Quick summary
- The M1220 is a budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
- The PD1161 offers customizable shortcut keys, a built-in screen protector, and a pen holder, making it a more convenient and user-friendly option.
- The PD1161 offers additional features like customizable shortcut keys, a built-in screen protector, and a pen holder, enhancing the user experience.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Gaomon, a reputable brand known for its affordable and feature-rich tablets, offers two popular models: the M1220 and the PD1161. Both tablets cater to different needs and budgets, making the decision even more challenging. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each model, helping you determine which one best suits your artistic journey.
The Gaomon M1220: A Budget-Friendly Option
The Gaomon M1220 is a budget-friendly drawing tablet designed for beginners and casual artists. It offers a reasonable price point without compromising on essential features. Let’s explore its key specifications and advantages:
Key Features:
- Active Area: 10 x 6.25 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 Levels
- Report Rate: 233 RPS
- Pen: Battery-free, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Compatibility: Windows and macOS
Pros:
- Affordable Price: The M1220 is a budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
- Large Active Area: The 10 x 6.25-inch active area provides ample space for drawing and sketching.
- Responsive Pen: The battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity offers a smooth and accurate drawing experience.
- Good Compatibility: The tablet is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Cons:
- Basic Features: The M1220 lacks advanced features like customizable buttons or express keys.
- Plastic Build: The tablet’s plastic build may feel less premium than other models.
- Limited Driver Options: The driver software offers limited customization options compared to higher-end tablets.
The Gaomon PD1161: A Feature-Rich Choice
The Gaomon PD1161 is a more advanced drawing tablet designed for professional artists and enthusiasts. It boasts a larger active area, more pressure sensitivity levels, and additional features that enhance the drawing experience.
Key Features:
- Active Area: 11.6 x 7.2 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 Levels
- Report Rate: 266 RPS
- Pen: Battery-free, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, 8 customizable buttons
- Compatibility: Windows and macOS
- Additional Features: 8 customizable shortcut keys, a built-in screen protector, and a pen holder
Pros:
- Large Active Area: The 11.6 x 7.2-inch active area provides ample space for detailed drawings and digital paintings.
- Enhanced Features: The PD1161 offers customizable shortcut keys, a built-in screen protector, and a pen holder, making it a more convenient and user-friendly option.
- Responsive Pen: The battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and 8 customizable buttons provides excellent control and precision.
- Smooth Drawing Experience: The high report rate and pressure sensitivity ensure a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Cons:
- Higher Price: The PD1161 is more expensive than the M1220, making it less budget-friendly.
- Larger Size: The larger active area can be overwhelming for some users, especially those with limited desk space.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Detailed Comparison
To make an informed decision, let’s compare the Gaomon M1220 and PD1161 across key factors:
Active Area: The PD1161 offers a larger active area (11.6 x 7.2 inches) compared to the M1220 (10 x 6.25 inches). This extra space can be beneficial for detailed drawings and digital paintings.
Pressure Sensitivity: Both tablets feature 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Report Rate: The PD1161 has a slightly higher report rate (266 RPS) than the M1220 (233 RPS). This means the tablet can track pen movements faster, resulting in a smoother drawing experience.
Pen Features: Both tablets offer battery-free pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. However, the PD1161’s pen features 8 customizable buttons, providing more flexibility and control.
Additional Features: The PD1161 offers additional features like customizable shortcut keys, a built-in screen protector, and a pen holder, enhancing the user experience.
Price: The M1220 is significantly more affordable than the PD1161.
Who Should Choose the Gaomon M1220?
The Gaomon M1220 is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners: The budget-friendly price makes it an ideal option for those new to digital art.
- Casual Artists: If you only use your tablet occasionally, the M1220’s basic features are sufficient.
- Limited Desk Space: The smaller active area is suitable for users with limited desk space.
Who Should Choose the Gaomon PD1161?
The Gaomon PD1161 is a better choice for:
- Professional Artists: The advanced features and larger active area cater to the needs of professional artists.
- Enthusiasts: If you’re serious about digital art and want the best possible drawing experience, the PD1161 is a worthwhile investment.
- Users with Ample Desk Space: The larger active area requires ample desk space for comfortable use.
Beyond the Features: Other Considerations
While features and price are crucial factors, other considerations can influence your decision:
- Software Compatibility: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- User Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get insights into the tablet’s performance and reliability.
- Personal Preferences: Consider your individual needs and preferences when making your choice.
The Verdict: A Choice Based on Your Needs
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your specific needs and budget. The Gaomon M1220 is a budget-friendly option ideal for beginners and casual artists. The Gaomon PD1161, with its advanced features and larger active area, is a better choice for professional artists and enthusiasts. By carefully considering your requirements and weighing the pros and cons of each model, you can make an informed decision and embark on your artistic journey with the perfect drawing tablet.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Is the Gaomon M1220 compatible with my iPad?
A: No, the Gaomon M1220 is only compatible with Windows and macOS computers.
Q: Does the Gaomon PD1161 come with a screen protector?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1161 comes with a built-in screen protector.
Q: Can I customize the shortcut keys on the Gaomon M1220?
A: No, the Gaomon M1220 does not offer customizable shortcut keys.
Q: Is the Gaomon PD1161 compatible with Linux?
A: While Gaomon does not officially support Linux, some users have reported success using the tablet with Linux drivers.
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon M1220 and the Gaomon PD1560?
A: The Gaomon PD1560 is a larger tablet with a 15.6-inch active area, making it suitable for even more detailed drawings. It also offers a higher report rate and additional features like an adjustable stand.
