Main points
- On the other hand, the Deco Pro M comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including black, blue, and red, offering a touch of personality.
- The Gaomon PD1320 emerges as a compelling choice for artists seeking a large active area, a responsive pen, and a budget-friendly price.
- If you prefer a more compact tablet with customizable features and a touch of personality, the XP-Pen Deco Pro M is a worthy contender.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1320 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro M. Both tablets offer compelling features, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the nuances of each model, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco Pro M boast sleek and modern designs, making them aesthetically pleasing additions to any workspace. The PD1320 features a black, minimalist design with a textured surface for enhanced grip. It’s relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. On the other hand, the Deco Pro M comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including black, blue, and red, offering a touch of personality. Both tablets have a sturdy build quality, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the surface of the tablet where your pen strokes are registered. The PD1320 offers a generous 10 x 6.25-inch active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The Deco Pro M, however, boasts a slightly smaller 10 x 6-inch active area. Both tablets feature a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and accurate pen movements.
Pen Technology and Features
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens, allowing for natural and responsive drawing. The PD1320’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a wide range of stroke thickness and nuance. The Deco Pro M also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a similar level of precision. Both pens are battery-free, eliminating the need for charging.
Buttons and Customization
The PD1320 and Deco Pro M both feature customizable buttons on the tablet and pen. The PD1320’s tablet has eight express keys and a scroll wheel, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions. The Deco Pro M also has eight express keys and a scroll wheel, providing similar customization options. Both tablets offer driver software for customizing button assignments and pen settings.
Software Compatibility and Drivers
Both the PD1320 and Deco Pro M are compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. Both tablets come with user-friendly driver software that allows for pen customization, button mapping, and calibration.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco Pro M are both budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering excellent value for their price. The PD1320 is generally priced slightly lower than the Deco Pro M, making it a more affordable option. However, the Deco Pro M’s vibrant color options and slightly smaller size may appeal to some users.
Gaomon PD1320: The Verdict
The Gaomon PD1320 emerges as a compelling choice for artists seeking a large active area, a responsive pen, and a budget-friendly price. Its spacious drawing surface and precise pressure sensitivity make it ideal for detailed drawings and sketches. The PD1320’s minimalist design and lightweight construction further enhance its appeal.
XP-Pen Deco Pro M: The Verdict
The XP-Pen Deco Pro M stands out with its vibrant color options, sleek design, and user-friendly software. Its smaller active area might be a drawback for some artists, but its portability and customization options make it a solid choice for creative professionals on the go.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Final Thought
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a spacious drawing surface and affordability, the Gaomon PD1320 is a great option. If you prefer a more compact tablet with customizable features and a touch of personality, the XP-Pen Deco Pro M is a worthy contender.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco Pro M are excellent choices, the drawing tablet market offers a wide range of options. Consider exploring other models from reputable brands like Huion, XP-Pen, and Wacom, taking into account your budget, desired features, and specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a monitor?
A drawing tablet is a digital input device that allows you to draw or write on its surface using a pressure-sensitive pen. It then translates these actions to your computer screen. A drawing monitor, on the other hand, is a display device that combines the functionality of a drawing tablet and a monitor.
2. Can I use a drawing tablet with any computer?
Most drawing tablets are compatible with both Windows and macOS computers. However, it’s important to check the specific compatibility requirements of the tablet you’re considering.
3. Is a drawing tablet necessary for digital art?
While a drawing tablet is not strictly necessary for digital art, it offers a more natural and precise drawing experience compared to using a mouse. It allows for greater control over line thickness and pressure sensitivity, resulting in more realistic and nuanced artwork.
4. How do I choose the right size drawing tablet?
The ideal size of a drawing tablet depends on your personal preferences and the type of art you create. If you prefer a spacious drawing surface for detailed work, a larger tablet is recommended. If you prioritize portability, a smaller tablet might be more suitable.
5. What is the difference between active area and resolution?
The active area refers to the surface of the tablet where your pen strokes are registered. The resolution determines the accuracy and sensitivity of the pen movements. A higher resolution generally results in a smoother and more precise drawing experience.
