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Drawing Tablets

6 Best Alternatives to the GAOMON PD1161 11.6″ Drawing Tablet (2026)

You might look for gaomon pd1161 11 6 drawing tablet alternatives if you need a different screen size, color accuracy, or build material.

6 Best Alternatives to the GAOMON PD1161 11.6″ Drawing Tablet (2026)

What this report covers

Last updated
4 Nov 2026

Figures above are read from the product listings for the models named below. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.

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You might look for gaomon pd1161 11 6 drawing tablet alternatives if you need a different screen size, color accuracy, or build material. The GAOMON PD1161 offers 8192 pressure levels, tilt support, and an 11.6-inch anti-glare display. It weighs 1.91 pounds and connects to Windows, Mac, or Chromebook computers. This makes it a solid choice for portable digital art on a desk.

Some buyers prefer larger 15.6-inch screens for stationary work or full-laminated displays for zero-parallax drawing. Others may want a lighter metal chassis or specific shortcut key layouts. The alternatives listed here share core specifications with the PD1161, including 11.6-inch or 15.6-inch pen displays and battery-free pens. We selected these options because their published specs overlap with the original model, ensuring they function similarly while offering distinct physical differences or brand variations.

Comparing the Alternatives

VEIKK VK1200 11.6" Drawing Tablet

The VEIKK VK1200 matches the GAOMON PD1161 with an 11.6-inch screen and 8192 pressure levels. It shares the same battery-free pen and tilt support features. Where it differs is in physical dimensions. The VEIKK model is narrower at 6 inches wide and shorter at 10 inches long. It also weighs less at 15.9 ounces compared to the GAOMON’s 1.91 pounds. This makes it more compact for travel. You get similar core drawing capabilities in a smaller footprint. Choose this if you want a lighter, tighter device for the same screen size.

GAOMON PD1561 15.6-Inch Drawing Tablet

The GAOMON PD1561 keeps the same 11.6-inch pressure sensitivity and tilt support but scales up the display to 15.6 inches. It remains an anti-glare pen display with shortcut keys. The trade-off is significant size and weight. It measures 17.8 inches long and weighs 3.48 pounds. This is nearly double the weight of the PD1161. It is not designed for portability. You should pick this alternative if you work at a stationary desk and need more canvas space. The larger screen is better for detailed work that requires room to spread out.

XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6-Inch

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro offers a 15.6-inch display with full-lamination technology. This removes the parallax gap between the pen tip and the cursor, unlike the anti-glare screen on the GAOMON PD1161. It retains 8192 pressure levels and tilt support. The build is slightly heavier at 3.31 pounds and thicker at 0.51 inches. It provides a more precise drawing experience due to the laminated display. Select this if you prioritize drawing accuracy and tactile controls over the lighter, anti-glare design of the original model. It is a step up in display technology.

XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6-Inch

The XP-Pen Artist12 is a compact 11.6-inch pen display that matches the GAOMON PD1161 in size and pressure sensitivity. It features a battery-free pen but lacks explicit tilt support in its listed attributes. The build is thinner at 0.31 inches and weighs 2 pounds. It uses a full-laminated display, which offers better line accuracy than the anti-glare film on the GAOMON. You lose the shortcut keys found on the PD1161. Choose this version if you want a slimmer profile with improved screen lamination and do not need tilt functionality or side buttons.

HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 15.6-Inch Pen Display

The HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 expands the canvas to 15.6 inches while keeping 8192 pressure levels and tilt support. It uses a full-laminated display for reduced parallax, differing from the anti-glare screen on the GAOMON PD1161. It includes shortcut keys for customization. The device weighs 2.65 pounds and is larger than the original. It is not as portable. Pick this alternative if you need a larger, high-accuracy screen for stationary work. The full lamination and extra screen real estate make it suitable for detailed professional art on a desk.

VEIKK VK1200 V2 11.6-Inch Pen Display

The VEIKK VK1200 V2 is a compact 11.6-inch pen display with a full-laminated screen. It matches the GAOMON PD1161’s 8192 pressure levels but omits tilt support in its features list. It includes shortcut keys and weighs 1.78 pounds, making it lighter than the original. The build is slightly thicker at 0.51 inches. The full lamination provides better drawing precision than the anti-glare film on the GAOMON. Choose this if you want a durable, compact device with improved screen technology. It sacrifices tilt support for a lighter, more precise drawing surface.

#ProductBest forPrice
1GAOMON PD1161 11.6" Pen Display Best overallbeginners needing a portable, computer-connected drawing tool
2VEIKK VK1200 11.6" Drawing Tablet Best budgetbeginners needing a compact 11.6-inch display
3GAOMON PD1561 15.6-Inch Drawing Tablet Also greatstationary digital art and annotation
4XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6-Inch Best premiumportable digital art with tactile controls
5XP-PEN Artist12 11.6-Inch Pen Display Also greatcompact digital art on a computer
6HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 15.6-Inch Pen Display Also greatartists needing a larger 15.6-inch display
7VEIKK VK1200 V2 11.6-Inch Pen Display Also greatportable artists needing a compact metal display
1Best overall
GAOMON PD1161 11.6" Pen Display

GAOMON PD1161 11.6" Pen Display

Best for: beginners needing a portable, computer-connected drawing tool

Tablet Type
Tethered pen display
Screen Size
11.6"
Display Resolution
1920×1080 Full HD
Pen Pressure
8192
Display Finish
Anti-glare film
Shortcut Controls
8 shortcut keys

The GAOMON PD1161 is an 11.6-inch pen display designed for digital art and sketching. It features 8192 levels of pen pressure and tilt support for natural line control. The device includes eight customizable shortcut keys and a battery-free pen. Weighing 1.91 pounds, it is portable for students and beginners. You must connect it to a computer to use it.

Pros
  • 8192 levels of pen pressure
  • Tilt support for natural drawing
  • Eight customizable shortcut keys
  • Battery-free pen included
  • Full HD 1920×1080 IPS display
Cons
  • Smaller 11.6-inch screen compared to 15.6-inch alternatives
  • Heavier build at 1.91 pounds
  • Limited viewing angles of 89 degrees
Good fit if
  • You need a portable tablet for school or travel
  • You want customizable shortcut keys for workflow efficiency
  • You are a beginner or student learning digital art
Skip if
  • You require a larger 15.6-inch or bigger display
  • You need a standalone device without a computer
  • You prefer a wider viewing angle than 89 degrees

Verdict: The GAOMON PD1161 11.6" Pen Display suits beginners and students who need a portable, computer-connected drawing tool with tilt support and shortcut keys.

2Best budget
VEIKK VK1200 11.6" Drawing Tablet

VEIKK VK1200 11.6" Drawing Tablet

Best for: beginners needing a compact 11.6-inch display

Tablet Type
Tethered pen display
Screen Size
11.6-inch
Display Resolution
1920 x 1080
Pen Pressure
8192 levels
Color Gamut
72% NTSC
Shortcut Controls
6 shortcut keys

The VEIKK VK1200 is an 11.6-inch pen display with a 1920 x 1080 IPS screen and 72% NTSC color gamut. It includes a battery-free pen with 8192 pressure levels and tilt support. The device features six shortcut keys for quick access to tools. It weighs 15.9 ounces and measures 10 by 6 inches. This tablet suits students and beginners looking for a portable drawing solution.

Pros
  • 11.6-inch IPS display with 1920 x 1080 resolution
  • 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity
  • Battery-free pen with tilt function
  • Six customizable shortcut keys
  • Includes artist glove and extra nibs
Cons
  • 72% NTSC color gamut is narrower than competitors
  • Six shortcut keys are fewer than the 8 or 10 keys on other models
  • 15.6-inch models in this list offer larger drawing areas
Good fit if
  • You need a lightweight 11.6-inch display for portable sketching
  • You are a beginner or student on a budget
  • You prefer battery-free pens with tilt support
Skip if
  • You require a wider color gamut for professional color grading
  • You want more than six shortcut keys for complex workflows
  • You prefer a larger 15.6-inch or 16-inch screen

Verdict: VEIKK VK1200 11.6" Pen Display fits beginners who want a compact, budget-friendly screen with solid pressure sensitivity. It is ideal for students who prioritize portability over professional color accuracy.

3Also great
GAOMON PD1561 15.6-Inch Drawing Tablet

GAOMON PD1561 15.6-Inch Drawing Tablet

Best for: stationary digital art and annotation

Tablet Type
Tethered pen display
Screen Size
15.6"
Display Resolution
1920×1080 Full HD
Pen Pressure
8192
Display Finish
Anti-glare, pre-applied film
Shortcut Controls
10 shortcut keys

The GAOMON PD1561 is a 15.6-inch pen display with a 1920 x 1080 IPS screen. It offers 8192 levels of pen pressure and tilt support. The device includes ten customizable shortcut keys and an adjustable stand. It connects to Windows or Mac computers via HDMI. This larger screen size suits users who need more workspace for digital art or annotation.

Pros
  • 15.6-inch 1920 x 1080 IPS display
  • 10 customizable shortcut keys
  • 8192 levels of pen pressure
  • Tilt support for natural shading
  • Includes adjustable stand
Cons
  • Heavier at 3.48 pounds compared to smaller 11.6-inch models
  • Larger 15.6-inch screen reduces portability
  • Requires separate HDMI connection for desktops
Good fit if
  • You need a larger canvas for detailed digital art
  • You prefer more shortcut keys for workflow efficiency
  • You use the tablet on a stable desk setup
Skip if
  • You prioritize maximum portability for travel
  • You want a lighter device for one-handed use
  • You need a smaller footprint for a compact desk

Verdict: GAOMON PD1561 15.6" Pen Display fits artists who value screen real estate and shortcut customization over compact size. It is ideal for stationary desk setups where portability is not a priority.

4Best premium
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6-Inch

XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6-Inch

Best for: portable digital art with tactile controls

Tablet Type
Tethered pen display
Screen Size
11.6"
Pen Pressure
8192
Color Gamut
72% NTSC
Display Finish
Fully-laminated, anti-glare film
Shortcut Controls
8 express keys, Red Dial

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro is an 11.6-inch pen display featuring a full-laminated IPS screen with zero parallax. It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and 60-degree tilt support for precise digital art. The device includes a tactile red dial and eight customizable shortcut keys to streamline your workflow. It connects to Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, or Linux systems via a 3-in-1 cable.

Pros
  • Fully-laminated anti-glare screen with zero parallax
  • 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
  • 60-degree natural tilt support
  • Battery-free stylus for continuous use
  • Innovative red dial for zoom and brush adjustments
Cons
  • Heavier at 3.31 pounds compared to lighter competitors
  • Smaller 11.6-inch display size versus 15.6-inch options
  • Thinner 0.51-inch profile limits internal hardware bulk
Good fit if
  • You need a portable display for digital painting on the go
  • You want precise cursor placement with zero parallax
  • You prefer tactile controls over touch bars
Skip if
  • You require a standalone tablet without a host device
  • You need a larger screen for detailed work
  • You prioritize a lighter build for travel

Verdict: The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6" Pen Display suits artists who value precise, zero-parallax drawing on a portable 11.6-inch screen. It is ideal for those who want tactile controls and high pressure sensitivity without the bulk of larger monitors.

5Also great
XP-PEN Artist12 11.6-Inch Pen Display

XP-PEN Artist12 11.6-Inch Pen Display

Best for: compact digital art on a computer

Screen Size
11.6"
Display Resolution
1920×1080 FHD
Pen Pressure
8192
Color Gamut
72% NTSC (100% sRGB)
Display Finish
anti-reflective screen protector
Shortcut Controls
6 shortcut keys, slim touch bar

The XP-Pen Artist12 is an 11.6-inch pen display with an FHD IPS screen. It offers 72% NTSC color gamut coverage and 8192 levels of pen pressure. The device includes a battery-free stylus and six customizable shortcut keys. It weighs 2 pounds and connects via HDMI and USB-A. This setup suits artists who need a compact, portable drawing monitor for digital creation on a computer.

Pros
  • 11.6-inch FHD IPS display with 1920×1080 resolution
  • 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity
  • Battery-free P06 stylus with hexagonal grip
  • Six customizable shortcut keys and a programmable touch bar
  • Universal compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Linux
Cons
  • 72% NTSC color gamut is lower than the 100% sRGB found on competitors
  • Weighs 2 pounds, which is heavier than some 11.6-inch alternatives
  • Limited to two size options compared to broader model ranges
Good fit if
  • You want a compact 11.6-inch screen for portable drawing
  • You need a battery-free stylus for traditional pencil-like feel
  • You require a display with universal OS compatibility
Skip if
  • You need a color gamut wider than 72% NTSC
  • You prefer a lighter device under 2 pounds
  • You want a wireless connection without HDMI cables

Verdict: XP-Pen Artist12 11.6 inch Pen Display delivers solid FHD visuals and precise pressure sensitivity for artists who prioritize portability and universal computer compatibility over wider color coverage.

6Also great
HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 15.6-Inch Pen Display

HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 15.6-Inch Pen Display

Best for: artists needing a larger 15.6-inch display

Tablet Type
Tethered pen display
Screen Size
15.6"
Pen Pressure
8192
Display Finish
Full-laminated anti-glare glass
Shortcut Controls
6 express keys, 1 touch bar
Features
Stylus, Stylus Pen, Battery-Free Pen, Shortcut Keys, Tilt Support

The Huion Kamvas Pro 16 is a 15.6-inch pen display with a full-laminated anti-glare screen. It features 8192 levels of pen pressure and 60-degree tilt support. The device includes a battery-free stylus and a 120% sRGB color gamut. You connect it to a computer via USB and HDMI. It offers six express keys and a touch bar for workflow control. This larger display suits artists needing more canvas space than smaller 11.6-inch models provide.

Pros
  • 15.6-inch full-laminated screen with anti-glare glass
  • 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity
  • 60-degree tilt support for natural shading
  • 120% sRGB color gamut for vivid images
  • Battery-free PW507 stylus with 266PPS report rate
Cons
  • 15.6-inch size is larger than the 11.6-inch alternatives
  • Weighs 2.65 pounds, making it less portable
  • Requires connection to a computer to function
Good fit if
  • You need a larger drawing area for detailed work
  • You want a full-laminated screen to reduce parallax
  • You prefer a device with a touch bar for zooming
Skip if
  • You need a standalone tablet without a computer
  • You prioritize maximum portability and light weight
  • You are strictly comparing 11.6-inch screen sizes

Verdict: Huion Kamvas Pro 16 15.6-Inch Pen Display offers a spacious canvas with accurate pressure sensitivity. It fits artists who need more room than smaller tablets provide and do not mind the extra weight.

7Also great
VEIKK VK1200 V2 11.6-Inch Pen Display

VEIKK VK1200 V2 11.6-Inch Pen Display

Best for: portable artists needing a compact metal display

Tablet Type
Tethered pen display
Screen Size
11.6"
Display Resolution
1920 x 1080
Pen Pressure
8192 levels
Display Finish
Full-laminated, anti-glare glass
Color
Black

The VEIKK VK1200 V2 is an 11.6-inch pen display with a full-laminated IPS screen and 1920×1080 resolution. It offers 72% NTSC color gamut coverage and 8192 levels of pen pressure with 60-degree tilt support. The device features six customizable shortcut keys and connects via a single USB-C cable or HDMI adapter. Its all-metal body weighs 1.78 pounds, making it a portable option for digital artists seeking a reliable drawing surface.

Pros
  • Full-laminated screen reduces parallax for accurate cursor placement.
  • 1920×1080 resolution with 72% NTSC color gamut.
  • 8192 pressure levels and 60-degree tilt recognition.
  • Six programmable shortcut keys for workflow efficiency.
  • Single USB-C connectivity for simplified setup.
Cons
  • 72% NTSC color gamut is lower than competitors offering wider ranges.
  • 1.78-pound weight is heavier than some ultra-light alternatives.
  • 11.6-inch display is smaller than 15.6-inch or 16-inch options.
Good fit if
  • You need a compact 11.6-inch screen for portability.
  • You prefer a single-cable USB-C connection.
  • You want an all-metal build for durability.
Skip if
  • You require a larger 15.6-inch or bigger display.
  • You need a wider color gamut than 72% NTSC.
  • You want a lighter device under 1.5 pounds.

Verdict: VEIKK VK1200 V2 11.6" Pen Display suits artists who prioritize a compact, durable metal build and straightforward USB-C connectivity over maximum color accuracy or screen size.

Specifications side by side

SpecGAOMON PD1161 11.6" Pen DisplayVEIKK VK1200 11.6" Drawing TabletGAOMON PD1561 15.6-Inch Drawing TabletXP-Pen Artist 12 Pro 11.6-InchXP-PEN Artist12 11.6-Inch Pen DisplayHUION KAMVAS Pro 16 15.6-Inch Pen DisplayVEIKK VK1200 V2 11.6-Inch Pen Display
Tablet TypeTethered pen displayTethered pen displayTethered pen displayTethered pen display–Tethered pen displayTethered pen display
Screen Size11.6"11.6-inch15.6"11.6"11.6"15.6"11.6"
Display Resolution1920×1080 Full HD1920 x 10801920×1080 Full HD–1920×1080 FHD–1920 x 1080
Pen Pressure81928192 levels81928192819281928192 levels
Color Gamut–72% NTSC–72% NTSC72% NTSC (100% sRGB)––
Display FinishAnti-glare film–Anti-glare, pre-applied filmFully-laminated, anti-glare filmanti-reflective screen protectorFull-laminated anti-glare glassFull-laminated, anti-glare glass
Shortcut Controls8 shortcut keys6 shortcut keys10 shortcut keys8 express keys, Red Dial6 shortcut keys, slim touch bar6 express keys, 1 touch bar–
FeaturesBattery-Free Pen, Shortcut Keys, Tilt SupportStylus, Stylus Pen, Battery-Free Pen, Shortcut Keys, Tilt SupportBattery-Free Pen, Shortcut Keys, Tilt SupportStylus, Stylus Pen, Battery-Free Pen, Shortcut Keys, Tilt SupportStylus, Stylus Pen, Battery-Free PenStylus, Stylus Pen, Battery-Free Pen, Shortcut Keys, Tilt Support–
DisplayAnti-Glare–Anti-GlareFull-Laminated–Full-Laminated–
ColorBlackBlackBlackBlackBlackBlackBlack
AudienceStudents, Animation, BeginnersStudents, BeginnersAnimation––––
Length14.2 inches10 inches–––17.3 inches–
Width7.87 inches6 inches–––9.84 inches–
Weight1.91 pounds15.9 ounces3.48 pounds3.31 pounds2 pounds2.65 pounds1.78 pounds
Dimensions––17.8 × 9.92 × 0.77 inches13.9 × 8.86 × 0.51 inches14.3 × 8.58 × 0.31 inches–12.5 × 7.4 × 0.51 inches
Size11.6 Inch11.6''15.6 inch11.6 inch11.6 inch15.6 Inch11.6 inch V2
ModelA2.PD1161-0-EN0000-1-USVk1200v3GAOMON PD1561 Pen DisplayArtist 12 ProArtist 12_SMLHuion KAMVAS Pro 16Vk1200v3

Frequently asked questions

Which alternative is lighter than the GAOMON PD1161?

The VEIKK VK1200 is the lightest option on this list. It weighs just 15.9 ounces, which is significantly less than the 1.91 pounds of the GAOMON PD1161. This makes it ideal for artists who prioritize portability and want to reduce the weight on their desk setup.

Does any alternative offer a larger screen than 11.6 inches?

Yes, the GAOMON PD1561 and HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 both feature 15.6-inch displays. These larger screens provide more space for detailed work or annotation. They are better suited for stationary desk setups where you do not need to carry the device frequently.

Which model has a full-laminated display?

The XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, HUION KAMVAS Pro 16, and VEIKK VK1200 V2 all feature full-laminated screens. This technology reduces the gap between the glass and the display layer, creating a more natural drawing experience. The GAOMON PD1161 uses an anti-glare display instead.

Can I use these tablets for animation work?

Several models are explicitly recommended for animation. The GAOMON PD1161, GAOMON PD1561, and HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 list animation as a key audience. All of them support 8192 pressure levels and tilt, which are essential for smooth line work and shading in animation projects.

Which alternative is the thinnest?

The XP-Pen Artist12 is the thinnest device, measuring only 0.31 inches in height. The GAOMON PD1161 is slightly thicker at 0.77 inches. If you need a slim profile for your workspace, the XP-Pen Artist12 offers a more compact vertical footprint.

Do all alternatives support tilt recognition?

Most do, but the XP-Pen Artist12 does not list tilt support in its attributes. The GAOMON PD1161, VEIKK VK1200, GAOMON PD1561, XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro, and HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 all include tilt functionality. Check the specific model if this feature is critical for your workflow.

Which option has a metal build?

The VEIKK VK1200 V2 is described as having a durable metal build. This construction provides added sturdiness compared to standard plastic models. It suits artists who want a compact device that can withstand frequent transport without compromising on the 11.6-inch screen size.

See also

BriefPad Editorial Team

Reads product listings, spec sheets and buyer ratings, then lays the models side by side. Nothing on this site is a bench test.

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