Quick summary
- The active area, or the drawing surface, is a crucial factor in choosing a drawing tablet.
- Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of a drawing tablet, as it allows for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied.
- The PD1561 takes it a step further by including a touch ring, offering a more intuitive and efficient way to navigate through menus and adjust settings.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Gaomon, a prominent player in the digital art world, offers a diverse range of tablets, each catering to different needs and budgets. Two popular contenders often spark debate: the Gaomon PD1320 and the Gaomon PD1561. This blog post delves into a comprehensive comparison of these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and PD1561 boast a sleek and ergonomic design, prioritizing user comfort during extended drawing sessions. The PD1320 features a compact footprint, making it ideal for those with limited desk space. Its lightweight construction further enhances portability, allowing you to take your art on the go. The PD1561, on the other hand, offers a larger active area, providing ample space for intricate details and expansive compositions. Its robust build quality ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for years to come.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area, or the drawing surface, is a crucial factor in choosing a drawing tablet. The PD1320 boasts a 10.6-inch active area, while the PD1561 boasts a larger 13.3-inch active area. This difference might seem minor, but it significantly impacts the overall drawing experience. The PD1320’s smaller active area might feel cramped for users accustomed to larger screens, while the PD1561 offers ample space for detailed work and multi-tasking.
In terms of resolution, both tablets deliver impressive performance. The PD1320 boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), while the PD1561 offers a slightly higher resolution of 5080 LPI. This translates to precise cursor movement and accurate line rendering, ensuring that your digital strokes closely mirror your real-world brushstrokes.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of a drawing tablet, as it allows for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied. Both the PD1320 and PD1561 feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivering a responsive and nuanced drawing experience. The pen technology employed in both tablets is also noteworthy. Both include a battery-free, passive pen, eliminating the need for charging or replacing batteries. The pens are designed for ergonomic comfort and offer a natural feel, akin to using a traditional pen or pencil.
Features and Functionality
Both tablets offer a range of features designed to enhance your drawing experience. Both include eight customizable shortcut keys, allowing you to assign frequently used functions for quick access. The PD1561 takes it a step further by including a touch ring, offering a more intuitive and efficient way to navigate through menus and adjust settings. This touch ring can be customized to perform various functions, such as zooming, scrolling, or changing brush sizes.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the PD1320 and PD1561 offer reliable connectivity through a USB cable. This eliminates the need for Bluetooth pairing and ensures a stable connection. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, providing flexibility for users across different platforms.
Performance and Accuracy
Both tablets deliver smooth and responsive performance, ensuring that your strokes are captured accurately and displayed seamlessly on your screen. The high-speed reporting rate contributes to a lag-free drawing experience, allowing for precise control and natural flow.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1320 is generally priced more affordably than the PD1561. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the PD1561 offers a larger active area, touch ring functionality, and potentially higher resale value, justifying its higher price tag. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Canvas for Your Art
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1320 and PD1561 boils down to your specific requirements and priorities. If you prioritize portability and a compact footprint, the PD1320 offers a compelling value proposition. Its smaller active area might be a drawback for some, but it excels in portability and affordability.
For those seeking a larger drawing space and enhanced functionality, the PD1561 emerges as the clear winner. Its expansive active area, touch ring, and robust design make it a compelling choice for professional artists and enthusiasts alike.
Top Questions Asked
Q1: Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The PD1320’s lower price point might be more appealing to those starting out, while the PD1561’s larger active area might provide more room for experimentation and learning.
Q2: Can I use these tablets with an iPad?
No, these tablets are designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. They are not compatible with iPads or other mobile devices.
Q3: What are the key differences between the PD1320 and PD1561?
The main differences lie in the active area size, touch ring functionality, and price. The PD1561 offers a larger active area, touch ring, and a higher price tag compared to the PD1320.
Q4: Do these tablets come with software?
Both tablets come with driver software that enables them to function properly with your computer. They do not typically include drawing software, but you can use them with popular drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Q5: Is there a warranty on these tablets?
Yes, both the PD1320 and PD1561 usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty. The specific warranty terms and duration may vary depending on your region and retailer.