Key points
- The presence of a screen eliminates the need for a separate monitor, making it ideal for artists who prefer a more direct and intuitive workflow.
- However, if you value a larger canvas and appreciate the convenience of a built-in display, the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** is the clear winner.
- The Gaomon M1220 and the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** are both priced in the budget-friendly category, making them accessible to aspiring artists and hobbyists.
The world of digital art is brimming with options, and choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon M1220 and the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160**. Both offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which tablet emerges as the victor? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon M1220 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic body. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable. The tablet features eight customizable express keys and a scroll wheel, offering convenient shortcuts for your workflow.
The Huion Kamvas RDS 160 adopts a similar design philosophy, prioritizing portability and ease of use. It also comes with a black plastic chassis, but its larger footprint might not be as travel-friendly. It includes six customizable buttons and a scroll wheel, providing ample control options for your creative endeavors.
Both tablets exhibit a decent build quality, offering a solid feel and a comfortable grip. However, the M1220 edges out slightly in terms of portability due to its smaller dimensions.
Display and Screen Resolution
Here’s where the two tablets diverge significantly. The Gaomon M1220 is a pen display tablet, meaning it lacks an integrated screen. You’ll need to connect it to your computer monitor to view your artwork. It features a 10.1-inch active area with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, providing a crisp and detailed drawing experience.
In contrast, the Huion Kamvas RDS 160 is a standalone drawing tablet with a built-in display. Its 15.6-inch screen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, delivering a larger and more immersive canvas. The presence of a screen eliminates the need for a separate monitor, making it ideal for artists who prefer a more direct and intuitive workflow.
Ultimately, the choice between a pen display and a standalone tablet boils down to personal preference and workflow. If you prioritize portability and prefer working with a separate monitor, the Gaomon M1220 might be a better fit. However, if you value a larger canvas and appreciate the convenience of a built-in display, the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** is the clear winner.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
Both tablets excel in their pen technology. The Gaomon M1220 comes bundled with a battery-free pen that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This translates to precise line variations and nuanced brushstrokes, allowing you to express your artistic vision with greater accuracy.
The Huion Kamvas RDS 160 also features a battery-free pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This ensures a responsive and natural drawing experience, capturing your every stroke with remarkable detail.
Both pens are comfortable to hold and offer a balanced weight distribution, minimizing hand fatigue during extended drawing sessions. The level of pressure sensitivity is comparable between the two, making it a tie in this category.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both tablets offer a range of connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with various devices. The Gaomon M1220 connects to your computer via a single USB-C cable, simplifying setup and reducing clutter. It supports both Windows and macOS operating systems, making it a versatile choice for different users.
The Huion Kamvas RDS 160 also connects via a single USB-C cable, providing a straightforward setup process. It boasts compatibility with both Windows and macOS, offering a seamless experience across platforms.
In terms of connectivity and compatibility, both tablets are on par, offering a user-friendly and versatile experience.
Software and Drivers
Both Gaomon and Huion provide dedicated software and drivers for their tablets. These software packages offer customization options for pen settings, express keys, and screen calibration. They also include driver updates to ensure seamless operation and compatibility with the latest operating systems.
The software and driver experience is generally smooth and reliable for both brands. However, some users might encounter occasional bugs or compatibility issues, especially with older operating systems. It’s always advisable to download the latest drivers and software updates to minimize potential problems.
Price and Value
The Gaomon M1220 and the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** are both priced in the budget-friendly category, making them accessible to aspiring artists and hobbyists. The Gaomon M1220 typically costs slightly less than the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160**.
Considering the features and performance offered, both tablets represent excellent value for money. The Gaomon M1220 offers a compelling balance of affordability and functionality, while the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** provides a larger screen and a more immersive drawing experience.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tablet
The choice between the Gaomon M1220 and the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, a compact size, and working with a separate monitor, the Gaomon M1220 is a solid choice. However, if you value a larger canvas, the convenience of a built-in display, and a more immersive drawing experience, the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** takes the lead.
Both tablets offer excellent value for money, providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience at an affordable price. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner exploring the world of digital art, these tablets can be valuable tools to unleash your creativity.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The **Gaomon M1220** offers a more affordable entry point, while the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** provides a larger canvas and a more intuitive workflow. Choose the tablet that aligns with your budget and preferred drawing style.
Q: Do these tablets work with smartphones?
A: Both tablets primarily cater to computer users. They are not designed for direct smartphone connectivity. However, you might be able to connect them to a smartphone via a USB-C adapter, but compatibility and functionality might be limited.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each tablet?
A:
Gaomon M1220:
- Pros: Affordable, portable, lightweight, good pen technology.
- Cons: No built-in display, smaller active area.
Huion Kamvas RDS 160:
- Pros: Built-in display, larger active area, immersive drawing experience.
- Cons: Less portable, slightly higher price.
Q: Can I use these tablets for photo editing?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing, they can also be used for photo editing. The pressure sensitivity and precision of the pens allow for fine-tuning details and applying effects in photo editing software.
Q: Which tablet is better for animation?
A: Both tablets can be used for animation, but the **Huion Kamvas RDS 160** might be a better choice due to its larger screen and built-in display, which can be helpful for animating larger scenes and complex movements.
