What To Know
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1161 and the Voila L deliver impressive performance in this area.
- The Voila L, on the other hand, has six customizable buttons on the tablet and two on the pen.
- Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L come with user-friendly driver software that allows you to customize settings, calibrate the tablet, and configure pen pressure sensitivity.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be daunting, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1161 and the **Veikk Voila L**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring artists, designers, and digital creatives. But which one truly deserves a spot on your desk? This comprehensive comparison delves deep into their specs, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L boast a sleek and modern design. The PD1161 features a black, minimalist aesthetic with a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip. The Voila L, on the other hand, opts for a slightly more vibrant design with a white and blue color scheme. Both tablets have a slim profile, making them easy to transport.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and durable. The PD1161’s construction feels slightly more robust, with a thicker frame and a more substantial feel. The Voila L, while still well-made, may feel a bit more plasticky in comparison.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that responds to your pen’s movements. In this regard, the PD1161 takes the lead with a spacious 10 x 6.25-inch active area, providing ample room for detailed drawings and gestures. The Voila L offers a slightly smaller active area of 9.7 x 6.5 inches, which might feel restrictive for some users, especially those who prefer larger working spaces.
Both tablets boast a high resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and accurate pen tracking. This translates to precise linework and detailed brush strokes, making them suitable for both sketching and intricate digital art.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1161 and the Voila L deliver impressive performance in this area. Both tablets feature battery-free pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and subtle variations in line thickness and opacity.
The PD1161’s pen, however, offers a slightly better overall feel. It has a more balanced weight and comfortable grip, and its tip glides smoothly across the tablet surface. The Voila L’s pen is also quite good, but it might feel a bit lighter and less responsive in comparison.
Buttons and Customization
Both tablets offer a decent selection of buttons for customization. The PD1161 has eight customizable buttons on the tablet itself, along with two buttons on the pen. The Voila L, on the other hand, has six customizable buttons on the tablet and two on the pen. This gives you ample options for assigning shortcuts and commands to streamline your workflow.
Driver Software and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L come with user-friendly driver software that allows you to customize settings, calibrate the tablet, and configure pen pressure sensitivity. Both drivers are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
The PD1161’s driver software is generally considered to be more stable and intuitive, with a wider range of customization options. The Voila L’s driver is also functional, but it might require some tweaking to achieve optimal performance.
Performance and Accuracy
In terms of performance, both tablets deliver smooth and responsive pen tracking. The PD1161, however, seems to have a slight edge in terms of accuracy and precision, especially when performing intricate details or delicate shading. The Voila L is also quite good, but it might exhibit minor lag or jitter in certain situations, particularly when working with complex brush strokes.
Price and Value
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L are budget-friendly options, offering impressive features for their price. The PD1161 is generally slightly more expensive than the Voila L, but its superior build quality, larger active area, and more accurate pen tracking justify the price difference for many users.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L boils down to your specific needs and preferences.
The Gaomon PD1161 is an excellent choice for:
- Artists who prioritize accuracy and precision.
- Those who prefer a larger active area for detailed work.
- Users who value a robust and durable build quality.
The Veikk Voila L is a great option for:
- Budget-conscious artists who need a good balance of features and affordability.
- Those who prefer a more vibrant design and a lighter pen.
- Users who don’t require the largest active area.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L are excellent choices, the market offers a variety of other drawing tablets to suit different needs and budgets. Consider exploring options like the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, or the Wacom Intuos Pro Small for a wider range of features and performance.
The Final Word: Empowering Your Creative Journey
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best fits your workflow and creative style. Whether you choose the Gaomon PD1161, the Veikk Voila L, or another option, remember that the most important factor is finding a tool that empowers you to express your artistic vision.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones or tablets?
A: No, both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L are designed for use with desktop computers. They are not compatible with smartphones or tablets.
Q: Do these tablets require any special software to function?
A: Both tablets require driver software to be installed on your computer. The drivers are available for download on the respective manufacturers‘ websites.
Q: Can I customize the buttons on the pen and tablet?
A: Yes, both tablets allow you to customize the buttons to perform specific actions or shortcuts within your drawing software.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: The warranty period varies depending on the manufacturer and retailer. It is recommended to check the specific warranty information before purchasing.
Q: Are these tablets suitable for professional use?
A: While both tablets offer impressive features and performance, they are primarily targeted towards aspiring artists and hobbyists. For professional use, consider exploring higher-end tablets with advanced features and more robust build quality.