Highlights
- The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also forgoes a display, opting for a focus on pen performance and ergonomics.
- If you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, the Gaomon PD1320 offers solid performance at an affordable price.
- However, if you’re a professional artist seeking a premium drawing experience with advanced features, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the superior choice.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Gaomon PD1320 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. Both tablets offer compelling features and cater to different needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the nuances of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1320 boasts a sleek, minimalistic design with a black plastic exterior. Its active area measures 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for creative expression. The tablet is relatively lightweight and portable, making it suitable for both home and on-the-go use.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, adopts a more premium aesthetic with a brushed aluminum finish. Its active area is slightly larger at 10.6 x 6.6 inches, offering even more space for intricate drawings. The tablet feels robust and sturdy, exuding a sense of quality craftsmanship.
Pen Performance and Features
Both tablets utilize pressure-sensitive pens with excellent responsiveness and accuracy. The Gaomon PD1320 pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced experience for shading and line variation. It also includes tilt support, allowing for more expressive strokes.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium takes pen performance to another level with 10,240 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering even finer control over line thickness and pressure variations. The pen also boasts tilt support and a customizable side button, enhancing its versatility.
Display and Ergonomics
The Gaomon PD1320 lacks a built-in display, requiring users to rely on a separate monitor. While this might seem like a drawback, it allows for greater affordability and portability. The tablet’s surface is smooth and comfortable to work on, providing a natural drawing experience.
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium also forgoes a display, opting for a focus on pen performance and ergonomics. The tablet features a textured surface that provides a comfortable grip and reduces hand fatigue during extended drawing sessions.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. They work seamlessly with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1320 is significantly more affordable than the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists and beginners. However, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium offers a more premium experience with its superior pen performance and build quality, justifying its higher price tag.
Gaomon PD1320: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Large active area
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Tilt support
- Portable and lightweight
Cons:
- No built-in display
- Basic design
- Limited pen customization
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Larger active area
- 10,240 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Customizable pen buttons
- Comfortable textured surface
Cons:
- Higher price point
- No built-in display
- Limited software features
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Comparative Analysis
The choice between the Gaomon PD1320 and the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, the Gaomon PD1320 offers solid performance at an affordable price. However, if you’re a professional artist seeking a premium drawing experience with advanced features, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the superior choice.
The Final Verdict: A Matter of Priorities
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal decision. The Gaomon PD1320 excels in affordability and portability, making it suitable for beginners and casual users. The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium, on the other hand, provides a more professional experience with its superior pen performance, build quality, and ergonomics. Ultimately, the best tablet for you depends on your budget, drawing style, and individual preferences.
What People Want to Know
1. What is the difference in pen pressure sensitivity between the two tablets?
The Gaomon PD1320 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium boasts 10,240 levels. This means the Xencelabs tablet offers finer control over line thickness and pressure variations.
2. Do both tablets support tilt functionality?
Yes, both tablets support tilt functionality, allowing for more expressive strokes and natural drawing techniques.
3. Are there any bundled software included with either tablet?
The Gaomon PD1320 does not include any bundled software, while the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium comes with a free copy of Clip Studio Paint Pro, a popular digital art software.
4. Which tablet is better for professional artists?
For professional artists seeking a premium experience, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is the better choice due to its superior pen performance, build quality, and software features.
5. Which tablet is more suitable for beginners?
The Gaomon PD1320 is a more affordable option and is suitable for beginners who are starting their digital art journey.
