Unveiling the Battle: Gaomon PD1320 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium – Which Reigns Supreme in Drawing Tablets?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can feel like navigating a labyrinth of features, specs, and price points. The Gaomon PD1320 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a common dilemma for artists, illustrators, and designers seeking a reliable and affordable tool. Both tablets boast attractive features and a loyal following, but which one truly stands out? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision for your creative journey.

The Gaomon PD1320: A Budget-Friendly Option

The Gaomon PD1320 is a popular choice among budget-conscious artists. It offers a large active area, pressure sensitivity, and customizable buttons, all at a price that won’t break the bank.

Key Features of the Gaomon PD1320:

• Large Active Area: With a 13.3-inch active area, the PD1320 provides ample space for drawing, sketching, and painting.
• 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity: This allows for nuanced strokes and precise control over line thickness and brush pressure.
• Customizable Express Keys: Eight customizable express keys provide shortcuts for frequently used functions.
• Affordable Price: The PD1320 is significantly cheaper than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious users.

Strengths of the Gaomon PD1320:

• Value for Money: The PD1320 offers exceptional value for its price, providing a large active area, high pressure sensitivity, and customizable buttons.
• Large Active Area: The spacious active area is perfect for intricate drawings and detailed work.
• Good Pen Performance: The pen offers smooth and responsive drawing, with good pressure sensitivity and tilt support.

Weaknesses of the Gaomon PD1320:

• Build Quality: Some users have reported concerns about the build quality, particularly the plastic casing.
• Driver Issues: Occasional driver issues have been reported, which can affect the tablet’s performance.
• Limited Software Support: Gaomon offers limited software support compared to Xencelabs.

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: Premium Performance and Design

The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium caters to professionals and serious artists seeking a premium drawing experience. It boasts a sleek design, advanced pen technology, and a focus on ergonomics.

Key Features of the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Sleek and Ergonomic Design: The tablet features a minimalist design with a comfortable grip and a tilted surface for a natural drawing posture.
• Advanced Pen Technology: The Pen offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and a low-latency response.
• Customizable Express Keys: Eight customizable express keys and a touch ring provide quick access to frequently used functions.
• Dedicated Software: Xencelabs offers a suite of software, including the Pen Control app for customization and the Quick Keys app for creating custom shortcuts.

Strengths of the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Premium Build Quality: The tablet boasts a sturdy and durable build with a premium feel.
• Ergonomic Design: The tilted surface and comfortable grip promote a natural drawing posture, reducing hand fatigue.
• Advanced Pen Technology: The pen delivers a smooth and responsive drawing experience with excellent pressure sensitivity and tilt support.
• Software Support: Xencelabs offers dedicated software for customization and functionality.

Weaknesses of the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium:

• Higher Price: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is significantly more expensive than the Gaomon PD1320.
• Smaller Active Area: The active area of the Pen Tablet Medium is smaller than the PD1320, which might be a disadvantage for some users.

Gaomon PD1320 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: A Detailed Comparison

Active Area: The Gaomon PD1320 wins this round with a larger active area of 13.3 inches compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s 10.6 inches. This provides more space for drawing and can be particularly beneficial for artists who work on large-scale projects.

Pressure Sensitivity: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivering accurate and nuanced stroke control. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s pen is generally regarded as having a more responsive and accurate pressure sensitivity.

Pen Technology: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium‘s pen boasts a more advanced design, featuring a low-latency response, tilt support, and a comfortable grip. The Gaomon PD1320’s pen, while capable, doesn’t offer the same level of precision and responsiveness.

Build Quality: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium excels in build quality, featuring a sturdy and durable construction with a premium feel. The Gaomon PD1320, while functional, has a more plastic-like build that may feel less robust.

Software Support: Xencelabs offers dedicated software for customization and functionality, including the Pen Control app and the Quick Keys app. Gaomon offers limited software support, which might be a drawback for users seeking advanced customization options.

Price: The Gaomon PD1320 is significantly more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists and hobbyists.

Which Drawing Tablet Should You Choose?

The best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and priorities.

Choose the Gaomon PD1320 if:

• You’re on a tight budget.
• You need a large active area for drawing.
• You’re comfortable with basic features and limited software support.

Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:

• You prioritize premium build quality and design.
• You need a responsive and accurate pen with advanced features.
• You’re willing to invest in a high-quality drawing tablet.
• You value dedicated software support for customization.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Gaomon PD1320 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are excellent choices, it’s worth exploring other options based on your specific needs. Consider tablets with:

• Different Active Area Sizes: Look for tablets with active areas that suit your preferred drawing style and canvas size.
• Wireless Connectivity: Some tablets offer wireless connectivity, providing greater freedom of movement.
• Advanced Features: Explore tablets with features like screen displays, multi-touch support, and customizable buttons.

The Final Verdict: A Choice Based on Your Creative Journey

The decision between the Gaomon PD1320 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately boils down to your individual priorities. If budget is your primary concern, the Gaomon PD1320 offers exceptional value. However, if you prioritize premium features, build quality, and dedicated software support, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the clear winner.

Information You Need to Know

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

A: The terms “drawing tablet” and “graphic tablet” are often used interchangeably. They both refer to input devices that allow you to draw, sketch, and paint digitally using a pen.

Q: Do I need a drawing tablet for digital art?

A: While you can create digital art using a mouse, a drawing tablet offers a more natural and intuitive drawing experience, allowing for greater precision and control.

Q: Can I use a drawing tablet with any software?

A: Most drawing tablets are compatible with a wide range of digital art software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

Q: How do I choose the right drawing tablet for me?

A: Consider your budget, active area size, pen technology, and software compatibility. It’s also helpful to read reviews and compare features before making a decision.