Overview
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation adopts a more traditional design, featuring a black plastic frame and a glossy surface.
- The Gaomon M106K Pro is a tablet-only device, meaning it doesn’t come with a built-in display.
- The choice between the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key aspects, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon M106K Pro: The Gaomon M106K Pro boasts a sleek and minimalist design. Its black matte finish adds a touch of sophistication, while the slim profile makes it easy to transport. The tablet’s construction feels solid and durable, with a sturdy base and a comfortable textured surface.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation adopts a more traditional design, featuring a black plastic frame and a glossy surface. While it’s not as sleek as the Gaomon, it remains a functional and reliable option. The tablet’s build quality is generally good, but it may feel slightly less robust compared to the M106K Pro.
Active Area and Resolution
Gaomon M106K Pro: The Gaomon M106K Pro offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensures smooth and accurate lines.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also boasts a 10 x 6.25 inch active area, making it equally spacious. However, its resolution is slightly lower at 5080 LPI, which might result in slightly less precise lines compared to the M106K Pro.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Gaomon M106K Pro: The Gaomon M106K Pro comes equipped with a passive pen that doesn’t require batteries or charging. It features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and natural drawing experience. The pen’s design is comfortable to hold, with a textured grip for better control.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation also utilizes a battery-free passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is lightweight and well-balanced, offering a comfortable grip. While both tablets offer similar pressure sensitivity, the M106K Pro’s textured pen grip might provide a slight advantage for some users.
Display and Color Reproduction
Gaomon M106K Pro: The Gaomon M106K Pro is a tablet-only device, meaning it doesn’t come with a built-in display. This can be a drawback for some artists who prefer a more immersive drawing experience. However, it also allows for a more budget-friendly price point.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with a 11.6-inch LCD display, offering a direct drawing experience. The display boasts a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut, providing vibrant and accurate colors. This feature makes it a more attractive option for artists who value visual feedback.
Software and Compatibility
Gaomon M106K Pro: The Gaomon M106K Pro is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS. It comes with driver software that allows for customization of pen settings and hotkeys. The tablet also supports various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation shares similar compatibility with the M106K Pro, supporting Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS. It also comes with driver software for customization and supports a wide range of drawing applications. Both tablets offer comparable software compatibility and functionality.
Price and Value
Gaomon M106K Pro: The Gaomon M106K Pro is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. Despite its lower price, the M106K Pro offers a solid set of features and performance.
XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation’s price reflects its inclusion of a display. While it’s slightly more expensive than the M106K Pro, it offers a more immersive and convenient drawing experience. The value proposition depends on individual needs and preferences.
Which Tablet Is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Gaomon M106K Pro if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
- You prefer a tablet-only experience and don’t need a display.
- You value a sleek and minimalist design.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation if:
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for a display.
- You enjoy a direct drawing experience with visual feedback.
- You prefer a traditional tablet design.
Final Verdict: A Draw?
Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The M106K Pro shines with its minimalist design, affordable price, and solid performance. The Artist 12 2nd Generation, on the other hand, provides a more immersive drawing experience with its built-in display. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are both tablets compatible with smartphones?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are compatible with Android smartphones. You’ll need a compatible OTG adapter to connect the tablet to your phone.
Q: Which tablet has better pen accuracy?
A: The Gaomon M106K Pro offers slightly better pen accuracy due to its higher resolution of 5080 LPI, although the difference may not be noticeable for most users.
Q: Do both tablets come with a screen protector?
A: The XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation comes with a built-in screen protector, while the Gaomon M106K Pro does not.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon M106K Pro with a drawing glove?
A: Yes, you can use a drawing glove with the Gaomon M106K Pro. It’s recommended to use a glove to prevent palm rejection issues.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 2nd Generation are suitable for beginners. The Artist 12 2nd Generation’s display might be more appealing to beginners who want a direct drawing experience, while the M106K Pro offers a more affordable starting point.
