Quick notes
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** offer impressive pen performance.
- The lack of a display on the Deco Pro MW might be a dealbreaker for some, but it also makes it a more affordable option.
- However, if you prefer to see your artwork in real-time and enjoy the immersive experience of drawing directly on the screen, the PD156 Pro is the superior option.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of options available. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but they also have their own strengths and weaknesses. 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 PD156 Pro boasts a sleek and minimalist design, with a black plastic body and a thin profile. Its active area is 13.3 inches, offering ample space for drawing. The tablet features eight customizable shortcut keys and a scroll wheel, providing convenient access to frequently used functions. The **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** also has a sleek design, with a black aluminum frame and a glass surface. Its active area is 10.6 inches, slightly smaller than the PD156 Pro. The tablet features eight customizable shortcut keys, a touch ring, and a pen holder, adding to its functionality.
In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon PD156 Pro’s plastic body is less premium than the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW’s aluminum frame, but it remains durable. The glass surface of the Deco Pro MW offers a smooth and responsive drawing experience, while the PD156 Pro’s textured surface provides a slightly more tactile feel.
Pen Performance
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** offer impressive pen performance. The PD156 Pro’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a high degree of accuracy and responsiveness. It also boasts tilt support, allowing you to create natural brush strokes and shading effects. The Deco Pro MW’s pen also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, ensuring a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
However, the Deco Pro MW‘s pen has a slightly more ergonomic design with a textured grip, providing a more comfortable grip and control. Both pens are battery-free, eliminating the need for charging and providing a seamless drawing experience.
Display and Resolution
The Gaomon PD156 Pro is a pen display tablet, meaning it has a built-in LCD screen. The display is a 13.3-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, delivering vibrant colors and sharp details. The Deco Pro MW, on the other hand, is a regular drawing tablet, meaning it does not have a built-in screen. Users need to connect it to a computer monitor to view their artwork.
The lack of a display on the Deco Pro MW might be a dealbreaker for some, but it also makes it a more affordable option. If you are on a budget and don’t mind drawing without a screen, the Deco Pro MW could be a good choice. However, if you prefer to see your artwork in real-time and enjoy the immersive experience of drawing directly on the screen, the PD156 Pro is the superior option.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** offer versatile connectivity options. The PD156 Pro connects via USB Type-C, providing a stable and reliable connection. The Deco Pro MW also connects via USB Type-C, but it also includes a wireless option using Bluetooth 5.0. This allows you to work wirelessly with your tablet, offering greater flexibility and freedom of movement.
Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android operating systems, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Software and Drivers
Both Gaomon and **XP-Pen** provide user-friendly software and drivers for their tablets. The Gaomon software allows you to customize shortcut keys, calibrate the tablet, and adjust pen settings. The XP-Pen software offers similar features, including customizable shortcut keys, calibration options, and pen settings. Both software packages are relatively straightforward and easy to use, ensuring a smooth setup and configuration process.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD156 Pro is generally priced lower than the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW**, making it a more affordable option. However, the Deco Pro MW’s wireless connectivity and premium build quality justify its slightly higher price tag. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.
The Verdict: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** boils down to your individual preferences and priorities.
Choose the Gaomon PD156 Pro if:
- You prefer a larger active area.
- You prioritize a built-in display for a more immersive drawing experience.
- You are on a tighter budget.
Choose the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW if:
- You prefer a sleek and premium design.
- You value wireless connectivity for greater flexibility.
- You don’t mind drawing without a built-in screen.
Stepping Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon PD156 Pro and **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** are excellent choices, the world of drawing tablets is vast, and there are other noteworthy options to consider. If you’re looking for a more compact and portable solution, the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** or the **Huion Kamvas Pro 13** might be worth exploring. If you require a larger screen for professional work, the **XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro** or the **Wacom Cintiq 16** could be excellent choices.
The Final Word: Beyond the Tech Specs
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that you find most comfortable and enjoyable to use. It’s crucial to consider your individual needs, budget, and artistic goals when making your decision. Don’t hesitate to try out different tablets before making a final purchase to ensure you find the perfect fit for your creative journey.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are suitable for beginners. However, the Gaomon PD156 Pro’s built-in display might be more helpful for learning and getting used to drawing with a tablet.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for photo editing, though they are primarily designed for drawing and illustration. The pen pressure sensitivity and tilt support allow for precise control and natural brush strokes, making them suitable for photo editing tasks.
Q: What are the main differences between the two tablets?
A: The main differences lie in the display, connectivity, and price. The Gaomon PD156 Pro has a built-in display, while the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW offers wireless connectivity. The PD156 Pro is generally more affordable.
Q: Is the Gaomon PD156 Pro compatible with iPad?
A: No, the Gaomon PD156 Pro is not compatible with iPad. It is designed for use with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android devices.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer a standard warranty period for their tablets. Check the specific warranty details on their respective websites.
