Highlights
- The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that responds to the stylus, and it’s a crucial factor in determining the tablet’s drawing experience.
- In terms of resolution, the Gaomon M1230 offers a resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch), while the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offers a resolution of 4000 LPI.
- Both the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are compatible with Windows and macOS, and they offer drivers that allow for customization of various settings, including pressure sensitivity, pen button functions, and screen rotation.
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 segment are the Gaomon M1230 and the **Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring artists and digital illustrators. But which one emerges as the victor in this head-to-head showdown? Let’s delve into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M boast a sleek and minimalist design, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The Gaomon M1230 features a black, rectangular body with rounded edges, while the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M opts for a slightly more rounded design. Both tablets are lightweight and compact, making them portable and easy to transport.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon M1230’s surface is smooth and responsive, while the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s surface is a bit rougher, which some users might find less comfortable. Overall, both tablets offer a decent build quality that feels appropriate for their price point.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that responds to the stylus, and it’s a crucial factor in determining the tablet’s drawing experience. The Gaomon M1230 boasts a larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, while the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offers a smaller active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches.
The larger active area of the Gaomon M1230 provides more space for drawing and allows for more natural hand movements. However, the smaller active area of the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M might be more suitable for users with limited desk space.
In terms of resolution, the Gaomon M1230 offers a resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch), while the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offers a resolution of 4000 LPI. Higher resolution translates to greater accuracy and precision, resulting in smoother lines and finer details. While the Gaomon M1230’s higher resolution is advantageous, the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s resolution is still adequate for most drawing tasks.
Pressure Sensitivity and Stylus
Pressure sensitivity is another crucial aspect of a drawing tablet, allowing for varying line widths and brush strokes based on the pressure applied to the stylus. The Gaomon M1230 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offers 8192 levels as well. This means both tablets provide a high level of pressure sensitivity, allowing for a nuanced and natural drawing experience.
Both tablets come with a stylus that features a comfortable grip and two programmable buttons. The Gaomon M1230’s stylus is slightly heavier than the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M’s stylus, which some users might find more substantial. Both styluses offer a decent level of accuracy and responsiveness, making them suitable for both sketching and detailed artwork.
Driver and Software Support
Both the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are compatible with Windows and macOS, and they offer drivers that allow for customization of various settings, including pressure sensitivity, pen button functions, and screen rotation. The drivers are relatively straightforward to install and use, and they provide a smooth and reliable experience.
Price and Value
Both the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering excellent value for their price. The Gaomon M1230 is typically priced slightly higher than the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, but it offers a larger active area and higher resolution. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still provides a decent drawing experience.
Ultimately, the best value for your money depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize a larger drawing area and higher resolution, the Gaomon M1230 might be a better choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a smaller footprint, the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M is a solid contender.
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M boils down to your specific requirements and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Gaomon M1230 if:
- You need a larger active area for a more natural drawing experience.
- You prioritize higher resolution for smoother lines and finer details.
- You’re willing to pay a slightly higher price for these features.
Choose the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M if:
- You have limited desk space and need a smaller tablet.
- You’re on a tighter budget and want an affordable option.
- You’re a beginner and don’t require the highest resolution.
The Verdict: A Close Call
Both the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The Gaomon M1230 edges out the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M with its larger active area and higher resolution, but the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M is still a solid choice for budget-conscious users. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Tablets
The Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are both worthy contenders in the budget-friendly drawing tablet market. Each tablet offers a unique set of advantages and disadvantages, making it a close call for the ultimate winner. Whether you choose the Gaomon M1230 for its larger active area and higher resolution or the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M for its affordability and compact design, you’re sure to find a reliable and capable drawing tablet that meets your needs and helps you unleash your artistic potential.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Are these tablets compatible with Android devices?
A1: No, both the Gaomon M1230 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are not compatible with Android devices. They are designed for use with Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q2: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A2: Yes, while these tablets are primarily designed for drawing and illustration, they can also be used for photo editing. The pressure sensitivity and accuracy of the styluses are suitable for tasks like retouching, color correction, and applying filters.
Q3: Do these tablets come with a screen protector?
A3: No, both tablets do not come with a screen protector. You might want to consider purchasing one separately to protect the tablet’s surface from scratches and wear.
Q4: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A4: Both tablets typically come with a one-year warranty. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific warranty terms and conditions from the manufacturer.
Q5: Can I use these tablets with a smartphone?
A5: No, these tablets are not designed to be used with smartphones. They require a computer with a USB port for connectivity.