Quick summary
- The Gaomon PD1561 offers a decent set of features, including a built-in battery-free pen, a single USB-C port for both power and data connection, and a shortcut key for switching between pen and mouse modes.
- It includes an additional HDMI port for connecting to a monitor, two USB-C ports, a slider for adjusting screen brightness, and a set of eight customizable shortcut keys on the tablet’s frame.
- The **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP** takes things up a notch with a refresh rate of 266PPS and a report rate of 233Hz, resulting in even smoother and more precise drawing.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon PD1561 and the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP**. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon PD1561 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a black plastic frame. The tablet itself is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. The active area is surrounded by a thin black bezel, providing a clean and unobtrusive drawing surface.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, features a more robust build with an aluminum frame. This gives it a premium feel and adds to its overall durability. The tablet is slightly heavier than the Gaomon PD1561, but it still remains comfortably portable. The active area is surrounded by a slightly thicker bezel, which may be a minor drawback for some artists.
Display and Screen Technology
Both the Gaomon PD1561 and the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP** offer a 15.6-inch full HD (1920×1080) display with a laminated screen. This means there is no noticeable gap between the screen and the glass, offering a more natural drawing experience. The displays on both tablets are IPS panels, providing wide viewing angles and vibrant colors. However, the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP** has a slight edge in terms of color accuracy with a wider color gamut (92% NTSC) compared to the Gaomon PD1561 (85% NTSC).
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The Gaomon PD1561 comes bundled with the **PW507** pen, which features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold, with two programmable side buttons. It also offers tilt sensitivity, allowing for natural brush strokes.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP utilizes the **P03** pen, which also boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The P03 pen is slightly heavier than the PW507, but it offers a more balanced feel and better grip. It also features two side buttons and tilt sensitivity.
Both pens offer a responsive and accurate drawing experience, but the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP’s P03 pen might feel more comfortable for extended use due to its balanced weight distribution.
Features and Connectivity
The Gaomon PD1561 offers a decent set of features, including a built-in battery-free pen, a single USB-C port for both power and data connection, and a shortcut key for switching between pen and mouse modes.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP goes a step further with a more comprehensive feature set. It includes an additional HDMI port for connecting to a monitor, two USB-C ports, a slider for adjusting screen brightness, and a set of eight customizable shortcut keys on the tablet’s frame. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also supports both Windows and macOS, while the **Gaomon PD1561** is primarily designed for Windows users.
Performance and Responsiveness
Both tablets deliver a smooth and responsive drawing experience. The Gaomon PD1561 offers a refresh rate of 266PPS and a report rate of 200Hz, ensuring accurate line rendering and minimal lag. The **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP** takes things up a notch with a refresh rate of 266PPS and a report rate of 233Hz, resulting in even smoother and more precise drawing.
Price and Value for Money
The Gaomon PD1561 is generally priced lower than the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP**. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for artists who are just starting out or have a limited budget.
The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, despite being slightly more expensive, offers a more comprehensive feature set, a premium build quality, and superior color accuracy. It’s a great value for money for artists who demand professional-grade features and performance.
The Verdict: Which Tablet Wins?
The choice between the Gaomon PD1561 and the **XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP** ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choose the Gaomon PD1561 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You’re a beginner or casual artist.
- You prioritize portability and a lightweight design.
Choose the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP if:
- You’re a professional or serious artist.
- You need accurate color reproduction and a wide color gamut.
- You value a premium build quality and a comprehensive feature set.
Beyond the Comparison: Finding Your Perfect Match
Remember, these are just two options in a vast landscape of drawing tablets. It’s crucial to consider your individual workflow, software preferences, and artistic style. Explore other brands and models, read reviews, and even try out different tablets at retail stores to find the perfect match for your creative journey.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is a device that translates your pen strokes into digital signals, while a drawing monitor is a tablet with a built-in display. Drawing monitors offer a more natural drawing experience as you see your strokes directly on the screen.
Q2: What are the benefits of using a drawing tablet?
A: Drawing tablets offer a more precise and natural drawing experience compared to using a mouse. They also allow you to use pressure sensitivity to control brush strokes and line thickness.
Q3: What is pressure sensitivity, and why is it important?
A: Pressure sensitivity allows the pen to detect the amount of pressure you apply, translating it into varying line thickness and brush strokes. This gives you more control and expressiveness in your digital art.
Q4: How do I choose the right size for my drawing tablet?
A: The ideal size depends on your personal preference and drawing style. Larger tablets offer more space for intricate drawings, while smaller tablets are more portable and suitable for sketching on the go.
Q5: What are some other drawing tablet brands to consider?
A: Other popular brands include Wacom, Huion, and XP-Pen. Each brand offers a wide range of tablets, catering to different budgets and needs.
