Main points
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro adopts a more premium aesthetic, with a sleek aluminum frame and a stylish black finish.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a decent drawing experience, the PD1320 is a solid choice.
- However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the Artist 12 Pro offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, wireless connectivity, and additional features.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro**. Both tablets offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black plastic construction. It’s relatively lightweight and compact, making it easily portable. The tablet’s surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. However, some users have reported that the plastic build can feel a bit flimsy.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro adopts a more premium aesthetic, with a sleek aluminum frame and a stylish black finish. It feels more robust and durable compared to the PD1320. The tablet’s active area is slightly larger than the PD1320, offering more drawing space. The Artist 12 Pro also comes with a detachable stand, allowing for multiple viewing angles.
Drawing Area and Resolution
The Gaomon PD1320 offers a 10.6-inch active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. Its resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensures precise linework and detailed shading. The tablet also features a pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels, allowing for subtle pressure variations and natural brush strokes.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro takes the lead with a slightly larger 11.6-inch active area, providing even more room for creativity. It also boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, delivering even finer detail and smoother lines. The Artist 12 Pro also features a pressure sensitivity of 8192 levels, matching the PD1320 in this regard.
Pen Performance and Features
Both tablets come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that offer a comfortable grip and a responsive drawing experience. The Gaomon PD1320’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and two customizable side buttons. It also includes a pen holder and replacement nibs.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro’s pen also features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and two side buttons. However, it also offers an additional feature: a built-in eraser. This allows for quick and easy switching between drawing and erasing without having to switch tools.
Compatibility and Connectivity
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS. The PD1320 connects via a USB cable, while the Artist 12 Pro offers both USB and wireless connectivity options. The wireless functionality provides greater freedom of movement, but it requires an additional receiver.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with driver software that allows for customization of pen settings, button mapping, and other features. The Gaomon PD1320 driver is relatively basic and straightforward, offering essential customization options.
The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro driver is more feature-rich, offering more advanced customization options and support for additional features like screen rotation and color calibration. It also includes a built-in screen recording feature, allowing you to capture your creative process.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1320 is typically priced lower than the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro**. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for artists on a tight budget. However, the Artist 12 Pro offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, wireless connectivity, and additional features.
Wrapping Up: The Verdict
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a decent drawing experience, the PD1320 is a solid choice. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the Artist 12 Pro offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, wireless connectivity, and additional features.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which tablet is best for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1320 offers a more affordable entry point, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro provides a more feature-rich experience.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is a better choice for professional artists due to its larger active area, wireless connectivity, and advanced features.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets can be used with Android devices, but you may need a separate adapter for connectivity.
Q: Which tablet has better pressure sensitivity?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, so there is no significant difference in this regard.
Q: Which tablet is better for drawing and sketching?
A: Both tablets are suitable for drawing and sketching. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.