Unveiling the Battle of the Drawing Tablets: Gaomon PD1220 vs. Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the wide variety of options available. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable tablet for digital art, two popular contenders often come up: the Gaomon PD1220 and the **Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium**.

Both tablets offer a generous drawing area and pressure sensitivity, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two tablets, exploring their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Drawing Area and Design

The Gaomon PD1220 boasts a large 11.6-inch active area, providing ample space for intricate drawings and detailed work. Its sleek black design with a textured surface adds a professional touch. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, offers a slightly smaller 10.6-inch active area but features a minimalist white design with a smooth, glossy surface.

Both tablets come with adjustable stands, allowing you to customize the angle for a comfortable drawing experience. The Gaomon PD1220’s stand is more compact and less adjustable, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium‘s stand is more robust and offers a wider range of angles.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The Gaomon PD1220 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, offering a natural drawing experience. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also features a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, but it boasts a more ergonomic design with a textured grip for enhanced control.

Both pens offer customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform various functions, such as brush size adjustment or undo/redo actions. While both tablets provide a smooth and responsive drawing experience, the Xencelabs pen is generally praised for its superior pressure sensitivity and responsiveness.

Software and Compatibility

The Gaomon PD1220 is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems and works with various digital art software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. It also includes driver software for customizing pen settings and configuring hotkeys. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium shares the same compatibility and software support, but it also offers a unique feature: the Xencelabs Pen Control software.

This software allows for more advanced customization options for pen pressure, tilt sensitivity, and button assignments, providing a more personalized drawing experience. However, it’s worth noting that the Xencelabs Pen Control software is only available for Windows and macOS.

Pros and Cons

Gaomon PD1220:

Pros:

• Large 11.6-inch active area
• Affordable price point
• Battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
• Compatible with Windows and macOS

Cons:

• Basic design and limited customization options
• Pen might feel less responsive compared to the Xencelabs pen

Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

Pros:

• Ergonomic pen with textured grip for enhanced control
• More responsive pressure sensitivity
• Customizable Pen Control software for advanced settings
• Sleek and minimalist design

Cons:

• Smaller 10.6-inch active area
• Slightly higher price compared to the Gaomon PD1220

Choosing the Right Tablet for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual preferences and needs.

• If you prioritize a large drawing area and affordability, the Gaomon PD1220 is a great option. It offers ample space for creative exploration without breaking the bank.
• If you value a more ergonomic and responsive pen with advanced customization options, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a better choice. Its superior pen technology and software features cater to professional artists and those seeking a more refined drawing experience.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

While the drawing area, pen technology, and software are crucial factors, other aspects may influence your decision:

• Express Keys: Both tablets offer customizable express keys for quick access to common functions. However, the Gaomon PD1220 has more express keys, which can be beneficial for users who rely heavily on keyboard shortcuts.
• Tilt Sensitivity: Both pens support tilt sensitivity, allowing for a more natural drawing experience. However, the Xencelabs pen is generally considered to offer more accurate and responsive tilt recognition.
• Customer Support: Xencelabs has a reputation for excellent customer support, while Gaomon’s support can be inconsistent.

The Verdict: Which Tablet Reigns Supreme?

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium edges out the Gaomon PD1220 with its superior pen technology, ergonomic design, and advanced software features.

While the Gaomon PD1220 is a more affordable option, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium provides a more refined and professional drawing experience, making it a worthy investment for serious artists and professionals.

The Final Word: Your Artistic Journey Begins Here

Ultimately, the choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes down to your individual needs and budget. Consider your drawing style, preferred features, and level of experience to make an informed decision.

Whichever tablet you choose, remember that the most important factor is finding a tool that inspires you and helps you bring your artistic vision to life.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which tablet is best for beginners?

A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1220 is a more affordable option, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more intuitive and user-friendly experience with its ergonomic pen and customizable software.

Q: Can I use these tablets with my iPad?

A: No, these tablets are designed for use with computers running Windows or macOS. They are not compatible with iPads.

Q: Does the pen need batteries?

A: No, both tablets come with battery-free pens, eliminating the need to worry about charging or replacing batteries.

Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?

A: The Gaomon PD1220 typically comes with a one-year warranty, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a two-year warranty.

Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?

A: Yes, these tablets can be used for photo editing with various software applications, such as Adobe Photoshop and GIMP. However, they are primarily designed for digital art and drawing.