What To Know
- The Gaomon S830 boasts a sturdy, all-black plastic construction, while the Wacom One 12 features a more refined design with a black frame and a textured, anti-glare screen.
- However, the Wacom One 12 has a higher reporting rate of 266 PPS (Packets Per Second), resulting in a more responsive and fluid drawing experience.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon S830 and Wacom One 12 offer capable options.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Gaomon S830 and the Wacom One 12. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one truly reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of both tablets, examining their key features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon S830 and Wacom One 12 both prioritize a sleek and minimalist design. The Gaomon S830 boasts a sturdy, all-black plastic construction, while the Wacom One 12 features a more refined design with a black frame and a textured, anti-glare screen. Both tablets are relatively lightweight, making them portable and easy to transport.
In terms of build quality, the Wacom One 12 edges out the Gaomon S830. Its textured screen feels more premium and provides a more comfortable drawing experience. The Gaomon S830, while functional, feels slightly less durable, with its plastic construction potentially susceptible to scratches over time.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the portion of the tablet’s surface that responds to pen input. The Wacom One 12 offers a larger active area of 11.6 inches, while the Gaomon S830 provides a slightly smaller 10.6-inch active area. This difference might seem subtle but can significantly impact your drawing experience, especially if you prefer working with larger canvases.
Both tablets boast a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and precise pen strokes. However, the Wacom One 12 has a higher reporting rate of 266 PPS (Packets Per Second), resulting in a more responsive and fluid drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon S830 and Wacom One 12 offer capable options. The Gaomon S830’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Wacom One 12 boasts 4096 levels. While the Gaomon S830 offers higher pressure sensitivity, the difference in real-world usage is negligible. Both pens provide excellent pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and subtle variations in line weight.
Both tablets include a battery-free pen, eliminating the need for charging and ensuring uninterrupted workflow. However, the Wacom One 12’s pen offers additional features, including side buttons for shortcuts and a textured grip for improved control.
Display and Color Accuracy
The Gaomon S830 lacks a built-in display, meaning you’ll need to connect it to a separate monitor. This can be a limitation for some artists who prefer the direct feedback of drawing directly on the screen. The Wacom One 12, on the other hand, features a built-in 11.6-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1920×1080. This provides a more immersive and intuitive drawing experience, allowing you to see your work in real-time.
The Wacom One 12’s display offers a more vibrant color gamut and accurate color reproduction than the Gaomon S830. This is crucial for artists who need to ensure their work is displayed accurately across different devices and platforms.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems. The Wacom One 12 comes bundled with Wacom’s proprietary software, Wacom Drivers, offering a range of features such as customization options, pen settings, and pressure sensitivity calibration.
The Gaomon S830 also provides its own driver software, offering similar functionalities. Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon S830
Pros:
- Affordable price
- High pressure sensitivity (8192 levels)
- Battery-free pen
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- No built-in display
- Smaller active area
- Less premium build quality
- Limited software features
Wacom One 12
Pros:
- Built-in display
- Larger active area
- More responsive pen (266 PPS)
- Premium build quality
- Comprehensive software features
Cons:
- Higher price than Gaomon S830
- Lower pressure sensitivity (4096 levels)
Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The choice between the Gaomon S830 and the Wacom One 12 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, the Gaomon S830 is a solid option. Its high pressure sensitivity and battery-free pen provide a comfortable drawing experience.
However, if you value a more immersive and intuitive drawing experience with a built-in display, the Wacom One 12 is the clear winner. Its larger active area, responsive pen, and premium build quality make it a compelling choice for both beginners and seasoned artists.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Gaomon S830 and Wacom One 12 are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The Gaomon S830 is a budget-friendly option that delivers a solid drawing experience, while the Wacom One 12 provides a more immersive and premium experience with its built-in display. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use the Gaomon S830 with my smartphone?
A: The Gaomon S830 is not compatible with smartphones. It requires a computer with a USB port to function.
Q: Does the Wacom One 12 come with a stand?
A: The Wacom One 12 does not come with a stand. You can purchase a separate stand or use a third-party stand to elevate the tablet for a more comfortable drawing angle.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon S830 for photo editing?
A: While the Gaomon S830 is primarily designed for drawing, you can use it for basic photo editing tasks. However, for professional photo editing, a tablet with a built-in display would be more suitable.
Q: Is the Wacom One 12 compatible with Mac computers?
A: Yes, the Wacom One 12 is compatible with Mac computers. It comes with drivers for both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon S830 and the Wacom One 13?
A: The Wacom One 13 is a larger tablet with a 13.3-inch display, offering a wider drawing area. It also features higher pressure sensitivity and a more advanced pen with more side buttons. However, it comes at a higher price point compared to the Wacom One 12.