What to know
- The Wacom Cintiq 16 takes the lead with its superior display technology, offering better color accuracy, a wider color gamut, and a larger screen real estate.
- While the Gaomon PD1320 is portable and lightweight, the Wacom Cintiq 16 offers a more premium and sturdy design with a more stable and adjustable stand.
- The Gaomon PD1320 is the clear winner in terms of affordability, while the Wacom Cintiq 16 offers a premium experience at a higher price.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with renowned brands like Gaomon and Wacom. Both offer excellent options, but the Gaomon PD1320 vs Wacom Cintiq 16 comparison presents a compelling choice for aspiring artists and professionals alike. This blog post will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.
The Battle of the Titans: A Detailed Comparison
The Gaomon PD1320 and Wacom Cintiq 16 are both popular choices in the drawing tablet market, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Let’s break down their key features to understand their strengths and weaknesses:
1. Display Technology: A Tale of Two Screens
Gaomon PD1320: This tablet is a pen display, meaning it features a built-in screen where you can directly draw. The screen is a 13.3-inch IPS LCD with a 1920×1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut. While the color accuracy and viewing angles are decent, it’s not as vibrant or accurate as the Cintiq 16.
Wacom Cintiq 16: The Wacom Cintiq 16 also offers a pen display, but with a superior 15.6-inch IPS LCD boasting a 1920×1080 resolution, a 94% NTSC color gamut, and a wider viewing angle. This translates to more accurate colors, deeper blacks, and a more immersive drawing experience.
Verdict: The Wacom Cintiq 16 takes the lead with its superior display technology, offering better color accuracy, a wider color gamut, and a larger screen real estate.
2. Pen Technology: The Heart of the Drawing Experience
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 comes with a battery-free pen featuring 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is sufficient for most users. The pen also offers tilt support, allowing for more natural strokes and shading. However, some users have reported a slight lag or jitter in the pen response.
Wacom Cintiq 16: Wacom’s Pro Pen 2, included with the Cintiq 16, features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and a lower latency. This results in a more responsive and accurate drawing experience, making it ideal for detailed work and intricate lines.
Verdict: The Wacom Cintiq 16’s Pro Pen 2 offers a more refined and responsive drawing experience, thanks to its lower latency and precise pressure sensitivity.
3. Design and Ergonomics: Comfort and Functionality
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 features a sleek and compact design with adjustable stands for a comfortable drawing position. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go. However, some users have reported that the tablet feels a bit flimsy and the stand can be unstable.
Wacom Cintiq 16: The Wacom Cintiq 16 boasts a more robust and sturdy design with a built-in stand that offers multiple adjustable angles. The tablet is heavier than the PD1320 but feels more premium and offers a more stable drawing experience.
Verdict: While the Gaomon PD1320 is portable and lightweight, the Wacom Cintiq 16 offers a more premium and sturdy design with a more stable and adjustable stand.
4. Connectivity and Software: Seamless Integration
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 connects via USB-C and supports both Windows and macOS. It comes with a driver that offers customization options for pen settings and screen calibration. However, the driver is not as sophisticated as Wacom’s driver.
Wacom Cintiq 16: The Wacom Cintiq 16 connects via USB-C and supports both Windows and macOS. It comes with Wacom’s robust driver, offering extensive customization options for pen settings, screen calibration, and even shortcut keys. The driver also integrates seamlessly with popular creative software like Photoshop and Illustrator.
Verdict: Wacom’s driver offers a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience with extensive customization options and seamless integration with creative software.
5. Price: The Budget Factor
Gaomon PD1320: The Gaomon PD1320 is significantly more affordable than the Wacom Cintiq 16, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists.
Wacom Cintiq 16: The Wacom Cintiq 16 comes at a higher price point, reflecting its superior features and brand recognition.
Verdict: The Gaomon PD1320 is the clear winner in terms of affordability, while the Wacom Cintiq 16 offers a premium experience at a higher price.
Choosing the Right Tablet for You: A Guide to Decision-Making
The choice between the Gaomon PD1320 and Wacom Cintiq 16 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown of who each tablet is best suited for:
Gaomon PD1320:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious artists, beginners, and those who prioritize portability.
- Pros: Affordable, portable, pen display, decent pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: Less accurate colors, weaker display, less responsive pen, flimsy design.
Wacom Cintiq 16:
- Ideal for: Professionals, serious artists, those who prioritize color accuracy and pen responsiveness.
- Pros: Superior display, accurate colors, responsive pen, robust design, comprehensive driver.
- Cons: Higher price point, less portable.
Beyond the Battle: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon PD1320 and Wacom Cintiq 16 are excellent choices, the drawing tablet market offers a diverse range of options. Consider exploring other brands and models like XP-Pen, Huion, and even older Wacom models to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
The Verdict: A Matter of Priorities
The Gaomon PD1320 and Wacom Cintiq 16 both offer compelling features, but the Wacom Cintiq 16 emerges as the winner for those seeking a premium drawing experience with superior display technology, a more responsive pen, and a robust design. However, the Gaomon PD1320 remains a viable option for budget-conscious artists who prioritize portability and affordability.
The Final Word: Your Artistic Journey Awaits
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best suits your individual needs, budget, and artistic style. Whether you choose the Gaomon PD1320 or the Wacom Cintiq 16, remember that the most important factor is your creative passion and dedication.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1: Can I use the Gaomon PD1320 or Wacom Cintiq 16 with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers and do not have direct support for smartphone connectivity.
Q2: What are the minimum system requirements for these tablets?
A: Both tablets require a computer with a USB-C port and a compatible operating system (Windows or macOS). Refer to the manufacturer’s websites for specific system requirements.
Q3: How do I calibrate the screen on these tablets?
A: Both tablets come with drivers that allow you to calibrate the screen to ensure accurate color representation. Follow the instructions provided in the driver software.
Q4: Is it possible to use these tablets for other applications besides drawing?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for various applications, including photo editing, graphic design, animation, and even gaming.
Q5: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Gaomon typically offers a 1-year warranty on their tablets, while Wacom offers a 2-year warranty on their Cintiq models. Refer to the manufacturer’s websites for detailed warranty information.
