Overview
- While the Deco Pro MW is slightly more expensive than the PD1220, it offers a premium build quality, improved accuracy, and a wider range of features.
- If you are a beginner or casual user looking for an affordable drawing tablet with a large active area, the Gaomon PD1220 is a solid option.
- If you are a serious artist or professional who values accuracy, responsiveness, and a premium user experience, the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW is a better choice.
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 segment are the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW**. Both offer an impressive feature set and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black, plastic body. It features a large active area of 11.6 inches, offering ample space for creative expression. The tablet is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. However, some users have reported concerns about the plastic build quality feeling a bit flimsy.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW adopts a more modern aesthetic with a stylish, silver-grey finish. It also features a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet is well-built and feels sturdy, with a premium feel that surpasses its price point.
Pressure Sensitivity and Accuracy
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced and responsive drawing experience. The pen itself is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with a responsive tip that translates brushstrokes accurately. The tablet’s accuracy is generally good, but some users have reported minor inconsistencies in line thickness and pressure sensitivity.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise line control and a natural feel. The pen is ergonomically designed and feels comfortable for extended drawing sessions. The tablet’s accuracy is consistently praised, with users consistently reporting smooth, accurate lines and a responsive drawing experience.
Features and Functionality
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 comes with a battery-free pen that offers a comfortable grip and two programmable buttons. It also includes eight customizable shortcut keys on the tablet’s side, providing quick access to frequently used functions. The tablet supports both Windows and macOS operating systems.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: The Deco Pro MW features a battery-free pen with eight customizable buttons, offering greater control and efficiency. It also includes six customizable shortcut keys on the tablet’s side, allowing for personalized workflow optimization. The tablet supports both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Software and Drivers
Gaomon PD1220: Gaomon provides user-friendly software and drivers that are compatible with various drawing applications. The software offers basic customization options for pen pressure, shortcut keys, and other settings.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: XP-Pen offers comprehensive software and drivers that are known for their stability and ease of use. The software provides a wide range of customization options, including pen pressure sensitivity, shortcut key mapping, and tablet calibration.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD1220: The PD1220 is known for its affordability, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. It offers a solid performance and feature set for its price, making it a good value for beginners and casual users.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: While the Deco Pro MW is slightly more expensive than the PD1220, it offers a premium build quality, improved accuracy, and a wider range of features. The tablet’s price point reflects its enhanced performance and user experience, making it a worthwhile investment for serious artists and professionals.
Gaomon PD1220 vs XP-Pen Deco Pro MW: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
If you are a beginner or casual user looking for an affordable drawing tablet with a large active area, the Gaomon PD1220 is a solid option. Its features and performance are sufficient for basic drawing tasks and exploring digital art.
If you are a serious artist or professional who values accuracy, responsiveness, and a premium user experience, the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW is a better choice. Its enhanced features, build quality, and software make it a reliable and versatile tool for creative endeavors.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Canvas
Choosing the right drawing tablet is an important step in your artistic journey. The Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW both offer exceptional value and performance, catering to different levels of users and budgets. Ultimately, the best tablet for you is the one that fits your workflow, creative needs, and personal preferences.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW?
A: The main differences lie in the build quality, accuracy, and features. The Deco Pro MW offers a premium build, improved accuracy, and more customizable buttons, while the PD1220 is more affordable and has a larger active area.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The PD1220 is a more affordable option, while the Deco Pro MW offers a more refined and responsive drawing experience.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for photo editing. Their pressure sensitivity and accuracy allow for precise selection and manipulation of images.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with both Windows and macOS?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1220 and the XP-Pen Deco Pro MW are compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.