Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Gaomon PD1220 vs XP Pen Deco Pro SW for Artists!

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro SW**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for artists, designers, and digital illustrators. But which one emerges as the ultimate champion? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body. Its active area measures 11.6 x 6.5 inches, providing ample space for creative expression. The tablet is relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport. The build quality feels solid and durable, ensuring longevity.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW: The Deco Pro SW features a more compact design with a smaller active area of 10 x 6 inches. It comes in a variety of colors, adding a touch of personalization. The tablet is built with a sturdy plastic frame and a textured surface, offering a comfortable grip. While smaller than the PD1220, it remains portable and lightweight.

Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy

Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control and natural brush strokes. The pen boasts a low activation force, making it responsive to subtle pressure variations. The accuracy of the tablet is commendable, with a resolution of 5080 LPI.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW: The Deco Pro SW also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of control and responsiveness. The pen features a comfortable grip and a low activation force, ensuring smooth and accurate lines. The tablet offers a resolution of 5080 LPI, matching the PD1220 in accuracy.

Pen Features and Functionality

Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 comes with a battery-free pen that features two programmable buttons. These buttons can be customized to suit your workflow, allowing for quick access to frequently used tools. The pen has a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, providing a natural drawing experience.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW: The Deco Pro SW also includes a battery-free pen with two programmable buttons. The pen features a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, similar to the PD1220. The buttons can be customized to access various tools and functions, enhancing workflow efficiency.

Driver Support and Compatibility

Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. Gaomon provides drivers that offer customization options, including pressure sensitivity settings, pen button mapping, and screen rotation. The drivers are generally stable and reliable, ensuring smooth operation.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW: The Deco Pro SW is also compatible with Windows and macOS. XP-Pen provides comprehensive drivers that allow for customization of pressure sensitivity, pen button mapping, and other settings. The drivers are known for their stability and compatibility with various software applications.

Software and Features

Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 offers basic software features, including pressure sensitivity settings and pen button mapping. However, it lacks advanced features like customizable hotkeys or gesture support.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW: The Deco Pro SW includes more advanced software features, such as customizable hotkeys, gesture support, and screen rotation. These features enhance productivity and streamline workflow, providing a more comprehensive user experience.

Price and Value

Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is generally priced lower than the Deco Pro SW, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. Despite the lower price, it offers impressive performance and features, making it a great value for money.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW: The Deco Pro SW is slightly more expensive than the PD1220. However, its advanced software features, customizable hotkeys, and gesture support justify the price difference for users who value these functionalities.

Choosing the Right Tablet: A Summary

The choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Gaomon PD1220:

• Pros: Affordable, large active area, impressive pressure sensitivity, comfortable pen.
• Cons: Limited software features, no gesture support.

XP-Pen Deco Pro SW:

• Pros: Advanced software features, customizable hotkeys, gesture support, comfortable pen.
• Cons: Smaller active area, slightly more expensive.

If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a large active area, the Gaomon PD1220 is an excellent choice. However, if you value advanced software features, customizable hotkeys, and gesture support, the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW is the better option.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

Both tablets offer excellent performance and features, making them worthy contenders in the drawing tablet market. While the Gaomon PD1220 excels in affordability and large active area, the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW takes the lead with its advanced software features and customization options. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Are both tablets compatible with Photoshop and Illustrator?

A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW are compatible with popular drawing software like Photoshop and Illustrator.

Q: Do both tablets require a battery-powered pen?

A: No, both tablets come with battery-free pens, eliminating the need for charging or battery replacement.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1220 offers a good balance of affordability and performance, while the XP-Pen Deco Pro SW provides more advanced features for those who want to explore customization options.

Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?

A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets available, including the Wacom Intuos, the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro. It’s always a good idea to research and compare different options before making a purchase.