Quick Overview
- The Gaomon PD1560 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame and a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip.
- The Gaomon PD1560 is a **display tablet**, meaning it has a built-in screen that allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s surface.
- If you prioritize a natural drawing experience with a large active area and a built-in display, the Gaomon PD1560 is the better 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 PD1560 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S**. Both tablets offer a generous drawing area, pressure sensitivity, and affordability, but subtle differences set them apart. This comprehensive comparison will guide you through their features, pros, cons, and ultimately help you decide which tablet best suits your artistic needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1560 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame and a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip. Its 15.6-inch active area is spacious and allows for ample room for detailed drawings. The tablet features eight customizable shortcut keys and a scroll wheel, offering convenient access to frequently used functions.
The XP-Pen Star G960S takes a slightly different approach with its glossy black finish and a more compact design. It features a 10×6.25-inch active area, which is smaller than the PD1560 but still ample for most users. The G960S includes eight customizable buttons and a pressure-sensitive pen holder, adding to its functionality. Both tablets are lightweight and portable, making them suitable for both studio and on-the-go use.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S come equipped with battery-free, pressure-sensitive pens that offer a natural drawing experience. The PD1560’s pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a high level of accuracy and responsiveness. The G960S’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity as well, ensuring precise control and smooth lines.
The PD1560’s pen has a slightly heavier weight and a more textured grip, which some users may find more comfortable. The G960S’s pen is lighter and has a smoother grip, offering a different feel that may appeal to others. Both pens offer excellent responsiveness and accuracy, making them suitable for a wide range of drawing styles.
Display and Resolution
One of the key differences between the two tablets lies in their display technology. The Gaomon PD1560 is a **display tablet**, meaning it has a built-in screen that allows you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s surface. This offers a more natural and intuitive drawing experience, as you can see the results of your strokes in real-time. The PD1560 features a 1920×1080 resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio, providing a clear and vibrant display.
The XP-Pen Star G960S is a **non-display tablet**, meaning it does not have a built-in screen. Instead, you need to connect it to a computer monitor to view your artwork. This setup may require some adjustment for artists who are accustomed to drawing directly on a screen. However, non-display tablets are generally more affordable than display tablets.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S offer versatile connectivity options. The PD1560 connects to your computer via a USB cable, while the G960S offers both USB and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for a more wireless experience. Both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring wide compatibility.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with downloadable driver software that allows you to customize settings, configure shortcut keys, and calibrate the pen for optimal performance. The software offers a user-friendly interface and provides access to various features, including pressure sensitivity settings, pen customization, and screen rotation.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon PD1560
Pros:
- Large 15.6-inch active area
- Built-in display for a natural drawing experience
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Customizable shortcut keys and scroll wheel
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than non-display tablets
- Display resolution is not as high as some other display tablets
XP-Pen Star G960S
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Pressure-sensitive pen holder
Cons:
- Smaller active area than the PD1560
- No built-in display, requiring a separate monitor
The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a natural drawing experience with a large active area and a built-in display, the Gaomon PD1560 is the better option. However, if you value affordability, wireless connectivity, and a more compact design, the **XP-Pen Star G960S** is a solid choice.
Choosing Your Perfect Art Companion
Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Budget: The PD1560 is more expensive than the G960S.
- Drawing Style: If you need a large drawing area for detailed work, the PD1560 is better.
- Connectivity: The G960S offers wireless connectivity, while the PD1560 requires a USB connection.
- Display Preference: The PD1560 offers a built-in display, while the G960S requires a separate monitor.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S are excellent drawing tablets that offer a high level of functionality and affordability. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific requirements and artistic preferences. Consider your budget, drawing style, connectivity needs, and display preferences to make an informed decision.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. What is the difference between a display tablet and a non-display tablet?
A display tablet has a built-in screen, allowing you to see your artwork directly on the tablet’s surface. A non-display tablet does not have a screen and requires you to connect it to a computer monitor.
2. What is pressure sensitivity, and why is it important?
Pressure sensitivity refers to the tablet’s ability to detect the amount of pressure you apply to the pen. Higher pressure sensitivity levels provide greater accuracy and responsiveness, allowing for more nuanced strokes and lines.
3. What is the difference between a USB cable connection and a Bluetooth connection?
A USB cable connection provides a direct and reliable connection between the tablet and your computer. Bluetooth connectivity allows for a wireless connection, offering more freedom of movement but potentially a slightly slower response time.
4. Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Star G960S are primarily designed for use with computers. However, some models may offer limited compatibility with certain Android devices.
5. What software do I need to use these tablets?
Both tablets come with downloadable driver software that allows you to customize settings and configure shortcut keys. You can also use the tablets with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.