Quick Overview
- If you primarily work on larger projects or prefer a more natural drawing feel, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus might be a better fit.
- The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, while slightly pricier, offers a larger active area and a more robust build quality.
- However, if you prioritize a larger drawing surface and enhanced build quality, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more premium experience.
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 segment are the Gaomon S620 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring artists, designers, and digital illustrators.
This comprehensive comparison aims to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
A Glimpse at the Contenders: Gaomon S620 vs XP-Pen Star G960S Plus
Gaomon S620: This tablet boasts a compact design, making it an ideal choice for those with limited desk space. It features a 6.5 x 4-inch active area, offering ample room for drawing and sketching. The S620 comes with a battery-free stylus, reducing the hassle of charging.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus distinguishes itself with its larger 9.5 x 6.3-inch active area, catering to users who prefer a more expansive canvas. It also incorporates a battery-free stylus and offers a pressure sensitivity level of 8192.
Active Area: Size Matters
One of the key differences between the two tablets lies in their active area. The Gaomon S620’s 6.5 x 4-inch active area provides a decent amount of space for drawing, but it may feel cramped for those accustomed to larger tablets.
On the other hand, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus boasts a spacious 9.5 x 6.3-inch active area, offering a more immersive drawing experience. If you primarily work on larger projects or prefer a more natural drawing feel, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus might be a better fit.
Stylus: Precision and Responsiveness
Both tablets come equipped with battery-free styluses, eliminating the need for charging and ensuring uninterrupted creative flow. The styluses offer a comfortable grip, enhancing user experience.
The Gaomon S620’s stylus features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and brushwork. The **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity**, ensuring a similar level of precision and control.
Design and Build Quality: Ergonomic Comfort
Gaomon S620: The Gaomon S620 adopts a compact and minimalist design. Its lightweight construction makes it portable and easy to carry around. The tablet’s surface is smooth and provides a comfortable drawing experience.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a more robust build quality with a slightly larger footprint. Its textured surface provides a better grip, preventing the tablet from sliding on your desk.
Connectivity and Compatibility: Seamless Integration
Both tablets offer USB connectivity, ensuring compatibility with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also work seamlessly with popular drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The Gaomon S620 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus. This makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious users or those new to digital art.
The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus, while slightly pricier, offers a larger active area and a more robust build quality. Its price reflects its enhanced features and overall value.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Features
While both tablets offer a solid foundation for digital art, they also incorporate some additional features that can enhance your workflow:
Gaomon S620: The Gaomon S620 includes eight customizable shortcut keys, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus: The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus features a built-in screen protector, safeguarding the tablet’s surface from scratches.
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Summary of Key Factors
Gaomon S620:
- Pros: Compact size, affordable price, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, eight customizable shortcut keys.
- Cons: Smaller active area.
XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:
- Pros: Larger active area, robust build quality, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, built-in screen protector.
- Cons: Higher price point.
The Verdict: Your Artistic Journey Begins Here
The choice between the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
If you value portability and affordability, the Gaomon S620 is an excellent entry-level option. However, if you prioritize a larger drawing surface and enhanced build quality, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more premium experience.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. If you’re on a tight budget, the Gaomon S620 is a great starting point. However, the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus offers a more spacious canvas for a smoother learning curve.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: Professional artists may find the larger active area and robust build quality of the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus more appealing. However, the Gaomon S620 can still be a viable option for professionals who value portability and affordability.
Q: Are both tablets compatible with Mac?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with macOS.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for photo editing. The pressure sensitivity allows for precise control over brush sizes and opacity.
Q: Which tablet has better line accuracy?
A: Both tablets offer good line accuracy. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus might have a slight edge due to its larger active area, but the difference is subtle.
