Quick summary
- Known for its reputation for quality and precision, the Intuos Pro S offers a smaller active area but comes with advanced features like customizable express keys and pen pressure sensitivity.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S offer pens designed for comfort and precision.
- While both pens offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience, the Intuos Pro S’s active pen technology provides a more accurate and precise experience, especially for detailed work.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with popular contenders like the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S. Both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making the decision a tough one. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of each tablet, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice.
Unveiling the Contenders: A Quick Overview
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s briefly introduce our contenders:
- Gaomon PD1220: This tablet boasts a large active area, pressure sensitivity, and affordable price point, making it a popular choice for beginners and professionals alike.
- Wacom Intuos Pro S: Known for its reputation for quality and precision, the Intuos Pro S offers a smaller active area but comes with advanced features like customizable express keys and pen pressure sensitivity.
Active Area: Size Matters
The active area, the surface you draw on, plays a crucial role in your creative workflow. The Gaomon PD1220 offers a generous 11.6-inch active area, providing ample space for detailed drawings and expansive compositions. This makes it ideal for artists who prefer a larger canvas or work with intricate details.
The Wacom Intuos Pro S, on the other hand, features a smaller 6.5-inch active area. While this may seem restrictive, it can be a boon for users with limited desk space or those who prioritize precision and control. The smaller area allows for more precise movements and reduces the risk of accidental strokes.
Ultimately, the ideal active area depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value spaciousness and a wide canvas for your art, the PD1220’s larger active area might be a better fit. However, if you prioritize precision and control in a compact design, the Intuos Pro S’s smaller active area could be more suitable.
Pressure Sensitivity: The Key to Naturality
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial feature for any drawing tablet, allowing you to vary line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied. Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S excel in this department.
The PD1220 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a smooth and responsive experience. You can effortlessly transition from delicate lines to bold strokes, creating a wide range of artistic effects.
The Intuos Pro S also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a natural and intuitive drawing experience. The pen’s sensitivity translates accurately to your digital canvas, allowing for subtle nuances and precise control.
While both tablets offer impressive pressure sensitivity, the difference lies in the pen technology. The PD1220 uses a passive pen, which relies on the tablet’s sensors to detect pressure. The Intuos Pro S, on the other hand, utilizes an active pen with its own internal sensors, offering a more accurate and responsive experience.
Pen Performance: Smooth Strokes and Responsiveness
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S offer pens designed for comfort and precision.
The PD1220’s pen offers a comfortable grip and a variety of customizable features. It features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience. The pen also has a side button that can be programmed to perform various functions, enhancing your creative workflow.
The Intuos Pro S’s pen is renowned for its accuracy and responsiveness. It features a comfortable grip, a responsive tip, and a customizable side button. The pen’s pressure sensitivity is exceptional, allowing for subtle nuances and precise control.
While both pens offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience, the Intuos Pro S’s active pen technology provides a more accurate and precise experience, especially for detailed work. The PD1220’s passive pen is a solid choice for general drawing and sketching, but it may not be as ideal for intricate details or professional-level work.
Software and Compatibility: Unleashing Creative Potential
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S offer excellent compatibility with popular drawing software. The PD1220 supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Android, making it a versatile choice for different platforms. Its driver is readily available and offers customization options for pen pressure and button assignments.
The Wacom Intuos Pro S, being a Wacom product, enjoys seamless compatibility with Wacom’s own software, including the popular Wacom Driver and Wacom Desktop Center. These applications provide a comprehensive suite of features, including pen customization, express key programming, and software integration. The Intuos Pro S also boasts excellent compatibility with major drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance
The Gaomon PD1220 stands out for its affordability, offering a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious artists. Its combination of features and price makes it an attractive option for beginners and hobbyists.
The Wacom Intuos Pro S, while more expensive, offers a premium experience with its advanced features and reputation for quality. Its price reflects its reputation as a professional-grade tablet, catering to artists who demand the best in terms of precision and control.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Artistic Journey
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S ultimately boils down to your individual needs and budget. If you’re a beginner or a hobbyist looking for a spacious and affordable drawing tablet, the Gaomon PD1220 is an excellent choice. Its large active area, pressure sensitivity, and compatibility with popular software make it a versatile and value-driven option.
However, if you’re a professional artist or someone who prioritizes precision and control, the Wacom Intuos Pro S is a worthy investment. Its smaller active area, advanced pen technology, and seamless integration with Wacom software provide a premium drawing experience.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Creative Landscape
Whether you choose the Gaomon PD1220 or the Wacom Intuos Pro S, remember that the best drawing tablet is the one that empowers you to express your creativity. Explore different software, experiment with different pen settings, and embrace the journey of artistic exploration.
What You Need to Know
Q1: Is the Gaomon PD1220 compatible with macOS?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1220 is compatible with macOS. It comes with drivers that are available for download on the Gaomon website.
Q2: Does the Wacom Intuos Pro S come with a pen stand?
A: Yes, the Wacom Intuos Pro S comes with a pen stand that holds the pen securely and keeps its tip protected.
Q3: Can I use the Gaomon PD1220 with an Android phone?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1220 is compatible with Android devices. You’ll need to ensure your Android device has USB-C connectivity and download the appropriate driver.
Q4: What kind of pen nibs does the Wacom Intuos Pro S use?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro S uses standard Wacom pen nibs, which are readily available for purchase. They come in various tip sizes and materials to suit different drawing styles and preferences.
Q5: Can I customize the express keys on the Wacom Intuos Pro S?
A: Yes, you can customize the express keys on the Wacom Intuos Pro S using the Wacom Desktop Center software. You can assign shortcuts, keyboard commands, or specific functions to each key to enhance your workflow.