Highlights
- The Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S both adopt a compact and minimalist design, making them ideal for travel and workspace integration.
- The M1220 boasts a sleek black finish, while the Deco Fun S comes in a vibrant blue, adding a touch of personality to your setup.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S offer decent pen technology.
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 XP-Pen Deco Fun S. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the intricacies of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S both adopt a compact and minimalist design, making them ideal for travel and workspace integration. The M1220 boasts a sleek black finish, while the Deco Fun S comes in a vibrant blue, adding a touch of personality to your setup.
In terms of build quality, both tablets exhibit solid construction. The M1220 has a slightly more robust feel, with a textured surface that provides better grip. The Deco Fun S, on the other hand, features a smooth, glossy surface that might be prone to fingerprints.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area, the space on the tablet that responds to pen input, is crucial for drawing comfort and precision. The Gaomon M1220 offers a spacious 10 x 6.25-inch active area, while the XP-Pen Deco Fun S provides a slightly smaller 9.5 x 5.7-inch area. The larger active area of the M1220 allows for more natural hand movements and ample space for detailed drawings.
Both tablets feature a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and responsive pen strokes. This resolution translates to accurate pen tracking and a seamless drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S offer decent pen technology. Both pens are battery-free, eliminating the need for charging. The M1220’s pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Deco Fun S provides 8192 levels as well. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced strokes, simulating the feel of traditional art tools.
Both tablets also include side buttons on the pen, which are customizable for different functions like brush size adjustment, undo, or redo. The M1220’s pen features a slightly more ergonomic design, with a comfortable grip and a balanced weight distribution.
Driver Software and Compatibility
The driver software plays a vital role in optimizing the tablet’s performance and functionality. Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer dedicated driver software for their respective tablets. These drivers allow for customization of pen pressure sensitivity, hotkey assignments, and other settings.
Both tablets boast excellent compatibility with major operating systems like Windows and macOS. They also support popular drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
Performance and Drawing Experience
In terms of performance, both tablets deliver a fluid and responsive drawing experience. The M1220’s larger active area and slightly more robust design contribute to a more comfortable and natural drawing experience, particularly for users who prefer a larger working space. The Deco Fun S, with its compact size and vibrant blue color, might appeal to users who prioritize portability and a stylish aesthetic.
Pricing and Value
The Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S are both competitively priced, making them attractive options for budget-conscious artists. The M1220 generally sits slightly higher in price, but its larger active area and more robust build quality justify the price difference. The Deco Fun S, with its smaller footprint and vibrant design, offers excellent value for its price.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
Choosing between the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun S ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
The Gaomon M1220 excels in:
- Larger active area for more natural hand movements
- Robust build quality for durability and stability
- Comfortable and ergonomic pen design
The XP-Pen Deco Fun S shines in:
- Compact size and portability
- Stylish design with a vibrant blue finish
- Competitive price point
If you prioritize a spacious drawing area and a robust tablet, the Gaomon M1220 is a solid choice. However, if portability and a stylish design are paramount, the XP-Pen Deco Fun S delivers excellent value for its price.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Does the Gaomon M1220 work with Linux?
Yes, the Gaomon M1220 is compatible with Linux operating systems.
2. Can I use the XP-Pen Deco Fun S for photo editing?
Yes, both the Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S are compatible with photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop.
3. Which tablet has better pressure sensitivity?
Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of nuance and control.
4. Are there any bundled software included with these tablets?
The Gaomon M1220 and XP-Pen Deco Fun S may come with bundled software depending on the specific retailer or bundle. Check the product description for details.
5. Can I use the pen with other drawing tablets?
No, the pens included with these tablets are specifically designed for their respective models and are not compatible with other drawing tablets.