At a Glance
- While both tablets feature a pressure-sensitive pen, the PD1161’s pen is slightly lighter and thinner, offering a more comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions.
- If you’re looking for a portable and affordable tablet with excellent drawing capabilities, the PD1161 is an excellent choice.
- However, if you prioritize a direct visual feedback experience and a larger drawing area, the PD1220’s built-in display and enhanced features are worth considering.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Gaomon, a renowned brand in the digital art world, offers two popular choices: the PD1161 and the PD1220. Both tablets boast impressive features, but which one emerges as the victor in the Gaomon PD1161 vs Gaomon PD1220 battle? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key differences and help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Design and Build Quality
Both the PD1161 and PD1220 share a sleek, minimalist design, with a black finish that complements any workspace. The PD1161 boasts a compact and portable form factor, making it ideal for artists on the go. Its 10 x 6.25-inch active area provides ample space for drawing and sketching. The PD1220, on the other hand, offers a larger 11.6 x 7-inch active area, providing more room for intricate details and expansive projects.
While both tablets feature a pressure-sensitive pen, the PD1161’s pen is slightly lighter and thinner, offering a more comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions. The PD1220’s pen, while heavier, provides a more substantial feel and a slight improvement in precision.
Display and Resolution
The PD1161 operates as a standard drawing tablet, lacking a built-in display. This means you’ll need to rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback. The PD1220, however, features a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing a direct visual representation of your strokes and colors. This eliminates the need for constant screen switching and enhances the overall drawing experience.
Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy
Both tablets boast 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a natural and responsive drawing experience. The PD1161 features a 5080 LPI resolution, while the PD1220 offers a slightly higher 5080 LPI resolution. This translates to increased accuracy and precision, allowing for finer details and smoother lines. However, both tablets provide excellent responsiveness and accuracy for most drawing tasks.
Pen Features and Functionality
The pens included with both tablets are battery-free and feature eight customizable buttons. These buttons can be assigned to various functions, such as brush size, color selection, or undo/redo. The PD1161’s pen features a single side button, while the PD1220 offers two side buttons for increased functionality.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets connect to your computer via USB cable. The PD1161 supports Windows 7 and above, as well as macOS 10.10 and above. The PD1220 also supports the same operating systems, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of software and devices.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with compatible drivers that provide access to various customization options, including pen pressure sensitivity, button mapping, and screen calibration. Gaomon’s software is user-friendly and straightforward, allowing for easy setup and configuration.
Price and Value
The PD1161 is generally more affordable than the PD1220, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the PD1220’s built-in display and enhanced features come at a premium price. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and budget.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon PD1161:
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable price
- Excellent pressure sensitivity and accuracy
- Battery-free pen with customizable buttons
Cons:
- No built-in display
- Smaller active area
Gaomon PD1220:
Pros:
- Built-in display for direct visual feedback
- Larger active area
- Enhanced pen with two side buttons
- Excellent pressure sensitivity and accuracy
Cons:
- Higher price
- Bulkier and less portable
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The choice between the Gaomon PD1161 and Gaomon PD1220 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a portable and affordable tablet with excellent drawing capabilities, the PD1161 is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize a direct visual feedback experience and a larger drawing area, the PD1220’s built-in display and enhanced features are worth considering.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Battle
While the Gaomon PD1161 vs Gaomon PD1220 comparison provides valuable insights, it’s crucial to remember that both tablets are capable drawing tools. Ultimately, the best tablet for you is the one that fits your workflow, budget, and artistic vision.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The PD1161’s affordability and portability make it an attractive option for those starting their digital art journey. However, the PD1220’s built-in display can be incredibly beneficial for learning and understanding the nuances of digital drawing.
Q2: Can I use the PD1161 or PD1220 with my iPad?
No, both tablets are designed for use with computers running Windows or macOS. They are not compatible with iPads or other mobile devices.
Q3: What software can I use with these tablets?
Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q4: Are the pens compatible with other Gaomon tablets?
The pens included with the PD1161 and PD1220 are designed for their respective tablets. However, some Gaomon pens may be compatible with other models. It’s always best to check the product specifications before purchasing.
Q5: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
Both the PD1161 and PD1220 come with a one-year warranty.