What To Know
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 includes a USB cable, a pen holder, a cleaning cloth, and a carrying case.
- However, it justifies the price with its slightly better software features and included accessories, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a more comprehensive package.
- The Gaomon PD1320 is a great option for beginners and casual users who are looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a spacious active area and accurate pen performance.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Artist 12. Both tablets offer impressive features and performance, making it difficult to decide which one truly excels. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed choice for your creative endeavors.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a black finish. It’s a relatively compact tablet, measuring 11.8 x 7.3 inches, making it suitable for smaller workspaces. The tablet’s surface is smooth and provides a comfortable drawing experience. The build quality is sturdy, with a solid plastic construction that feels durable.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 features a more traditional design with a black and silver color scheme. It’s slightly larger than the PD1320, measuring 11.8 x 7.1 inches, offering a more expansive drawing area. The tablet’s surface is textured, providing a slightly grippier feel that some users may find more comfortable. The build quality is comparable to the PD1320, with a robust plastic construction.
Active Area and Resolution
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The resolution is 5080 LPI, ensuring smooth and accurate linework.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 boasts an identical active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing the same spacious canvas for artistic expression. The resolution is also 5080 LPI, matching the PD1320 in terms of accuracy and responsiveness.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 comes bundled with a passive pen that features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, providing a natural drawing experience. It also includes two side buttons that can be customized for various functions.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 also includes a passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is slightly heavier than the PD1320’s pen but still comfortable to use. It also features two side buttons for added functionality.
Driver and Software Support
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. The driver is straightforward to install and provides basic customization options for pen pressure, buttons, and other settings. Gaomon also offers a dedicated software application for calibrating the tablet and managing its settings.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 also supports Windows and macOS. The driver is user-friendly and provides a wider range of customization options compared to the PD1320’s driver. XP-Pen also offers its own software application, “Artist 12 Pro,” which includes features like pen calibration, shortcut customization, and a built-in screen recorder.
Additional Features and Accessories
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 comes with a standard USB cable for connecting to your computer. It also includes a pen holder and a cleaning cloth.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 includes a USB cable, a pen holder, a cleaning cloth, and a carrying case. It also offers an optional stand for adjusting the tablet’s angle for a more comfortable drawing experience.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 is generally priced slightly lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12. It offers excellent value for money, providing a solid drawing experience at an affordable price.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 is slightly more expensive than the PD1320. However, it justifies the price with its slightly better software features and included accessories, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a more comprehensive package.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are excellent drawing tablets that offer impressive performance at an affordable price. The choice ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 is a great option for beginners and casual users who are looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a spacious active area and accurate pen performance. Its minimalist design and straightforward driver make it easy to use and setup.
XP-Pen Artist 12: The XP-Pen Artist 12 is a better choice for users who require more customization options and features. Its bundled software, additional accessories, and slightly heavier pen might appeal to those seeking a more professional experience.
The Verdict: A Tie?
Ultimately, both the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 offer excellent value for money and provide a comfortable and responsive drawing experience. The best choice for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable tablet with a spacious active area, the Gaomon PD1320 is a great option. If you’re willing to spend a bit more for additional features and accessories, the XP-Pen Artist 12 is a compelling choice.
The Final Word: Finding Your Perfect Creative Companion
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best suits your workflow and creative style. Consider the features, design, and price point of each tablet before making your decision. Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 are fantastic entry-level tablets that can help you unleash your artistic potential.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1: What is the difference between the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Artist 12?
The main difference lies in the software features and accessories. The XP-Pen Artist 12 offers a more comprehensive software package with additional features like screen recording and shortcut customization. It also comes with a carrying case and an optional stand, making it more versatile.
Q2: Which tablet is better for beginners?
Both tablets are great for beginners. The Gaomon PD1320 is slightly easier to set up and use due to its straightforward driver. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12’s software offers more guidance and tutorials for new users.
Q3: Can these tablets be used for professional work?
While both tablets are primarily designed for casual use and hobbyists, they can be used for professional work as well. The accuracy and pressure sensitivity of both tablets are sufficient for most professional tasks.
Q4: Do these tablets require a specific operating system?
Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q5: What are the warranty terms for these tablets?
The warranty terms vary depending on the retailer and region. It’s recommended to check the warranty information before purchasing.