Key points
- Two popular contenders in the small tablet market are the Gaomon S630 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon S630 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come equipped with impressive pens.
- However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for premium features and a more professional experience, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a worthy investment.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the small tablet market are the Gaomon S630 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon S630 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boast distinct designs. The S630 features a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a black plastic casing. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel, and the textured surface provides a comfortable grip. On the other hand, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small adopts a more professional look with a premium, brushed aluminum finish. Its slightly larger footprint offers a more spacious drawing area, but it might be less portable than the S630.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and feel durable. The S630’s plastic casing, while sturdy, might feel less premium compared to the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s aluminum construction. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal preference for design and portability.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface on the tablet where your pen strokes are registered. The Gaomon S630 boasts a 6.3 x 4-inch active area, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers a slightly larger 7.9 x 5.2-inch active area. The extra space provided by the Xencelabs tablet can be beneficial for artists who prefer a more spacious drawing experience.
Resolution is another crucial factor, determining the tablet’s sensitivity and accuracy. Both tablets offer decent resolutions: the S630 boasts 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) and 200 RPS (Reports Per Second), while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small offers 5080 LPI and 233 RPS. These resolutions ensure smooth and precise drawing experiences on both tablets.
Pen Technology
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon S630 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small come equipped with impressive pens. The S630’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience. It also includes two customizable side buttons for shortcuts.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small‘s pen boasts even higher pressure sensitivity with 8192 levels and a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging. It also features two customizable side buttons and a rubber grip for enhanced comfort. Both pens offer excellent responsiveness and accuracy, but the Xencelabs pen‘s battery-free design and rubber grip might be a deciding factor for some users.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets are compatible with various software, including popular drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. Gaomon provides its own driver software, which offers customizable settings for pen pressure, button assignments, and more.
Xencelabs, on the other hand, offers its own proprietary driver software with advanced features like pen tilt support, customizable pressure curves, and a dedicated “Pen Control” window for fine-tuning your drawing experience. While both drivers are user-friendly and offer essential features, Xencelabs’ driver software might appeal to users seeking more advanced customization options.
Price and Value
The Gaomon S630 is generally more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small. Its price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists and beginners. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small, while slightly more expensive, offers a premium build quality, larger active area, and advanced driver software, justifying its price tag for professionals and serious artists.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget. If affordability is your top priority, the Gaomon S630 provides excellent value. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for premium features and a more professional experience, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small is a worthy investment.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Gaomon S630 vs Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small
So, which tablet should you choose? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Gaomon S630 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You need a portable and compact tablet.
- You’re a beginner or casual artist.
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small if:
- You’re a professional artist or serious hobbyist.
- You prefer a premium build quality and a larger active area.
- You value advanced driver software features and a battery-free pen.
The Final Verdict: More Than Just a Tablet
Choosing between the Gaomon S630 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small boils down to your specific needs and priorities. Both tablets offer excellent value for money and provide a smooth, responsive drawing experience. Ultimately, the best tablet for you is the one that fits your workflow, budget, and artistic aspirations.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Gaomon S630 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its affordability and user-friendly features. Its compact size and intuitive design make it easy to learn and use.
Q: Which tablet has better pen pressure sensitivity?
A: Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small’s pen might feel slightly more precise due to its advanced technology.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Small caters to professional artists with its premium build quality, larger active area, advanced driver software, and battery-free pen. Its features and performance justify its higher price tag.
Q: Can I use both tablets with my existing drawing software?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. You can use them with your existing software without any issues.
Q: Which tablet is better for travel?
A: The Gaomon S630 is more portable and compact due to its smaller size and lighter weight. It’s ideal for artists who need a tablet they can easily take on the go.
