Highlights
- Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor for digital artists, as it allows for varying line widths and brush strokes based on the pressure applied to the pen.
- The Gaomon PD1320 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that offers a comfortable grip and a balanced weight.
- It features a slightly different design than the PD1320 pen, with a slightly shorter barrel and a textured grip.
Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Deco L**. Both tablets offer a range of features designed to enhance your digital art experience, but which one emerges as the champion?
This in-depth comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. We’ll examine their design, pressure sensitivity, active area, software, and overall value for money.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black plastic body with a smooth matte finish. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport. The tablet itself is quite thin, contributing to its portability. The pen holder is conveniently placed on the top right corner, offering easy access.
The XP-Pen Deco L takes a slightly different approach, opting for a more modern and stylish design. Its white plastic body features rounded edges and a glossy finish, giving it a premium look. The tablet is slightly thicker than the PD1320 but still remains relatively portable. The pen holder is located on the left side of the tablet, which might be less convenient for right-handed users.
Both tablets offer a comfortable grip and a smooth drawing surface. However, the Deco L’s glossy finish might be prone to fingerprints and smudges, while the PD1320’s matte finish provides a more fingerprint-resistant surface.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Performance
Pressure sensitivity is a crucial factor for digital artists, as it allows for varying line widths and brush strokes based on the pressure applied to the pen. Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Deco L** offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a responsive and accurate drawing experience.
The Gaomon PD1320 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that offers a comfortable grip and a balanced weight. The pen features two customizable buttons that can be programmed for various functions. The pen tip is replaceable, ensuring a smooth and consistent drawing experience.
The XP-Pen Deco L also includes a battery-free pen with eight levels of pressure sensitivity. It features a slightly different design than the PD1320 pen, with a slightly shorter barrel and a textured grip. The pen also includes two customizable buttons for added functionality.
Both pens offer a smooth and responsive drawing experience, allowing for precise line work and nuanced brush strokes. However, the PD1320 pen might be slightly more comfortable for some users due to its balanced weight and ergonomic design.
Active Area and Drawing Surface
The size of the active area is another crucial factor to consider, as it determines the amount of space you have to work with. The Gaomon PD1320 offers a 10 x 6.25-inch active area, which is a generous size for most users. This allows for ample space to create detailed drawings and paintings without feeling cramped.
The XP-Pen Deco L comes with a smaller active area of 9.8 x 6.1 inches. While still sufficient for most tasks, the smaller active area might feel restrictive for those who prefer a larger working space.
Both tablets feature a textured drawing surface that provides a pleasant drawing experience. The surface is designed to mimic the feel of paper, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Deco L** are compatible with a wide range of software, including popular drawing applications like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. They also work seamlessly with Windows and macOS operating systems.
The Gaomon PD1320 comes with a driver that offers customizable settings for pen pressure, button functions, and other parameters. The driver also includes a calibration tool to ensure accurate pen tracking.
The XP-Pen Deco L also offers a driver with similar customization options. It also includes a feature called “Smart Key” that allows you to assign specific functions to different areas of the tablet, making it easier to access frequently used tools.
Value for Money
Both the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Deco L** are budget-friendly drawing tablets, offering great value for money. The Gaomon PD1320 is slightly more affordable, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.
The XP-Pen Deco L offers a slightly higher price point but comes with a more modern design and a slightly more responsive pen. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Wins?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1320 and the **XP-Pen Deco L** depends on your priorities.
The Gaomon PD1320 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious artists who prioritize a large active area and a comfortable pen. Its minimalist design, battery-free pen, and affordable price make it a compelling option.
The XP-Pen Deco L is a good choice for those who value a stylish design, a slightly more responsive pen, and a smaller footprint. Its modern aesthetics and Smart Key feature might appeal to some users.
Beyond the Comparison: A Final Thought
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Experimenting with different models and features is essential to finding the perfect tool for your creative journey.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1320 or XP-Pen Deco L for gaming?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for gaming in some applications. However, their lack of dedicated gaming features might limit their effectiveness compared to dedicated gaming tablets.
Q: Do these tablets require any special software to work?
A: Both tablets require drivers to be installed for proper functionality. The drivers can be downloaded from the respective manufacturers‘ websites.
Q: Are these tablets compatible with smartphones or tablets?
A: These tablets are primarily designed for desktop use and are not compatible with smartphones or tablets.
Q: What is the warranty on these tablets?
A: Both Gaomon and XP-Pen offer a standard one-year warranty on their products.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets in this price range?
A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets available in the same price range as the Gaomon PD1320 and XP-Pen Deco L. Some popular alternatives include the Huion H610 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12.
