What To Know
- The Gaomon M1230 is one of the most budget-friendly drawing tablets available, making it an attractive option for beginners and those on a tight budget.
- The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity offer a good level of control and nuance for drawing, allowing for a more natural and expressive experience.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a compact and powerful drawing tablet that packs a punch despite its small size.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re starting out and have a limited budget. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly realm are the Gaomon M1230 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both offer a decent drawing experience, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
The Gaomon M1230: A Solid Entry-Level Option
The Gaomon M1230 is a popular choice for beginners thanks to its affordable price and decent performance. Its 10 x 6.25-inch active area provides ample space for drawing, while the 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity offer a good level of control and nuance.
Pros:
- Affordable Price: The Gaomon M1230 is one of the most budget-friendly drawing tablets available, making it an attractive option for beginners and those on a tight budget.
- Large Active Area: With a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, the M1230 provides ample space for drawing and navigating the canvas.
- Good Pressure Sensitivity: The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity offer a good level of control and nuance for drawing, allowing for a more natural and expressive experience.
- Driver Support: Gaomon provides drivers for both Windows and macOS, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Cons:
- Basic Design: The M1230 has a somewhat basic design and lacks the premium feel of some other tablets.
- No Express Keys: The tablet doesn’t come with any express keys or buttons, which can be inconvenient for some users.
- Pen Tilt Sensitivity: Unlike some other tablets, the M1230 doesn’t offer pen tilt sensitivity, which can limit the expressiveness of your strokes.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: A Compact Powerhouse
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a compact and powerful drawing tablet that packs a punch despite its small size. It comes with a 5.5 x 3.25-inch active area, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and pen tilt sensitivity, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced artists.
Pros:
- Compact Design: The Pen Tablet Small is incredibly compact and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- Pen Tilt Sensitivity: The tablet offers pen tilt sensitivity, allowing for more expressive and nuanced strokes.
- Comfortable Pen: The Pen is designed for comfort and precision, featuring an ergonomic grip and a low-friction tip.
- Express Keys: The Pen Tablet Small comes with eight customizable express keys, allowing for quick access to frequently used tools and shortcuts.
Cons:
- Smaller Active Area: The smaller active area might be limiting for some users, especially those who prefer a larger drawing space.
- Higher Price: The Pen Tablet Small is slightly more expensive than the Gaomon M1230, making it less budget-friendly.
A Detailed Feature Comparison: Gaomon M1230 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
To make the best choice for your needs, let’s compare the key features of these two tablets:
| Feature | Gaomon M1230 | Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small |
| — | — | — |
| Active Area | 10 x 6.25 inches | 5.5 x 3.25 inches |
| Pressure Sensitivity | 8192 levels | 8192 levels |
| Pen Tilt Sensitivity | No | Yes |
| Express Keys | No | 8 customizable express keys |
| Pen Buttons | 2 | 2 |
| Driver Support | Windows & macOS | Windows & macOS |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Slightly more expensive |
The Verdict: Which Tablet Is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon M1230 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Go for the Gaomon M1230 if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
- You need a large active area for drawing.
- You’re a beginner who’s just starting out with digital art.
Go for the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small if:
- You’re looking for a compact and portable tablet.
- You value pen tilt sensitivity for more expressive strokes.
- You want customizable express keys for quick access to tools.
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for premium features.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Factors
While the features discussed above are crucial, other factors can influence your decision.
1. Pen Feel and Ergonomics:
Both tablets offer comfortable pens, but the Xencelabs Pen is known for its ergonomic design and low-friction tip, which can enhance precision and control.
2. Driver Software:
Both Gaomon and Xencelabs provide drivers for their tablets, offering customization options and settings. However, some users might find Xencelabs‘ driver software more user-friendly and feature-rich.
3. Customer Support:
Both companies offer customer support, but some users report better experiences with Xencelabs’ customer service.
The Final Word: Embark on Your Artistic Journey
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. The Gaomon M1230 is an excellent entry-level option, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a more premium experience with added features.
By carefully considering your needs and weighing the pros and cons of each tablet, you can choose the perfect tool to unleash your artistic potential.
What People Want to Know
1. Are these tablets compatible with both Windows and macOS?
Yes, both the Gaomon M1230 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
2. Can I use these tablets for photo editing and other creative tasks?
Absolutely! While primarily designed for drawing, these tablets can be used for a wide range of creative tasks, including photo editing, graphic design, and animation.
3. Do these tablets come with a screen protector?
No, neither tablet comes with a screen protector. However, you can purchase one separately to protect the tablet’s surface from scratches.
4. What’s the difference between pressure sensitivity and pen tilt sensitivity?
Pressure sensitivity allows you to vary the thickness and intensity of your lines based on how hard you press the pen. Pen tilt sensitivity detects the angle of the pen and allows you to create more expressive strokes, such as shading and blending.
5. Can I use these tablets with any drawing software?
Yes, these tablets are compatible with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.