Quick summary
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1161 and the Deco Fun L come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools.
- The PD1161 has eight programmable buttons on the tablet itself, while the Deco Fun L offers six buttons on the pen and two on the tablet.
- Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L are compatible with Windows and macOS, making them versatile options for a wide range of users.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With countless options on the market, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of features and specifications. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Deco Fun L**. Both tablets offer a compelling combination of affordability and functionality, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L are designed with portability in mind. The PD1161 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body and a textured surface for better grip. The Deco Fun L, on the other hand, adopts a more playful aesthetic with a variety of vibrant color options and a slightly rounded design. Both tablets are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are solid and durable. The PD1161 feels slightly more robust, with a sturdier base and a more secure pen holder. The Deco Fun L, while still well-built, might feel a bit less substantial due to its lighter plastic frame.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the actual drawing surface on the tablet, while the resolution determines the tablet’s sensitivity and accuracy. The Gaomon PD1161 offers a larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for intricate drawings and comfortable hand movements. The XP-Pen Deco Fun L, however, has a smaller active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, which might feel restrictive for some users, especially those accustomed to larger tablets.
In terms of resolution, the PD1161 boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI (lines per inch), resulting in smoother lines and more precise control. The Deco Fun L offers a resolution of 4000 LPI, which is still decent but slightly less accurate than its counterpart.
Pen Technology and Features
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1161 and the Deco Fun L come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The PD1161’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced control over line weight and brush strokes. The Deco Fun L offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity as well, making it a capable tool for detailed artwork.
Both pens are battery-free, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries. However, the PD1161’s pen has a slightly more comfortable grip and a more responsive tip, making it slightly more pleasant to use for extended drawing sessions.
Buttons and Customization
Both tablets feature customizable buttons for shortcuts and hotkeys. The PD1161 has eight programmable buttons on the tablet itself, while the Deco Fun L offers six buttons on the pen and two on the tablet. This gives users ample options for customizing their workflow and streamlining their creative process.
Compatibility and Software
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L are compatible with Windows and macOS, making them versatile options for a wide range of users. They work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Both companies offer their own driver software, which allows for customization of pen settings, button assignments, and other tablet preferences. The Gaomon driver is known for its simplicity and ease of use, while the XP-Pen driver provides a more comprehensive set of features.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon PD1161
Pros:
- Larger active area
- Higher resolution
- More comfortable pen
- Eight programmable buttons
- Simple and user-friendly driver
Cons:
- Less stylish design
XP-Pen Deco Fun L
Pros:
- Stylish and vibrant design
- Six programmable buttons on the pen
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Lower resolution
- Less comfortable pen
- More complex driver
Which Tablet is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Gaomon PD1161 if:
- You prioritize a larger active area for comfortable drawing.
- You require high precision and sensitivity for detailed work.
- You prefer a simple and straightforward driver.
Choose the XP-Pen Deco Fun L if:
- You value a stylish and colorful design.
- You need a more affordable option.
- You prefer a pen with more buttons.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
While the PD1161 and the Deco Fun L are both excellent choices, there are other factors to consider when making your decision:
- Your budget: The Deco Fun L is generally more affordable than the PD1161.
- Your drawing style: If you primarily work on detailed illustrations or require precise control, the PD1161’s higher resolution and larger active area might be more suitable.
- Your software preferences: Ensure that the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- Your experience level: Beginners might find the Deco Fun L’s smaller active area and more affordable price point more appealing, while experienced artists might appreciate the PD1161’s advanced features.
The Final Verdict: A Draw?
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Deco Fun L are capable drawing tablets that offer a good balance of features and affordability. The PD1161 excels in terms of precision and active area, making it ideal for detailed work. The Deco Fun L, on the other hand, boasts a stylish design, a more affordable price point, and a pen with more buttons. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your individual preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for photo editing tasks like retouching, color correction, and masking.
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a graphics tablet?
A: The terms “drawing tablet” and “graphics tablet” are often used interchangeably. They both refer to input devices that allow you to control a computer cursor using a pen.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones or tablets?
A: Both the PD1161 and the Deco Fun L are designed for use with computers. They are not compatible with smartphones or tablets.
Q: How do I connect the tablet to my computer?
A: Both tablets connect to your computer via USB cable.
Q: Can I use these tablets with left-handed preference?
A: Yes, both tablets are designed to be used by both left-handed and right-handed users. The pen and button placement can be customized to suit your preference.