Unleash Your Inner Artist: Gaomon PD1220 vs XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro – The Ultimate Showdown!

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro**. Both offer compelling features, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Gaomon PD1220 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame. Its active area measures 10.6 inches diagonally, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet itself is fairly lightweight and comes with a sturdy stand that allows for multiple viewing angles.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro also adopts a sleek design with a black plastic body. Its 11.6-inch active area slightly surpasses the PD1220, offering a more expansive canvas. The Artist 12 Pro comes with a more robust stand that allows for greater flexibility in positioning.

Both tablets feature a textured drawing surface that provides a comfortable grip and mimics the feel of drawing on paper. The build quality of both devices is solid, with no noticeable creaking or flexing.

Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy

Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, as it determines how accurately the tablet translates pen pressure into line thickness and brush strokes. The Gaomon PD1220 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering a smooth and responsive experience. The pen itself is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with two side buttons for customizable shortcuts.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring a similar level of accuracy and responsiveness. The pen is slightly heavier than the Gaomon pen but still comfortable to use for extended periods. It also features two side buttons for shortcuts.

Both tablets offer excellent accuracy, with minimal parallax (the difference between the pen tip position and the cursor on the screen). This ensures a seamless and natural drawing experience.

Display and Color Reproduction

While both the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are drawing tablets, the Artist 12 Pro takes it a step further by incorporating a built-in display. This feature eliminates the need for a separate monitor, making it a more convenient and portable option for artists on the go.

The Artist 12 Pro’s display boasts a 1920×1080 resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It offers vibrant colors and good viewing angles, making it suitable for professional-level work.

The PD1220, on the other hand, lacks a display and requires you to connect it to an external monitor. This can be a drawback for some artists who prefer a dedicated screen for drawing. However, it also offers the advantage of greater flexibility in terms of screen size and resolution.

Software and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support various popular art software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more.

The Gaomon PD1220 comes with a driver that allows for customization of pen settings and shortcut keys. The driver is fairly straightforward to use, and the tablet works seamlessly with most software.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro also offers a driver with similar customization options. It includes additional features such as a screen calibration tool to ensure accurate color reproduction.

Price and Value

The Gaomon PD1220 is generally priced lower than the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro**. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists who are looking for a reliable and affordable drawing tablet.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, while more expensive, justifies its price with its built-in display and additional features. It’s a compelling choice for artists who prioritize convenience and portability.

The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?

The choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro** ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences.

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t require a built-in display, the Gaomon PD1220 is a solid option. It offers excellent pressure sensitivity, accuracy, and compatibility at a reasonable price.

If you value convenience and portability and can afford a slightly higher price, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is the way to go. Its built-in display eliminates the need for a separate monitor, making it a more compact and versatile solution.

Beyond the Comparison: Choosing the Right Drawing Tablet

When making a decision, consider the following factors beyond the specific features of these two tablets:

• Your budget: Determine your price range and explore options within that limit.
• Your drawing style: Consider the level of pressure sensitivity and accuracy you require for your specific art style.
• Your workflow: Think about your preferred setup and whether you need a tablet with a built-in display or would prefer a separate monitor for drawing.
• Software compatibility: Ensure the tablet you choose is compatible with the art software you use.

Information You Need to Know

1. Can I use the Gaomon PD1220 with my iPad?

No, the Gaomon PD1220 is designed for use with Windows and macOS computers. It’s not compatible with iPads or other mobile devices.

2. Does the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro come with a pen stand?

Yes, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro includes a pen stand that holds the pen and nibs.

3. What are the dimensions of the active area on both tablets?

The Gaomon PD1220 has an active area of 10.6 inches diagonally, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro has an active area of 11.6 inches diagonally.

4. Are there any other drawing tablets similar to the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?

Yes, there are several other drawing tablets available in the same price range. Some popular alternatives include the Huion Kamvas 13 and the XP-Pen Artist 13.3 Pro.

5. What are the main differences between the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro?

The main difference is the presence of a built-in display on the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro. The Gaomon PD1220 is a standard drawing tablet that requires an external monitor, while the Artist 12 Pro offers a more portable and convenient drawing experience.