Quick Overview
- The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also boasts a sleek design and a sturdy stand, but its weight might be slightly more substantial.
- Both the Gaomon PD1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are excellent drawing tablets offering a spacious drawing area, accurate color reproduction, and responsive pressure sensitivity.
- The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, provides a more feature-rich experience with an active pen and additional customization options.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the Gaomon PD1560 and the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. Both offer large drawing areas and pressure sensitivity, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Drawing Area and Display: A Tale of Two Screens
The Gaomon PD1560 boasts a massive 15.6-inch drawing area, providing ample space for detailed artwork. Its laminated screen reduces parallax, ensuring a more natural and precise drawing experience. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, features a 15.6-inch display with a slightly smaller active area. While still generous, the difference in active area might be noticeable for users who prefer maximum drawing space.
Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Technology: A Battle of Precision
Both tablets offer 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced strokes and subtle variations in line thickness. The Gaomon PD1560 employs a passive pen with a battery-free design, eliminating the need for charging. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, however, utilizes an active pen that requires charging but offers additional features like side buttons and an eraser. The choice between passive and active pens boils down to personal preference and workflow.
Display Technology: A Focus on Color Accuracy
The Gaomon PD1560 boasts a vibrant display with a 120% sRGB color gamut, ensuring accurate color reproduction for digital artists. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also features a 120% sRGB color gamut, providing a similar level of color accuracy. Both tablets offer a 1920×1080 resolution, delivering sharp and detailed visuals. The difference lies in the display technology: the Gaomon PD1560 utilizes an IPS panel, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP employs a laminated LCD panel.
Design and Ergonomics: A Matter of Comfort
The Gaomon PD1560 features a sleek and minimalist design with a sturdy stand for comfortable viewing angles. Its lightweight construction makes it portable, allowing you to take your creative endeavors anywhere. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP also boasts a sleek design and a sturdy stand, but its weight might be slightly more substantial. Both tablets offer a comfortable drawing experience, but the Gaomon PD1560 might edge out in terms of portability.
Software and Compatibility: A Seamless Workflow
Both Gaomon PD1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are compatible with popular drawing software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook. They also support Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with your preferred creative tools. Both tablets come bundled with driver software that allows you to customize pen settings, calibrate the display, and access additional features.
Pricing and Value: A Balancing Act
The Gaomon PD1560 typically retails for a lower price point compared to the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP. This makes the Gaomon PD1560 a more budget-friendly option for artists seeking a large drawing area and accurate color reproduction. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, while slightly more expensive, offers additional features like an active pen with side buttons and an eraser. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your budget and priorities.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Drawing Tablet for You
Both the Gaomon PD1560 and XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP are excellent drawing tablets offering a spacious drawing area, accurate color reproduction, and responsive pressure sensitivity. The Gaomon PD1560 excels in portability and affordability, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious artists. The XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP, on the other hand, provides a more feature-rich experience with an active pen and additional customization options.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and workflow to make an informed decision.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which tablet is better for beginners?
A: Both tablets are suitable for beginners. The Gaomon PD1560 offers a more affordable entry point, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP provides additional features that might be beneficial for aspiring artists.
Q: Do these tablets require special software?
A: No, both tablets are compatible with popular drawing software and do not require any specific software. However, they do come with driver software for customization and calibration.
Q: Can I use these tablets for gaming?
A: While these tablets are primarily designed for drawing and design, they can be used for gaming with compatible software. However, their performance might not be as optimal as dedicated gaming tablets.
Q: Which tablet has a better display?
A: Both tablets offer vibrant displays with a 120% sRGB color gamut. The Gaomon PD1560 uses an IPS panel, while the XP-Pen Artist Pro 16TP features a laminated LCD panel. The choice between the two depends on your personal preferences.
Q: What is the difference between passive and active pens?
A: A passive pen does not require charging and relies on the tablet’s electromagnetic field for input. An active pen requires charging but offers additional features like side buttons and an eraser. The choice between the two depends on your workflow and preferred features.
