Quick summary
- Whether you’re a budding artist, a seasoned professional, or simply looking for a reliable tool to unleash your creative potential, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to select the perfect drawing tablet for your needs.
- Similar to the PD1561, the Deco Pro MW is also a pen tablet and does not include a display.
- Its large active area and high resolution offer excellent value for the price, making it a compelling choice for artists seeking a spacious and responsive drawing experience.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of features and specifications. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Gaomon PD1561 and the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the ultimate victor?
This comprehensive comparison will delve deep into the intricacies of both tablets, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a budding artist, a seasoned professional, or simply looking for a reliable tool to unleash your creative potential, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to select the perfect drawing tablet for your needs.
Design and Build Quality
Gaomon PD1561
The Gaomon PD1561 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a black plastic body with a textured surface for a comfortable grip. Its large active area of 13.3 inches makes it ideal for artists who prefer a spacious canvas. The tablet is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. However, some users have reported that the build quality could be sturdier.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
The XP-Pen Deco Pro MW takes a more modern approach with its slim and stylish design. Its aluminum body exudes a premium feel and adds to its durability. The tablet features an 8-button side bar for customizable shortcuts and a sleek, minimalist design that complements any workspace. The Deco Pro MW is slightly heavier than the PD1561 but still relatively portable.
Active Area and Resolution
Gaomon PD1561
The PD1561 offers a generous active area of 13.3 inches, providing ample space for intricate drawings and detailed artwork. Its resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) ensures smooth and accurate strokes, allowing for a natural and responsive drawing experience.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
The Deco Pro MW features a smaller active area of 10 x 6.25 inches. This smaller size might be more suitable for users with limited desk space or those who prefer a more compact setup. However, its resolution of 5080 LPI matches the PD1561, delivering a similar level of precision and responsiveness.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Features
Gaomon PD1561
The PD1561 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced and responsive drawing experience. Its battery-free pen features a comfortable grip and ergonomic design, making it ideal for extended drawing sessions. The pen includes two customizable buttons for shortcuts, enhancing workflow efficiency.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
The Deco Pro MW also offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring accurate and detailed strokes. Its battery-free pen features a rubberized grip for enhanced comfort and control. The pen includes eight customizable buttons for shortcuts, providing greater flexibility and customization options.
Display and Viewing Angle
Gaomon PD1561
The PD1561 is a pen tablet, meaning it does not have a built-in display. Artists rely on their computer monitor to visualize their artwork.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
Similar to the PD1561, the Deco Pro MW is also a pen tablet and does not include a display. Artists must rely on their computer screen for visual feedback.
Software and Compatibility
Gaomon PD1561
The PD1561 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It comes bundled with a driver that allows for customization of pen settings and shortcut buttons. The tablet is compatible with various popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
The Deco Pro MW also supports both Windows and macOS operating systems. It features a user-friendly driver with advanced customization options for pen settings, shortcuts, and more. The tablet is compatible with a wide range of drawing software, ensuring seamless integration with your preferred creative tools.
Price and Value
Gaomon PD1561
The PD1561 is generally priced lower than the Deco Pro MW, making it a more budget-friendly option. Its large active area and high resolution offer excellent value for the price, making it a compelling choice for artists seeking a spacious and responsive drawing experience.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
The Deco Pro MW is priced slightly higher than the PD1561. Its premium build quality, stylish design, and additional pen buttons justify the higher price tag. The Deco Pro MW is an excellent investment for artists who prioritize a sleek and durable drawing tablet with enhanced customization options.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon PD1561
Pros:
- Large active area
- High resolution
- Affordable price
- Battery-free pen
Cons:
- Build quality could be sturdier
- Limited customization options
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Stylish design
- Eight customizable pen buttons
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Slightly higher price
Choosing the Right Tablet: A Recap
Gaomon PD1561 is a great choice for artists who prioritize a large active area, high resolution, and affordability. Its battery-free pen and responsive pressure sensitivity make it a solid option for both beginners and experienced artists.
XP-Pen Deco Pro MW is a more premium option with a stylish design, durable build quality, and eight customizable pen buttons. Its smaller active area might be a drawback for some, but its overall performance and features make it a worthy investment for artists seeking a high-quality drawing tablet.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a large active area, affordability, and a responsive drawing experience, the Gaomon PD1561 is a solid choice. However, if you value a premium build quality, stylish design, and enhanced customization options, the **XP-Pen Deco Pro MW** is a worthy contender.
Common Questions and Answers
1. What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A drawing tablet is a device that translates pen movements into digital signals, allowing you to draw on your computer screen. A drawing monitor, also known as a pen display, has a built-in screen that allows you to draw directly on the tablet’s surface.
2. What is pressure sensitivity and why is it important?
Pressure sensitivity refers to the tablet’s ability to detect the amount of pressure applied to the pen. This allows for more nuanced and realistic strokes, reflecting the pressure you apply in traditional drawing techniques.
3. What is the best drawing software for beginners?
Several excellent drawing software options are available for beginners. Some popular choices include Krita (free and open-source), Autodesk Sketchbook (free version available), and Clip Studio Paint (free trial available).
4. Can I use a drawing tablet for other purposes besides drawing?
Yes, drawing tablets can be used for various other purposes, such as digital painting, graphic design, photo editing, and even note-taking.
5. Is it better to buy a tablet with a large or small active area?
The ideal active area size depends on your personal preference and drawing style. A larger active area is more suitable for detailed drawings and intricate artwork, while a smaller active area might be more comfortable for users with limited desk space.
