Main points
- The PD1560 is generally more affordable than the Artist Pro 16, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
- Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 are excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
- The PD1560 excels in its affordability and portability, while the Artist Pro 16 stands out with its premium features and professional-grade performance.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the 15.6-inch category are the Gaomon PD1560 and the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one truly stands out? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key aspects, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD1560: The PD1560 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black, textured surface. It features a sturdy, plastic build that feels durable and reliable. The tablet is relatively lightweight, making it portable and easy to transport.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: The Artist Pro 16 takes a more refined approach with its aluminum frame and black, textured surface. It exudes a premium feel and is significantly heavier than the PD1560. Despite its weight, the tablet remains stable and solid, offering a professional aesthetic.
Display Features
Gaomon PD1560: The PD1560 comes with a 15.6-inch full HD (1920×1080) IPS display with a 178° viewing angle. The display offers vibrant colors and good contrast, but it lacks laminated technology, resulting in a noticeable parallax effect. This means there’s a slight gap between the pen tip and the on-screen cursor.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: The Artist Pro 16 also features a 15.6-inch full HD (1920×1080) IPS display with a 178° viewing angle. However, it boasts laminated technology, eliminating the parallax effect and providing a more natural drawing experience. The display boasts excellent color accuracy and a wide color gamut, making it suitable for professional work.
Pen Technology
Gaomon PD1560: The PD1560 utilizes an 8192-level pressure-sensitive pen with tilt support. It provides a responsive and smooth drawing experience, with minimal lag. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, thanks to its ergonomic design.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: The Artist Pro 16 also features an 8192-level pressure-sensitive pen with tilt support. However, its pen boasts a more advanced technology, offering a higher level of accuracy and responsiveness. It also includes a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging.
Connectivity and Software
Gaomon PD1560: The PD1560 offers multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, VGA, and USB. It comes with a driver that provides various customization options and compatibility with popular drawing software.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: The Artist Pro 16 offers similar connectivity options, including HDMI, USB Type-C, and USB Type-A. It also comes with a driver that offers comprehensive customization features and compatibility with various software.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD1560: The PD1560 is generally more affordable than the Artist Pro 16, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. Despite its lower price point, it still delivers a solid performance and a wide range of features.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16: The Artist Pro 16 comes at a higher price point due to its premium features and build quality. It justifies its price with its advanced display technology, battery-free pen, and overall exceptional user experience.
Choosing the Right Tablet: Gaomon PD1560 vs XP-Pen Artist Pro 16
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 ultimately boils down to your individual needs and budget.
The Gaomon PD1560 is a great choice for:
- Budget-conscious users: It offers excellent value for money, providing a solid drawing experience at a lower price point.
- Beginner artists: Its user-friendly features and affordable price make it ideal for aspiring artists.
- Those who prioritize portability: Its lightweight design and multiple connectivity options make it convenient for travel.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is a better pick for:
- Professional artists: Its premium build quality, advanced display, and battery-free pen cater to the needs of professional creatives.
- Users seeking a more natural drawing experience: The laminated display eliminates parallax, providing a seamless and accurate drawing experience.
- Those who prioritize color accuracy: Its wide color gamut and excellent color accuracy make it suitable for professional work.
The Final Verdict: A Matter of Priorities
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 are excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The PD1560 excels in its affordability and portability, while the Artist Pro 16 stands out with its premium features and professional-grade performance. The best choice for you ultimately depends on your individual needs, budget, and artistic aspirations.
Beyond the Comparison: Unveiling the Hidden Gems
While the PD1560 and Artist Pro 16 are undoubtedly popular choices, the world of drawing tablets offers a diverse range of options. Consider exploring other brands and models that might better suit your specific requirements.
Factors to Contemplate:
- Screen size: Do you need a larger canvas for detailed artwork or prefer a more compact option for portability?
- Display technology: Is laminated technology essential for you, or can you live with a slight parallax effect?
- Pen technology: Do you need a battery-free pen for uninterrupted creativity, or are you comfortable with a rechargeable option?
- Software compatibility: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- Additional features: Look for features like customizable buttons, express keys, and screen rotation for enhanced workflow.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: Absolutely! Both the Gaomon PD1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 are compatible with photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, and Affinity Photo. Their pressure sensitivity and tilt support provide excellent control for precise editing.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with macOS?
A: Yes, both tablets are compatible with macOS. They come with drivers that support various macOS versions.
Q: How do I connect these tablets to my computer?
A: Both tablets offer multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, VGA, and USB. You can connect them to your computer using the appropriate cables.
Q: What is the warranty period for these tablets?
A: Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer a one-year warranty on their products. This covers defects in manufacturing and materials.
Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?
A: Currently, these tablets are designed for use with computers. They do not offer direct connectivity with smartphones or tablets.
