higher refresh rate, and a premium aluminum frame. It is a worthwhile investment for artists who prioritize a more immersive and responsive drawing experience.
Gaomon M1220 vs XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: The Verdict
Choosing between the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly drawing tablet with a built-in screen and a compact design, the Gaomon M1220 is an excellent choice. It offers a good balance of features and performance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced artists.
If you prioritize a larger active area, a higher refresh rate, and a premium build quality, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is the better option. It provides a more immersive and responsive drawing experience, making it ideal for professional artists and those who demand the best performance.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 are excellent choices, the market offers a wide range of other drawing tablets catering to diverse needs and budgets.
For instance, if you’re looking for a larger screen, consider exploring tablets like the XP-Pen Artist 24 Pro or the Huion Kamvas Pro 24. These larger tablets offer a more immersive drawing experience, especially for artists working on detailed illustrations or digital paintings.
If you prioritize portability and affordability, consider exploring tablets like the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro or the Huion Kamvas 13. These tablets offer a good balance of features and portability, making them ideal for artists who are constantly on the go.
The Final Word: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Artistic Journey
Ultimately, the choice of a drawing tablet comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the size of your workspace, the type of artwork you create, and the level of features you require.
By carefully considering these factors and exploring the various options available, you can find the perfect drawing tablet that empowers you to unleash your creativity and take your artistic journey to new heights.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display tablet?
A: A drawing tablet is a device that allows you to use a pen to control a cursor on your computer screen. A pen display tablet, on the other hand, features a built-in LCD screen, allowing you to draw directly on the tablet’s surface.
Q: Are both tablets compatible with macOS?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 are compatible with macOS.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon M1220 is a good choice for budget-conscious beginners, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 offers a more immersive drawing experience.
Q: Are there any other features to consider besides the ones mentioned in the article?
A: Yes, there are other features to consider, such as the tablet’s resolution, refresh rate, and the availability of customizable buttons. These features can further enhance your drawing experience.