Master Your Artistry: Choosing Between Gaomon PD1220 and XP Pen Star G960S Plus

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one comes out on top? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Gaomon PD1220 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame. Its active area measures 11.6 inches diagonally, offering ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet feels sturdy and well-built, with a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip.

The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also features a sleek design, with a slightly more rounded frame. It also offers a generous active area of 11.6 inches diagonally. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go. The build quality is solid, with a smooth plastic surface that feels comfortable to the touch.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

Both tablets utilize a pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for greater control and nuance in your strokes, mimicking the natural feel of drawing on paper. The Gaomon PD1220’s pen features a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, providing a smooth and accurate drawing experience. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus’s pen also offers a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, but it features additional buttons that can be customized for various functions.

Display and Resolution

The Gaomon PD1220 is a pen tablet, meaning it does not have a built-in display. This means you’ll need to rely on your computer monitor to view your artwork. However, the tablet’s large active area and high resolution (5080 LPI) ensure precise and detailed drawings.

The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is also a pen tablet without a display. It boasts a similar active area and resolution (5080 LPI) to the Gaomon PD1220, providing a smooth and accurate drawing experience.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Both tablets connect to your computer via USB cable. The Gaomon PD1220 supports both Windows and macOS operating systems, while the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android devices.

Software and Drivers

Both tablets come with their own dedicated software and drivers, which provide customizable features and settings. The Gaomon PD1220 software offers options for pen pressure sensitivity, shortcut key customization, and more. The **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** software also provides similar customization options, along with additional features like screen rotation and pressure sensitivity calibration.

Price and Value

The Gaomon PD1220 is slightly more affordable than the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both tablets offer excellent value for their price, providing a high-quality drawing experience without breaking the bank.

Final Verdict: Deciding the Winner

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** offer excellent value for money and are capable of producing high-quality artwork. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable tablet with a large active area and responsive pen, the Gaomon PD1220 is a great option. However, if you prefer a tablet with additional pen buttons and compatibility with Android devices, the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** might be a better fit.

Choosing the Right Tablet: A Comprehensive Guide

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider when choosing between the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:

• Budget: The Gaomon PD1220 is slightly more affordable than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus.
• Active area: Both tablets offer a large active area of 11.6 inches diagonally.
• Pen technology: Both tablets feature a pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
• Pen buttons: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus’s pen has additional buttons that can be customized for various functions.
• Compatibility: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android devices, while the Gaomon PD1220 supports Windows and macOS.
• Software and drivers: Both tablets come with their own dedicated software and drivers, offering customizable features and settings.

Beyond Drawing Tablets: Exploring Other Options

While the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are excellent choices for aspiring and seasoned artists, there are other options available depending on your specific needs and budget. Here are some alternatives to consider:

• Huion Kamvas Pro 13: Offers a built-in display, making it a great option for artists who prefer a more traditional drawing experience.
• Wacom Intuos Pro: Known for its high-quality pen technology and advanced features, but it comes at a higher price point.
• XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro: Another great option with a built-in display, offering a vibrant and accurate color reproduction.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are great options for beginners. They are both affordable, easy to use, and offer a responsive drawing experience.

Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?

A: Both tablets are capable of producing high-quality artwork and can be used by professional artists. However, artists who need advanced features and customization options might prefer a tablet like the Wacom Intuos Pro.

Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?

A: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus is compatible with Android devices, while the Gaomon PD1220 is not.

Q: What is the difference between a pen tablet and a drawing monitor?

A: A pen tablet is a device that uses a pressure-sensitive pen to input drawing strokes, which are then displayed on your computer monitor. A drawing monitor has a built-in display, allowing you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s screen.

Q: Are there any other factors I should consider when choosing a drawing tablet?

A: Yes, there are a few other factors to consider, such as:

• Active area size: Choose a tablet with an active area that is large enough for your drawing style.
• Pen pressure sensitivity: Look for a tablet with a high level of pressure sensitivity to ensure accurate and nuanced strokes.
• Pen buttons: Consider the number and placement of pen buttons, as they can be customized for various functions.
• Connectivity: Choose a tablet that supports the connection options you need.
• Software and drivers: Look for a tablet with user-friendly software and drivers that offer customizable features and settings.

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By considering the factors discussed in this blog post, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect tablet to unleash your artistic potential.