What To Know
- While both offer a high level of sensitivity, the Gaomon PD1560’s slightly higher pressure sensitivity might provide a more nuanced and responsive experience for artists who rely on subtle pressure variations.
- On the other hand, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a pen display tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in screen.
- However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a solid feature set, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a compelling alternative.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision.
Active Area and Screen Size: A Tale of Two Tablets
The Gaomon PD1560 boasts a larger active area of 13.3 inches, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a 11.6-inch active area. This difference might seem minor, but it can significantly impact your workflow, especially if you prefer working with larger canvases or detailed drawings. The larger active area of the Gaomon PD1560 provides more space for your hand movements, reducing the need for frequent cursor adjustments.
Resolution and Pressure Sensitivity: A Closer Look at Precision
Both tablets offer a respectable 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) resolution, ensuring sharp and accurate lines. However, they differ in pressure sensitivity. The Gaomon PD1560 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers 8192 levels. While both offer a high level of sensitivity, the Gaomon PD1560’s slightly higher pressure sensitivity might provide a more nuanced and responsive experience for artists who rely on subtle pressure variations.
Screen Display: A Visual Comparison
The Gaomon PD1560 stands out with its integrated display, offering a 13.3-inch IPS screen with a 1920×1080 resolution. This allows for a direct and intuitive drawing experience, eliminating the need to constantly look back and forth between your tablet and computer screen. On the other hand, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a pen display tablet, meaning it lacks a built-in screen. You’ll need to rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback. While this might seem like a disadvantage, it can be more cost-effective, especially for budget-conscious artists.
Pen Performance: A Detailed Examination
Both tablets utilize battery-free pressure-sensitive pens with a high degree of accuracy and responsiveness. The Gaomon PD1560’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers 8192 levels. The Gaomon PD1560’s pen also boasts a higher reporting rate of 266 PPS (Points Per Second), ensuring smoother and more natural strokes.
Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Convenience
The Gaomon PD1560 sports a sleek and compact design, with a stand that offers adjustable viewing angles. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also comes with a stand and features a slim and lightweight profile. Both tablets are designed for comfortable use, with textured surfaces that provide a secure grip. However, the Gaomon PD1560’s larger active area might provide a more spacious and comfortable drawing experience for users with larger hands.
Connectivity and Compatibility: Seamless Integration
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offer a seamless connection experience. They both utilize a USB-C port for easy plug-and-play connectivity with your computer. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring wide-ranging compatibility.
Software and Features: Beyond the Basics
The Gaomon PD1560 comes with its own driver software that offers customizable settings for the pen and tablet. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also features its own driver software, providing similar customization options. Both tablets support a wide range of drawing software, including industry-standard options like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Price and Value: Weighing the Costs
The Gaomon PD1560 is typically priced slightly higher than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. However, its integrated display and larger active area might justify the price difference for some users. The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a more affordable option, especially for artists who are just starting out or have a tight budget.
The Verdict: Finding the Perfect Fit
Ultimately, the choice between the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a larger active area, an integrated display, and a more responsive pen, the Gaomon PD1560 might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a solid feature set, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is a compelling alternative.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
Beyond the features discussed above, there are a few other factors to consider:
- Customer Support: Both companies offer customer support, but it’s always wise to research their reputation and responsiveness.
- Warranty: Check the warranty terms for both tablets to ensure you have adequate protection in case of any issues.
- Software Updates: Ensure that both companies provide regular software updates to enhance compatibility and performance.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners, but the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation offers a more affordable entry point.
Q2: Does the Gaomon PD1560 have a screen protector?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1560 comes with a built-in screen protector.
Q3: Can I use the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation with my smartphone?
A: No, the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation is designed for use with computers only.
Q4: What is the difference between a pen display and a drawing tablet?
A: A pen display has an integrated screen, allowing you to draw directly on the display. A drawing tablet lacks a screen and requires you to rely on your computer monitor for visual feedback.
Q5: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: Both tablets can be used by professional artists, but the Gaomon PD1560’s larger active area and integrated display might be more appealing for professional workflows.