Highlights
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1320 and Deco L offer pens with impressive features.
- The choice between a standalone tablet with a built-in display and a pen display tablet depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- The PD1320’s standalone design with a built-in display comes at a slightly higher price point, while the Deco L’s pen display tablet configuration is slightly more affordable.
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 Deco L. Both tablets offer decent features and performance, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Aesthetics
The Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco L adopt distinct design philosophies. The PD1320 boasts a sleek, minimalist black design with rounded edges, giving it a modern and professional feel. Its active area is slightly larger than the Deco L, offering a more expansive canvas for your creative endeavors.
The XP-Pen Deco L, on the other hand, opts for a more compact and portable design. Its vibrant blue and white color scheme adds a touch of personality, while its smaller footprint makes it ideal for travel or limited workspace. The Deco L also features a textured surface, providing a slightly more tactile experience for your pen.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The PD1320’s plastic casing feels solid, while the Deco L’s lightweight design might feel a bit less substantial. However, both tablets are durable enough to withstand everyday use.
Pen Performance: Precision and Responsiveness
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1320 and Deco L offer pens with impressive features. The Gaomon PD1320’s pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a smooth and natural drawing experience. Its battery-free design eliminates the need for charging, ensuring uninterrupted creative flow.
The XP-Pen Deco L’s pen also features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivering similar accuracy and responsiveness. However, it requires a battery for operation, which might be a concern for some users. Both pens offer tilt sensitivity, allowing for more nuanced shading and brush strokes.
Overall, both pens deliver a smooth and accurate drawing experience. The PD1320’s battery-free design is a significant advantage, while the Deco L’s pen offers a slightly more responsive feel.
Display and Viewing Area: Size Matters
The PD1320 and Deco L differ significantly in terms of display and viewing area. The PD1320 is a standalone drawing tablet with a built-in 13.3-inch IPS LCD display. This allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet, eliminating the need for a separate monitor. The display offers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, providing an immersive drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Deco L, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, meaning it does not have a built-in display. It connects to your computer via USB, allowing you to view your artwork on your monitor. This approach offers greater flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution.
The choice between a standalone tablet with a built-in display and a pen display tablet depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prefer a dedicated drawing experience with a larger canvas, the PD1320’s built-in display is a compelling option. However, if you value flexibility and prefer to use your existing monitor, the Deco L is a more suitable choice.
Software and Compatibility: Seamless Integration
Both the PD1320 and Deco L are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Android. They also work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
The PD1320’s driver software offers customizable settings, allowing you to fine-tune the pen’s pressure sensitivity and other parameters to your liking. The Deco L also includes driver software with similar customization options.
Overall, both tablets offer excellent software compatibility and driver support, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free user experience.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco L are both budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering impressive features at an affordable price. The PD1320’s standalone design with a built-in display comes at a slightly higher price point, while the Deco L’s pen display tablet configuration is slightly more affordable.
The choice between the PD1320 and Deco L ultimately boils down to your budget and specific needs. If you’re looking for a standalone drawing tablet with a built-in display and a larger canvas, the PD1320 offers excellent value for money. However, if you prefer a more portable and affordable option, the Deco L is a solid choice.
The Verdict: A Close Contender
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco L is a difficult decision, as both tablets offer compelling features and performance. The PD1320’s built-in display and battery-free pen are significant advantages, but it comes at a slightly higher price. The Deco L’s compact design, affordability, and responsive pen make it an attractive alternative.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a dedicated drawing experience with a larger canvas, the PD1320 is a fantastic choice. However, if you value portability, affordability, and flexibility, the Deco L is an excellent option.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: Does the Gaomon PD1320 have a screen protector?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1320 comes with a built-in screen protector to protect the display from scratches and fingerprints.
Q2: What is the resolution of the XP-Pen Deco L?
A: The XP-Pen Deco L doesn’t have a built-in display. It is a pen display tablet, meaning you need to connect it to your computer and use your monitor for viewing. The resolution of the display will depend on the monitor you connect it to.
Q3: Can I use the Gaomon PD1320 with Photoshop?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1320 is compatible with Adobe Photoshop and other popular drawing software.
Q4: Does the XP-Pen Deco L come with a pen holder?
A: Yes, the XP-Pen Deco L includes a pen holder for convenient storage of the pen.
Q5: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display tablet?
A: A drawing tablet is a device that allows you to draw on a surface and have your input reflected on your computer screen. A pen display tablet has a built-in display, allowing you to see your artwork directly on the tablet.