What To Know
- Unlike the Innovator 16, the PD156 Pro is a pen display tablet, meaning it has a built-in screen.
- If you prioritize affordability and a built-in display for a more natural drawing experience, the Gaomon PD156 Pro is an excellent choice.
- If you prefer a robust, durable tablet with a larger active area and don’t mind using a separate monitor, the XP-Pen Innovator 16 is a solid option.
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 PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Innovator 16. Both offer compelling features and affordability, making them attractive choices for artists, designers, and illustrators. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a black plastic frame. It’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel or taking to workshops. The tablet surface is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable drawing experience. However, some users have reported that the plastic frame feels a bit flimsy.
XP-Pen Innovator 16: The Innovator 16 adopts a more robust design with a metal frame and a textured surface. This gives it a premium feel and adds to its durability. The tablet is slightly heavier than the PD156 Pro but remains manageable for portability. The textured surface provides a more tactile experience for those who prefer a bit of grip while drawing.
Display and Resolution
Gaomon PD156 Pro: Unlike the Innovator 16, the PD156 Pro is a pen display tablet, meaning it has a built-in screen. The 15.6-inch display offers a 1920×1080 Full HD resolution, which is sufficient for most drawing tasks. The screen boasts a laminated display, eliminating parallax and providing a more natural drawing experience.
XP-Pen Innovator 16: The Innovator 16 is a standard drawing tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in screen. Instead, you’ll need to use a separate monitor as your drawing canvas. The tablet offers a larger active area of 15.6 inches, providing ample space for intricate drawings. The 1920×1080 Full HD resolution ensures clear and detailed visuals.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro comes bundled with the battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen, PW507. It features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering precise control and responsiveness for nuanced strokes. The pen boasts a comfortable grip and eight customizable buttons, enhancing workflow efficiency.
XP-Pen Innovator 16: The Innovator 16 also includes a battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen, the PA2. It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, similar to the PD156 Pro. The pen features a comfortable design, an ergonomic grip, and eight customizable buttons, providing a similar level of precision and control.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro connects to your computer via a USB-C port, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems. The tablet also supports various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
XP-Pen Innovator 16: The Innovator 16 also utilizes a USB-C port for connectivity and offers compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Android. It supports a wide range of drawing software, ensuring compatibility with your preferred tools.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro is generally priced lower than the Innovator 16, making it a more budget-friendly option. Its affordable price point, coupled with its pen display features, makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious artists.
XP-Pen Innovator 16: The Innovator 16 is priced slightly higher than the PD156 Pro due to its robust build quality and larger active area. However, it still remains a relatively affordable option compared to other high-end drawing tablets.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize affordability and a built-in display for a more natural drawing experience, the Gaomon PD156 Pro is an excellent choice. Its lightweight design and portability make it suitable for artists on the go. However, its plastic frame might not be as durable as the Innovator 16’s metal construction.
If you prefer a robust, durable tablet with a larger active area and don’t mind using a separate monitor, the XP-Pen Innovator 16 is a solid option. Its textured surface provides a more tactile drawing experience, while its metal frame ensures longevity.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
While the PD156 Pro and Innovator 16 offer impressive features, there are other factors to consider before making a final decision:
- Screen Size and Resolution: If you frequently work on large projects or require high-resolution displays, consider tablets with larger screens and higher resolutions.
- Color Gamut and Accuracy: For artists who rely on accurate color reproduction, look for tablets with a wide color gamut and high color accuracy.
- Pen Features: Some pens offer additional features like tilt sensitivity, customizable buttons, and replaceable nibs. Consider these features based on your drawing style and preferences.
- Software Compatibility: Ensure the tablet you choose is compatible with your preferred drawing software and operating system.
The Final Word: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Innovator 16 offer excellent value for their price points. The PD156 Pro excels in affordability and portability, while the Innovator 16 stands out with its robust design and larger active area. The best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and drawing style. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both tablets and see which one feels more comfortable and productive for your workflow.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Is the Gaomon PD156 Pro suitable for professional use?
A: While the PD156 Pro is a great option for beginners and hobbyists, its affordability doesn’t necessarily translate to professional-grade quality. For professional artists, a tablet with a wider color gamut, higher resolution, and advanced pen features might be more suitable.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Innovator 16 require any special drivers?
A: Yes, the Innovator 16 requires drivers to be installed on your computer for proper functionality. XP-Pen provides drivers for Windows and macOS on their website.
Q: Which tablet is better for digital painting?
A: Both tablets are capable of handling digital painting tasks. However, the PD156 Pro’s pen display offers a more natural drawing experience, which can be beneficial for artists who prefer a more traditional feel.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range worth considering?
A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets in the same price range as the PD156 Pro and Innovator 16. Some popular options include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, and the Wacom One Creative Pen Display.
Q: What are the main differences between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is another popular pen display tablet in a similar price range. It offers a slightly larger active area (11.6 inches) and a higher resolution (1920×1080). However, the PD156 Pro boasts a laminated display, which eliminates parallax and provides a more natural drawing experience.