Unleashing Creativity: Gaomon PD156 Pro vs Huion Inspiroy H1161, Which Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Huion Inspiroy H1161. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for artists, designers, and digital illustrators. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two tablets, helping you make an informed decision for your creative journey.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and Huion Inspiroy H1161 boast a sleek and modern design. The Gaomon PD156 Pro features a black, minimalist aesthetic with a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip. The Huion Inspiroy H1161, on the other hand, comes in a slightly more vibrant red and black color scheme, with a smooth, glossy finish.

In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and feel well-constructed. The Gaomon PD156 Pro has a slightly thicker frame, which may feel more substantial to some users. The Huion Inspiroy H1161, being slightly thinner, might be more portable. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to personal preference in terms of design and aesthetics.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area is the drawing surface of the tablet, and it directly impacts the precision and control you have over your digital strokes. The Gaomon PD156 Pro boasts a larger active area of 13.3 inches, offering ample space for intricate drawings and detailed illustrations. The Huion Inspiroy H1161, however, has a smaller active area of 10.6 inches, which might feel restrictive for users accustomed to larger drawing surfaces.

In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a respectable 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), providing accurate and responsive pen tracking. This high resolution ensures that your pen movements translate smoothly onto the digital canvas, offering a natural and intuitive drawing experience.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and Huion Inspiroy H1161 come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that mimic the feel of traditional drawing tools. The Gaomon PD156 Pro features a pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control over line thickness and brush strokes. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness and accuracy.

Both pens are ergonomically designed with comfortable grips and side buttons for customizable functions. The Gaomon PD156 Pro pen comes with a replaceable nib, while the Huion Inspiroy H1161 pen features a standard nib that can be easily replaced.

Software and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and Huion Inspiroy H1161 are compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems. They also support a wide range of popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Autodesk Sketchbook, and more.

Gaomon offers its own driver software, which provides customizable settings for pen pressure, button mapping, and other features. Huion also provides its own driver software with similar customization options. Both software packages are user-friendly and easy to navigate.

Price and Value

The Gaomon PD156 Pro and Huion Inspiroy H1161 are both priced competitively in the mid-range market. The Gaomon PD156 Pro typically costs slightly more than the Huion Inspiroy H1161, but it offers a larger active area and a more premium build quality. The Huion Inspiroy H1161, on the other hand, provides excellent value for its price, offering a solid performance at a more affordable cost.

Gaomon PD156 Pro vs Huion Inspiroy H1161: The Verdict

Choosing between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Huion Inspiroy H1161 ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a larger drawing surface and a more robust build, the Gaomon PD156 Pro is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with excellent performance, the Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a solid contender.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Factors to Consider

While the core features of both tablets are comparable, some additional factors might tip the scales in favor of one over the other.

• Express Keys: The Gaomon PD156 Pro features eight customizable express keys on the tablet itself, allowing for quick access to frequently used shortcuts. The Huion Inspiroy H1161, on the other hand, only offers two express keys on the pen.
• Touch Functionality: The Gaomon PD156 Pro includes multi-touch functionality, allowing for intuitive navigation and zooming within your drawing software. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 does not offer touch functionality.
• Pen Stand: The Gaomon PD156 Pro comes with a pen stand for convenient storage, while the Huion Inspiroy H1161 does not.
• Accessories: Both tablets include a pen, a USB cable, and a driver disc. However, the Gaomon PD156 Pro also includes a glove and a cleaning cloth.

The Final Word: Making the Right Choice

Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Huion Inspiroy H1161 are excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Gaomon PD156 Pro excels with its larger active area, premium build quality, and additional features like express keys and touch functionality. The Huion Inspiroy H1161, on the other hand, provides excellent value for its price, offering impressive performance at a more affordable cost.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Consider your drawing style, the software you use, and the features that are most important to you.

Popular Questions

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Huion Inspiroy H1161 are suitable for beginners. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 might be a more budget-friendly option, while the Gaomon PD156 Pro offers a larger drawing surface and additional features that can be helpful for learning.

Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?

A: Both tablets can be used by professional artists. The Gaomon PD156 Pro might be a better choice for professionals who require a larger drawing surface and more advanced features. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 is a solid option for professionals who prioritize affordability and portability.

Q: What are the main differences between the two tablets?

A: The main differences lie in the active area size, express keys, touch functionality, and price. The Gaomon PD156 Pro offers a larger active area, more express keys, touch functionality, and a higher price. The Huion Inspiroy H1161 has a smaller active area, fewer express keys, no touch functionality, and a lower price.

Q: Are both tablets compatible with all drawing software?

A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Autodesk Sketchbook, and more.

Q: Which tablet has better pen pressure sensitivity?

A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a similar level of responsiveness and accuracy.