Quick summary
- The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, has a more premium feel with a silver and black color scheme and a larger, more robust build.
- The M1230 features a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the Artist Pro 16 offers a higher resolution of 5080 LPI.
- The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 takes it a step further with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a tilt function, providing even more nuanced control over your strokes.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Gaomon M1230 and the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1230 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 both boast sleek and modern designs. The M1230 features a black, minimalist aesthetic with a textured surface for enhanced grip. It’s relatively lightweight and compact, making it portable for on-the-go sketching. The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, has a more premium feel with a silver and black color scheme and a larger, more robust build. It’s heavier and less portable than the M1230, but its sturdy construction ensures stability during use.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the responsive surface of the tablet where your stylus interacts. The Gaomon M1230 offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 boasts a larger 15.6-inch active area. This larger area provides more space for intricate drawings and allows for a more natural and immersive drawing experience. The resolution of the tablets also plays a crucial role in determining the precision and detail of your strokes. The M1230 features a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the Artist Pro 16 offers a higher resolution of 5080 LPI.
Stylus and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets come equipped with pressure-sensitive styluses that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The Gaomon M1230’s stylus features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for subtle variations in line width and opacity. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 takes it a step further with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a tilt function, providing even more nuanced control over your strokes. The Artist Pro 16’s stylus also includes side buttons that can be customized for various functions.
Display and Color Accuracy
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 stands out with its built-in 15.6-inch IPS display. This feature eliminates the need for a separate monitor and allows for a more direct and intuitive drawing experience. The display offers a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a wide color gamut, ensuring vibrant and accurate color reproduction. The Gaomon M1230 does not have a display, so you’ll need to connect it to a separate monitor.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer multiple connectivity options. The Gaomon M1230 connects via USB cable, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 provides both USB and HDMI connections for versatility. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. The Artist Pro 16 also supports Android devices via USB-C connection, making it a more flexible option for mobile artists.
Software and Drivers
Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer user-friendly software and drivers for their tablets. The software allows for customization of various settings, including pressure sensitivity, shortcut keys, and screen calibration. Both companies provide regular updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
Price and Value
The Gaomon M1230 is generally more affordable than the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. This price difference is mainly due to the absence of a built-in display in the M1230. However, the Artist Pro 16’s display and additional features come at a premium. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.
Which Tablet Is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon M1230 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 depends on your specific requirements and priorities.
Gaomon M1230 is a good choice for:
- Budget-conscious artists
- Artists who prefer a smaller and more portable tablet
- Artists who already have a suitable monitor
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is a good choice for:
- Artists who prioritize a large active area and immersive drawing experience
- Artists who value a built-in display for direct feedback
- Artists who need a versatile tablet that can be used with multiple devices
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs
While the specs provide a good starting point for comparison, it’s important to consider your individual preferences and artistic style. Some artists might prefer the portability and affordability of the Gaomon M1230, while others might find the immersive experience and advanced features of the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 more appealing. It’s recommended to try both tablets if possible to get a hands-on feel and determine which one best suits your needs.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use the Gaomon M1230 with a smartphone?
A: No, the Gaomon M1230 is not compatible with smartphones.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 come with a screen protector?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 includes a built-in screen protector.
Q: What is the difference between the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 and the Artist Pro 16.2?
A: The Artist Pro 16.2 is a newer model with improved color accuracy and a slightly faster refresh rate.
Q: Is the Gaomon M1230 compatible with Photoshop?
A: Yes, the Gaomon M1230 is compatible with Photoshop and other popular drawing software.
Q: What is the warranty period for both tablets?
A: Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their tablets.