What To Know
- The Artist 12, on the other hand, comes in a more modern white plastic design with a glossy finish.
- The Gaomon PD1161 is a pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in screen.
- The XP-Pen Artist 12, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, featuring a built-in LCD screen.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. Two popular contenders in the affordable category are the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12**. Both offer a decent drawing experience, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and XP-Pen Artist 12 boast sleek and minimalist designs. The PD1161 features a black plastic exterior with a slightly textured surface, providing a firm grip. The Artist 12, on the other hand, comes in a more modern white plastic design with a glossy finish. While the glossy finish might look appealing, it’s more prone to fingerprints and smudges.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. However, the PD1161’s slightly thicker frame might make it feel a bit heavier than the Artist 12. The tablets also come with different stands, with the PD1161 offering a more adjustable stand that can be tilted to multiple angles.
Active Area and Screen Size
The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that responds to your pen input. Both the PD1161 and Artist 12 offer a 10 x 6.25 inch active area, which is the standard size for a 12-inch drawing tablet. However, the Artist 12’s screen size is slightly larger at 11.6 inches compared to the PD1161’s 11.6 inches. This difference might not seem significant, but it can impact your overall drawing experience, especially if you prefer a larger canvas.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high sensitivity allows for a more nuanced and natural drawing experience, as it accurately captures the force of your strokes. The pens themselves are quite similar in terms of weight and balance, providing a comfortable grip.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Gaomon PD1161 is a pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in screen. This means you’ll need to rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback. The XP-Pen Artist 12, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, featuring a built-in LCD screen. This allows you to see your drawings directly on the tablet, providing a more natural and immersive drawing experience.
The Artist 12’s display boasts a 1920 x 1080 resolution, offering sharp and vibrant visuals. It also has a 72% NTSC color gamut, which is decent for general drawing tasks. However, if you’re looking for professional-grade color accuracy, you might want to consider a tablet with a higher color gamut.
Software and Compatibility
Both the PD1161 and Artist 12 are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They come with driver software that allows you to customize pen settings, calibrate the tablet, and configure various other options. The software is generally user-friendly and straightforward, making it easy to set up and use.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1161 is generally priced slightly lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12. This makes the PD1161 a more budget-friendly option, especially for beginners. However, the Artist 12’s built-in screen offers a more convenient and immersive drawing experience, justifying its slightly higher price tag.
Gaomon PD1161 vs XP-Pen Artist 12: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1161 and XP-Pen Artist 12 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Gaomon PD1161 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You don’t mind using a separate monitor.
- You prefer a more adjustable stand.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 if:
- You want a built-in screen for a more immersive experience.
- You’re willing to pay a bit more for added convenience.
- You’re looking for a tablet with a larger screen size.
The Final Verdict: Beyond the Showdown
While both the Gaomon PD1161 and XP-Pen Artist 12 are excellent drawing tablets for their price range, they cater to different needs. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best fits your budget, workflow, and drawing style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use the Gaomon PD1161 with a smartphone or tablet?
A: No, the Gaomon PD1161 is only compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. It cannot be used with mobile devices.
Q2: Does the XP-Pen Artist 12 come with a pen holder?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Artist 12 comes with a pen holder that can be attached to the tablet’s stand.
Q3: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 with Photoshop or other drawing software?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Artist 12 is compatible with most popular drawing software, including Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q4: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both the Gaomon PD1161 and XP-Pen Artist 12 typically come with a one-year warranty.
Q5: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range worth considering?
A: Yes, there are other budget-friendly drawing tablets available, such as the Huion H610 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro. You can compare their features and specifications to find the best option for you.