Key points
- It comes in a stylish white finish and incorporates a unique “floating” design, with a slim, angled frame that elevates the active area for a comfortable drawing experience.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer exceptional pen technology.
- The Gaomon M1230 comes with a driver that offers basic customization options, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a more comprehensive driver with advanced features like customizable express keys, pen pressure settings, and shortcut customization.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon M1230 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium exhibit distinct design philosophies. The Gaomon M1230 boasts a minimalist, sleek design with a black finish. It features eight customizable shortcut keys and a scroll wheel, providing easy access to frequently used functions. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, adopts a more modern and ergonomic approach. It comes in a stylish white finish and incorporates a unique “floating” design, with a slim, angled frame that elevates the active area for a comfortable drawing experience. The tablet also features eight customizable express keys and a dedicated dial for precise control.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon M1230 uses a durable plastic casing, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium opts for a more premium, aluminum frame. The Xencelabs tablet feels slightly more robust and premium, but the Gaomon M1230 is still a reliable and well-built device.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the surface where you draw on the tablet, and a larger active area generally translates to a more natural drawing experience. The Gaomon M1230 offers a generous 10 x 6.25-inch active area, providing ample space for detailed drawings and intricate artwork. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, however, takes the lead with an even larger 13.3 x 8.25-inch active area, making it a great choice for users who prefer a more expansive canvas.
The resolution of the tablet determines the accuracy and responsiveness of the pen input. Both the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boast a high resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring precise and accurate pen strokes. This high resolution allows for smooth lines and subtle details, providing a high level of control over your digital art.
Pen and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer exceptional pen technology. The Gaomon M1230 comes bundled with a battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for nuanced strokes and a natural drawing experience. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, however, takes the crown with its advanced pen technology. It features a battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, enabling even more realistic and expressive strokes. The pen also boasts a comfortable, ergonomic design with a textured grip, ensuring a comfortable drawing experience for extended periods.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are compatible with a wide range of software, including popular drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The Gaomon M1230 comes with a driver that offers basic customization options, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts a more comprehensive driver with advanced features like customizable express keys, pen pressure settings, and shortcut customization.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also includes a unique software called “Pen Control,” which allows users to fine-tune pen settings, customize pressure curves, and create custom pen profiles for different software applications. This software adds an extra layer of customization and control, making the Xencelabs tablet a more versatile option for professional artists.
Price and Value
The Gaomon M1230 is generally more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more premium experience with its larger active area, advanced pen technology, and comprehensive software suite. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boils down to your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a large active area and excellent pressure sensitivity, the Gaomon M1230 is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize advanced pen technology, a larger active area, and a premium user experience, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the superior option.
The Final Word: Beyond the Comparison
Beyond the technical specifications, both the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer a fantastic drawing experience. The choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and how you intend to use the tablet. If you’re a casual artist or a beginner, the Gaomon M1230 is a great starting point. However, if you’re a professional artist or someone who demands the best possible drawing experience, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the way to go.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon M1230 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium?
A: The main differences lie in the active area, pen technology, and software. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a larger active area, advanced pen technology with tilt support, and a comprehensive software suite, while the Gaomon M1230 is more affordable and boasts a large active area with excellent pressure sensitivity.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon M1230 is a more affordable option with a large active area, making it a good choice for learning the basics of digital art. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more premium experience with its advanced pen technology and software, but it may be overkill for absolute beginners.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is generally preferred by professional artists due to its larger active area, advanced pen technology, and comprehensive software suite. It provides a more immersive and precise drawing experience, catering to the demanding needs of professional artists.
Q: Are both tablets compatible with Mac and Windows?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon M1230 and Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium are compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. They come with drivers that allow them to work seamlessly with both platforms.
Q: Which tablet has better customer support?
A: Both Gaomon and Xencelabs offer customer support, but Xencelabs is generally known for its more responsive and helpful customer service. They have a dedicated support team and a comprehensive online knowledge base to assist users with any issues or questions.
