Gaomon PD1220 vs Huion Inspiroy RTE 100: Which Drawing Tablet Reigns Supreme?

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 Huion Inspiroy RTE 100. Both offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Gaomon PD1220 boasts a sleek and modern design with a black finish and a slightly textured surface. Its 11.6-inch active area provides ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it suitable for both home and on-the-go use.

The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100, on the other hand, has a more basic and minimalist design. It features a compact 10 x 6.25-inch active area, making it ideal for smaller workspace setups. Its lightweight construction and slim profile contribute to its portability.

Active Area and Resolution

The Gaomon PD1220 offers a larger active area of 11.6 inches, providing more space for creative expression. It also boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), resulting in greater precision and detail in your strokes.

The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100, with its smaller active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, might feel restrictive for those accustomed to larger drawing surfaces. Its resolution of 4000 LPI is still decent but falls short of the PD1220’s accuracy.

Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology

Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and pressure-sensitive effects in your digital art. The Gaomon PD1220 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that features a comfortable ergonomic design and eight customizable buttons.

The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 also includes a battery-free pen with a similar level of pressure sensitivity. However, its pen only has two customizable buttons, which might be limiting for some users.

Driver and Software Support

Both Gaomon and Huion offer compatible drivers for Windows and macOS. Gaomon’s driver software provides a range of customization options, including pen pressure settings, button mapping, and shortcut assignments.

Huion’s driver software is also user-friendly and offers similar customization features. Both drivers are regularly updated to ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems and software.

Connectivity and Compatibility

The Gaomon PD1220 connects to your computer via a USB cable, providing a reliable and stable connection. It is compatible with a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 also connects via USB and supports a wide range of drawing software. Its compatibility with various platforms and applications makes it a versatile choice for digital artists.

Price and Value

The Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 are both budget-friendly drawing tablets. The PD1220 typically offers a slightly higher price point due to its larger active area, higher resolution, and additional pen buttons.

The Huion Inspiroy RTE 100, on the other hand, is a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious artists. Both tablets provide excellent value for their price, offering a balance of features and affordability.

Choosing the Right Tablet: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Gaomon PD1220

Pros:

• Large active area (11.6 inches)
• High resolution (5080 LPI)
• 8 customizable pen buttons
• Sleek and modern design

Cons:

• Slightly higher price point
• Larger footprint

Huion Inspiroy RTE 100

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Compact size and portability
• User-friendly driver software

Cons:

• Smaller active area (10 x 6.25 inches)
• Lower resolution (4000 LPI)
• Only 2 customizable pen buttons

The Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?

The choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a large drawing surface, high resolution, and a pen with multiple buttons, the Gaomon PD1220 is a solid choice. However, if you value affordability, portability, and a simple design, the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is a great option.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that feels most comfortable and intuitive to use. Consider factors like your drawing style, preferred software, and workspace limitations. It’s also a good idea to check out reviews and comparisons from other artists to get a better sense of each tablet’s strengths and weaknesses.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Are these tablets compatible with smartphones?

No, both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 are designed for use with computers only. They do not have the necessary connectivity for smartphone use.

2. What is the recommended screen size for these tablets?

The recommended screen size for the Gaomon PD1220 is 13.3 inches or larger, while the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 can be paired with screens as small as 10.1 inches.

3. Can I use these tablets with a Chromebook?

While both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS, Chromebook support may vary depending on the specific Chromebook model and driver availability. It’s best to check the manufacturer’s website for compatibility information.

4. What are the main differences between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100?

The main differences lie in the active area size, resolution, and pen button count. The Gaomon PD1220 offers a larger active area, higher resolution, and more pen buttons, while the Huion Inspiroy RTE 100 is more compact and affordable.

5. Can I use these tablets for photo editing?

Yes, both tablets can be used for photo editing with compatible software like Adobe Photoshop or GIMP. However, their primary function is for drawing and sketching, so a dedicated graphics tablet is recommended for professional photo editing.