At a Glance
- The Wacom Intuos Pro M takes the lead in this category with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a slightly higher reporting rate of 266 PPS (Points Per Second) compared to the Gaomon’s 233 PPS.
- The Gaomon M1230 comes bundled with a set of drawing software, while the Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a more comprehensive suite, including Wacom’s own software, such as Wacom Inkspace and Wacom Desktop Center.
- If you’re a professional artist or willing to invest in a premium drawing experience, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is the way to go.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon M1230 and the **Wacom Intuos Pro M**. Both offer compelling features and performance, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1230 boasts a sleek and minimalist design. Its black plastic construction feels sturdy, while its textured surface provides a comfortable grip. The tablet itself is relatively lightweight, making it portable for on-the-go artists.
The Wacom Intuos Pro M, on the other hand, takes a more premium approach. Its sleek, brushed aluminum design exudes a professional air. The tablet is slightly heavier than the Gaomon, but its solid build quality inspires confidence. Both tablets feature a range of customizable express keys and touch rings, offering a personalized workflow.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the tablet’s responsive surface where you draw. The Gaomon M1230 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for creative expression. Its resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensures smooth and accurate lines.
The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes in two sizes: Small (6.25 x 3.9 inches) and Medium (8.5 x 5.3 inches). The Medium size offers a larger active area than the Gaomon, while the Small size is more compact. Both sizes boast a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, matching the Gaomon in this regard.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Pressure sensitivity is crucial for achieving realistic brushstrokes and nuanced lines. The Gaomon M1230 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and natural drawing experience. Its pen features a comfortable grip and two side buttons for shortcuts.
The Wacom Intuos Pro M takes the lead in this category with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a slightly higher reporting rate of 266 PPS (Points Per Second) compared to the Gaomon’s 233 PPS. This translates to smoother and more responsive lines, especially for fast strokes. Its pen features a more ergonomic design and a customizable side switch for added control.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The Gaomon M1230 comes bundled with a set of drawing software, while the Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a more comprehensive suite, including Wacom’s own software, such as Wacom Inkspace and Wacom Desktop Center.
Price and Value
The Gaomon M1230 is the more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious artists. Its price-to-performance ratio is excellent, offering a solid drawing experience without breaking the bank.
The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes at a higher price point, reflecting its premium build quality and advanced features. Its software suite and pen technology justify the premium, making it a worthwhile investment for professional artists or those seeking a more refined drawing experience.
Gaomon M1230 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Large active area
- Good pressure sensitivity
- Comfortable pen
Cons:
- Plastic construction
- Limited software bundle
- Lower reporting rate
Wacom Intuos Pro M Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Comprehensive software suite
- Excellent pressure sensitivity and reporting rate
- Ergonomic pen design
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Smaller active area (Small size)
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro M ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large active area, the Gaomon M1230 is an excellent choice. Its affordable price and responsive performance make it a fantastic entry-level drawing tablet.
If you’re a professional artist or willing to invest in a premium drawing experience, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is the way to go. Its advanced features, software suite, and ergonomic design cater to demanding users.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon M1230 and Wacom Intuos Pro M are excellent choices, the drawing tablet market offers a plethora of options to suit different needs and preferences. Consider exploring tablets from other brands like XP-Pen, Huion, and Ugee, which offer competitive features and pricing.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Artistic Journey
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal decision. Take your time to research, compare, and consider your artistic goals and budget. Whether you opt for the Gaomon M1230 or the Wacom Intuos Pro M, remember that the most important factor is finding a tablet that inspires your creativity and helps you bring your artistic visions to life.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What are the differences in pen technology between the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro M?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, but the Wacom Intuos Pro M has a slightly higher reporting rate, leading to smoother and more responsive lines, especially for fast strokes. The Wacom pen also features a more ergonomic design and a customizable side switch for added control.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners, but the Gaomon M1230 offers a more affordable entry point. Its large active area and comfortable pen make it easy to learn and experiment with drawing.
Q: What is the difference in software support between the two tablets?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro M comes bundled with a more comprehensive software suite, including Wacom‘s own software for creative workflows. The Gaomon M1230 offers a basic software bundle, but it is compatible with most popular drawing software.
Q: Are there any other features to consider?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro M features wireless connectivity, allowing for a clutter-free workspace. The Gaomon M1230 is only available with a wired connection. Both tablets offer customizable express keys and touch rings for personalized workflow.