Quick Overview
- Both the Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x boast a sleek and minimalist design with a focus on functionality.
- The Gaomon M1230 features a black, rectangular tablet with rounded corners, while the Huion Inspiroy H420x sports a similar design but with a slightly more compact footprint.
- The Gaomon M1230 comes with a set of shortcut keys that can be customized for various functions, while the Huion Inspiroy H420x offers a similar set of shortcut keys, albeit with a slightly different layout.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly segment are the Gaomon M1230 and the **Huion Inspiroy H420x**. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike.
This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x boast a sleek and minimalist design with a focus on functionality. The Gaomon M1230 features a black, rectangular tablet with rounded corners, while the Huion Inspiroy H420x sports a similar design but with a slightly more compact footprint.
Gaomon M1230:
- Size: 10 x 6.25 inches (active area)
- Weight: 0.66 lbs
- Material: Plastic
- Design: Sleek and minimalist, with a black finish
- Connectivity: USB-C
Huion Inspiroy H420x:
- Size: 9.5 x 5.7 inches (active area)
- Weight: 0.55 lbs
- Material: Plastic
- Design: Sleek and minimalist, with a black finish
- Connectivity: USB-C
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon M1230 has a slightly more premium feel, with a smooth, textured surface that provides a good grip. The Huion Inspiroy H420x, on the other hand, feels slightly more plasticky, but it’s still perfectly functional.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area and resolution are crucial factors that influence the overall drawing experience. A larger active area provides more space for creative expression, while a higher resolution results in smoother lines and more precise strokes.
Gaomon M1230:
- Active Area: 10 x 6.25 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
Huion Inspiroy H420x:
- Active Area: 9.5 x 5.7 inches
- Resolution: 4000 LPI
The Gaomon M1230 offers a slightly larger active area, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more spacious drawing surface. In terms of resolution, the Gaomon M1230 boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, resulting in smoother lines and a more responsive drawing experience. The Huion Inspiroy H420x, while offering a slightly smaller active area, still provides a decent resolution of 4000 LPI, which is adequate for most users.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and its performance plays a crucial role in the overall drawing experience. Both the Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x come with pressure-sensitive pens that offer a natural and responsive drawing experience.
Gaomon M1230:
- Pen Type: Passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Buttons: 2 side buttons
- Features: Battery-free, ergonomic design
Huion Inspiroy H420x:
- Pen Type: Passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Buttons: 2 side buttons
- Features: Battery-free, ergonomic design
Both tablets offer a high level of pressure sensitivity, with 8192 levels, allowing for nuanced line variations and smooth transitions. The pens are battery-free and ergonomic, providing a comfortable and natural drawing experience.
Features and Software
Both tablets offer a range of features to enhance your workflow. The Gaomon M1230 comes with a set of shortcut keys that can be customized for various functions, while the Huion Inspiroy H420x offers a similar set of shortcut keys, albeit with a slightly different layout.
Gaomon M1230:
- Shortcut Keys: 8 customizable shortcut keys
- Software: Gaomon Driver
- Compatibility: Windows and macOS
Huion Inspiroy H420x:
- Shortcut Keys: 6 customizable shortcut keys
- Software: Huion Driver
- Compatibility: Windows and macOS
The Gaomon M1230 offers a slightly wider range of shortcut keys, providing more customization options. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS, and their respective drivers offer a range of customization options, including pen sensitivity, pressure curves, and shortcut key assignments.
Price and Value
Both the Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x are budget-friendly options, offering excellent value for their price.
Gaomon M1230:
- Price: Around $50-$60
Huion Inspiroy H420x:
- Price: Around $40-$50
The Huion Inspiroy H420x is generally slightly cheaper than the Gaomon M1230, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
Which Tablet Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Gaomon M1230 if:
- You need a larger active area for drawing.
- You prefer a higher resolution for smoother lines.
- You want a tablet with more shortcut keys for customization.
Choose the Huion Inspiroy H420x if:
- You’re on a tighter budget.
- You prioritize a compact and portable design.
- You don’t need a massive active area for drawing.
Finding the Perfect Drawing Companion
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best suits your workflow and creative needs. The Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them excellent choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?
A: Both the Gaomon M1230 and the Huion Inspiroy H420x are primarily designed for use with computers. They require a USB connection to a PC or Mac for operation.
Q: What is the difference between passive and active pens?
A: Passive pens don‘t require batteries and rely on the tablet’s electromagnetic field for communication. Active pens, on the other hand, have built-in batteries and use Bluetooth or wireless technology to connect to the tablet.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for photo editing. However, they are primarily designed for drawing and may not be as ideal for precise tasks like retouching.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both Gaomon and Huion offer a standard one-year warranty on their drawing tablets.
By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect drawing tablet to unleash your artistic potential.