Quick notes
- The Gaomon PD2200 has a solid base and a durable surface, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is equally robust despite its smaller size.
- The Gaomon PD2200 comes with a battery-free pen that features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience.
- It comes with a dedicated pen holder and a cleaning cloth, ensuring that your pen remains in pristine condition.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. The Gaomon PD2200 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comparison is a popular one, as both offer excellent value for their price. These tablets cater to different user needs and preferences, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses can help you make an informed decision. This blog post will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you determine which one is the better fit for your artistic journey.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD2200 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are known for their sleek and modern designs. The Gaomon PD2200 boasts a large active area of 11.6 inches, making it ideal for those who prefer a spacious working canvas. It has a slim profile and a matte black finish, giving it a professional look. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, offers a more compact design, making it perfect for travel and portability. It features a sleek white finish and a minimalist design that complements any workspace.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon PD2200 has a solid base and a durable surface, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is equally robust despite its smaller size. Both tablets feel comfortable to use and have a responsive surface for smooth pen movements.
Pen Technology and Performance
The pen technology plays a crucial role in the overall drawing experience. The Gaomon PD2200 comes with a battery-free pen that features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience. It also includes tilt functionality, allowing you to achieve realistic strokes by tilting the pen. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, making it suitable for long drawing sessions.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small also boasts a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. However, it stands out with its unique “Pen Pressure Curve” feature, allowing users to customize the pen pressure response to their liking. This feature is particularly beneficial for artists who prefer a more personalized drawing experience. Additionally, the pen comes with customizable side buttons, which can be programmed to perform specific actions within your software.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets offer excellent software compatibility. The Gaomon PD2200 is compatible with various popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. It also supports Windows and macOS operating systems.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boasts similar compatibility, working seamlessly with major drawing programs and operating systems. It also comes with its own driver software that offers additional features, such as customizable pen settings and shortcut keys.
Features and Extras
The Gaomon PD2200 offers a few additional features that make it a compelling option. It includes eight customizable shortcut keys that can be programmed to perform specific actions within your software. This helps streamline your workflow and improve efficiency. It also has a built-in screen protector, providing extra protection against scratches and damage.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, on the other hand, focuses on providing a premium drawing experience. It comes with a dedicated pen holder and a cleaning cloth, ensuring that your pen remains in pristine condition. It also includes a unique “Quick Keys” feature, which allows you to assign shortcuts to specific actions within your software using the tablet’s side buttons.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD2200 is generally priced more competitively than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a more premium drawing experience with its advanced pen technology and customizable features.
Ultimately, the best value for your money depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a large, affordable tablet with good performance, the Gaomon PD2200 is a solid choice. If you prioritize a premium drawing experience and value customization, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small might be a better investment.
Gaomon PD2200: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large active area (11.6 inches)
- Battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality
- Eight customizable shortcut keys
- Affordable price
- Built-in screen protector
Cons:
- Basic software features
- No dedicated pen holder or cleaning cloth
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium pen technology with customizable pressure curve
- Customizable side buttons on the pen
- Dedicated pen holder and cleaning cloth
- Unique “Quick Keys” feature
- Excellent software compatibility
Cons:
- Smaller active area (6.5 inches)
- Higher price point
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD2200 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- If you need a large active area and are on a budget, the Gaomon PD2200 is a great option.
- If you prioritize pen customization, premium features, and a more compact design, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a better choice.
The Final Verdict: Beyond the Comparison
While the Gaomon PD2200 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small comparison is helpful, it’s important to remember that the perfect drawing tablet for you depends on your individual workflow and artistic style. Consider factors such as your preferred drawing software, your budget, and your desired level of customization.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both tablets and see which one feels more comfortable and intuitive to use. You may also want to consider exploring other options in the market to find the perfect drawing companion for your artistic journey.
Questions You May Have
Q: Are both tablets compatible with Macs?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD2200 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small are compatible with macOS operating systems.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD2200 with Adobe Photoshop?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD2200 is compatible with Adobe Photoshop and other popular drawing software.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD2200 offers a more affordable option with a large active area, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small provides a more premium drawing experience with its advanced pen features.
Q: Can I customize the pen buttons on the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small?
A: Yes, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small allows you to customize the side buttons on the pen to perform specific actions within your software.
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon PD2200 and the Gaomon PD1560?
A: The Gaomon PD2200 has a larger active area (11.6 inches) compared to the Gaomon PD1560 (10.6 inches). The PD2200 also features eight shortcut keys, while the PD1560 only has six.