Quick Overview
- The pen holder on the M106K Pro is conveniently located on the side of the tablet, while the KD200 features a pen holder on the top.
- The KD200’s pen also offers a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, but it lacks the pressure sensitivity of the M106K Pro’s pen.
- The KD200, on the other hand, features a battery-free pen with eight customizable buttons, offering a similar level of customization as the M106K Pro.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon M106K Pro and the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200. Both tablets offer impressive features and affordability, but which one emerges as the ultimate champion for your creative endeavors?
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M106K Pro and Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 boast a sleek and modern design, making them visually appealing additions to your workspace. Both tablets feature a black and grey color scheme, giving them a clean and professional aesthetic.
The M106K Pro boasts a slightly larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches compared to the KD200’s 9.5 x 5.7 inches. This extra space might be beneficial for artists who prefer a larger drawing surface. However, the KD200’s compact size makes it more portable and ideal for travel.
Both tablets are lightweight and comfortable to use, with a textured surface that provides a good grip. The pen holder on the M106K Pro is conveniently located on the side of the tablet, while the KD200 features a pen holder on the top.
Pen Performance
The pen is the heart and soul of any drawing tablet, and both the M106K Pro and KD200 deliver exceptional pen performance. Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise and responsive strokes.
The M106K Pro’s pen features a comfortable grip and a responsive tip that feels natural on the drawing surface. The KD200’s pen also offers a comfortable grip and a responsive tip, but it lacks the pressure sensitivity of the M106K Pro’s pen.
Both tablets come with multiple buttons on the pen, allowing for customization of shortcuts and functions. The M106K Pro’s pen features two buttons, while the KD200’s pen has three buttons.
Key Features and Functionality
The Gaomon M106K Pro and Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 offer a range of features designed to enhance your drawing experience.
The M106K Pro boasts a built-in battery-free pen, eliminating the need for charging or battery replacements. It also features eight customizable shortcut keys on the tablet’s side, providing quick access to frequently used functions.
The KD200, on the other hand, features a battery-free pen with eight customizable buttons, offering a similar level of customization as the M106K Pro. However, the KD200’s standout feature is its integrated keydial, which provides 12 programmable keys for even more customization. This keydial can be used to assign shortcuts, macros, or even hotkeys for specific software applications.
Software Compatibility and Drivers
Both the M106K Pro and KD200 are compatible with a wide range of software applications, including popular programs like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The tablets also come with driver software, allowing for customization of settings, pen pressure sensitivity, and other features.
Price and Value for Money
The Gaomon M106K Pro and Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 are both budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering excellent value for money. The M106K Pro is slightly more expensive than the KD200, but its larger active area and battery-free pen might justify the price difference for some users. However, the KD200’s integrated keydial provides an extra layer of customization and functionality that may be more appealing to certain users.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the right choice:
Choose the Gaomon M106K Pro if:
- You prioritize a larger drawing surface.
- You value a battery-free pen for continuous use.
- You prefer a simple design with customizable shortcut keys.
Choose the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 if:
- You prefer a compact and portable tablet.
- You need a high level of customization with its integrated keydial.
- You’re on a tighter budget.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Aspects
While the Gaomon M106K Pro and Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 are excellent choices, it’s worth considering other aspects that might influence your decision:
- Customer Support: Both Gaomon and Huion offer customer support, but it’s essential to research their responsiveness and helpfulness before making a purchase.
- Warranty: The length of the warranty period can provide peace of mind, especially if you’re investing in a long-term drawing tool.
- User Reviews: Reading user reviews can provide valuable insights into the real-world performance and experience with both tablets.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Creative Journey
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a crucial step in embarking on your creative journey. Both the Gaomon M106K Pro and Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 offer impressive features and affordability, making them excellent options for artists of all skill levels. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can select the tablet that will empower you to unleash your artistic potential and bring your creative visions to life.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: Is the Gaomon M106K Pro compatible with Mac computers?
A1: Yes, the Gaomon M106K Pro is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers.
Q2: Does the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 come with a pen stand?
A2: No, the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 does not come with a pen stand. However, you can purchase a separate pen stand for additional convenience.
Q3: What is the difference between the Gaomon M106K Pro and the Gaomon M106K?
A3: The Gaomon M106K Pro is an upgraded version of the Gaomon M106K, featuring a larger active area and improved pressure sensitivity.
Q4: Can I customize the buttons on the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200?
A4: Yes, the buttons on the Huion Inspiroy Keydial KD200 can be customized to perform various functions using the driver software.
Q5: Can I use the Gaomon M106K Pro for photo editing?
A5: While the Gaomon M106K Pro is primarily designed for drawing, it can also be used for photo editing. However, a dedicated graphics tablet with a higher resolution might be more suitable for professional photo editing tasks.
