Quick Overview
- However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a spacious active area and good overall performance, the **XP-Pen Star G960S** is a solid contender.
- Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** offer impressive performance and features, making them excellent choices for aspiring and professional artists alike.
- The Gaomon PD1161 offers a higher resolution (5080 LPI) compared to the XP-Pen Star G960S (4000 LPI), resulting in more precise linework.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S**. Both offer impressive features and functionalities, but which one emerges as the winner? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1161 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black surface with subtle silver accents. Its smooth, matte finish feels comfortable to the touch and resists fingerprints. The tablet is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. The **XP-Pen Star G960S** adopts a similar design philosophy, with a black and silver color scheme. However, it has a glossy finish, which may attract fingerprints and smudges more easily. Both tablets come with a pen holder, which can be conveniently attached to the side of the tablet.
Active Area and Resolution
The Gaomon PD1161 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. It features a 5080 LPI resolution, which translates to precise line accuracy and smooth cursor movement. The **XP-Pen Star G960S** also boasts a spacious active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, but its resolution is slightly lower at 4000 LPI. While still offering good accuracy, the lower resolution might result in slightly less precise linework compared to the PD1161.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets excel in pressure sensitivity, offering 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This allows for a natural and responsive drawing experience, enabling you to create subtle nuances in line weight and brush strokes. The Gaomon PD1161 comes with a battery-free pen that features eight customizable buttons for shortcuts. The **XP-Pen Star G960S** also includes a battery-free pen with six customizable buttons. Both pens offer good ergonomics and a comfortable grip, making them suitable for extended drawing sessions.
Driver Support and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** offer excellent driver support for Windows and macOS. They are compatible with various creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and more. Both tablets also support tilt functionality, allowing for a more realistic drawing experience.
Additional Features
The Gaomon PD1161 includes a handy shortcut key on the tablet itself, which can be customized to perform various functions. This can be helpful for quick access to frequently used tools and commands. The **XP-Pen Star G960S** does not offer any shortcut keys on the tablet itself.
Price and Value for Money
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** are priced competitively within the budget-friendly segment. The Gaomon PD1161 generally comes at a slightly higher price point compared to the **XP-Pen Star G960S**. However, the additional features and slightly higher resolution of the PD1161 might justify the price difference for some users.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize a high-resolution display, excellent pressure sensitivity, and customizable shortcut keys, the Gaomon PD1161 emerges as the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a spacious active area and good overall performance, the **XP-Pen Star G960S** is a solid contender.
Choosing Your Ideal Drawing Companion: A Final Thought
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that meets your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the type of art you create, and the features that matter most to you. Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S** offer impressive performance and features, making them excellent choices for aspiring and professional artists alike.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Star G960S?
A: The Gaomon PD1161 offers a higher resolution (5080 LPI) compared to the XP-Pen Star G960S (4000 LPI), resulting in more precise linework. The PD1161 also includes a dedicated shortcut key on the tablet, while the G960S does not.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The XP-Pen Star G960S might be a slightly more affordable option, while the Gaomon PD1161 offers additional features that can be beneficial for those who want to explore more advanced drawing techniques.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with Mac?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1161 and the XP-Pen Star G960S are compatible with macOS.
Q: What is the pen latency like on these tablets?
A: Both tablets offer low pen latency, providing a responsive and smooth drawing experience.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: While both tablets offer excellent features, the Gaomon PD1161 might be slightly more appealing to professional artists due to its higher resolution and customizable shortcut keys. However, the XP-Pen Star G960S remains a solid choice for professionals who prioritize affordability and a spacious active area.
