What to know
- The Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M share a similar design philosophy, focusing on a compact and minimalist aesthetic.
- The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that offer a natural drawing experience.
- The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, on the other hand, features six customizable buttons on the pen and two express keys on the tablet.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly category are the Gaomon S620 and the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M. Both tablets offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tablet, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M share a similar design philosophy, focusing on a compact and minimalist aesthetic. Both tablets feature a sleek black finish and a textured surface for improved grip. However, there are subtle differences in their overall build quality.
The Gaomon S620 boasts a slightly more robust construction, with a solid plastic casing that feels durable and resistant to flexing. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, on the other hand, feels slightly more lightweight and less rigid, though it still holds up well under normal use.
Active Area and Resolution
The active area, or drawing surface, is a crucial factor in determining the overall usability of a drawing tablet. The Gaomon S620 offers a generous active area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for creative expression. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, however, features a smaller active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inches, which may feel restrictive for some users, especially those accustomed to larger drawing spaces.
In terms of resolution, both tablets offer a respectable 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch), ensuring smooth and responsive pen movements. This resolution translates to a high level of accuracy and detail, allowing for precise linework and intricate shading.
Pen Technology and Pressure Sensitivity
The pen is the heart of any drawing tablet, and both the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M come equipped with pressure-sensitive pens that offer a natural drawing experience.
The Gaomon S620’s pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a wide range of line thickness and brush strokes. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, on the other hand, offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is still good but slightly less nuanced than the Gaomon S620.
Both pens are battery-free and require no charging, making them convenient and hassle-free to use. However, the Gaomon S620’s pen feels slightly more comfortable and balanced in hand, thanks to its contoured design and textured grip.
Compatibility and Software
Both the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring wide-ranging compatibility with popular drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
Huion’s Inspiroy Ink H320M comes bundled with its own driver software, which offers customizable pen settings, including pressure sensitivity, pen tilt, and button mapping. Gaomon also provides its own driver software with similar customization options.
Additional Features
The Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M both include additional features that enhance their usability. The Gaomon S620 boasts eight customizable buttons on the pen and four express keys on the tablet, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, on the other hand, features six customizable buttons on the pen and two express keys on the tablet.
Both tablets also include a built-in pen holder, ensuring that the pen is always within easy reach.
Pros and Cons
Gaomon S620
Pros:
- Larger active area
- More pressure sensitivity levels
- Comfortable and balanced pen
- More customizable buttons
Cons:
- Slightly higher price compared to the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M
Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good pressure sensitivity
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- Fewer pressure sensitivity levels
- Less comfortable pen compared to the Gaomon S620
Which One Should You Choose?
The best drawing tablet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of which tablet might be better suited for you:
- Gaomon S620: If you prioritize a large active area, high pressure sensitivity, and a comfortable pen, the Gaomon S620 is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for artists who prefer a spacious drawing surface and require a wide range of brush strokes and line thicknesses.
- Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M: If you’re looking for an affordable and compact drawing tablet with good pressure sensitivity, the Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M is a solid option. It’s a great choice for beginners and artists who don’t require a large drawing area.
Beyond the Comparison: Considerations for Choosing a Drawing Tablet
While the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are both excellent options, there are other factors to consider when choosing a drawing tablet:
- Your Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a drawing tablet. Both the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M fall within the budget-friendly category.
- Drawing Style: Consider your preferred drawing style. If you primarily work with line art or sketches, a smaller active area might suffice. But if you prefer detailed illustrations or paintings, a larger active area would be more beneficial.
- Software Compatibility: Ensure that the tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software. Both the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M are compatible with popular drawing software.
- Additional Features: Consider features such as customizable buttons, express keys, and pen tilt support. These features can enhance your workflow and provide greater control over your drawings.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right drawing tablet is a personal decision. Both the Gaomon S620 and Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M offer a compelling blend of features and affordability. The Gaomon S620 excels in terms of its large active area, high pressure sensitivity, and comfortable pen, making it ideal for artists who prioritize a spacious drawing surface and a wide range of artistic expression. The Huion Inspiroy Ink H320M, on the other hand, is a more compact and affordable option, perfect for beginners and artists who don’t require a large drawing area.
Ultimately, the best drawing tablet for you is the one that best meets your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, drawing style, software compatibility, and desired features to make an informed decision.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a drawing monitor?
A: A drawing tablet is a digital input device that allows you to control a computer cursor using a pen. It typically has a pressure-sensitive surface that mimics the feel of drawing on paper. A drawing monitor, on the other hand, is a display that combines the functionality of a drawing tablet with a traditional monitor. It allows you to draw directly on the screen, providing a more immersive and responsive drawing experience.
Q: Can I use a drawing tablet for other tasks besides drawing?
A: Yes, drawing tablets can be used for a variety of tasks, including:
- Digital painting and illustration: Creating digital art using software like Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, or Krita.
- Photo editing: Retouching and manipulating images in software like Photoshop or GIMP.
- Graphic design: Creating logos, website designs, and other graphic elements.
- Animation: Creating animated sequences and characters.
- Calligraphy: Practicing and creating digital calligraphy using a calligraphy pen.
Q: Which software is best for using with a drawing tablet?
A: The best software for a drawing tablet depends on your needs and preferences. Some popular options include:
- Adobe Photoshop: A powerful and versatile image editing software.
- Clip Studio Paint: A popular software for digital painting and comics.
- Krita: A free and open-source painting software.
- Affinity Designer: A vector graphics software for creating logos, illustrations, and other graphic elements.
- Procreate: A popular iPad drawing app.
Q: How do I choose the right pen nib for my drawing tablet?
A: The best pen nib for your drawing tablet depends on your preferred drawing style and the surface you’re drawing on. Some common nib types include:
- Fine nibs: Ideal for detailed linework and precise drawings.
- Medium nibs: A versatile option for a wide range of drawing styles.
- Brush nibs: Simulate the feel of a brush and create a variety of brush strokes.
- Felt nibs: Provide a smooth and consistent line.
- Hard nibs: Offer a more defined and crisp line.
- Soft nibs: Create a softer and more textured line.
Experiment with different nib types to find the ones that best suit your needs.