12 Best Graphic Tablets for Drawing Reviewed
Ever felt like your artistic soul was trapped in this mouse-clicking and touchpad world?
Now is the time to break free into the exciting world of graphic tablets.
These nifty little devices are the secret weapons of digital artists, illustrators, and designers everywhere. But there are many choices; how would you choose the best graphic tablet for your creative journey?
Don't sweat: I got your back.
This guide will cover the cream of the crop drawing tablets, what features count, and how to find your perfect digital canvas. So take a coffee, sit comfortably, and begin our artistic journey!
Why Graphic Tablets are the Game Changer
First things first: before getting into all the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why graphic tablets are such a big deal. Put this in perspective: You're trying to draw a small, light petal with your big, clumsy computer mouse. That is frustrating, right? That's where drawing tablets swoop in to save the day.
These magical gadgets give you that natural feel of pen on paper but with all the goodies of digital art: precision, pressure sensitivity, and tilt recognition, just like holding a super-powered pencil at your fingertips. Moreover, you can undo mistakes with a click, experiment with unlimited brushes, and even create art that would make Bob Ross jealous.
Key Features to Look For in a Graphic Tablet
Now, let's get down to business. What separates the wheat from the chaff in the world of drawing tablets? Here are the key features you should keep an eye out for:
- Pressure Sensitivity: This is the big one, folks. The more levels of pressure sensitivity, the more control you have over your lines and shading. Look for tablets with at least 2048 levels, but don't be surprised to see some boasting 8192 levels!
- Active Area: Size matters, but bigger is only sometimes better. A larger active area gives you more room to work, but it also means a heftier price tag and less portability. Think about your workspace and typical projects when deciding.
- Resolution: This refers to how many lines per inch (LPI) the tablet can detect. Higher resolution means smoother curves and more precise details. Aim for at least 5080 LPI for professional-grade work.
- Stylus Type: Battery-free styluses are all the rage these days. They're lighter, never need charging, and won't conk out mid-masterpieces. But some artists still prefer the customisable buttons on battery-powered pens.
- Connectivity: Wired or wireless? It's the age-old question. Wired tablets are more reliable and don't need charging, but wireless ones allow you to work from your sofa. Choose your fighter!
- Shortcut Keys: These programmable buttons can be real time-savers, allowing you to access your favourite tools with a quick tap. Some tablets even have customisable touch rings for zooming and brush size adjustments.
- Compatibility: Ensure your chosen tablet matches your operating system and preferred software. Most are compatible with Windows and macOS, but it's always worth double-checking.
Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into some of the best graphic tablets for drawing. Remember, the “best” tablet is the one that fits your needs and budget like a glove. So, keep an open mind, and let's explore!
Best Overall: Wacom Intuos Pro
Why It's a Top Pick
If you're looking for the crème de la crème of drawing tablets, look no further than the Wacom Intuos Pro. It's like the Swiss Army knife of graphic tablets – versatile, reliable, and packed with features that'll make your artistic heart sing.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: A mind-boggling 8192 levels
- Active Area: Available in small (6.3 x 3.9 inches), medium (8.7 x 5.8 inches), and large (12.1 x 8.4 inches)
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
- Stylus: Battery-free Pro Pen 2 with tilt recognition
- Connectivity: USB and Bluetooth
- Shortcut Keys: 8 customisable ExpressKeys and Touch Ring
- Precision Graphics Tablet: Our professional Wacom Intuos utilizes trusted Pro Pen technology to allow for hours of image editing, illustration or design work
Who It's For
The Wacom Intuos Pro is perfect for professional artists, illustrators, and designers who demand top-notch performance and are willing to invest in their craft. It's like driving a luxury sports car – smooth, powerful, and a joy to handle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- Incredibly precise and responsive
- Customisable to fit your workflow
- Compatible with most creative software
Cons:
- Premium price tag
- The steep learning curve for beginners
- Large size might be overkill for some users
Best Budget Option: Huion H640P
Why It's a Top Pick
Not everyone has deep pockets, but you can still get a quality drawing tablet. Enter the Huion H640P – the plucky underdog that punches well above its weight class.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 6.3 x 3.9 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
- Stylus: Battery-free pen with two programmable buttons
- Connectivity: USB
- Shortcut Keys: 6 customisable buttons
- [Customize Your Workflow]: The 6 easy accessable press keys on the H640P drawing tablet for pc can be customized to your favorite shortcut so that your creative work become smoother and more efficient. You also can change the shortcut setting for different apps in Huion driver.
Who It's For
The Huion H640P is ideal for beginners, students, or anyone on a tight budget who wants to dip their toes into the world of digital art without breaking the bank. It's like getting a learner's motorcycle – not the fanciest ride, but perfect for mastering the basics.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Compact and portable
- Sound pressure sensitivity for the price
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android
Cons:
- Smaller active area
- No wireless option
- Build quality is not as premium as higher-end models
Best for Beginners: XP-Pen Deco 01 V2
Why It's a Top Pick
Starting your digital art journey can be daunting, but the XP-Pen Deco 01 V2 makes it a breeze. It's like the friendly neighbour of drawing tablets – approachable, easy to get along with, and always there to lend a hand.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 10 x 6.25 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
- Stylus: Battery-free pen with two buttons
- Connectivity: USB
- Shortcut Keys: 8 customisable buttons
- Drawing Tablet: Sufficient Working Space-The Deco 01 V2’s expansive tablet is big and brilliant, yet still designed to break through the limit between shortcut keys and drawing area. 10 x 6.25-inch working area, so you get more space to create or get work done
Who It's For
The XP-Pen Deco 01 V2 is perfect for beginners who want more drawing space without splurging on a pro-level tablet. It's also great for intermediate artists upgrading from a smaller tablet.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Generous, active area for the price
- User-friendly design and software
- Compatible with most drawing applications
- Good balance of features and affordability
Cons:
- No wireless option
- The pen doesn't have an eraser function
- Drivers can be picky on some systems
Best Pen Display: Wacom Cintiq 22
Why It's a Top Pick
Want to feel like you're drawing directly on your screen? The Wacom Cintiq 22 has got you covered. It's the closest thing to digital paper you can get without venturing into sci-fi territory.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 19.5 x 11.5 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Full HD
- Stylus: Pro Pen 2 with tilt recognition
- Connectivity: HDMI and USB
- Display: 21.5-inch anti-glare etched glass screen
- Customizable Display: Graphics tablet features 8 ExpressKeys, adjustable on-screen menus, and improved multi-touch and pen gestures; ideal for creative professionals like graphic designers
Who It's For
The Wacom Cintiq 22 is ideal for professional artists, animators, and designers who want the most natural drawing experience possible. It's perfect for those squinting at a separate monitor while drawing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large, high-quality display
- Extremely natural drawing experience
- Excellent colour accuracy
- Ergonomic stand included
Cons:
- Hefty price tag
- Requires more desk space
- No shortcut keys (separate device available)
Best Portable Option: iPad Pro with Apple Pencil
Why It's a Top Pick
Who says you need a separate device for digital art? The iPad Pro and the Apple Pencil turn your tablet into a portable art studio. It's like having a Swiss Army knife that's also a canvas – versatile, portable, and always ready for action.
- WHY IPAD PRO — iPad Pro is the ultimate iPad experience in an impossibly thin and light design. Featuring the breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display, outrageous performance from the M4 chip, superfast wireless connectivity,* and compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro.* Plus powerful productivity features in iPadOS.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: Undisclosed but highly responsive
- Active Area: Varies by iPad model (11-inch or 12.9-inch)
- Resolution: 2388 x 1668 (11-inch) or 2732 x 2048 (12.9-inch)
- Stylus: Apple Pencil 2nd generation
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and optional cellular
- Additional Features: Portable, runs full iOS apps
Who It's For
The iPad Pro is perfect for artists on the go or those who want a device that can do double duty as both a drawing tablet and a general-purpose tablet. It's ideal for illustrators, comic artists, and anyone who likes to sketch ideas wherever inspiration strikes.
- WHY APPLE PENCIL PRO — Apple Pencil Pro is loaded with intuitive features for ultimate creative control. Gestures and haptics allow you to seamlessly create without missing a beat. And Apple Pencil Pro features pixel-perfect precision, tilt and pressure sensitivity, and low latency. Attaches magnetically for wireless pairing and charging.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredibly portable and versatile
- High-quality display with excellent colour accuracy
- A wide range of professional-grade drawing apps are available
- It can be used for other tasks beyond drawing
Cons:
- More expensive than dedicated drawing tablets
- Battery life can be a concern for extended drawing sessions
- Some may find the glossy screen less natural to draw on
Best for Kids: Wacom One
Why It's a Top Pick
Want to nurture the next Picasso? The Wacom One is like a digital colouring book on steroids. It's simple enough for kids to use but powerful enough to grow with their skills.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 4096 levels
- Active Area: 11.6-inch display
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Full HD
- Stylus: Battery-free pen
- Connectivity: HDMI and USB
- Compatibility: Works with Chromebooks
Who It's For
The Wacom One is perfect for young artists, students, or anyone who wants a simple, all-in-one solution for digital drawing. It's also great for parents who wish to introduce their kids to digital art without breaking the bank.
- One by Wacom, Portable, Versatile Drawing Tablet: Introduce your student to the love of learning through pen to paper feeling on this drawing pad and support homework, drawing and their creativity
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable pen display option
- Simple, user-friendly design
- Works with Chromebooks, making it great for students
- It comes bundled with creative software
Cons:
- Lower pressure sensitivity than pro models
- There are no shortcut buttons on the tablet
- Smaller screen sizes may feel cramped for some users
Best for Professionals: Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16
Why It's a Top Pick
For the crème de la crème of digital artists, the Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16 is like the Rolls-Royce of drawing tablets. It's a full-fledged computer and drawing tablet rolled into one sleek package.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 15.6-inch display
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 4K UHD
- Stylus: Pro Pen 2 with tilt recognition
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Additional Features: Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA Quadro graphics
- Our most powerful device yet with enhanced computing power, fast data processing & quick data transfer, powered by Intel i7- 8559U processor, 16GB system memory, 512GB SSD, & Thunderbolt 3 connectivity
Who It's For
The Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16 is designed for professional artists, 3D modellers, and designers who need top-of-the-line performance and portability. It's perfect for those who want a complete mobile workstation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful standalone computer with professional-grade specs
- Stunning 4K display with excellent colour accuracy
- Can run full desktop software like Photoshop and Maya
- Highly portable to a device of its capabilities
Cons:
- Eye-watering price tag
- Battery life could be better
- Fans can get noisy under heavy load
Best Value for Money: XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro
Why It's a Top Pick
Want pro-level features without the pro-level price tag? The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is like finding a designer outfit at a thrift store price – it looks great, performs well, and won't leave your wallet crying.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 15.6-inch display
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Full HD
- Stylus: Battery-free pen with tilt function
- Connectivity: HDMI and USB
- Shortcut Keys: 8 customisable buttons and dial
- XP-PEN Artist15.6 Pro adopting full-laminated technology, seamlessly combines the glass and the screen, to create a distraction-free working environment that's also easy on the eyes
Who It's For
The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is ideal for intermediate to advanced artists who want a pen display but can't justify the cost of a Wacom Cintiq. It's also great for professionals on a budget or as a second, more portable option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a pen display
- Good build quality and stylus performance
- Customisable shortcut keys and dial
- It comes with a variety of accessories
Cons:
- Colour accuracy is not entirely up to Wacom standards
- The software can be a bit finicky
- Stand sold separately
Best for Photoshop: Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium
Why It's a Top Pick
Photoshop users, rejoice! The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is a tailor-made suit for Adobe's flagship software. It's precise, customisable, and has a unique dual pen system that'll have you editing photos faster than you can say “lens flare”.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 10.33 x 5.8 inches
- Resolution: 5080 LPI
- Stylus: Two pens included (thin and thick)
- Connectivity: USB and Bluetooth
- Shortcut Keys: Optional Quick Keys remote with OLED display
- Professional Graphic Tablet: Our Pen Tablet was co-designed with the input of industry leading creatives. The active area (10.3”x5.75”) has true 16:9 aspect ratio to match industry standard displays. A minimal design that prioritizes comfort and functionality with features for faster workflows, and a great drawing experience.
Who It's For
The Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium is perfect for photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists who spend much time in Photoshop. It's also great for anyone who appreciates a high level of customisation in their tools.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and design
- The dual pen system offers versatility
- Optional Quick Keys remote is highly customisable
- Smooth, accurate pen performance
Cons:
- It is a relatively new brand, so it is less established than Wacom
- Quick Keys remote sold separately
- The software has a bit of a learning curve
Best for Animation: Huion Kamvas Pro 24
Why It's a Top Pick
Animators, listen up! The Huion Kamvas Pro 24 is like a cinema screen for your desk, giving you plenty of space to bring your characters to life. It's large, in charge, and ready to help you create the next Pixar masterpiece.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels
- Active Area: 23.8-inch display
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 QHD
- Stylus: Battery-free pen with tilt function
- Connectivity: HDMI, DP, and USB
- Additional Features: 120% sRGB colour gamut, adjustable stand
- Pro-level Picture Quality: Enjoy the 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution in a large 23.8 inch screen, which can effectively reduce the frequency of zoom in and out of the canvas and switch windows to highly increase the efficiency. Combined with full-laminated screen and 178° viewing angle, HUION Kamvas Pro 24 4K monitor can present you with clearer images and more details.
Who It's For
The Huion Kamvas Pro 24 is ideal for animators, motion graphics artists, and anyone who needs a large drawing surface for complex projects. It's also great for artists with multiple windows or open reference images.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large, high-resolution display
- Excellent colour accuracy
- Robust build quality
- Adjustable stand included
Cons:
- It takes up a lot of desk space
- Expensive compared to smaller tablets
- It may be overkill for hobbyists or beginners
Best for Comic Artists: Wacom One Creative Pen Display
Why It's a Top Pick
Comic artists assemble! The Wacom One Creative Pen Display is like a digital comic book page come to life. It's affordable, portable, and gives you just the right amount of screen real estate to lay out your panels and bring your characters to life.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 4096 levels
- Active Area: 13.3-inch display
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Full HD
- Stylus: Battery-free pen
- Connectivity: HDMI and USB
- Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, and select Android devices
- Wacom One Creative Pen Display: High definition creative pen display designed for creative hobbyists, visual thinkers, and anyone needing a second screen or bigger digital canvas for work or play
Who It's For
The Wacom One Creative Pen Display is perfect for comic artists, manga creators, and storyboard artists who want an affordable pen display. It's also great for students or beginners who want to step up from a non-screen tablet.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable entry into pen displays
- Portable and lightweight
- Natural drawing experience
- Compatible with some Android phones
Cons:
- Lower pressure sensitivity than pro models
- There are no shortcut buttons on the tablet
- Stand sold separately
Best for 3D Modelling: Microsoft Surface Studio 2
Why It's a Top Pick
3D modellers, your dream machine has arrived! The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is like having a digital sculpting studio on your desk. With its unique tilting screen and powerful specs, it's ready to bring your 3D creations to life.
Key Features
- Pressure Sensitivity: 4096 levels
- Active Area: 28-inch display
- Resolution: 4500 x 3000 (192 PPI)
- Stylus: Surface Pen included
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet
- Additional Features: Tilting touchscreen, powerful desktop specs
- Built to power your biggest ideas – Get incredible performance for the most demanding workloads with Intel Core processors built on the Intel Evo platform, delivering over 2x more power than before.
Who It's For
The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is ideal for 3D modellers, product designers, and digital sculptors who need a powerful, all-in-one solution. It's also great for any artist who wants a versatile machine that can handle 2D and 3D work.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique tilting screen for comfortable drawing angles
- Powerful specs can handle demanding 3D software
- Large, high-resolution display
- Doubles as a regular desktop computer
Cons:
- Extremely expensive
- Not portable
- Lower pressure sensitivity than dedicated drawing tablets
How to Choose the Right Graphic Tablet for You
Now that we've explored some of the best options, you may feel overwhelmed. Don't worry; choosing the right graphic tablet doesn't have to be more complicated than deciding what to watch on Netflix. Here's a simple guide to help you make the right choice:
- Consider your skill level: Are you a beginner just starting or a seasoned pro? Beginners might want to start with a more affordable option, while professionals may need more advanced features.
- Think about your workspace: Do you have a dedicated desk or work on the go? This will help you decide between a larger, more stationary tablet or a portable option.
- Evaluate your software needs: Make sure your chosen tablet is compatible with your preferred drawing software.
- Set a budget: Graphic tablets range from budget-friendly to bank-breaking. Decide how much you're willing to invest in your digital art journey.
- Determine your primary use: Are you mainly doing photo editing, digital painting, 3D modelling, or something else? Different tablets excel at other tasks.
- Try before you buy: Test out a few tablets at a local store or borrow from friends. Nothing beats hands-on experience!
Remember, the best tablet for you is the one that fits your unique needs and helps you create your best work. Don't get too caught up in specs and features – at the end of the day, it's your skill and creativity that matter most.
Caring for Your Graphic Tablet
Once you've chosen your perfect digital companion, you'll want to keep it in tip-top shape. Here are some tips to help your graphic tablet live a long and productive life:
- Keep it clean: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe down your tablet and pen regularly. For more challenging spots, slightly dampen the cloth with water (never use harsh chemicals!).
- Protect the surface: Use a screen protector to prevent scratches on pen displays. Consider a tablet glove for non-screen tablets to reduce friction and keep the surface pristine.
- Store it safely: Keep your tablet in a protective case or sleeve when not in use. This is especially important for portable tablets.
- Update regularly: Keep your tablet's drivers and software up to date to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Mind the cord: Be careful not to stress the connection point for wired tablets. Gently coil the cord when storing to prevent damage.
- Replace nibs: The pen nibs will wear down over time. Replace them regularly to maintain optimal performance and protect your tablet's surface.
- Calibrate occasionally: Recalibrate your pen and tablet settings periodically to maintain accuracy.
Your graphic tablet will be your trusty artistic sidekick for years with proper care!
Conclusion: Your Digital Art Journey Begins Here
From budget-friendly options to professional powerhouses, there's a graphic tablet for every artist and every budget. Remember, the “best” tablet is the one that feels right in your hand and helps you bring your creative visions to life.
Whether you're a seasoned digital artist or just starting, investing in a quality graphic tablet can take your work to the next level. It's not just about the technical specifications – it's about finding a tool that feels like an extension of your artistic self.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick up that stylus, fire up your favourite drawing software, and let your creativity run wild. Who knows? The following digital masterpiece might be just a few pen strokes away. Happy drawing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a computer to use a graphic tablet?
Most graphic tablets must be connected to a computer to function. However, some models like the iPad Pro or the Wacom MobileStudio Pro are standalone devices that don't require a separate computer.
Can I use a graphic tablet for regular computer tasks?
Absolutely! While graphic tablets are designed for drawing, they can also be used as a mouse replacement for regular computer tasks. Some people even prefer them for tasks like photo editing or navigating complex software interfaces.
How long do graphic tablets typically last?
Proper care ensures that a quality graphic tablet can last many years. The lifespan can vary depending on usage and model, but it's not uncommon for artists to use the same tablet for 5-10 years or even longer.
Are graphic tablets only for professional artists?
Not at all! While professionals certainly use graphic tablets, they're great tools for hobbyists, students, and anyone interested in digital art. There are options available at various price points to suit different needs and skill levels.
Can left-handed people use graphic tablets?
Yes! Most graphic tablets are designed to be ambidextrous. You can configure the tablet settings for left-handed use in the software.
Do I need to buy special software for a graphic tablet?
While graphic tablets come with some essential software, many artists prefer to use professional software like Adobe Photoshop, Corel Painter or free alternatives like Krita or GIMP. The tablet itself doesn't require special software to function.
How does drawing on a graphic tablet compare to traditional drawing?
Drawing on a graphic tablet can take time, mainly if you use a non-display tablet. However, many artists find that adapting offers greater flexibility and efficiency than traditional methods. Pen displays provide an experience closer to conventional drawing.
Can I connect a graphic tablet to my smartphone or tablet?
Some newer graphic tablets can connect to specific Android devices or iPads. However, this isn't a universal feature, so check the specifications of the particular model you're interested in.
How important is pressure sensitivity in a graphic tablet?
Pressure sensitivity allows you to create varied line weights and opacity based on how hard you press the pen. While higher numbers (like 8192 levels) sound impressive, most artists find that anything above 2048 levels provides a smooth, natural drawing experience.
Are wireless graphic tablets as responsive as wired ones?
Modern wireless tablets are generally just as responsive as wired ones. However, they require charging, and there's a slight possibility of interference in environments with many wireless devices.
Can I use any stylus with my graphic tablet?
Most graphic tablets are designed to work with a specific stylus. While some third-party options may be compatible, using the stylus with your tablet or an official replacement is generally best to ensure optimal performance.
How do I know when to upgrade my graphic tablet?
Consider upgrading if your current tablet limits your work (e.g., too small, not enough pressure sensitivity), if it's showing signs of wear that affect performance, or if you need features your current tablet doesn't offer. However, remember that many great artworks have been created on older or simpler tablets – the artist, not the tool, makes the art!
Last update on 2024-10-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
