Gaomon M1220 vs XP Pen Artist Pro 16TP: The Ultimate Drawing Tablet Showdown!

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Both tablets offer enticing features and competitive prices, making it challenging to decide which one best suits your needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.

The Gaomon M1220 vs XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP debate is a common one among aspiring and experienced artists alike. Both tablets are known for their affordability and performance, catering to a wide range of users. However, they have distinct strengths and weaknesses that might make one a better fit for you than the other.

Design and Build Quality

The Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP sport different design aesthetics. The M1220 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, with its 11.6-inch active area housed in a slim, black frame. The Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a thicker frame and a black and silver color scheme.

The build quality of both tablets is generally good. The Gaomon M1220 feels slightly more lightweight and compact, making it more portable. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, however, feels more robust and sturdy, with a less flexible surface.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area size plays a crucial role in your drawing experience. The Gaomon M1220 offers a 11.6-inch active area, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP boasts a larger 15.6-inch active area. This difference is significant, especially for those who prefer a larger canvas for their artwork.

In terms of resolution, the Gaomon M1220 offers a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP provides a higher resolution of 5080 LPI. This means that the Artist Pro 16TP can capture more precise pen strokes and deliver a smoother drawing experience.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP offer impressive pen technology. The Gaomon M1220 utilizes a battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also features a battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, alongside tilt support for a more natural drawing experience.

Both pens offer excellent responsiveness and accuracy, allowing for precise line work and subtle shading. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP’s tilt support adds an extra layer of control and realism to your drawings.

Display and Color Accuracy

The Gaomon M1220 is a pen tablet without a display, meaning you’ll need to rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, featuring a built-in LCD screen. This eliminates the need for a separate monitor and offers a more immersive drawing experience.

The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP’s display boasts a 1920 x 1080 resolution with a 120% sRGB color gamut. This provides accurate color representation and a vibrant visual experience. The Gaomon M1220, being a pen tablet, relies on your computer monitor‘s display quality for color accuracy.

Software and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.

The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP comes bundled with drawing software like OpenCanvas and Krita, which can be helpful for beginners. The Gaomon M1220 doesn’t include any bundled software, but it is compatible with a wide range of drawing applications.

Price and Value

The Gaomon M1220 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. This makes the M1220 an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP’s additional features, such as the built-in display and tilt support, justify the higher price point.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tablet

Ultimately, the choice between the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Choose the Gaomon M1220 if:

• You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
• You’re comfortable using a separate monitor for drawing.
• You prefer a compact and portable design.

Choose the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP if:

• You’re willing to invest in a more premium tablet.
• You value a larger drawing area and a built-in display.
• You want tilt support for a more natural drawing experience.

Top Questions Asked

Q1: Is the Gaomon M1220 suitable for professional artists?

While the Gaomon M1220 offers excellent value for money, it might not be ideal for professional artists who require the highest level of precision and accuracy. The larger active area and tilt support of the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP might be more suitable for professional use.

Q2: What are the pros and cons of a pen display tablet?

Pen display tablets offer a more immersive drawing experience and eliminate the need for a separate monitor. However, they are typically more expensive than pen tablets.

Q3: Can I use both tablets with my iPad?

No, both the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. They are not compatible with iPads.

Q4: What are some alternative drawing tablets worth considering?

Other popular drawing tablets in the same price range include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, and Wacom One Creative Pen Display. These tablets offer different features and price points, so it’s important to compare them based on your specific needs.

Q5: Is it possible to upgrade the pen on either tablet?

Both tablets use proprietary pens, so it’s not possible to upgrade them with pens from other brands. However, both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer replacement pens for their respective tablets.