Drawing Tablets Compared: Unleash Your Creative Potential.

Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Gaomon M1220 vs XP-Pen Star G960S Plus!

Quick summary

  • The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus slightly edges out the **Gaomon M1220** with a higher report rate of 266 PPS, translating to faster response times and a more fluid drawing experience.
  • The Gaomon M1220 excels in its affordability and spacious active area, making it a great option for beginners, casual artists, or those seeking a budget-friendly tablet with ample drawing space.
  • The **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** offers a more premium experience with its faster response time and robust design, making it a compelling choice for professionals and those seeking a high-performance tablet.

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of options available. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Gaomon M1220 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**. Both offer impressive features, but which one emerges as the winner? This comprehensive comparison explores their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

A Tale of Two Tablets: Unveiling the Key Features

Before diving into the comparison, let’s take a closer look at the individual features of each tablet.

Gaomon M1220:

  • Active Area: 10 x 6.25 inches
  • Resolution: 5080 LPI
  • Pen Pressure: 8192 levels
  • Report Rate: 233 PPS
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Pen Buttons: 8
  • Tablet Buttons: 6
  • Price: Budget-friendly

XP-Pen Star G960S Plus:

  • Active Area: 9.52 x 5.91 inches
  • Resolution: 5080 LPI
  • Pen Pressure: 8192 levels
  • Report Rate: 266 PPS
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Pen Buttons: 8
  • Tablet Buttons: 6
  • Price: Mid-range

Size Matters: Active Area and Dimensions

The Gaomon M1220 boasts a slightly larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches compared to the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**’s 9.52 x 5.91 inches. This difference might seem minor, but it can significantly impact your workflow, especially if you prefer a more spacious drawing canvas. The larger active area of the **M1220** provides more room for hand movements and reduces the need for frequent cursor adjustments, making it ideal for detailed work and larger compositions.

Pen Pressure Sensitivity: A Crucial Factor

Both tablets offer a respectable 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity, ensuring smooth and responsive drawing experiences. The XP-Pen Star G960S Plus slightly edges out the **Gaomon M1220** with a higher report rate of 266 PPS, translating to faster response times and a more fluid drawing experience. However, the difference is subtle and likely only noticeable to experienced artists or those working on highly dynamic projects.

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Functionality

The Gaomon M1220 and the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** both prioritize comfortable ergonomics. The **M1220** features a sleek, minimalist design with a textured surface that provides a secure grip. Its compact size makes it suitable for travel and portability. The **G960S Plus** offers a more robust build with a slightly larger footprint. Its textured surface and angled design promote a comfortable and natural drawing posture.

Pen Buttons and Tablet Keys: Customization and Shortcuts

Both tablets offer an array of customizable buttons. The Gaomon M1220 provides eight pen buttons and six tablet keys, while the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** features the same configuration. These buttons can be programmed to perform various functions, such as switching brushes, undoing actions, or accessing shortcuts, allowing you to streamline your workflow and increase efficiency.

Connectivity and Compatibility: Seamless Integration

Both tablets rely on a USB connection for power and data transfer. They are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring compatibility with most popular drawing software. Both tablets offer driver support, allowing you to customize settings and optimize performance for your specific needs.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget

The Gaomon M1220 emerges as the more budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for beginners or those on a tight budget. The **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**, while slightly more expensive, offers a more refined experience with its higher report rate and robust build. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and priorities.

The Verdict: Choosing the Best Drawing Tablet for You

The Gaomon M1220 excels in its affordability and spacious active area, making it a great option for beginners, casual artists, or those seeking a budget-friendly tablet with ample drawing space. The **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus** offers a more premium experience with its faster response time and robust design, making it a compelling choice for professionals and those seeking a high-performance tablet.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations

  • Software Compatibility: Ensure that the tablet you choose is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
  • Pen Nibs: Consider the availability and cost of replacement pen nibs, as they wear down over time.
  • Customer Support: Research the reputation of the manufacturer’s customer support before making a purchase.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What are the best drawing software options for these tablets?

A: Both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Krita, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

Q: Do these tablets come with a pen stand or carrying case?

A: Both tablets typically include a pen stand, but a carrying case may need to be purchased separately.

Q: Are there any other features to consider besides those mentioned above?

A: Some tablets offer additional features like screen tilting, pressure sensitivity on the tablet surface, or wireless connectivity.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: The **Gaomon M1220** is a good starting point for beginners due to its affordability and spacious active area.

Q: What are the main differences between the Gaomon M1220 and the XP-Pen Star G960S Plus?

A: The **M1220** offers a larger active area and a more budget-friendly price, while the **G960S Plus** boasts a faster response time and a more robust design.

Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. By carefully considering the features and specifications of each tablet, you can make an informed decision and embark on a fulfilling artistic journey. Whether you choose the Gaomon M1220 or the **XP-Pen Star G960S Plus**, both tablets offer a solid foundation for unleashing your creativity and bringing your artistic visions to life.

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About the Author
Ruth is a passionate artist and writer who founded Digital Canvas Review to help aspiring artists find the best drawing tablet for their needs. With years of experience in the digital art world, she provides insightful reviews, comparisons, and tips to empower artists of all levels.