Quick Overview
- The lack of a display might seem like a drawback, but it allows for a more affordable price point and doesn’t require the additional power consumption of a built-in screen.
- The Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon S620 are both considered budget-friendly options, making them attractive to artists on a tight budget.
- However, the PD1161 offers a larger drawing area, higher resolution, and a more premium build quality, making it a compelling value proposition for those who prioritize these features.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon S620. Both tablets offer impressive features for aspiring and professional artists, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon S620 boast a sleek and minimalist design, making them aesthetically pleasing additions to any workspace. The PD1161 features a larger active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for intricate drawings and detailed illustrations. On the other hand, the S620 offers a more compact active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, making it suitable for those who prefer a smaller drawing surface or have limited desk space.
In terms of build quality, both tablets are sturdy and well-constructed. The PD1161 boasts a robust aluminum alloy frame, adding to its durability and overall aesthetic appeal. The S620, while not as premium in its construction, still feels solid and reliable for everyday use.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen technology is a crucial factor when choosing a drawing tablet. Both the PD1161 and the S620 utilize battery-free pens with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise and nuanced strokes. This high level of sensitivity allows for greater control over line thickness and shading, enabling artists to create detailed and expressive artwork.
The pens themselves are comfortable to hold and feature a natural feel, mimicking the experience of drawing on paper. Both tablets come bundled with a set of replacement nibs, ensuring a smooth and consistent drawing experience for extended periods.
Display and Resolution
While both tablets lack built-in displays, the PD1161 edges out the S620 in terms of resolution. The PD1161 offers a resolution of 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), resulting in a smoother and more detailed drawing experience. The S620, on the other hand, features a resolution of 4000 LPI, which is still respectable but slightly less detailed.
The lack of a display might seem like a drawback, but it allows for a more affordable price point and doesn’t require the additional power consumption of a built-in screen. Artists who prefer a more traditional drawing experience and are comfortable working without a display will find both tablets suitable.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon S620 connect to computers via USB cable. This eliminates the need for additional drivers or wireless connections, making setup effortless and ensuring a stable connection. The tablets are compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems, providing flexibility for artists who work across multiple devices.
Software and Drivers
Gaomon provides dedicated drivers for both the PD1161 and the S620, allowing users to customize settings and optimize performance. The drivers offer features such as customizable pen pressure sensitivity, shortcut key mapping, and screen calibration. These features enable artists to personalize their drawing experience and tailor the tablet to their specific needs.
Price and Value
The Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon S620 are both considered budget-friendly options, making them attractive to artists on a tight budget. The S620 generally has a slightly lower price point compared to the PD1161. However, the PD1161 offers a larger drawing area, higher resolution, and a more premium build quality, making it a compelling value proposition for those who prioritize these features.
Who Should Choose the Gaomon PD1161?
The Gaomon PD1161 is an excellent choice for:
- Artists who need a larger drawing area: The 10 x 6.25 inches active area provides ample space for intricate drawings and detailed illustrations.
- Artists who prioritize higher resolution: The 5080 LPI resolution ensures smoother and more detailed drawing experience.
- Artists who value a premium build quality: The aluminum alloy frame adds to the durability and aesthetic appeal of the tablet.
Who Should Choose the Gaomon S620?
The Gaomon S620 is a suitable choice for:
- Artists who prefer a smaller drawing area: The 8.5 x 5.3 inches active area is ideal for those with limited desk space or who prefer a more compact design.
- Artists on a tighter budget: The S620 generally has a lower price point compared to the PD1161.
- Artists who primarily work with digital sketching and basic illustration: The S620’s resolution is still adequate for these tasks.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
The choice between the Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon S620 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. The PD1161 offers a larger drawing area, higher resolution, and a more premium build quality, making it a compelling choice for artists who prioritize these features. However, the S620 provides a more compact and affordable option, making it suitable for beginners or artists who primarily work with digital sketching and basic illustration.
Ultimately, both tablets offer exceptional value for their price point and are capable of delivering a satisfying drawing experience. Consider your specific needs and budget when making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the Gaomon PD1161 or S620 with my smartphone?
A: While both tablets are compatible with Android devices, they require a USB-C to USB-A adapter for connectivity. Additionally, not all Android devices support external drawing tablets.
Q: What is the difference between the Gaomon PD1161 and the Gaomon PD1161 Pro?
A: The Gaomon PD1161 Pro features a larger active area of 13.3 x 8.2 inches, making it ideal for professional artists who require a more expansive drawing surface. It also boasts a higher resolution of 5080 LPI and includes a dedicated pen holder for added convenience.
Q: How do I calibrate the drawing tablet?
A: Both tablets can be calibrated using the dedicated Gaomon drivers. The calibration process involves adjusting the tablet’s settings to ensure accurate cursor movement and pressure sensitivity.
Q: Is there a warranty on the Gaomon PD1161 and S620?
A: Both tablets come with a standard one-year warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring peace of mind for users.
