What To Know
- The Gaomon S620 features a black and silver aesthetic, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus comes in a sleek black finish.
- The Gaomon S620 has a slightly more minimalist design, with a single button on the pen and no additional buttons on the tablet itself.
- The Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus both have a report rate of 233 PPS (Packets Per Second), which means they can track your pen movements accurately and quickly.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon S620 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive options for aspiring artists and digital creatives.
This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you determine which one best suits your needs and budget. We’ll examine their design, performance, pressure sensitivity, driver compatibility, and overall value proposition to guide you towards the perfect drawing companion.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boast a sleek and modern design. They are compact and lightweight, making them portable and easy to transport. The Gaomon S620 features a black and silver aesthetic, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus comes in a sleek black finish.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon S620 has a slightly more minimalist design, with a single button on the pen and no additional buttons on the tablet itself. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, on the other hand, includes eight customizable buttons on the tablet, providing more flexibility for shortcuts and hotkeys.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the responsive surface of the tablet where your pen strokes are registered. The Gaomon S620 offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boasts a slightly larger 10 x 6.5-inch active area. This difference in size might not seem significant, but it can make a difference for those who prefer a more spacious drawing surface.
Both tablets have a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and accurate linework. This resolution is sufficient for most drawing tasks, including sketching, illustration, and digital painting.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor in drawing tablets, as it allows for varying line thickness and brush strokes based on the pressure applied. The Gaomon S620 features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus provides 8192 levels as well.
Both tablets come with a battery-free pen, which eliminates the need for charging and offers a more natural drawing experience. The Gaomon S620 pen has two buttons, while the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus pen has a single button. Both pens are designed for comfort and ergonomic grip, making them comfortable for extended drawing sessions.
Driver Compatibility and Software
Both the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They come with driver software that allows you to customize pen settings, configure buttons, and adjust pressure sensitivity.
The Gaomon driver software is relatively straightforward and easy to use. The XP-Pen driver software offers more advanced features, including the ability to create custom profiles for different applications and adjust the tablet’s performance settings.
Performance and Responsiveness
In terms of performance, both tablets deliver a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus both have a report rate of 233 PPS (Packets Per Second), which means they can track your pen movements accurately and quickly.
The responsiveness of both tablets is excellent, with minimal lag or jitter. This ensures a fluid and natural drawing experience, whether you’re sketching, painting, or creating detailed illustrations.
Value Proposition and Price
Both the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offer excellent value for money. The Gaomon S620 is typically priced slightly lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, making it a more budget-friendly option.
However, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers additional features, such as the customizable buttons and the slightly larger active area, which might be worth the extra cost for some users. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget.
The Verdict: Which Tablet is Right for You?
Choosing between the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- Gaomon S620: A solid choice for budget-conscious artists who prioritize affordability and a simple design. It offers excellent performance, pressure sensitivity, and responsiveness.
- XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: A great option for those who want more customization options and a slightly larger active area. It provides a comfortable and versatile drawing experience with its customizable buttons and advanced driver software.
A Final Word: Beyond the Numbers
While the specifications and features are important, it’s also essential to consider your personal preferences and drawing style. Both the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus are capable tablets that can enhance your digital art journey.
Ultimately, the best way to choose is to try them out yourself if possible, or read reviews from other artists who have used both tablets.
Popular Questions
Q: Do I need a special pen for these tablets?
A: No, both tablets come with a battery-free pen that is specifically designed for them.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones or tablets?
A: No, these tablets are designed for use with computers (Windows and macOS).
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing or graphic design?
A: Yes, both tablets are suitable for photo editing and graphic design tasks, as they offer accurate pressure sensitivity and responsiveness.
Q: What’s the difference between the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?
A: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a slightly larger active area, customizable buttons on the tablet, and more advanced driver software. The Gaomon S620 is more budget-friendly and has a simpler design.
Q: How do I choose the right tablet for me?
A: Consider your budget, desired features (like customizable buttons), active area size, and personal preferences. Try out both tablets if possible, or read reviews from other artists.