Unveiling the Battle: Gaomon PD1320 vs XP Pen Artist 12 – Which One Wins for Artists?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders that often find themselves in the spotlight are the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your artistic needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12** share a similar design philosophy, featuring a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. Both tablets boast a black, plastic construction, giving them a professional yet understated look. The **PD1320** comes with a slightly larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches compared to the **Artist 12’s** 10 x 6.25 inches. This subtle difference in active area may be more noticeable for users who prefer a larger drawing space.

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel solid and sturdy. They are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for artists on the go. The PD1320 features a slightly thicker bezel around the drawing area, which might feel slightly more substantial to some users.

Pen Technology

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12** offer impressive pen technology. The **PD1320** comes equipped with a passive pen that boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for precise control and nuance in your strokes, making it ideal for detailed drawings and illustrations. The pen also features a comfortable ergonomic design and eight customizable buttons, offering flexibility and efficiency in your workflow.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 also boasts a passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is known for its smooth and responsive feel, making it a joy to use. It features six customizable buttons, providing plenty of shortcuts for common tasks.

Both pens offer a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging and ensuring uninterrupted drawing sessions.

Display and Features

The Gaomon PD1320 is designed as a standalone drawing tablet, meaning it does not include a built-in display. This makes it an affordable option for artists who are comfortable working directly on the tablet surface. The **XP-Pen Artist 12**, on the other hand, is a display tablet, offering a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. This provides a more immersive and intuitive drawing experience, allowing you to see your work directly on the screen.

The Artist 12 also boasts a laminated screen, which reduces parallax and creates a more natural drawing experience. The display offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles, making it suitable for both professional and casual use.

Software and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12** are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and even Android. This broad compatibility ensures that you can use the tablet with your preferred software and devices. Both tablets come with dedicated drivers that offer customization options for pen pressure, button mapping, and other settings.

Performance and Accuracy

Both the PD1320 and the **Artist 12** deliver exceptional performance in terms of accuracy and responsiveness. The high pressure sensitivity and smooth pen tracking ensure precise line work and natural-feeling brush strokes. The **Artist 12’s** display tablet format enhances the drawing experience, eliminating the need for constant screen referencing and offering a more intuitive workflow.

Price and Value

The Gaomon PD1320 is generally more affordable than the **XP-Pen Artist 12**. This price difference is mainly due to the **Artist 12’s** integrated display. If you’re on a budget and are comfortable working with a standalone tablet, the **PD1320** offers excellent value for money. However, if you prioritize an immersive and intuitive drawing experience, the **Artist 12’s** display tablet format might be worth the investment.

Choosing the Right Tablet for You

The choice between the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12** boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Gaomon PD1320:

• Ideal for: Budget-conscious artists, those who prefer a standalone tablet, and those who are comfortable working directly on the tablet surface.
• Pros: Affordable, large active area, responsive pen, customizable buttons.
• Cons: No built-in display, slightly thicker bezels.

XP-Pen Artist 12:

• Ideal for: Artists who value an immersive drawing experience, those who prefer working directly on a display, and those who need a larger screen for detailed work.
• Pros: Built-in display, laminated screen for reduced parallax, vibrant colors, responsive pen, customizable buttons.
• Cons: More expensive than the PD1320.

The Final Verdict: Beyond the Features

Ultimately, the best tablet for you is the one that best suits your individual artistic needs and preferences. Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12** are excellent drawing tablets that offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. Consider your budget, your preferred workflow, and the level of immersion you desire when making your decision.

Beyond the Verdict: A Look Beyond the Comparison

While this comparison focused on the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12**, it’s important to note that the world of drawing tablets is constantly evolving. New models and features are introduced regularly, offering even more options for artists of all skill levels. Don’t limit yourself to just these two tablets; explore the market, read reviews, and find the tablet that truly resonates with your artistic vision.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: What are the differences between passive and active pens?

A: Passive pens do not require batteries or charging, as they rely on the tablet’s electromagnetic resonance to detect pen movements and pressure. Active pens, on the other hand, have internal batteries and sensors and communicate wirelessly with the tablet.

Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1320 or XP-Pen Artist 12 with my smartphone?

A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with Android devices via USB OTG (On-The-Go) connectivity.

Q: What software is recommended for use with these tablets?

A: Both tablets work well with popular drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The **Gaomon PD1320** is a more affordable option, while the **XP-Pen Artist 12** offers a more immersive experience with its built-in display.

Q: What are the pros and cons of a display tablet vs. a standalone tablet?

A: Display tablets offer a more immersive and intuitive drawing experience, allowing you to see your work directly on the screen. However, they are typically more expensive than standalone tablets. Standalone tablets are more affordable, but they require you to constantly reference your computer screen, which can be less efficient.