Essential Information
- The PD156 Pro comes with a battery-free pen that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience.
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium utilizes a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, similar to the PD156 Pro.
- The choice between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Both offer impressive features and performance, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which tablet is the perfect fit for your artistic journey.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black and silver color scheme. It features a large, 15.6-inch active area, making it ideal for those who prefer a spacious canvas. The tablet is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. However, some users have reported that the plastic construction feels a bit flimsy.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium embraces a more professional aesthetic with its black and silver design. It features a smaller, 10.6-inch active area, which might be more suitable for those who prefer a more compact setup. The tablet is built with a sturdy aluminum frame, providing a premium feel and ensuring durability.
Pen Technology
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro comes with a battery-free pen that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience. It also features tilt support for added expressiveness. The pen is comfortable to hold and has a balanced weight distribution.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium utilizes a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, similar to the PD156 Pro. However, it stands out with its unique pen design. The pen features a textured grip for enhanced control and a customizable side switch that can be programmed for various functions.
Display and Resolution
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro doesn‘t have a built-in display. It acts as a drawing surface that connects to your computer monitor. This allows you to enjoy a larger canvas, but it also means you’re limited by your monitor’s resolution. The tablet’s resolution is 5080 LPI, providing a high level of detail and precision.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also lacks a built-in display, relying on your computer monitor for visualization. It offers a resolution of 5080 LPI, similar to the PD156 Pro, ensuring sharp lines and accurate strokes.
Software and Drivers
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro comes with Gaomon’s driver software, which allows for customization of pen settings, hotkeys, and other features. The software is generally user-friendly, but some users have reported issues with compatibility and stability.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: Xencelabs provides a dedicated driver software that offers a wider range of customization options, including pen pressure curves, shortcut keys, and brush settings. The software is known for its stability and ease of use, making it a popular choice among artists.
Features and Customization
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro offers a few customizable features, including programmable shortcut keys on the tablet surface and pen side buttons. It also supports multiple operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium goes further in customization options. It features a customizable side switch on the pen, allowing you to assign different functions to it. The tablet also boasts a dedicated ExpressKeys™ dial, which can be used for various functions like zoom, brush size, and canvas rotation.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD156 Pro: The PD156 Pro is generally more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Its price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is priced higher than the PD156 Pro, reflecting its premium build quality and advanced features. However, it’s still considered a mid-range option compared to other professional tablets.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Gaomon PD156 Pro if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
- You prefer a larger drawing surface.
- You don’t need extensive customization options.
Choose the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium if:
- You’re willing to invest in a premium tablet with a durable build.
- You value customization options and a unique pen design.
- You prefer a compact and portable setup.
Beyond the Comparison: The Power of Choice
While this comparison has highlighted the key differences between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, remember that the ultimate choice is yours. Both tablets offer exceptional performance and features that can elevate your artistic journey. Take your time, consider your specific needs, and choose the tablet that empowers you to create your best work.
The Final Verdict: Your Creative Journey Starts Now
Ultimately, the decision of which tablet to choose comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offer a solid foundation for your digital art endeavors. The Gaomon PD156 Pro provides a large drawing surface and affordability, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium delivers a premium build, unique pen design, and extensive customization options. Explore your options, experiment with different features, and let your creativity soar!
Common Questions and Answers
Q1: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a graphics tablet?
A: Drawing tablets and graphics tablets are essentially the same thing. They are both input devices used for digital drawing and other creative tasks. The term “graphics tablet” is often used more broadly to encompass tablets for various graphic design applications, while “drawing tablet” specifically refers to tablets primarily used for drawing and sketching.
Q2: Can I use the Gaomon PD156 Pro or Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium for photo editing?
A: Yes, both tablets can be used for photo editing. They provide precise control over selections, brush strokes, and other editing tools.
Q3: Do I need a specific software to use these tablets?
A: No, both tablets can be used with various drawing and design software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Q4: What are the minimum system requirements for these tablets?
A: Both tablets require a computer with a USB port and a compatible operating system (Windows or macOS). Specific system requirements may vary depending on the software you plan to use.
Q5: Are there any other drawing tablets I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other great drawing tablets available. Some popular alternatives include the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro, Huion Kamvas Pro 13, and Wacom Intuos Pro. Consider researching and comparing different models based on your specific needs and budget.
