Quick summary
- However, the Intuos Pro M boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) compared to the PD1161’s 5080 LPI, resulting in a smoother and more detailed drawing experience.
- The Wacom Intuos Pro M also enjoys wide compatibility with both Windows and macOS, along with a dedicated driver suite that provides advanced customization options and features like pen pressure calibration and express keys mapping.
- The Gaomon PD1161’s pen is known for its smooth and consistent line quality, while the Wacom Intuos Pro M’s pen offers a more responsive and precise drawing experience, particularly for detailed work.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with industry giants like Gaomon and Wacom. Both the Gaomon PD1161 and Wacom Intuos Pro M are popular choices among artists, offering a compelling blend of features and affordability. But which one truly reigns supreme? This in-depth comparison will delve into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision for your artistic endeavors.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1161 boasts a minimalist design with a sleek black finish. Its large active area of 10 x 6.25 inches provides ample space for drawing and sketching. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go. The Wacom Intuos Pro M, on the other hand, features a more premium design with a brushed aluminum finish. It also offers a larger active area of 13.3 x 8.3 inches, catering to those who prefer a more spacious canvas. The Intuos Pro M is slightly heavier than the PD1161 but still remains relatively portable.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology
Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, with the Gaomon PD1161 featuring 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and the Wacom Intuos Pro M boasting 4096 levels. This translates to a natural and responsive drawing experience, allowing for precise line variations and nuanced strokes. The Gaomon PD1161 comes bundled with a battery-free pen, while the Wacom Intuos Pro M offers a battery-free pen with customizable side buttons. Both pens feature a comfortable grip and ergonomic design, reducing hand fatigue during long drawing sessions.
Display and Resolution
The Gaomon PD1161 is a standalone drawing tablet, meaning it does not have a built-in display. Artists rely on their computer monitor to view their artwork. The Wacom Intuos Pro M also lacks a display, requiring users to work on an external monitor. However, the Intuos Pro M boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) compared to the PD1161’s 5080 LPI, resulting in a smoother and more detailed drawing experience.
Software and Compatibility
The Gaomon PD1161 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems and works seamlessly with most popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. The Wacom Intuos Pro M also enjoys wide compatibility with both Windows and macOS, along with a dedicated driver suite that provides advanced customization options and features like pen pressure calibration and express keys mapping.
Features and Functionality
The Gaomon PD1161 offers a range of customizable features, including eight programmable shortcut keys and a touch ring for navigation and zoom. These features enhance workflow and productivity, allowing artists to streamline their creative process. The Wacom Intuos Pro M takes functionality a step further with its customizable express keys and touch ring, providing even greater control and efficiency. The Intuos Pro M also features a built-in memory card slot for storing custom settings and presets.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1161 is significantly more affordable than the Wacom Intuos Pro M, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. Its lower price point comes with a few compromises, such as a smaller active area and fewer customizable features. The Wacom Intuos Pro M, while more expensive, offers a premium build quality, a larger active area, and advanced features that cater to professional artists and designers.
Who Should Choose Each Tablet?
The Gaomon PD1161 is an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for an affordable and reliable drawing tablet. Its large active area, pressure sensitivity, and customizable features provide a solid foundation for artistic exploration. The Wacom Intuos Pro M, on the other hand, is ideal for professional artists and designers who demand the highest level of precision, functionality, and build quality. Its larger active area, advanced features, and compatibility with a wide range of software make it a powerful tool for creating stunning artwork.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring the Fine Points
While both tablets offer a compelling feature set, there are a few nuances worth considering. The Gaomon PD1161’s pen is known for its smooth and consistent line quality, while the Wacom Intuos Pro M’s pen offers a more responsive and precise drawing experience, particularly for detailed work. Additionally, the Wacom Intuos Pro M’s driver suite provides more customization options and features, including pen pressure calibration and express keys mapping, which can be beneficial for professional users.
Final Verdict: Gaomon PD1161 vs Wacom Intuos Pro M
The choice between the Gaomon PD1161 and Wacom Intuos Pro M ultimately boils down to your individual needs and budget. If you’re a beginner or hobbyist looking for an affordable and reliable drawing tablet, the Gaomon PD1161 is an excellent option. However, if you’re a professional artist or designer who demands the highest level of precision, functionality, and build quality, the Wacom Intuos Pro M is the superior choice.
Embracing Your Artistic Journey
Whether you choose the Gaomon PD1161 or the Wacom Intuos Pro M, both tablets offer the tools and capabilities to unleash your creativity. Remember, the best drawing tablet is the one that best suits your individual needs and workflow. Embrace your artistic journey and let your imagination soar!
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon PD1161 and Wacom Intuos Pro M in terms of pen pressure sensitivity?
A: The Gaomon PD1161 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the Wacom Intuos Pro M boasts 4096 levels. Both tablets provide a responsive and natural drawing experience, but the PD1161 offers a slightly wider range of pressure sensitivity.
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: The Gaomon PD1161 is a great choice for beginners due to its affordability and user-friendly features. It provides a solid foundation for learning and exploring the world of digital art.
Q: Which tablet is better for professional artists?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro M is a popular choice among professional artists and designers due to its premium build quality, advanced features, and compatibility with a wide range of software. It offers the precision and functionality required for creating high-quality artwork.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1161 or Wacom Intuos Pro M with my smartphone?
A: Both tablets are primarily designed for use with computers and laptops. However, some users have reported success in using them with Android devices via USB OTG adapters.
Q: Are there any other drawing tablets worth considering?
A: Yes, there are several other drawing tablets available on the market, including options from XP-Pen, Huion, and Ugee. Researching different brands and models can help you find the best fit for your specific needs and budget.