12 best drawing tablets
In appearance, graphic tablets are often similar to conventional tablets, but they differ significantly in characteristics and purpose. You need a gadget mainly for working with images: drawing, creating animations, editing photos and pictures, recognizing signatures and text. The stylus helps in this, which functions as brushes, pencils and other tools for designers, artists, retouchers and, unlike a touchpad or mouse, allows you to achieve line accuracy. Let's figure out which drawing tablet is better to buy and what parameters to pay attention to.
What to look for when choosing a graphics tablet for drawing
Before buying a graphics tablet, it is useful to examine the 6 characteristics of the devices you like.
Construction type. On the market are tablets for drawing in the format of digital notebooks, interactive monitors and semi-professional models. The first ones unite a group of the most primitive devices available to beginners. Drawing on such is difficult due to the limited functionality. Notepads are more commonly used for creating text notes, digitizing handwritten notes, and signing documents. The semi-pro options are good for home imaging. The devices are sensitive and functional, yet affordable. Interactive monitors are suitable for people in the design field. These are highly sensitive touchscreen displays with a stylus that allow you to do all your work with images and photos.
The size of the work area. The choice depends on the complexity of the projects. The size is the same as the format of paper sheets: A5-A3. The former are convenient for their compactness, but are not suitable for professional designers. A4 allows you to draw and edit small images, but for high-resolution work, it is better to take A3 to work out the details.
Screen resolution. The higher the resolution, the more detailed the image and the more accurate cursor positioning. If you are working on complex projects, especially with 4k screens, take a closer look at options with a resolution of 4000 dpi.
Features of the pen. How functional the tablet will be depends on the characteristics of the stylus. Look at the sensitivity to tilt, rotation, pressure - 1024 for simple projects, more than 4086 for complex ones - and the speed of activation. The lower the last reading, the faster the pen will be ready to use after touching the display. Pay attention to the material of the tips. With active use, plastic is quickly erased, take a pen with replaceable parts.
Functionality. The range of work that can be performed using a graphics tablet determines the technical characteristics. But a professional artist will need the immersion mode with the ability to turn off reactions to accidental touches, wireless connection to a PC and work without a connection, a 3D camera, keyboard shortcuts - 4-8 pieces so as not to get confused.
Equipment. The standard kit includes a drawing tablet itself and a stylus. For the convenience of users, some manufacturers put a stand for an input device, a case, a wireless mouse in the box.
If you are not considering buying professional models with wide functionality and high details, you can opt for a hybrid ultrabook. Google Pixelbook, Apple iPad Pro, Microsoft Surface 3-4 generations allow using a stylus, but retain the capabilities of a computer.
Best Drawing Tablet Manufacturers
If you rely on a brand when choosing, take a look at the best on the market:
- WACOM - produces gadgets for different audiences, but mostly with good functionality and high sensitivity. Has over a hundred patents for inventions related to the input device;
- XP-PEN - produces models in three lines.Sells simple drawing tablets, more complex for semi-professionals and expensive, with advanced functionality;
- HUION - offers devices for professionals and amateurs. It has been on the market since 2000, constantly improving products in a technical sense and in terms of ease of use. The first to equip the pen with batteries, simplifying the work of designers.
Of the less popular, Genius, Xiaomi, Trust, HRS are distinguished by the reliability and ease of use of products. Among the brands with combined devices useful for designers, Apple and Google stand out.
The best inexpensive drawing tablets
If you do not have special requirements for the functionality of a graphics tablet, stop at budget models. With the help of the devices presented in the rating, you can perform simple work with images and handwriting input.
XP-PEN Star G960
Drawing tablet with a large working area limited to 212 * 136 mm. Allows you to create and edit images in a comfortable frame. For the convenience of users, 4 programmable keys are built into the tablet, you can set a set of commands and optimize work. The product supports rotation at 90, 180 and 270 °, there will be no problems with drawing details from different angles.
The tablet connects not only to PCs on Windows and Mac OS, but also to other gadgets based on "Android". Works with most graphics applications and allows you to make edits to the drawing even away from a stationary computer or laptop. The stylus of the model is passive and does not require batteries. Adjusted to 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
PROS:
- easy to use;
- relatively large drawing area;
- cheap, but with good quality and functionality;
- connects even without drivers that are available on the official website;
- Hotkeys;
- 10 replaceable pen nibs.
MINUSES:
- there is no lock for the stylus, the tool is constantly lost;
- inconvenient button on the pen;
- easily soiled;
- buttons click loudly in silence.
WACOM One Small (CTL-472-N)
A good option for beginners who are just getting started with drawing tablets and are looking for a simple device. Allows you to transfer to your computer diagrams, drawings, drawings - just created or edited, retouch photos with high accuracy, make presentations and take handwritten notes. The size of the working area of the gadget corresponds to the A6 format - 152 * 95 mm.
The nib is ergonomic with removable nibs. Of the latter, it is compatible with standard, flexible, spring and felt. Recognizes 2048 pressure levels.
PROS:
- comfortable pen;
- easy to set up and use;
- comfortable size of the working area;
- removable stylus tips included;
- compatible with most of the required programs;
- good value for money.
MINUSES:
- scratched;
- no pen holder, you need to buy it separately.
XP-PEN Star G640
A small, portable model that is well suited for working on the road and on confined surfaces. The slim body houses a multifunctional device useful for aspiring artists and photographers. The tablet pen does not require recharging or using batteries. The pen is lightweight, you can work for a long time. Suitable for right-handed and left-handed users - the tablet is optimized for any dominant hand.
In addition to graphic images, the model also supports working with text. You can convert handwritten notes to text format or sign documents.
PROS:
- inexpensive but functional;
- works out of the box, no long setup required;
- it is convenient to work for a long time, the hand does not get tired;
- responsive;
- 20 tips included;
- nice design, the tablet is minimalistic and thin.
MINUSES:
- easily soiled;
- small work area.
Best drawing tablets for beginners
You don't need to buy an expensive and feature-rich graphics tablet for simple projects.For a beginner, inexpensive, understandable models are suitable that will help you understand the operation of such devices and hone your skills.
WACOM One Medium (CTL-672)
A tablet made for aspiring designers, architects, retouchers and artists. The working area of 216 * 135 mm allows you to draw, process photos, create diagrams and drawings, convert handwritten text into digital format. The pen supports 2048 pressure levels and does not require batteries. The tablet adjusts to right-handed and left-handed users.
The device is compatible with Windows PC and Mac OS. Connects via USB. Comes complete with cable, pen, replaceable nibs.
PROS:
- large working area;
- thin and lightweight;
- easy to set up and use;
- comfortable pen, sensitive surface;
- excellent value for money;
- the presence of hot keys.
MINUSES:
- freezes, you have to reconnect;
- short cable;
- The matte finish scratches and wears off the pen tips quickly.
XP-PEN Deco 01 V2
The gadget is large, with a work surface of 10 * 6.25 inches, but lightweight. You can carry your tablet with you and make edits away from your computer - the model supports connection with Android devices.
A tilt-sensing handle with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity produces smooth, natural lines. For the convenience of work, customizable quick access buttons are located on the case. The tablet can be rotated for drawing - by 90, 180 and 270 °, and for comfortable work at night, turn on the adjustable backlight.
PROS:
- inexpensive, but copes with the tasks perfectly;
- good sensitivity;
- large working area;
- Comes with a glove, stylus stand and 8 nibs.
MINUSES:
- short cable;
- inconvenient location of the USB connector.
HUION H640P
A model has been developed taking into account increased mobility. The slim tablet is easy to carry and the technology allows you to enjoy the power of your device without a battery. You can connect the product not only to a PC, but also to Android phones and tablets.
The stylus of the model is also lightweight, without a battery. Supports 8192 levels of clicks. Supplied from the factory with a set of retainer and replacement tips. The working area of the gadget is 160 * 100 mm. For convenience, there are 6 express keys on the body.
PROS:
- inexpensive, but high quality and functional;
- 8 tips included;
- just install drivers and configure;
- sensitive;
- suitable for right-handers and left-handers;
- lightweight, can be carried.
MINUSES:
- short cord.
The best drawing tablets for professionals
If you are a professional designing or retouching, select a drawing tablet that matches your order fulfillment requirements. According to user reviews, WACOM, XP-PEN and HUION products were in the top of the best in 2020.
WACOM Intuos Pro Medium (PTH-660)
Connects to PC via cable or Bluetooth. Comes with a highly responsive handle that responds to taps and tilts with virtually no lag. The drawing tablet is equipped with customizable keys and is compatible with a touch ring to optimize performance. Textured overlays allow you to simulate a tactile sensation similar to working on paper with different textures.
PROS:
- convenient format, the working area corresponds to A4;
- thoughtful shape of the pen, the hand does not get tired even after prolonged work;
- the stylus does not require recharging;
- the pen has an eraser, does not scratch the surface;
- can be connected to a PC via Bluetooth;
- protective films included.
MINUSES:
- too long wire;
- the tip of the pen is quickly erased.
XP-PEN Deco Pro Medium
Drawing tablet with a working area of 279 * 157 mm and a screen resolution of 5080 LPI. Battery-free stylus, supports 8192 pressure sensitivity levels and tilt angle detection. The body of the device has 8 customizable keys and a mechanical wheel that allows you to quickly adjust many parameters - from the size of the canvas to the brightness of the backlight.
Compatible gadget with PC and equipment on "Android". Works by turning 90, 180 and 270 °.
PROS:
- large working area;
- the pen recognizes many levels of pressure and tilt;
- the ability to customize hotkeys and optimize work;
- easy to set up and use;
- compatible with most graphics programs.
MINUSES:
- the surface is scratched, it is difficult to find a protective film in offline stores;
- does not work with mobile devices.
HUION Q11K
A versatile drawing tablet suitable for artists, designers, architects and allied professionals. Connects to a PC, allows you to abandon the cable and make yourself comfortable. The stylus is also wireless and comes with a stand. Supports 8192 pressure levels.
The working area is limited by the dimensions of 279.4 * 174.6 mm. The pen reads at a minimum of 10 mm. For ease of control, there are 8 buttons on the body, the purpose of which can be changed for yourself.
PROS:
- many levels of pressure;
- the stylus holds a charge for a long time;
- supports wireless connection;
- soft feather, does not scratch the surface;
- tips included;
- large work area;
- excellent sensitivity, works smoothly and does not freeze.
MINUSES:
- heavy feather, hand gets tired.
The best graphic tablets for drawing with a stylus
Of the most functional stylus models, users highlight WACOM, XP-PEN and HUION. Tablets allow you to cope with most of the tasks that designers, artists and retouchers need and are comfortable to work with.
WACOM Intuos M Bluetooth (CTL-6100WLK-N / CTL-6100WLE-N)
Your tablet comes with a battery-free, self-contained pen. The pen allows you to create crisp, thin lines, works without delays or interruptions. Supports 4096 degrees of depression, readable at a minimum height of 7 mm. For convenience, there are 2 customizable buttons on the stylus, and 4 more on the tablet body. The size of the working surface corresponds to the A5 format.
PROS:
- comfortable work area;
- wireless;
- works autonomously for a long time;
- responds quickly;
- there are customizable buttons.
MINUSES:
- does not recognize the tilt of the stylus;
- problems with software registration;
- uncomfortable pen, the hand gets tired quickly.
HUION H610 Pro v2
The compact tablet fits easily into a backpack and allows you to work outside the home. It is not necessary to connect to a computer - you can create using Android mobile devices. The handle of the model does not need power, but it reads the tilt and maintains 8192 pressure levels. The fast response speed allows you to draw crisp lines without lag.
The working area of the gadget corresponds to the dimensions of 254 * 158.8 mm. For comfortable and fast work, you can use 8 express and 16 soft keys.
PROS:
- affordable, but multifunctional and well-equipped;
- does not freeze, works quickly;
- 8 replaceable nibs and pen holder;
- tilt support.
MINUSES:
- drivers need to be looked for, they are not included in the kit.
XP-PEN Star 06C
Good for beginners and professionals. Allows you to draw, work with photos, make diagrams and drawings. Connects to a PC using a USB cable.
Works in conjunction with a pen that maintains 8192 degrees of pressure. The stylus is wireless, with 8 attachments included. The area for drawing on the tablet is limited to 254 * 152 mm. The tablet has a resolution of 5080 LPI.
PROS:
- sensitive;
- additional buttons increase productivity;
- convenient stylus with a supply of tips;
- pen stand and glove included;
- large work area;
- easy to set up and handle.
MINUSES:
- the surface is scratched;
- does not recognize the tilt of the pen.
Which drawing tablet is better to choose
Before settling on a specific model of a graphics tablet, decide on your own goals. The list of tasks to be performed with the device determines the main selection criteria.
If you are taking on simple projects that do not require high detail and complex decisions, stop at inexpensive options from the classes of amateur and semi-professional gadgets.For works that require precision, painstaking painstaking and drawing small details, expensive products with an extended set of options are suitable. If the main thing for you is device mobility and versatility, consider purchasing a stylus-compatible ultrabook.
