Quick notes
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both Gaomon and Huion offer responsive and accurate pens.
- Huion’s software, on the other hand, provides a more comprehensive suite of features, including a virtual ruler, a color picker, and a customizable interface.
- Choosing between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the wide array of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range category are the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making it a tough decision for aspiring artists and professionals alike. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the nuances of each tablet, helping you make an informed choice based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 boast sleek and modern designs, but their build quality differs slightly. The Gaomon PD1220 features a plastic housing, which feels sturdy but may not be as premium as the Huion Kamvas Pro 16’s metal frame. The Kamvas Pro 16’s metal construction adds a touch of elegance and durability, making it feel more robust.
Display and Screen Technology
The display is a crucial aspect of any drawing tablet, and both contenders offer impressive screen quality. The Gaomon PD1220 features a 11.6-inch IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution, delivering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. However, the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 takes the lead with its 15.6-inch IPS display boasting a higher 1920×1080 resolution, providing a larger canvas and a more immersive drawing experience. Both tablets offer 16.7 million colors and a wide viewing angle, ensuring accurate color representation from various perspectives.
Pen Technology and Precision
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both Gaomon and Huion offer responsive and accurate pens. The Gaomon PD1220 comes with a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing smooth and natural strokes. The Huion Kamvas Pro 16 also features a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, but it also boasts tilt support, allowing for more nuanced strokes. Both pens offer a comfortable grip and excellent responsiveness, ensuring a seamless drawing experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer versatile connectivity options, making them compatible with various devices. The Gaomon PD1220 supports both HDMI and USB connectivity, allowing for easy connection to desktops and laptops. The Huion Kamvas Pro 16 also supports HDMI and USB connections, but it also includes a mini-HDMI port for added flexibility. Both tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android, making them accessible to a wide range of users.
Software and Features
Both Gaomon and Huion offer their own software solutions to enhance the drawing experience. Gaomon’s driver software allows for customization of pen pressure sensitivity, key shortcuts, and other settings. Huion’s software, on the other hand, provides a more comprehensive suite of features, including a virtual ruler, a color picker, and a customizable interface. Both software solutions are user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to personalize your drawing experience.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 are both affordable options, making them attractive to budget-conscious artists. The Gaomon PD1220 typically comes at a lower price point, offering excellent value for its features. The Huion Kamvas Pro 16, while slightly more expensive, justifies its price tag with its larger display, tilt support, and more advanced software features. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and budget.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Gaomon PD1220:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious artists, beginners, and those who prioritize portability.
- Pros: Affordable price, compact size, responsive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
- Cons: Plastic housing, smaller display compared to the Kamvas Pro 16.
Huion Kamvas Pro 16:
- Ideal for: Artists seeking a larger workspace, professionals, and those who value tilt support.
- Pros: Large display, metal construction, tilt support, advanced software features.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to the PD1220.
Beyond the Comparison: Other Factors to Consider
While the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 are excellent choices, it’s essential to consider other factors that might influence your decision:
- Drawing Style: If you primarily work with intricate details and require a larger canvas, the Huion Kamvas Pro 16’s larger display might be more suitable.
- Portability: The Gaomon PD1220’s smaller size and lighter weight make it more convenient for travel and on-the-go drawing.
- Software Integration: If you prefer a more comprehensive software suite with advanced features, the Huion Kamvas Pro 16’s software might be a better fit.
- Budget: The Gaomon PD1220 offers excellent value for its price, making it a budget-friendly option.
The Verdict: Finding the Perfect Fit
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 offer excellent features and value, providing an enjoyable and productive drawing experience. Consider your budget, drawing style, and desired features to make the right choice for your creative journey.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is a device with a pressure-sensitive surface that translates your pen strokes into digital signals. It doesn’t have a built-in display and requires you to look at your computer screen. A drawing monitor, on the other hand, combines a drawing tablet with a built-in screen, allowing you to draw directly on the display.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing or graphic design?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1220 and the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 are suitable for photo editing and graphic design. They offer precise pen control and pressure sensitivity, making them ideal for tasks like retouching images, creating vector graphics, and manipulating layers.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1220 is a more affordable option, while the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 offers a larger workspace and more advanced features. Ultimately, the best tablet for beginners depends on their individual budget and needs.
Q: Do these tablets require any special software to function?
A: Both tablets come with their own driver software, which is essential for configuring pen settings, customizing shortcuts, and ensuring proper functionality. However, they can also work with various other drawing software applications, such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are many other excellent drawing tablets available in the market. Some popular alternatives include the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro, the Wacom Intuos Pro, and the iPad Pro with Apple Pencil. You can research and compare different models based on your specific requirements and budget.
