Highlights
- The Artist 12 Pro, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a black and red color scheme.
- The Artist 12 Pro also utilizes a USB cable for connection, but it also offers an optional HDMI port for a more stable and high-resolution display output.
- The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive package that includes a pen, 10 replaceable nibs, a pen holder, a glove, a cleaning cloth, a USB cable, an HDMI cable, and a driver CD.
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 segment are the Gaomon S620 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro. Both offer compelling features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one emerges as the victor? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro sport distinct designs that cater to different preferences. The S620 boasts a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a black and silver color scheme. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it portable and easy to transport. The Artist 12 Pro, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a black and red color scheme. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the S620, providing a more stable feel on your desk.
Both tablets are built with durable materials and feel solid in hand. The S620’s plastic construction might feel a bit less premium compared to the Artist 12 Pro’s metal frame, but it’s still sturdy and reliable. The textured surface of both tablets provides a comfortable grip, preventing slippage during extended drawing sessions.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the crucial part of a drawing tablet where your stylus interacts with the surface. The Gaomon S620 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for sketching, painting, and detailed work. The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, however, trumps the S620 with a larger active area of 11.6 x 6.5 inches, offering even more room for creative exploration.
Resolution plays a vital role in determining the tablet’s responsiveness and accuracy. The S620 boasts a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), which is more than sufficient for most drawing tasks. The Artist 12 Pro, however, takes it a step further with a higher resolution of 5080 LPI, ensuring smoother and more precise linework.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen technology and pressure sensitivity are key factors that influence the natural feel and responsiveness of a drawing tablet. Both the Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro utilize battery-free, passive pens that rely on electromagnetic resonance for pressure detection.
The S620 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a good range of responsiveness for varying pen pressure. The Artist 12 Pro, however, surpasses the S620 with a higher pressure sensitivity level of 8192, allowing for more nuanced and expressive strokes.
Display and Viewing Angle
The Gaomon S620 doesn’t come with a display, making it a more affordable option. This means you’ll need to rely on your computer screen for visual feedback. The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, on the other hand, features a built-in 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 178° viewing angle. This provides a direct and immersive drawing experience, eliminating the need to constantly switch between the tablet and your computer screen.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro offer reliable connectivity options. The S620 connects to your computer via USB cable, ensuring a stable connection. The Artist 12 Pro also utilizes a USB cable for connection, but it also offers an optional HDMI port for a more stable and high-resolution display output.
In terms of compatibility, both tablets work seamlessly with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support various drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Accessories and Extras
The Gaomon S620 comes bundled with a pen, 8 replaceable nibs, a pen holder, and a USB cable. The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive package that includes a pen, 10 replaceable nibs, a pen holder, a glove, a cleaning cloth, a USB cable, an HDMI cable, and a driver CD.
Price and Value
The Gaomon S620 is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Artist 12 Pro’s added features, such as the built-in display, higher resolution, and comprehensive accessories, justify its higher price tag.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize portability, the Gaomon S620 is a solid choice. It offers a decent active area, good pressure sensitivity, and reliable performance.
However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more and prioritize a more immersive drawing experience, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is the superior option. Its built-in display, larger active area, higher resolution, and comprehensive accessories make it a compelling choice for both beginners and professionals.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon S620 and XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro are excellent choices, it’s worth exploring other options depending on your specific requirements. If you’re looking for a more affordable tablet with a smaller active area, the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro is a great alternative. For a larger active area and a more premium experience, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro might be a better fit.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Tablet
Choosing the right drawing tablet is about more than just specs and features. It’s about finding a tool that complements your creative workflow and inspires you to push your artistic boundaries. Whether you opt for the Gaomon S620 or the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, both tablets offer a solid foundation for unleashing your creative potential.
What People Want to Know
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is a digital input device that translates your pen strokes into digital signals. It doesn’t have a built-in display. A drawing monitor, on the other hand, is a tablet with a built-in display, providing a direct and immersive drawing experience.
Q: Do I need a drawing tablet for digital art?
A: While you can create digital art using a mouse or trackpad, a drawing tablet offers a more natural and intuitive experience. It allows for more precise control and pressure sensitivity, enhancing your artistic expression.
Q: What software should I use with a drawing tablet?
A: There are numerous drawing software options available, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Procreate (for iPad). The best software for you depends on your artistic style and workflow.
Q: Can I use a drawing tablet for other tasks besides drawing?
A: Yes, drawing tablets can be used for various tasks, including photo editing, graphic design, animation, and even handwriting recognition.
Q: How do I choose the right drawing tablet for me?
A: Consider your budget, active area requirements, pressure sensitivity needs, and whether you prefer a tablet with a built-in display. Research different models and read reviews to find the best fit for your artistic workflow.
