Summary
- The VK1560 adopts a more robust design with a thicker plastic casing, offering a more premium feel.
- The pen is slightly heavier than the PD1161’s pen, but it provides a more balanced feel in the hand.
- Its solid build quality, comfortable pen, and advanced software features make it a suitable choice for professional artists or those who demand a more refined drawing experience.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Studio VK1560. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD1161: The PD1161 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black and silver color scheme. Its 10.6-inch active area feels spacious and comfortable for drawing. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go. However, the build quality feels slightly flimsy, with a thin plastic casing that might not withstand rough handling.
Veikk Studio VK1560: The VK1560 adopts a more robust design with a thicker plastic casing, offering a more premium feel. Its 11.6-inch active area provides ample space for creative exploration. The tablet is slightly heavier than the PD1161 but remains portable. The overall build quality is solid, giving users a sense of durability.
Pen Performance
Gaomon PD1161: The PD1161 comes equipped with a battery-free pen that features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering precise and responsive linework. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with two customizable buttons for shortcuts. However, some users have reported a slight lag in pen response, particularly when drawing at high speeds.
Veikk Studio VK1560: The VK1560 also includes a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is slightly heavier than the PD1161’s pen, but it provides a more balanced feel in the hand. It also features two customizable buttons and a side switch for changing pen functions. The pen response is generally smooth and accurate, with minimal lag.
Display and Resolution
Gaomon PD1161: The PD1161 is a pen tablet, meaning it doesn’t have a built-in display. Users rely on their computer monitor for visual feedback. While this may seem like a drawback, it allows for a more affordable price point.
Veikk Studio VK1560: The VK1560 is also a pen tablet, lacking a built-in display. This is a common feature among tablets in this price range, as displays significantly increase costs.
Driver and Software
Gaomon PD1161: The PD1161 drivers are generally stable and easy to install. They offer basic customization options, including pressure sensitivity and pen button assignments. However, the software lacks advanced features like screen rotation or custom profiles.
Veikk Studio VK1560: The VK1560 drivers are also stable and user-friendly. They provide a wider range of customization options, including screen rotation, custom profiles, and hotkey assignments. The software is more feature-rich compared to the PD1161’s software.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD1161: The PD1161 is typically priced lower than the VK1560, making it a more budget-friendly option. Its affordability comes with some compromises in build quality and software features.
Veikk Studio VK1560: The VK1560 is priced slightly higher than the PD1161, reflecting its improved build quality and software features. It offers a better overall value for users seeking a more robust and feature-rich tablet.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon PD1161:
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Lightweight and portable
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Comfortable pen
Cons:
- Flimsy build quality
- Slight pen lag at high speeds
- Limited software features
Veikk Studio VK1560:
Pros:
- Solid build quality
- Comfortable pen with good response
- Feature-rich software
- Larger active area
Cons:
- Slightly higher price
- Pen is slightly heavier
Which Tablet is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Studio VK1560 depends on your individual needs and priorities.
- For budget-conscious artists who prioritize portability: The Gaomon PD1161 is a great option. Its lightweight design and affordable price make it a compelling choice for students or artists on the go.
- For artists seeking a more robust and feature-rich tablet: The Veikk Studio VK1560 is a better investment. Its solid build quality, comfortable pen, and advanced software features make it a suitable choice for professional artists or those who demand a more refined drawing experience.
The Final Verdict: A Tie!
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Studio VK1560 offer excellent value for their respective price points. The PD1161 is a fantastic budget-friendly option, while the VK1560 provides a more premium experience with its improved build quality and software features. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
What People Want to Know
Q: Does the Gaomon PD1161 work with macOS?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1161 is compatible with macOS.
Q: Is the Veikk Studio VK1560 compatible with Windows and macOS?
A: Yes, the Veikk Studio VK1560 is compatible with both Windows and macOS.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1161 with Photoshop?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1161 works seamlessly with Photoshop and other popular drawing software.
Q: Does the Veikk Studio VK1560 have tilt support?
A: Yes, the Veikk Studio VK1560 supports tilt functionality, providing a more natural drawing experience.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Studio VK1560 typically come with a 1-year warranty.
