Gaomon pd1220 vs xp pen artist 12: Which Drawing Tablet Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the perfect drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a sea of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Gaomon PD1220 and the **XP-Pen Artist 12**. Both offer impressive features and affordability, making them attractive choices for aspiring and seasoned artists alike. But which one truly stands out? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the features, pros, and cons of each tablet to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 boast sleek, modern designs. The Gaomon PD1220 features a black, minimalist aesthetic with a slightly thicker bezel around the active area compared to the Artist 12. The XP-Pen Artist 12, on the other hand, offers a slightly more colorful design with a choice between black and red, and a thinner bezel.

In terms of build quality, both tablets feel sturdy and well-constructed. The Gaomon PD1220 has a slightly more textured surface, offering a grippier feel, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 features a smooth, glossy surface. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference.

Active Area and Resolution

The active area is the critical part of a drawing tablet where your pen strokes are registered. Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 offer a spacious 11.6-inch active area, providing ample room for intricate drawings and detailed creations.

However, the resolution of the active area is where things start to differ. The Gaomon PD1220 boasts a 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) resolution, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 offers a slightly lower resolution of 5080 LPI. This means that the Gaomon PD1220 can capture finer details and provide a more precise drawing experience.

Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity

The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet experience. Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 come bundled with pressure-sensitive pens that replicate the feel of traditional art tools. Both pens offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience.

However, the Gaomon PD1220 pen comes with an additional feature: a side button that can be customized for various functions like brush size adjustment or undo/redo. This added functionality can be a game-changer for users who prefer a more streamlined workflow.

Driver and Compatibility

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 offer excellent driver compatibility with both Windows and macOS operating systems. The drivers are easy to install and provide access to various customization options, including pen pressure sensitivity settings, shortcut keys, and screen calibration.

Screen Display and Viewing Angle

One of the key differences between the two tablets lies in their display technology. The Gaomon PD1220 comes with a built-in screen, allowing for a more immersive drawing experience. The 11.6-inch IPS display offers a 1920×1080 resolution and a 72% NTSC color gamut, providing vibrant colors and sharp visuals.

The XP-Pen Artist 12, on the other hand, is a pen display tablet, meaning it only features a drawing surface and requires an external monitor for viewing. This can be a drawback for some users who prefer a more integrated setup.

Price and Value

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 are known for their affordability, making them accessible to a wide range of artists. The Gaomon PD1220 is generally priced slightly lower than the XP-Pen Artist 12, making it an even more budget-friendly option.

However, the price difference can be attributed to the built-in screen of the Gaomon PD1220, which adds to its overall cost. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind using an external monitor, the XP-Pen Artist 12 offers excellent value for its price.

Pros and Cons: Gaomon PD1220

Pros:

• Built-in screen for an immersive drawing experience
• Higher resolution for greater detail and precision
• Side button on the pen for customizable functions
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Thicker bezel than the Artist 12
• Slightly lower color gamut than the Artist 12

Pros and Cons: XP-Pen Artist 12

Pros:

• Sleek and modern design
• Thinner bezel for a more spacious drawing area
• Wider color gamut for vibrant colors
• Available in black and red

Cons:

• Requires an external monitor for viewing
• Lower resolution than the PD1220
• No side button on the pen

Which Drawing Tablet Should You Choose?

The decision between the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Choose the Gaomon PD1220 if:

• You prioritize an immersive drawing experience with a built-in screen
• You need a higher resolution for detailed work
• You value the added functionality of the side button on the pen
• You’re on a tight budget

Choose the XP-Pen Artist 12 if:

• You prefer a sleek and minimalist design
• You already have an external monitor for viewing
• You prioritize a wider color gamut for vibrant visuals
• You’re looking for a more affordable option

Making the Right Choice: A Final Word

Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 offer excellent features and value for money. The Gaomon PD1220 excels with its built-in screen and higher resolution, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 shines with its sleek design, wider color gamut, and affordability. By carefully considering your individual needs and preferences, you can choose the drawing tablet that best fits your artistic journey.

Information You Need to Know

Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a pen display tablet?
A: A drawing tablet only has a drawing surface and requires an external monitor for viewing. A pen display tablet has a built-in screen, allowing for a more immersive drawing experience.

Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both the Gaomon PD1220 and XP-Pen Artist 12 are great options for beginners. The Gaomon PD1220 offers a more intuitive drawing experience with its built-in screen, while the XP-Pen Artist 12 is a more affordable option.

Q: Do both tablets come with software?
A: Both tablets come bundled with basic drawing software, but you can also use them with other popular drawing programs like Adobe Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint.

Q: Can I use the tablets with my smartphone or tablet?
A: No, both tablets are designed for use with desktop computers.

Q: What is the warranty period for both tablets?
A: Both tablets typically come with a one-year warranty.