Quick notes
- Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two popular contenders like the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro L.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1220 and Intuos Pro L offer high-quality pens with advanced pressure sensitivity.
- The Wacom Intuos Pro L takes customization to the next level with a dedicated touch ring on the tablet.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two popular contenders like the Gaomon PD1220 and the Wacom Intuos Pro L. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, making it difficult to decide which one fits your needs and budget. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1220 and Wacom Intuos Pro L both boast sleek and modern designs, but with distinct differences. The PD1220 features a compact, minimalist aesthetic, with a black plastic frame and a smooth, textured surface. It’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for artists on the go.
On the other hand, the Wacom Intuos Pro L exudes a more premium feel. Its brushed aluminum frame adds a touch of sophistication and durability. The larger active area also contributes to its more substantial presence.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area is the surface where you draw, and it’s crucial for a comfortable and precise drawing experience. The Gaomon PD1220 offers a generous 11.6-inch active area, providing ample space for detailed artwork. The Wacom Intuos Pro L, however, surpasses it with a 13.3-inch active area, offering even more room for creative expression.
Both tablets feature a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and detailed linework. This resolution translates to accurate pen movements and a natural drawing experience.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the PD1220 and Intuos Pro L offer high-quality pens with advanced pressure sensitivity. The Gaomon PD1220’s pen boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced response to your pen strokes.
The Wacom Intuos Pro L takes it a step further with 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering even finer control over line thickness and brush strokes. This higher sensitivity level is particularly beneficial for artists who require a more precise and expressive drawing experience.
Buttons and Customization
Both tablets offer customizable buttons and express keys to streamline your workflow. The Gaomon PD1220 features eight express keys on the side of the tablet and two customizable buttons on the pen. These buttons can be programmed to perform various actions, such as switching between brushes, undoing mistakes, or launching specific software.
The Wacom Intuos Pro L takes customization to the next level with a dedicated touch ring on the tablet. This ring allows you to adjust brush size, zoom, or scroll through menus with a simple finger gesture. It also features six express keys and two customizable pen buttons, providing even more flexibility for your workflow.
Software and Compatibility
Both tablets are compatible with major creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. However, they differ in their software offerings.
The Gaomon PD1220 comes bundled with a basic drawing software called OpenCanvas, which provides a simple and user-friendly interface for beginners. It also supports other popular drawing software, but the software experience is generally limited to basic functionality.
The Wacom Intuos Pro L, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive software suite, including Wacom’s proprietary software, Wacom Drivers, and Wacom Desktop Center. These software tools provide advanced features like pen customization, pressure sensitivity calibration, and access to a wide range of creative assets.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1220 is significantly more affordable than the Wacom Intuos Pro L. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists or those who are new to digital art. However, the Wacom Intuos Pro L, despite its higher price, offers a more premium experience, with advanced features, software, and build quality.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet
Gaomon PD1220: This tablet is a great choice for beginners, budget-conscious artists, or those who prioritize portability. Its large active area, pressure sensitivity, and customizable buttons offer a solid drawing experience at an affordable price.
Wacom Intuos Pro L: This tablet is ideal for professionals or those who demand the highest level of precision and control. Its larger active area, advanced pen technology, customizable touch ring, and software suite make it a superior choice for demanding artistic projects.
Beyond the Tech: A Personal Perspective
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the type of artwork you create, and the level of precision and control you require.
If you’re just starting out, the Gaomon PD1220 offers a great entry point into the world of digital art. But if you’re a seasoned professional or someone who seeks the best possible drawing experience, the Wacom Intuos Pro L is the way to go.
Questions You May Have
Q: What are the dimensions of the Gaomon PD1220 and Wacom Intuos Pro L?
A: The Gaomon PD1220 measures 13.27 x 8.58 x 0.36 inches, while the Wacom Intuos Pro L measures 15.75 x 10.24 x 0.31 inches.
Q: Are both tablets compatible with Mac and Windows?
A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1220 and Wacom Intuos Pro L are compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems.
Q: Does the Gaomon PD1220 come with a pen stand?
A: Yes, the Gaomon PD1220 includes a pen stand with eight extra nibs.
Q: What is the difference between the Wacom Intuos Pro L and the Wacom Intuos Pro M?
A: The Wacom Intuos Pro L has a larger active area (13.3 inches) compared to the Wacom Intuos Pro M (10.6 inches). The L model also comes with a larger tablet and a more premium build quality.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1220 with my smartphone?
A: The Gaomon PD1220 is not compatible with smartphones. It is designed for desktop and laptop use.
