Key points
- Two popular contenders in the market are the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S.
- The Wacom Intuos Pro S, with its 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, mirrors the Gaomon M1230 in this regard, offering a similar level of precision and control.
- The Wacom Intuos Pro S also enjoys broad compatibility with both Windows and macOS, and its driver software provides additional features and customization options.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S. Both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making it crucial to understand their strengths and weaknesses before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both tablets, helping you determine which one aligns best with your artistic journey.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1230 and Wacom Intuos Pro S adopt distinct design philosophies. The Gaomon M1230 boasts a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a large, flat surface and a slim profile. Its black and gray color scheme exudes a professional vibe. The Wacom Intuos Pro S, on the other hand, features a more compact and curved design. Its textured surface provides a comfortable grip, while its color options, including black and silver, offer a touch of personalization.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are well-constructed. The Gaomon M1230’s plastic housing feels sturdy and durable, while the Wacom Intuos Pro S’s textured plastic offers a premium feel. However, the Wacom Intuos Pro S might feel slightly more robust due to its slightly thicker frame. Ultimately, both tablets are designed for everyday use and can withstand the rigors of regular drawing sessions.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area refers to the drawing surface on the tablet that responds to pen movements. The Gaomon M1230 offers a spacious 11.6″ x 6.5″ active area, providing ample room for creative exploration. This larger canvas allows for more fluid and expansive strokes, especially for digital artists who prefer a wider workspace. The Wacom Intuos Pro S, on the other hand, features a smaller 8.5″ x 5.3″ active area, which might feel limiting for some users, particularly those accustomed to larger tablets.
Resolution plays a vital role in the tablet’s responsiveness and accuracy. The Gaomon M1230 boasts a 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) resolution, ensuring precise pen tracking and smooth linework. The Wacom Intuos Pro S, with its 5080 LPI resolution, matches the Gaomon M1230 in this aspect, delivering accurate and responsive pen input.
Pen Pressure Sensitivity
Pen pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect for digital artists, as it allows them to control the thickness and intensity of their lines. The Gaomon M1230 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a nuanced and natural drawing experience. This high level of sensitivity enables artists to create subtle variations in line weight and pressure, resulting in more expressive and realistic artwork. The Wacom Intuos Pro S, with its 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, mirrors the Gaomon M1230 in this regard, offering a similar level of precision and control.
Stylus and Features
Both tablets come bundled with styluses that are designed for comfortable and accurate drawing. The Gaomon M1230’s stylus features a pressure-sensitive tip, 8 side buttons, and a battery-free design, making it convenient and user-friendly. The Wacom Intuos Pro S’s stylus, known as the Pro Pen 2, also boasts pressure sensitivity, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and two side buttons. Additionally, it offers tilt recognition, allowing for more realistic brush strokes and shading effects.
The Wacom Intuos Pro S’s stylus also features a rubber grip for improved comfort and control. While the Gaomon M1230’s stylus is functional, the Wacom Intuos Pro S’s stylus offers a more premium feel and enhanced features.
Software and Compatibility
The Gaomon M1230 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It supports a wide range of drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Clip Studio Paint. The Wacom Intuos Pro S also enjoys broad compatibility with both Windows and macOS, and its driver software provides additional features and customization options.
However, Wacom’s driver software offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including customizable button mapping, pressure sensitivity settings, and pen calibration. This extra level of control and customization can be beneficial for artists who prefer to fine-tune their drawing experience.
Price and Value
The Gaomon M1230 is generally priced lower than the Wacom Intuos Pro S, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. Its affordable price point, coupled with its impressive features, makes it an excellent value for money. The Wacom Intuos Pro S, while more expensive, offers a premium experience with its enhanced stylus, driver software, and build quality.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Gaomon M1230 if:
- You are looking for a budget-friendly drawing tablet with a large active area.
- You prioritize affordability without sacrificing performance.
- You are a beginner artist or casual user.
Choose the Wacom Intuos Pro S if:
- You are willing to invest in a premium drawing tablet with advanced features.
- You value a comfortable and ergonomic design.
- You are a professional artist or serious hobbyist.
The Verdict: A Balanced Perspective
Both the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro S are excellent drawing tablets that cater to different needs and budgets. The Gaomon M1230 provides exceptional value for money with its large active area and responsive pen, making it an ideal choice for beginners and budget-conscious artists. The Wacom Intuos Pro S, on the other hand, offers a premium experience with its enhanced stylus, driver software, and build quality, making it a suitable option for professional artists and serious hobbyists.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Is the Gaomon M1230 compatible with iPad?
A: No, the Gaomon M1230 is not compatible with iPad. It is designed for use with Windows and macOS computers.
Q: Does the Wacom Intuos Pro S come with a screen protector?
A: No, the Wacom Intuos Pro S does not come with a screen protector. You may need to purchase one separately.
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro Small?
A: The Gaomon M1230 and the Wacom Intuos Pro Small are both entry-level drawing tablets, but they have some key differences. The Gaomon M1230 features a larger active area and a more affordable price point, while the Wacom Intuos Pro Small offers a more premium design and advanced stylus features.
Q: Can I use the Gaomon M1230 with a smartphone?
A: No, the Gaomon M1230 is not designed for use with smartphones. It requires a computer with a USB connection.
Q: Is the Wacom Intuos Pro S compatible with Adobe Illustrator?
A: Yes, the Wacom Intuos Pro S is compatible with Adobe Illustrator and other popular drawing software.
