Overview
- The Wacom One 12 offers a built-in display with a 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution, providing a crisp and vibrant viewing experience.
- The Wacom One 12, while slightly more expensive, offers the convenience of a built-in display, which can be a significant advantage for many users.
- If you prioritize a large active area, affordability, and a high degree of customization, the Gaomon PD1561 is a compelling choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the Gaomon PD1561 and the Wacom One 12. Both offer a compelling combination of features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and professional artists alike. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1561 boasts a larger active area of 13.3 inches, making it ideal for those who prefer a spacious working surface. Its sleek, black design with a textured surface provides a comfortable grip. The tablet comes with eight customizable shortcut keys and a pressure-sensitive pen with eight side buttons.
The Wacom One 12, on the other hand, features a more compact 11.6-inch active area, making it a suitable choice for those with limited desk space. Its minimalist design with a smooth, black finish exudes elegance. It includes four customizable shortcut keys and a pressure-sensitive pen with two side buttons.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed and durable. However, the Gaomon PD1561 feels slightly more robust due to its larger size and textured surface.
Display and Resolution
The Gaomon PD1561 doesn’t come with a built-in display. It acts as a pressure-sensitive input device, requiring you to use a separate monitor. This can be a drawback for some users who prefer the convenience of a display tablet.
The Wacom One 12 offers a built-in display with a 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution, providing a crisp and vibrant viewing experience. It’s perfect for those who want a seamless workflow without the need for an external monitor.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Performance
Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, with the Gaomon PD1561 featuring 8192 levels and the Wacom One 12 boasting 4096 levels. This ensures a smooth and natural drawing experience, allowing for subtle variations in line thickness and pressure.
The Gaomon PD1561 pen is known for its lightweight and comfortable grip, making it ideal for long drawing sessions. Its eight side buttons offer a high degree of customization, allowing you to assign different functions to your liking.
The Wacom One 12 pen is also lightweight and ergonomic, providing a comfortable drawing experience. Its two side buttons offer limited customization options compared to the Gaomon PD1561.
Software and Compatibility
The Gaomon PD1561 is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. It comes with its own driver software, which allows you to customize settings and calibrate the tablet.
The Wacom One 12 also enjoys broad compatibility with various operating systems. It comes with Wacom’s renowned driver software, which offers a comprehensive suite of features, including customizable settings, pen calibration, and brush customization.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1561 is generally priced lower than the Wacom One 12, making it a more budget-friendly option. Its larger active area and eight customizable buttons offer excellent value for the price.
The Wacom One 12, while slightly more expensive, offers the convenience of a built-in display, which can be a significant advantage for many users. Its renowned brand name and comprehensive driver software also contribute to its value proposition.
Pros and Cons of Gaomon PD1561
Pros:
- Larger active area for ample drawing space
- Eight customizable shortcut keys for enhanced workflow
- Excellent pressure sensitivity with 8192 levels
- Lightweight and comfortable pen with eight side buttons
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- No built-in display requires external monitor
- Driver software may not be as feature-rich as Wacom’s
Pros and Cons of Wacom One 12
Pros:
- Built-in display for a seamless drawing experience
- Compact size ideal for limited desk space
- Excellent pressure sensitivity with 4096 levels
- Ergonomic pen with two side buttons
- Comprehensive driver software with customization options
Cons:
- More expensive than the Gaomon PD1561
- Limited customization options for pen buttons
- Smaller active area compared to the Gaomon PD1561
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a large active area, affordability, and a high degree of customization, the Gaomon PD1561 is a compelling choice. However, if you prefer the convenience of a built-in display, a seamless workflow, and a renowned brand name, the Wacom One 12 is a solid option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Gaomon PD1561 and Wacom One 12 are excellent choices, the market offers a variety of other drawing tablets to suit different needs and budgets. Consider researching other options like the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, or even the more advanced Wacom Cintiq Pro series.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a display tablet?
A: A drawing tablet is a pressure-sensitive input device that requires a separate monitor to display your work. A display tablet, on the other hand, has a built-in screen that allows you to see your drawings directly on the tablet surface.
Q2: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Gaomon PD1561 and Wacom One 12 are good options for beginners. The Gaomon PD1561 offers a more affordable price point, while the Wacom One 12 provides the convenience of a built-in display.
Q3: What are the best drawing programs to use with these tablets?
A: Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of drawing programs, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Q4: Can I use these tablets for other tasks besides drawing?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for a variety of tasks, including photo editing, graphic design, and even writing.
Q5: What are the warranty terms for these tablets?
A: The warranty terms may vary depending on the retailer and region. It’s essential to check the specific warranty information before purchasing.
