What To Know
- Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can feel like navigating a labyrinth of options, especially when two popular contenders like the Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are in the running.
- The larger active area of the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP provides ample room for multi-tasking and intricate details, making it a better option for professionals and those who work on complex projects.
- The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP sits in the mid-range price bracket, offering a more premium experience with its larger active area, built-in display, and enhanced pen features.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can feel like navigating a labyrinth of options, especially when two popular contenders like the Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are in the running. Both offer compelling features at competitive price points, leaving artists and designers wondering which one truly deserves a spot on their desk.
This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of each tablet, comparing their key features, performance, and overall value proposition. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which model best aligns with your artistic needs and budget.
Unveiling the Contenders: An Overview
Gaomon PD1320: This budget-friendly tablet boasts a 13.3-inch active area, providing ample space for intricate drawings and digital paintings. Its 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a responsive pen ensure a natural and precise drawing experience.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP: This mid-range powerhouse features a larger 15.6-inch active area, making it ideal for detailed work and multi-tasking. It boasts a high resolution of 5080 LPI and 233 PPS, coupled with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivering exceptional accuracy and responsiveness.
Size and Active Area: A Canvas for Creativity
The first point of contention is the size and active area. The Gaomon PD1320 offers a 13.3-inch active area, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP boasts a larger 15.6-inch active area. This difference is significant for artists who prefer a more expansive workspace or work on large-scale projects.
The larger active area of the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP provides ample room for multi-tasking and intricate details, making it a better option for professionals and those who work on complex projects. Meanwhile, the Gaomon PD1320’s compact size might appeal to artists who prioritize portability and have limited desk space.
Pressure Sensitivity: The Essence of Natural Expression
Both tablets excel in pressure sensitivity, offering 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of sensitivity translates to a natural and intuitive drawing experience, allowing for precise control over line thickness, brush strokes, and shading.
However, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP’s higher resolution (5080 LPI) and 233 PPS (pressure per second) provide a slight edge in responsiveness and accuracy. This translates to smoother transitions and a more fluid drawing experience, especially when working with intricate details.
Pen Technology: The Heart of Your Artistic Expression
The pen is the artist’s primary tool, and both tablets offer comfortable and responsive pens.
The Gaomon PD1320’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and two programmable side buttons. It’s a well-rounded pen, offering a comfortable grip and intuitive controls.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP’s pen boasts similar features, including 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and eight programmable buttons. The increased number of programmable buttons on the XP-Pen pen provides greater customization and versatility, especially for users who rely on keyboard shortcuts.
Display: Bringing Your Art to Life
The Gaomon PD1320 doesn’t offer a display, forcing users to rely on their computer screen for visual feedback. This can be a drawback for artists who prefer the immediacy of drawing directly onto a screen.
In contrast, the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP features a built-in 15.6-inch display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. This allows for a more natural and intuitive drawing experience, as artists can see their work in real-time on the tablet’s screen.
Price and Value: Weighing the Investment
The Gaomon PD1320 stands out for its affordability, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious artists. Its lower price point doesn‘t compromise on essential features, offering a solid drawing experience for beginners and hobbyists.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP sits in the mid-range price bracket, offering a more premium experience with its larger active area, built-in display, and enhanced pen features. While its price point is higher, it justifies the investment for professionals and serious artists who demand a powerful and versatile tool.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Artistic Companion
So, which tablet emerges victorious? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Gaomon PD1320:
- Best for: Budget-conscious artists, beginners, and those who prioritize portability.
- Pros: Affordable, compact size, responsive pen, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: No built-in display, smaller active area.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP:
- Best for: Professionals, serious artists, and those who prefer a larger workspace and built-in display.
- Pros: Large active area, built-in display, higher resolution, responsive pen, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to the Gaomon PD1320.
Beyond the Comparison: A Final Thought
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that empowers your artistic vision. Consider your budget, workflow, and artistic goals to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned professional, both the Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP offer excellent features and performance to elevate your creative journey.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1320 or XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP with a Mac?
A: Both tablets are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: How do I connect the tablets to my computer?
A: Both tablets connect to your computer via USB cable.
Q: Are there any software recommendations for using these tablets?
A: Popular drawing software options include Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
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. Both refer to a device that allows you to control a computer cursor using a pen, but they might have different features and functionalities.