Gaomon PD156 Pro vs XP Pen Artist 12 Pro: Which Drawing Tablet Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the **XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro**. Both tablets offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro boast sleek and modern designs. The Gaomon PD156 Pro features a black, minimalist aesthetic with a textured surface, providing a comfortable grip. It comes with an adjustable stand, allowing you to customize the viewing angle. The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro also sports a black design, but with a more glossy finish. It includes a built-in stand, offering a fixed viewing angle.

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon PD156 Pro’s textured surface might be more prone to scratches, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro’s glossy finish might attract fingerprints. Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area of a drawing tablet refers to the responsive surface where you can draw. The Gaomon PD156 Pro boasts a larger active area of 13.3 inches, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro offers a 11.6-inch active area. This difference can be significant for artists who prefer a more spacious drawing surface.

When it comes to resolution, both tablets offer a respectable 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch). This ensures smooth and precise lines, even when drawing intricate details.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens. The Gaomon PD156 Pro’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro offers 8192 levels as well. This high level of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced strokes and precise control over line thickness.

Both pens are designed for comfortable use and feature customizable buttons. The Gaomon PD156 Pro’s pen includes two side buttons, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro’s pen features a single side button.

Display and Color Accuracy

The Gaomon PD156 Pro stands out with its built-in display, providing a more immersive drawing experience. The 13.3-inch IPS display offers a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut. While the color accuracy is decent, it falls short of professional-grade displays.

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, meaning it connects to your computer monitor for display. This offers the advantage of using your existing monitor, potentially with better color accuracy and higher resolution.

Software and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. They also support various drawing software programs, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

The Gaomon PD156 Pro comes with its own driver software, which allows you to customize pen settings and calibrate the tablet. The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro also includes driver software with similar features.

Price and Value for Money

The Gaomon PD156 Pro is generally priced lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro. This makes it a more affordable option, especially for budget-conscious artists. However, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro offers a more premium experience, with its built-in stand and compatibility with a wide range of monitors.

Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your specific needs and budget.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro depends on your individual preferences and priorities.

Choose the Gaomon PD156 Pro if:

• You prefer a larger active area for drawing.
• You value a built-in display for a more immersive drawing experience.
• You are on a tighter budget.

Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro if:

• You want to use your existing monitor for display, potentially with better color accuracy and resolution.
• You prefer a more premium design and build quality.
• You are willing to spend a little more for a higher-end tablet.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison

While the Gaomon PD156 Pro and the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro offer impressive features and capabilities, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Both tablets are excellent choices for artists of all skill levels, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience. Ultimately, the best drawing tablet is the one that best fits your workflow and creative style.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD156 Pro or the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro without a computer?

A: Both tablets require a computer connection to function. They are not standalone devices.

Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display tablet?

A: A drawing tablet uses your computer monitor for display, while a pen display tablet has a built-in screen.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?

A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD156 Pro’s built-in display might be more appealing to beginners, providing a more intuitive drawing experience.

Q: Is the Gaomon PD156 Pro or the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro better for professional artists?

A: Both tablets are capable of handling professional-level work. However, professional artists might prefer the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro’s compatibility with higher-resolution and color-accurate monitors.

Q: What are the pros and cons of each tablet?

Gaomon PD156 Pro:

• Pros: Larger active area, built-in display, more affordable.
• Cons: Limited color accuracy, textured surface might be prone to scratches.

XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro:

• Pros: Premium design, compatibility with a wide range of monitors, built-in stand.
• Cons: Smaller active area, no built-in display, more expensive.