What to know
- Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW boast a sleek and modern design, making them visually appealing additions to any workspace.
- Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of drawing tablets, allowing for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied to the pen.
- Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are priced competitively, offering excellent value for their features and performance.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW. Both tablets offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. But which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. We’ll analyze their design, performance, pressure sensitivity, active area, and more, ultimately guiding you towards the perfect drawing companion for your artistic journey.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW boast a sleek and modern design, making them visually appealing additions to any workspace.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 features a minimalist design with a black and silver color scheme. Its slim profile and rounded edges provide a comfortable grip. The tablet’s surface is made of a textured material that provides good friction for precise control.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW offers a similar minimalist design but with a slightly larger footprint. It features a smooth, glossy surface with a slightly textured feel. The tablet comes in black and white color options, adding a touch of personalization. Both tablets come with a detachable pen holder, allowing for easy storage and organization.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that responds to pen input. A larger active area allows for more natural hand movements and a more immersive drawing experience.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 boasts a generous active area of 11.6 x 7 inches, providing ample space for detailed drawings and intricate artwork.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW offers a slightly smaller active area of 10 x 6.25 inches. While still providing sufficient space for most drawing tasks, it might feel somewhat cramped for users who prefer a larger working canvas.
Resolution: Both tablets offer a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and precise pen strokes. This high resolution translates to accurate line rendering and a more natural drawing experience.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of drawing tablets, allowing for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied to the pen.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced and responsive drawing experience. The included pen features two customizable buttons that can be programmed for various shortcuts.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW also features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a similar level of responsiveness and control. The pen includes a single customizable button, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions.
Driver and Software Support
Both tablets rely on drivers for optimal performance and functionality. The drivers provide customization options for pen settings, shortcut keys, and tablet configuration.
Gaomon PD1220: Gaomon offers user-friendly drivers with a straightforward interface. The drivers provide basic customization options and support for various operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: XP-Pen also provides drivers with a clean and intuitive interface. The drivers offer more advanced customization options, including pen pressure curve adjustment and customizable shortcut keys. XP-Pen’s drivers are compatible with Windows, macOS, and even Android devices.
Compatibility and Connectivity
Both tablets offer flexible connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 connects to your computer via a USB cable, providing a reliable and stable connection.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW also offers USB connectivity, ensuring a seamless connection with your computer. Additionally, it features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless operation and greater freedom of movement.
Price and Value
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are priced competitively, offering excellent value for their features and performance.
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is typically priced slightly lower than the Deco Pro MW, making it a more budget-friendly option.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW is slightly more expensive than the PD1220, but its additional features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and advanced driver options, justify the price difference for some users.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Gaomon PD1220 vs XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
The choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Gaomon PD1220: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a large active area and excellent pressure sensitivity, the PD1220 is an excellent choice. Its simple design and reliable performance make it a great option for beginners and casual artists.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: If you prioritize wireless connectivity, advanced customization options, and a more premium feel, the Deco Pro MW is a solid choice. Its smaller active area might be a drawback for some, but its Bluetooth capability and driver features make it a compelling option for professionals and those who value flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
While the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are both fantastic drawing tablets, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences beyond the technical specifications. Think about your drawing style, budget, and the level of customization you require.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that complements your workflow and helps you unlock your artistic potential. Both the PD1220 and the Deco Pro MW offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, making them worthy contenders for your next creative adventure.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a tablet computer?
A: A drawing tablet is a peripheral device that connects to your computer and allows you to control a cursor or pen on the screen using a stylus. A tablet computer, on the other hand, is a self-contained device that combines the functionality of a laptop and a touchscreen tablet.
Q: Do I need a special pen for a drawing tablet?
A: Yes, drawing tablets typically come with a dedicated stylus that is specifically designed for use with the tablet’s surface. The stylus uses pressure sensitivity and other features to provide a natural drawing experience.
Q: Can I use a drawing tablet for photo editing?
A: Yes, drawing tablets can be used for photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and GIMP. The pen input allows for precise selection and manipulation of images, offering a more natural and intuitive editing experience.
Q: Which drawing tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are great options for beginners. The PD1220 is slightly more affordable, while the Deco Pro MW offers additional features such as Bluetooth connectivity. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and preferences.
Q: Can I use a drawing tablet with my smartphone or tablet?
A: Some drawing tablets, like the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW, offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing them to be used with compatible Android devices. However, not all drawing tablets support this functionality, so it’s essential to check the specifications before purchasing.