What to know
- The PD1220 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, with a black plastic body that feels sturdy and durable.
- The stand is also adjustable and offers a wider range of angles compared to the PD1220.
- The screen also boasts a laminated display, eliminating the parallax effect for a more natural drawing feel.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices often come up in discussions: the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K. Both offer excellent features and value for money, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, with a black plastic body that feels sturdy and durable. The tablet’s slim profile makes it easy to transport, and the included stand provides multiple adjustable angles for comfortable use.
Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K adopts a more modern and sophisticated design. Its aluminum alloy frame gives it a premium look and feel, while the narrow bezels enhance the screen real estate. The stand is also adjustable and offers a wider range of angles compared to the PD1220.
Verdict: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K edges out the PD1220 in terms of design and build quality. Its premium materials and more refined aesthetics make it a more visually appealing and durable option.
Display Technology and Performance
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 features a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut. While the resolution is adequate, the color accuracy and brightness could be better for professional work.
Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K shines with its 13.3-inch 2.5K display (2560×1440 resolution) and a wide 99% sRGB color gamut. This translates to vibrant colors, sharper details, and a more immersive drawing experience. The screen also boasts a laminated display, eliminating the parallax effect for a more natural drawing feel.
Verdict: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K clearly wins in this category. Its higher resolution, wider color gamut, and laminated display offer a superior visual experience that is ideal for professional artists and designers.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This level of sensitivity allows for precise line control and accurate brushstrokes. The pen also features customizable side buttons for shortcuts and other functions.
Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K utilizes a similar battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. However, it adds a tilt function, allowing for more nuanced brushstrokes and shading effects. The pen also boasts a more ergonomic design for comfortable use during extended drawing sessions.
Verdict: Both tablets offer excellent pen technology, but the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K’s tilt function provides an edge for artists who rely on this feature for their work.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 offers a versatile connectivity option with both HDMI and USB ports. This allows for easy connection to various devices, including Windows PCs, Macs, and even Android devices via an OTG adapter.
Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K also supports both HDMI and USB connections. Additionally, it features a Type-C port for a more streamlined connection. The tablet is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android devices, providing flexibility for different workflows.
Verdict: Both tablets offer similar connectivity options, making them suitable for a wide range of devices. The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K’s Type-C port might be considered a slight advantage for newer devices.
Software and Features
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 comes with Gaomon’s own driver software, which allows for customization of pen settings, shortcut keys, and other tablet-related options. The software is user-friendly and offers basic features for managing the tablet’s functionality.
Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K also features its own driver software, providing similar customization options as the PD1220. The software is intuitive and includes additional features like screen calibration and on-screen display (OSD) settings for fine-tuning the display’s performance.
Verdict: Both tablets offer comparable software and features, making the choice largely based on personal preference.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is generally priced lower than the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K, making it a more budget-friendly option. Its affordability makes it a good choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K: The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K comes at a higher price point, reflecting its premium features and performance. However, its value proposition remains strong, considering its superior display, pen technology, and overall build quality.
Verdict: The PD1220 offers excellent value for money, especially for budget-conscious users. However, the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K provides a more premium experience and is worth the investment for professional artists and designers.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
The choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K ultimately boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, the PD1220 is a solid choice that delivers decent performance. However, if you’re a professional artist or designer who demands the best display quality, pen technology, and build quality, the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K is the superior option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the PD1220 and Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K are excellent choices, it’s worth exploring other drawing tablets in the market. Consider factors like screen size, resolution, color gamut, pressure sensitivity, and price to find the perfect tablet for your needs.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Gaomon PD1220 is a great option for beginners due to its affordability and user-friendly interface. However, the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K’s superior display can also be beneficial for learning and improving your drawing skills.
Q: Does the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K have a built-in battery?
A: No, both the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K and the PD1220 use battery-free pens, eliminating the need for charging.
Q: Can I use these tablets with an iPad?
A: These tablets are designed for use with Windows and Mac computers. However, you can use them with Android devices via an OTG adapter.
Q: What are the main differences between the PD1220 and the Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K?
A: The primary differences lie in display technology (resolution, color gamut, and lamination), pen technology (tilt function), and build quality. The Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K offers a more premium experience with superior display and pen features.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K is generally considered a better choice for professional artists due to its higher resolution, wider color gamut, laminated display, and tilt-sensitive pen.