Summary
- The S620 features a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a more professional aesthetic with a silver aluminum frame.
- The display is a crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, and both the S620 and Artist Pro 16 offer distinct features.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the S620 and Artist Pro 16 offer impressive pen technology.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 boast distinct designs catering to different preferences. The S620 features a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body, while the Artist Pro 16 boasts a more professional aesthetic with a silver aluminum frame.
Gaomon S620:
- Compact and lightweight: Its smaller size and lighter weight make it ideal for portability, making it perfect for artists on the go.
- Simplified design: The S620’s straightforward design focuses on functionality, with minimal buttons and a clean surface.
- Durable plastic construction: The plastic build might not be as premium as the Artist Pro 16, but it still offers decent durability for everyday use.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- Sturdy and premium: The aluminum frame adds a touch of sophistication and provides a more robust feel compared to the S620.
- Ergonomic design: The Artist Pro 16’s larger size and angled stand offer a more comfortable drawing experience, especially for extended sessions.
- Multiple buttons and shortcut keys: The tablet features eight customizable buttons and a touch bar along the side, offering greater control and efficiency.
Display and Drawing Area
The display is a crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, and both the S620 and Artist Pro 16 offer distinct features.
Gaomon S620:
- No display: The S620 is a pen display tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in screen. You’ll need to connect it to a separate monitor for drawing.
- Large active area: Despite lacking a display, the S620 boasts a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for creative expression.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- Full HD display: The Artist Pro 16 features a 15.6-inch full HD display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, offering a vibrant and detailed drawing experience.
- Smaller active area: The Artist Pro 16’s active area measures 13.3 x 7.5 inches, which is slightly smaller than the S620.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the S620 and Artist Pro 16 offer impressive pen technology.
Gaomon S620:
- Passive pen: The S620 utilizes a passive pen that doesn’t require batteries or charging.
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity: The pen offers a high level of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control and nuanced strokes.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- Battery-free pen: The Artist Pro 16 also features a battery-free pen, eliminating the need for charging.
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity: Similar to the S620, the Artist Pro 16 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring responsive and accurate strokes.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer reliable connectivity and compatibility with various operating systems.
Gaomon S620:
- USB connection: The S620 connects to your computer via a USB cable, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
- Windows and Mac compatibility: The S620 is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it a versatile choice for most artists.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- USB-C and HDMI connection: The Artist Pro 16 offers both USB-C and HDMI connections, providing greater flexibility and compatibility with various devices.
- Windows and Mac compatibility: Similar to the S620, the Artist Pro 16 is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
Software and Drivers
Both tablets come with their own software and drivers, which are essential for optimal performance.
Gaomon S620:
- Gaomon Driver: The S620 comes with the Gaomon driver, which allows you to customize pen settings, assign shortcuts, and calibrate the tablet.
- Simple and straightforward: The Gaomon driver is relatively easy to use and offers basic customization options.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- XP-Pen Artist software: The Artist Pro 16 comes with the XP-Pen Artist software, which provides more advanced features compared to the Gaomon driver.
- Extensive customization options: The XP-Pen Artist software allows you to customize pen settings, configure shortcut keys, and even create custom profiles for different software.
Price and Value
The price is a crucial factor for many artists, and both the S620 and Artist Pro 16 offer impressive value for their respective price points.
Gaomon S620:
- Budget-friendly: The S620 is generally priced lower than the Artist Pro 16, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious artists.
- Excellent value for money: Despite its lower price, the S620 offers a decent drawing experience with its large active area and pressure sensitivity.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16:
- Mid-range price: The Artist Pro 16 falls into the mid-range price category, offering a balance between features and affordability.
- Premium features for the price: The Artist Pro 16 offers a more premium experience with its full HD display, ergonomic design, and advanced software.
Gaomon S620 vs XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: Which Should You Choose?
The choice between the Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Gaomon S620 if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
- You prefer a compact and portable tablet.
- You’re comfortable drawing on a separate monitor.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 if:
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for a premium drawing experience.
- You prefer a larger and more ergonomic tablet.
- You want a built-in display for a direct drawing experience.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Tablets
Both the Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 offer exceptional value for their price points, each catering to different needs and preferences. The S620 excels in affordability, portability, and a large active area, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious artists or those who prioritize drawing on a separate monitor. The Artist Pro 16, on the other hand, shines with its premium build quality, full HD display, and advanced software, providing a more immersive and professional drawing experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use the Gaomon S620 with a laptop?
A: Yes, the Gaomon S620 is compatible with laptops as long as they have a USB port.
Q: Does the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 have anti-glare coating?
A: Yes, the Artist Pro 16 features an anti-glare coating to reduce reflections and improve visibility.
Q: Can I use the S620 for photo editing?
A: While the S620 is primarily designed for drawing, it can also be used for photo editing, although a pen display tablet may offer a more natural and precise experience.
Q: What are the minimum system requirements for the Artist Pro 16?
A: The Artist Pro 16 requires a computer with at least a Windows 7 or macOS 10.10 operating system, a USB port, and a display with an HDMI or VGA connection.
Q: Can I use the S620 with a Chromebook?
A: The S620’s compatibility with Chromebooks may vary depending on the specific model. It’s recommended to check the manufacturer’s website for compatibility information.
