Essential Information
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer impressive pen performance.
- The Gaomon PD1561’s 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity provide a smooth and responsive drawing experience, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and pressure.
- The absence of a screen might be a drawback for some artists who prefer the immersive experience of a pen display.
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 segment are the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Both offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1561 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body. Its active area measures 13.3 inches, providing ample space for creative expression. The tablet is surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to transport. While the build quality is solid, it might not feel as premium as some other options in the market.
In contrast, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium exhibits a more sophisticated aesthetic. Its sleek, silver frame and matte finish exude a sense of quality. The active area measures 10.6 inches, which might feel slightly cramped for some users. The tablet is slightly heavier than the Gaomon, but still manageable for travel. The build quality is excellent, with a robust construction that feels durable and reliable.
Pen Performance
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer impressive pen performance. The Gaomon PD1561’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced and responsive drawing experience. It also offers tilt sensitivity, allowing you to create natural brush strokes and shading effects. The pen is comfortable to hold and feels well-balanced in the hand.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium‘s pen takes things up a notch. It boasts a staggering 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt sensitivity, delivering exceptional accuracy and responsiveness. The pen is designed with an ergonomic grip and a comfortable weight distribution, making it ideal for long drawing sessions. Additionally, it features customizable side buttons that can be programmed for various functions.
Pressure Sensitivity and Tilt Recognition
Both tablets excel in terms of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition. The Gaomon PD1561’s 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity provide a smooth and responsive drawing experience, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and pressure. The tilt recognition feature enhances the natural feel of brush strokes, enabling you to create realistic shading and blending effects.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium takes pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition to a whole new level. Its 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity ensure precise control over line thickness and pressure, while the tilt recognition feature adds a layer of realism to your artwork. The pen’s responsiveness and accuracy are truly remarkable, making it a joy to use for both casual and professional artists.
Display and Screen Size
One of the key differences between the two tablets lies in their displays. The Gaomon PD1561 is a pen display tablet, meaning it features a built-in screen. Its 13.3-inch full HD display provides a vivid and detailed viewing experience, allowing you to see your artwork in real-time. The screen is responsive and offers accurate color reproduction, making it suitable for both drawing and digital painting.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, is a standalone pen tablet. It does not have a built-in screen, requiring you to connect it to a separate monitor. This approach offers flexibility and portability, as you can use it with any compatible display. The absence of a screen might be a drawback for some artists who prefer the immersive experience of a pen display.
Software and Features
Both tablets come with their own software, offering customizable settings and features. The Gaomon PD1561’s software allows you to customize pen pressure sensitivity, tilt recognition, and other settings. It also includes a range of shortcut keys that can be programmed for various functions.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s software, known as “Control Panel,” offers a more comprehensive set of features. It allows you to customize pen settings, create custom brush profiles, and manage shortcut keys. The Control Panel also includes a handy brush library, providing a wide range of brushes for different artistic styles.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer reliable connectivity options. The Gaomon PD1561 connects to your computer via USB cable, providing a stable and consistent connection. It is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more versatile connectivity solution. It can be connected to your computer via USB cable or wirelessly via Bluetooth. This flexibility allows you to work from a distance without the clutter of cables. The tablet is also compatible with Windows and macOS.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are both priced competitively in the mid-range segment. The Gaomon PD1561 typically costs slightly less than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, while slightly more expensive, offers a higher level of features and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for professional artists or those seeking a premium drawing experience.
Pros and Cons: Gaomon PD1561
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Large active area
- Built-in screen for immersive drawing experience
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Build quality might not feel as premium as some other options
- Software lacks some advanced features
Pros and Cons: Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium
Pros:
- Excellent pen performance with high pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition
- Ergonomic pen design
- Customizable side buttons
- Sophisticated design and build quality
- Wireless connectivity option
Cons:
- Smaller active area than the Gaomon PD1561
- No built-in screen, requiring a separate monitor
- Slightly more expensive than the Gaomon PD1561
The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Gaomon PD1561 is a great option if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You prefer a large active area
- You value the immersive experience of a built-in screen
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a better choice if:
- You prioritize pen performance and accuracy
- You prefer a premium design and build quality
- You need wireless connectivity
- You’re willing to invest in a slightly more expensive option
Beyond the Comparison: Other Factors to Consider
While the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are both excellent drawing tablets, it’s essential to consider other factors before making a final decision.
- Your budget: The Gaomon PD1561 offers a more affordable option, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes at a slightly higher price point.
- Your drawing style: If you’re a detail-oriented artist who needs precise control, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s superior pen performance might be a better fit.
- Your workflow: If you prefer a standalone tablet that can be easily transported, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium’s wireless connectivity option is a significant advantage.
- Your software preferences: Consider the software features and compatibility of both tablets before making a decision.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Creativity
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that empowers you to express your creativity. Whether you choose the Gaomon PD1561 or the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, both tablets offer excellent drawing experiences and a solid foundation for your artistic journey.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1561 is more budget-friendly, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more premium experience.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for photo editing. However, they are primarily designed for drawing and digital painting.
Q: Do these tablets come with a pen stand?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1561 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium come with a pen stand.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium‘s superior pen performance and advanced features make it a better choice for professional artists.