Gaomon PD1161 vs Veikk VOILA L: The Ultimate Showdown for Drawing Tablets

Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon PD1161 and the Veikk Voila L. Both offer impressive features and performance, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L boast sleek and minimalist designs, making them aesthetically pleasing additions to your workspace. The PD1161 features a black, textured surface that provides a comfortable grip, while the Voila L opts for a smooth, glossy finish.

Gaomon PD1161:

• Active Area: 10 x 6.25 inches
• Dimensions: 12.1 x 8.1 x 0.3 inches
• Weight: 1.1 lbs
• Design: Textured surface for grip, 8 customizable shortcut keys, and a dedicated pen holder

Veikk Voila L:

• Active Area: 10 x 6.25 inches
• Dimensions: 12.4 x 8.4 x 0.4 inches
• Weight: 1.2 lbs
• Design: Smooth, glossy surface, 8 customizable shortcut keys, and a built-in pen holder

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The PD1161’s textured surface provides a more secure grip, while the Voila L’s smooth finish may be more susceptible to fingerprints. Ultimately, the choice between these two depends on your personal preferences and workspace aesthetics.

Pen Performance

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L offer impressive pen performance.

Gaomon PD1161:

• Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
• Report Rate: 233 PPS
• Pen Type: Battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
• Features: Pen tilt support, eraser function

Veikk Voila L:

• Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
• Report Rate: 266 PPS
• Pen Type: Battery-free, passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
• Features: Pen tilt support, eraser function

Both tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and precise control. The Voila L boasts a slightly higher report rate, meaning it transmits pen data to your computer more frequently, resulting in smoother and more responsive drawing. However, the difference in report rate is negligible in real-world use. Both pens are battery-free and feature tilt support, enhancing the natural feel of drawing.

Software and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L offer excellent compatibility with various operating systems and software.

Gaomon PD1161:

• Compatibility: Windows 7/8/10/11, macOS 10.12 or later
• Driver: Gaomon Driver (supports customization of pen and tablet settings)

Veikk Voila L:

• Compatibility: Windows 7/8/10/11, macOS 10.12 or later
• Driver: Veikk Driver (supports customization of pen and tablet settings)

Both tablets come with user-friendly drivers that allow you to customize pen settings, such as pressure sensitivity, pen tilt, and shortcut key functions. The drivers are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.

Features and Extras

Both tablets offer a range of features that enhance the user experience.

Gaomon PD1161:

• Shortcut Keys: 8 customizable shortcut keys
• Pen Holder: Dedicated pen holder
• Additional Features:
• Anti-scratch surface
• High-resolution screen display
• Built-in anti-glare film
• USB connection

Veikk Voila L:

• Shortcut Keys: 8 customizable shortcut keys
• Pen Holder: Built-in pen holder
• Additional Features:
• Anti-scratch surface
• High-resolution screen display
• Built-in anti-glare film
• USB connection

Both tablets offer a generous number of customizable shortcut keys, allowing you to assign frequently used commands for increased efficiency. Both also come with a pen holder, either dedicated or built-in, for convenient storage. Both tablets feature a high-resolution screen display and an anti-glare film for a comfortable drawing experience.

Price and Value

Both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L are highly affordable drawing tablets, making them excellent choices for budget-conscious artists and designers.

Gaomon PD1161:

• Price: Typically around $50-$60

Veikk Voila L:

• Price: Typically around $60-$70

The price difference between the two tablets is minimal, making the decision largely dependent on personal preferences and specific needs.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L are excellent drawing tablets that offer impressive features and performance at an affordable price. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preferences and specific needs:

• Gaomon PD1161: If you prefer a textured surface for grip and prioritize affordability, the Gaomon PD1161 is an excellent choice.
• Veikk Voila L: If you prefer a smooth, glossy surface and value a slightly higher report rate for smoother drawing, the Veikk Voila L is a solid option.

Beyond the Basics: Understanding Your Needs

Before making a final decision, consider these factors:

• Drawing Style: What type of art do you create? If you primarily work with lines and sketches, a smaller tablet might suffice. For detailed work like illustrations and paintings, a larger tablet with a higher resolution might be a better choice.
• Software Preferences: Check the compatibility of the tablets with your preferred drawing software.
• Budget: Both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L are affordable options. However, if you have a larger budget, you might consider exploring tablets with higher resolution, more pressure sensitivity, or additional features.

Questions We Hear a Lot

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

A: Drawing tablets and graphics tablets are essentially the same thing. They are both input devices used for drawing, designing, and editing images on a computer. The terms are often used interchangeably.

Q: Are these tablets compatible with Mac computers?

A: Yes, both the Gaomon PD1161 and Veikk Voila L are compatible with Mac computers running macOS 10.12 or later.

Q: Can I use these tablets with my smartphone or tablet?

A: No, these tablets are designed for use with desktop computers. They do not have the functionality to connect with mobile devices.

Q: Do I need to buy a special pen for these tablets?

A: No, both tablets come with a battery-free, passive pen that is specifically designed for the tablet.

Q: Can I use these tablets for gaming?

A: While you can technically use a drawing tablet for gaming, it is not recommended. They are not designed for the rapid and precise movements required for gaming.