Best Drawing Tablet for Professionals
Are you looking for the best tablets for graphic design? Whether that be for illustration, drawing or art, we've got you covered!
Many artists, illustrators, and graphic designers have started to turn towards using tablets to complete their art projects. A good tablet offers an artist a light, handy, responsive, and electronic option to get projects done, even when they aren't at the office.
Although everyone will have different requirements, these are the best drawing tablets for graphic designers in 2021.
Best Drawing Tablets for Graphic Designers in 2021
- Wacom Cintiq 16 — Best drawing tablet overall with screen (Editor's Choice)
- Wacom Intuos Pro (Medium) — The best drawing tablet overall with no screen (Editor's Choice)
- XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pen Display — Best budget tablet with screen
- Apple iPad Pro — Best Apple iOS tablet
- Wacom Cintiq 22 — Best large drawing tablet
- Wacom One — Best value drawing tablet
- Wacom Intuos Pro (Small) — Best small tablet
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 — Cost-effective Android tablet
- Microsoft Surface Book 3 (13.5 inches) — Best Windows tablet
- Huion H430P —Most economical tablet available
- Wacom Intuos Pro (Large) — Best tablet for artists and illustrators
- Huion H610 Pro V2 — Best budget tablet with no screen
- Wacom MobileStudio Pro 13 — Best with Windows
- XP-Pen Deco 03 — Best slim tablet
- Huion Kamvas Pro 24— Best Huion tablet
- Xencelabs Pen Tablet — Best value pen tablet bundle (new)
- XP-Pen Innovator 16 — Best mid-range tablet with amazing value
- GAOMON PD1560 — The best widescreen tablet
- One by Wacom Student — Best tablet for students
- Huion Inspiroy H640P — Best affordable tablet
Once you've got your tablet, make sure you grab a tablet keyboard too. And if you're wanting a stylus pen to support your tablet, you may be interested in our best Apple Pencil alternatives feature. Have kids? Check out our feature on the best drawing tablets for kids.
Top 6 Best Graphic Design Tablets in 2021 Compared
What is the best tablet for graphic design to buy in 2021? Our pick is the Wacom Cintiq 16 due to its overall performance and value.
Check out the table below for the best tablets for graphic design, drawing & digital art in 2021, as well as our extensive guide on how to choose the best drawing tablet.
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Best Large Tablet
Best For iOS
Best Budget (with Screen)
Best For Beginners
Best Budget (No Screen)
Title
Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet with HD Screen, Graphic Monitor, 8192 Pressure-Levels (DTK2260K0A)...
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi‑Fi + Cellular 256GB - Space Gray
XP-Pen Artist15.6 15.6 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphics Digital Monitor with...
Wacom PTH460K0A Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Small New Model
HUION H610 Pro V2 Graphic Drawing Tablet Chromebook and Android Supported Pen Tablet Tilt Function...
Pen Pressure Sensitivity
Not specified (requires optional Apple Pencil)
Connections
Lightning, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Micro USB (USB-C adapter included)
OS
Windows, macOS or Android
Best Large Tablet
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Title
Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet with HD Screen, Graphic Monitor, 8192 Pressure-Levels (DTK2260K0A)...
Best For iOS
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Title
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi‑Fi + Cellular 256GB - Space Gray
Pen Pressure Sensitivity
Not specified (requires optional Apple Pencil)
Connections
Lightning, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Best Budget (with Screen)
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Title
XP-Pen Artist15.6 15.6 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphics Digital Monitor with...
Best For Beginners
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Title
Wacom PTH460K0A Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Small New Model
Best Budget (No Screen)
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Title
HUION H610 Pro V2 Graphic Drawing Tablet Chromebook and Android Supported Pen Tablet Tilt Function...
Connections
Micro USB (USB-C adapter included)
OS
Windows, macOS or Android
Top 3 Most Popular Drawing Tablets
These are the three best selling drawing tablets on Amazon right now:
Sale Bestseller No. 1 
Sale Bestseller No. 2 
Bestseller No. 3 
10 Best Graphics Drawing Tablets with Screen (Monitor)
For those that prefer a standalone drawing tablet to work directly on a screen or monitor, these are your top drawing tablet choices:
- Wacom Cintiq 16 — Best overall value tablet ( Editor's Choice)
- XP-Pen Artist 15.6 pen display — Best budget tablet
- Apple iPad Pro — Best tablet for iOS
- Wacom Cintiq 22 — Best large tablet
- Wacom One — Best value budget drawing tablet
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 — Best tablet for Android
- Microsoft Surface Book 3 (13.5 inches)— Best Windows tablet
- Wacom MobileStudio Pro 13 — Best with Windows
- Huion Kamvas Pro 24— Best Huion tablet
- XP-Pen Innovator 16 — Best mid-range tablet
- GAOMON PD1560 — The best widescreen tablet
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Best Large Tablet
Best for iOS
Best Budget
Most Affordable
Best for Android
Title
Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet with HD Screen, Graphic Monitor, 8192 Pressure-Levels (DTK2260K0A)...
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi‑Fi + Cellular 256GB - Space Gray
XP-Pen Artist15.6 15.6 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphics Digital Monitor with...
Wacom One Drawing Tablet with Screen, 13.3 inch Pen Display for Beginners and Digital Mark-up: Mac,...
Samsung Electronics SM-T830NZKAXAR Galaxy Tab S4 with S Pen, 10.5", Black
Pen Pressure Sensitivity
N/A (Requires Apple Pencil)
Connections
Lightning, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Best Large Tablet
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Title
Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet with HD Screen, Graphic Monitor, 8192 Pressure-Levels (DTK2260K0A)...
Best for iOS
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Title
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi‑Fi + Cellular 256GB - Space Gray
Pen Pressure Sensitivity
N/A (Requires Apple Pencil)
Connections
Lightning, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Best Budget
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Title
XP-Pen Artist15.6 15.6 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphics Digital Monitor with...
Most Affordable
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Title
Wacom One Drawing Tablet with Screen, 13.3 inch Pen Display for Beginners and Digital Mark-up: Mac,...
Best for Android
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Title
Samsung Electronics SM-T830NZKAXAR Galaxy Tab S4 with S Pen, 10.5", Black
More information on each tablet is provided below.
Top 7 Best Standalone Graphics Drawing Tablets without Screen (Flat)
- Wacom Intuos Pro (Medium) — Best tablet for drawing with no screen (Editor's Choice)
- Huion H610 Pro V2 — Best budget drawing tablet without screen
- Wacom Intuos Pro (Large) — Best large tablet with no screen
- Wacom Intuos Pro (Small) — Best small drawing tablet
- XP-Pen Deco 03 — Large working area with slim design
- Huion H430P — Most economical tablet
- Xencelabs Pen Tablet — Best value pen tablet bundle (new)
- One by Wacom Student — Best tablet for students
- Huion Inspiroy H640P — Best affordable tablet
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Best Value Overall
Best Budget
Best Small Tablet
Best for Beginners
Best Large Tablet
Title
Wacom PTH660 Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Medium, New Model, Black
HUION H610 Pro V2 Graphic Drawing Tablet Chromebook and Android Supported Pen Tablet Tilt Function...
Wacom PTH460K0A Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Small New Model
XP-Pen Deco 03 Wireless 2.4G Digital Graphics Drawing Tablet Drawing Pen Tablet with Battery-Free...
Wacom PTH860 Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Large, New Model, Black
Connections
Micro USB (USB-C adapter included)
USB-C, wireless (with USB dongle)
OS
Windows, macOS or Android
Best Value Overall
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Title
Wacom PTH660 Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Medium, New Model, Black
Best Budget
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Title
HUION H610 Pro V2 Graphic Drawing Tablet Chromebook and Android Supported Pen Tablet Tilt Function...
Connections
Micro USB (USB-C adapter included)
OS
Windows, macOS or Android
Best Small Tablet
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Title
Wacom PTH460K0A Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Small New Model
Best for Beginners
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Title
XP-Pen Deco 03 Wireless 2.4G Digital Graphics Drawing Tablet Drawing Pen Tablet with Battery-Free...
Connections
USB-C, wireless (with USB dongle)
Best Large Tablet
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Title
Wacom PTH860 Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Large, New Model, Black
Best Graphic Design Tablets List for 2021
1. Wacom Cintiq 16 (Editor's Choice with Screen)
The best value tablet with screen for designers
| Active drawing area | 16.6 x 11.2in |
| Pen pressure sensitivity | 8,192 levels |
| Connections | Micro USB, Bluetooth |
| OS | Windows or macOS |
If you're after a larger display, see the Wacom Cintiq 22. Or for a smaller display see the 13.3″ Wacom One.The gorgeous display accentuates the quality that Wacom brings to the tablet marketplace. The Cintiq 16 from Wacom is a perfect example that a high-quality tablet doesn't need to cost a small fortune. For any designer just beginning their career, this is a great tablet to start with.The very first question which comes to mind is – Which tablet is best for graphic design? The Cintiq 16 from Wacom is the best tablet for graphic design because of its incredible blend of value, size and performance. It is an incredible entry-level tablet that is more attractively priced than other similar tablets. Being entry-level may invits some designers to dismiss it, the Cintiq 16 has a trick up its sleeve – the Wacom Pro Pen 2. Topping out at 8,192 levels of sensitivity, the pen beats out many tablets that are similarly priced.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Nice large screen | ➖ No multi-touch support |
| ➕ Easy to set up | ➖ Not 4K |
| ➕ Wacom's best pen ever (no charging needed) |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
Wacom DTK1660K0A Cintiq 16 Drawing Tablet with Screen
- A more affordable pen Display with Wacom Pro Pen 2 technology, 8,192 pressure levels and tilt recognition; It's amazing precision and reduced Parallax provide the most natural drawing experience
- Cintiq's 15.6 inch 1920x1080 HD displays provide you with clarity to see every detail of your work; The scratch resistant, anti-glare surface prevents distracting reflections as you create
- See your creations in vibrant color on the Cintiq's HD display (16.7 million colors bit, 72 percentage NTSC/Cie1931 typical); Work as long as you'd like with the battery free pen that charges off...
- Connect to your computer with the convenient 3 in 1 (HDMI) connection cable and get into the perfect position with foldable legs that let you adjust how you want to work; Brightness 250 CD/m2
- Warning: Manufacturer's warranty is only valid when purchased from an authorized reseller or amazon
Wacom Cintiq 16 Review
Want a closer look at this fine tablet? Check out this Wacom Cintiq 16 review video:
Video Credit: Ross Draws/YouTube
2. Wacom Intuos Pro (Medium) (Editor's Choice without Screen)
The best value drawing pad with no screen for designers
Active drawing area: 8.7 x 5.8in | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: USB, Bluetooth | OS: Windows or macOS
While on the surface, there is a lot of commonality between what designers and illustrators do. However, graphic designers don't always need the kind of room that an illustrator may need. This is what makes the Intuos Pro Medium from Wacom such a great piece of technology.
By giving you all of the tools you need including eight shortcut keys and a Touch Ring which provide you with access to the tools and commands you use most often. This can certainly help your productivity and keep you from going back and forth between your tablet and keyboard. The Pro also supports multi-touch gestures from your fingertips, making it easy to pan and zoom any part of your work. This is our top pick for the best drawing tablet without screen right now.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ You will get a sketchbook feel | ➖ Touchscreen and pen don't work smoothly together |
| ➕ Multiple ports for easy connectivity | ➖ Limited shortcut keys |
| ➕ Finger gesture support |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Wacom PTH660 Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Medium, New Model, Black
- Wacom's trusted professional Pro Pen 2 technology in a precision graphics tablet, optimized for hours of image editing, illustration or design work
- Slim tablet design in our most popular size (13.2" x 8.5") with an active area of (8.7" x 5.8") for anyone with a serious creative passion.No parallax
- The Pro Pen 2 features 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt-response and virtually lag-free tracking for ultimate precision and control – and because it's battery free it never needs...
- Speed your workflow with the multi-touch surface, programmable express keys, radial menus and pen side-switches; Customize your experience with pro pen slim or pro pen 3D (sold separately)
- System requirements: USB port, Windows 7 or later (64bit), Mac OS 10.12 or later, Bluetooth Classic for included wireless connection to PC or Mac
3. XP-Pen Artist 15.6 pen display
A pen display with a great combination of size and price (Best budget tablet)
Active drawing area: 13.54 x 7.62in | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: USB-C | OS: Windows or macOS
With a reasonable size to its drawing area, the Artist 15.6 pen display from XP-Pen comes with a comfortable stylus with a quality level of pressure sensitivity, plus a good screen. While it may not have the attention to detail of some other tablets, it is still a pen display that can help take your digital creativity to new heights, all without breaking your budget.
Without a doubt, the pen display from XP-Pen is one of the best budget-friendly options out there that doesn't sacrifice quality for the price you're paying. This is our top budget pick for the best drawing tablet with pen.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Large and smooth drawing area | ➖ Wobbly lines after prolonged drawing |
| ➕ High resolution and slim build | ➖ Customer service not good |
| ➕ Comfortable pen for graphic design |
Latest Price on Amazon:
XP-Pen Artist15.6 15.6 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphics Digital Monitor with...
- [Warm Reminder: Artist15.6 drawing pen display must be used with a computer] Functions allow users to sketch, paint, design and edit directly from the tablet screen. Your work function will flow...
- The latest Passive Pen design! Our Passive stylus technology provides 8192 levels of instant pen pressure sensitivity―Providing you with groundbreaking control and fluidity to expand your creative...
- 15.6" 1920x1080 IPS 16:9 Display with 178° degree of visual angle delivers life-like colors, greater contrast, sharper, and vivid images..The Artist 15.6 driver can support 4k displays. Now you can...
- Features USB Type-C input design, easy to plug in and out. Features come with a 11mm thin design, 3 in 1 cable, and a new brightness adjustment button. 6 fully customizable express keys create a...
- We've adopted the newest F900 High Tech IC, to make lines flow smoother and perform better. Compatible with Windows 10/8/7, Mac OS version 10.10 or later, and major graphics software such as...
4. Apple iPad Pro
The best graphics tablet for iOS
Active drawing area: 10.32 x 7.74in | Resolution: 2,732 x 2,048 | Pen pressure sensitivity: Not specified (requires optional Apple Pencil) | Connections: Lightning, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | OS: iPadOS 13.4
With its new Apple M1 chip and brilliant 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color, the iPad Pro from Apple (2021) performs better than ever. Using the Apple Pencil (sold separately, of course) is a dream and the iPad comes with some neat features to make it worth getting one, including 5G support. Features such as automatically charging the pencil when it's attached magnetically at the top of the tablet make it stand out and the Pencil feels good in your hand and is incredibly accurate along with a perfect sensitivity curve.
Of course, any high-end Apple product isn't going to be cheap but if you can afford it, the iPad Pro is like no other tablet out there, it's Apple's best tablet after all.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Trackpad support | ➖ Processor not good |
| ➕ Beautiful display | ➖ Not suitable for heavy tasks |
| ➕ Faster chipset & LiDAR scanner |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi‑Fi + Cellular 256GB - Space Gray
- Apple M1 chip for next-level performance
- Brilliant 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color
- TrueDepth camera system featuring Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage
- 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and LiDAR Scanner for immersive AR
- 5G for superfast downloads and high-quality streaming
5. Wacom Cintiq 22
The best large drawing tablet with screen
Active drawing area: 19.5 x 11.5in | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: HDMI, USB 2.0
With its combination of a huge drawing area, a highly sensitive stylus, and a comfortable drawing experience, the Cintiq 22 from Wacom is the best option on the market today. Bundled with the Pen Pro 2, the stylus has a pressure sensitivity of 8,192 levels plus the screen comes with an anti-glare surface that will provide anyone with a level of drag when drawing that any artist will be satisfied with.
While not exactly budget-friendly, the Cintiq 22 is a tablet that provides a level of quality that is simply unmatched making this the best large drawing tablet for graphic designers & artists.
If you're after a slighter smaller display, see the Wacom Cintiq 16. Or for a small display see the 13.3″ Wacom One.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Big drawing area that offers a wide range of angles | ➖ Hefty weight |
| ➕ Incredible pressure sensitivity | ➖ Anti-glare film slightly dulls the colors |
| ➕ Quick and easy setup | ➖ No pen stand |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet with HD Screen, Graphic Monitor, 8192 Pressure-Levels (DTK2260K0A)...
- A more affordable pen Display with Wacom Pro Pen 2 technology, 8, 192 pressure levels, low activation force and tilt recognition. Its amazing precision and reduced Parallax provide the most natural...
- Cintiq's 21.5" 1920x1080 HD Display provides you with clarity to see every detail of your work. The scratch-resistant Anti-Glare surface prevents distracting reflections as you create
- See your creations in vibrant color on the cinq's HD display (16.7 million colors, 72% NTSC/Cue 1931 typical). Work as long as you'd like with the battery free pen that charges off the screen while...
- Connect to your computer with the convenient HDMI and USB cables and get into the perfect position with the included adjustable stand that lets you adjust how you want to work
- What's in the box: Wacom Cintiq 22 pen display, Wacom Pro Pen 2, detachable pen holder with 3 replacement nibs (standard) and nib removal tool, Adjustable Stand, HDMI & USB 2.0 cables, AC adaptor,...
6. Wacom One (2020)
Best value tablet at an incredibly affordable price (Best budget drawing tablet)
Active drawing area: 11.6 x 6.5in | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Pen pressure sensitivity: 4,096 levels | Connections: USB-C, HDMI | OS: Windows, macOS or Android (some devices)
The newest tablet from Wacom, the Wacom One, is a separate release from the manufacturer's previous releases under the same moniker. The 13-inch tablet has an affordable price tag, which may turn some who were considering the tablets from their competitor, XP-Pen to look elsewhere.
A full HD display comes with 72% NTSC color as well as an anti-glare treated film. The tablet itself comes with legs that help it stand up to work at a comfortable angle. Not too large, the tablet slips easily into your day bag and gives you a great experience without an astronomical cost.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ All key features present for graphic design | ➖ No eraser on pen |
| ➕ Solid and simple design | ➖ Low screen resolution |
| ➕ Smooth drawing experience | ➖ Low sensitivity |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
Wacom One Drawing Tablet with Screen, 13.3 inch Pen Display for Beginners and Digital Mark-up: Mac,...
- See your imagination come to life in full color on a 13.3" display with a natural surface friction that makes for intuitive drawing on screen. It feels like you're drawing or writing on paper.
- Feels like a real pen – no need for batteries, the pen feels and looks right. Plus, this one pen uses software to act as multiple pens and brushes in a full range of colors, with superb accuracy.
- Digital freedom – sketch or paint directly on screen, draw diagrams, annotate documents, enhance photos and videos, plus you can delete, edit and share your creations with ease.
- Includes Creative Software: purchase & register your Wacom One and receive Bamboo Paper Pro, Clip Studio Paint Pro (3-month license), Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom (2-month license), Adobe Fresco...
- Diverse compatibility – link up your Wacom One to your Mac, PC or Chromebook, as well as certain Android tablets and smartphones, and even use digital pens from top brands if you want a different...
7. Wacom Intuos Pro (Small)
The best tablet for beginners
Active drawing area: 6.2 x 3.8in | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: USB, Bluetooth | OS: Windows or macOS
Don't let the 'Pro' moniker on the Intuos Pro (Small) tablet from Wacom fool you. While you can get it for a great price, the tablet is also the perfect jumping-on point for beginners or novices looking to improve their skills. Durable, the Intuos Pro Small is light enough to take with you and built strong enough to handle a few knocks here and there.
Like its bigger brothers, the tablet comes with all of the commands and functionality and the Pro Pen 2 with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity give you the tools needed to create amazing artwork wherever you go.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ You will get a sketchbook feel | ➖ Touchscreen and pen don't work smoothly together |
| ➕ Multiple ports for easy connectivity | ➖ Limited shortcut keys |
| ➕ Finger gesture support |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
Wacom PTH460K0A Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet for Mac or PC, Small New Model
- Wacom trusted Professional Pro pen 2 technology in a precision graphics tablet, optimized for hours of image editing, illustration or design work
- Slim tablet design with the most compact footprint in the Intuos Pro line (10.6 inch x 6.7 inch) and an active area of (6.3 inch x 3.9 inch) for anyone with a serious creative passion but lacking in...
- Pro pen 2 features 8, 192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt response and virtually lag free tracking for ultimate precision and control; Latex free silicone rubber grip
- Speed your workflow with the multi touch surface, programmable express keys, radial menus and pen side switches; Customize your experience with pro pen slim or pro pen 3D (sold separately)
- System requirements: USB port, Windows 7 or later (64bit), Mac OS 10.12 or later, Bluetooth classic for included wireless connection to PC or Mac
8. Samsung Galaxy Tab S4
A great all-round Android tablet that includes a stylus
Active drawing area: 7.65 x 5.04in | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,600 | Pen pressure sensitivity: 4,096 levels | Connections: USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | OS: Android 8.0
Having to buy an accessory when you buy something can be super annoying. Thankfully, the Galaxy Tab S4 from Samsung includes a stylus in the box. It's a small touch but extremely welcome. A smooth and satisfying drawing experience awaits anyone who tries the Tab S4 and although iOS has an advantage, the Android marketplace has a decent number of drawing apps that you can use.
Samsung's Dex software, designed to emulate a computer desktop means that you can use the Galaxy Tab for general work as well. While it is a tad expensive, the Galaxy Tab S4 is the best android tablet available and a great all-purpose option.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Beautiful and sharp display | ➖ Dex touchscreen detection off |
| ➕ Interface similar to desktop | ➖ Keyboard accessories cost extra |
| ➕ Fast processor for smooth performance |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
Samsung Electronics SM-T830NZKAXAR Galaxy Tab S4 with S Pen, 10.5", Black
- DeX: Transform your tablet into a PC
- S Pen included. Imagination unlocked
- With far field mics, your tablet listens and responds to your voice when your tablet is out of reach
- Super AMOLED Display, Crisp, Clear, Captivating
- Cinematic Dolby Atmos Surround for truly cinematic surround sound.Bluetooth v5.0 (LE up to 2 Megabits Per Second)
9. Microsoft Surface Book 3 (13.5 inches)
The best Windows tablet with a price to match
Active drawing area: 11.25 x 7.5in | Resolution: 3000 x 2000 | Pen pressure sensitivity: 4,096 levels (with Surface Pen) | Connections: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, USB-C | OS: Windows 10 Pro
An impressive hybrid, the Surface Book 3 from Microsoft feels like a premium product from the moment you open the box. With an exceptional display and impressive build quality, the Surface is already a great laptop and tablet machine.
Add in the Surface Pen (for an additional cost) and the Surface turns into a great graphic design tablet with a fantastic stylus. Along with its 15-inch display, there isn't much that any designer can find fault with on the Surface Book 3, except the price is on the higher end of the pricing spectrum.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Solid battery life | ➖ No Thunderbolt 3 support |
| ➕ Perfect for drawing | ➖ Outdated design |
| ➕ Detachable screen | ➖ Limited colors for graphic design |
Latest Price on Amazon:
New Microsoft Surface Book 3 - 13.5" Touch-Screen - 10th Gen Intel Core i5 - 8GB Memory - 256GB SSD...
- Most powerful Surface laptop yet, with quad-core powered, 10th Gen Intel Core processors. More than 50% faster than Surface Book 2 13.5".
- Power when you need it. Up to 15.5 hours battery life [1] — plus improved standby that extends battery life when you're away.
- The connections you need, including USB-A, USB-C, and full-size SD card slot.
- High-resolution PixelSense touchscreen display. Also available in 15".
- Free Upgrade to Windows 11 when available (see below).
10. Huion H430P
The best budget-friendly tablet for designers
Active drawing area: 4.8 x 3in | Pen pressure sensitivity: 4,096 levels | Connections: USB | OS: Windows or macOS
Normally, if you saw a graphics tablet at such an affordable price, you might think there was something wrong with it and avoid it completely. In the case of the H430P from Huion, you'd be wrong. The incredibly affordable tablet gives you all of the basics that you need without having to make a huge investment.
While the drawing area is small, the pen has enough sensitivity to provide a true sense of the benefits that a graphic design tablet can offer. While you will probably outgrow the tablet pretty quickly, it is a great tablet for beginners or even as a backup on the road.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Smooth movement and balanced sensitivity | ➖ Driver issues with some software |
| ➕ Detects pen pressure accurately | ➖ Size might be small for some users |
| ➕ Value for money |
Latest Price on Amazon:
HUION Inspiroy H430P OSU Graphic Drawing Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus 4 Press Keys, Compatible...
- Huion H430P supports Mac (OS 10.11 and above), Windows 7 and above, Chromebook (running the latest ChromeOS 88 and above)and Android devices (OS 6.0 and above).It can easily connect to your PC, laptop...
- Digital pen PW201 is battery-free, no need to be charged. 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity with 233pps report rate provides you responsive and natural drawing and handwriting experience with...
- 135g in weight,6.3mm in thickness,H430P graphics tablet is portable and compact. 4.8x3 inch active area offers perfect creative space for limited desktop areas.4 express keys on the top can be...
- Compared with computer mouse,it couldn't be easier to draw,edit photos,annotate document,take notes,write formulas and equations with a digital pen. H430P is ideal for collegers and teachers to...
- H430P pen tablet is compatible with most mainstream drawing softwares like Corel Painter, CorelDraw, Adobe Photoshop,Illustrator, SAI and so on. It also work with most softwares for education and...
11. Wacom Intuos Pro (Large)
The best graphic design tablet for artists and illustrators
Active drawing area: 12.1 x 8.4in | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: USB, Bluetooth | OS: Windows or macOS
Having enough room to create your artwork is generally number one on many designers' wishlists and thankfully the large Intuos Pro from Wacom provides more than enough room and one of the best experiences drawing on a tablet anywhere.
With over 8,000 levels of pressure sensitivity, the pen feels natural in your hand and the active area, while it's not the largest, gives you more than enough room to draw comfortably. With a wide array of alternative pens and texture sheets from Wacom to support your brand new drawing surface and give you a distinctive feel for every project, you work on.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ You will get a sketchbook feel | ➖ Touchscreen and pen don't work smoothly together |
| ➕ Multiple ports for easy connectivity | ➖ Limited shortcut keys |
| ➕ Finger gesture support |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Wacom Intuos Pro Pen and Touch Large Tablet (PTH851) OLD MODEL
- Quickly and professionally edit photos and create digital artwork using natural pen control
- Wireless accessory kit included
- 2048 levels of pen pressure sensitivity in both pen tip and eraser
- Zoom, scroll, navigate your artwork with multi-touch surface and gestures
- 8 customizable application specific Express Keys and multi-function touch ring with 4 customizable buttons
12. Huion H610 Pro V2
The best budget drawing tablet without screen
Active drawing area: 10 x 6.25in | Resolution: n/a | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: Micro USB (USB-C adapter included) | OS: Windows, macOS or Android
A much more affordable tablet than most on our list, the H610 Pro V2 from Huion is anything but a piece of cheap, flimsy technology. Huion, a maker of great, quality products does so again with the Pro V2. It doesn't have a screen, meaning that to see your work, you'll need to hook it up to a monitor via USB to your PC, Mac, or Android device.
While it can take some getting used to, it becomes much easier thanks to the wonderful drawing experience that the H610 gives you. A battery-free stylus and highly sensitive surface help make every movement rendered with incredible accuracy and along with the affordable price, make this one tablet to consider.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great build quality | ➖ Lag issues with some graphic software |
| ➕ Pen pressure works amazingly | ➖ Battery powered pen |
| ➕ Lot of shortcut keys | ➖ No eraser on pen |
Latest Price on Amazon:
HUION H610 Pro V2 Graphic Drawing Tablet Chromebook and Android Supported Pen Tablet Tilt Function...
- Chromebook Supported - HUION H610 Pro V2 is compatible with Mac (OS 10.12 and above), Windows 7 and above, Chromebook (running the latest ChromeOS 88 and above)and Android devices (OS 6.0 and...
- Innovative Tilt Control System - Provide you better pressure detection and accurate cursor positioning with different angles, restore the true feeling of painting.
- 8192 Levels of Pressure Sensitivity - Outfitted with Huion's latest battery-free stylus PW100 of 10mm reading heights; 5080LPI in resolution and 233RPS in reading rates, which offers more accurate and...
- Customizable Shortcut Keys - 8 Customized Press Keys + 16 Customized Soft Keys, all customizable and easy to set up; With the two pen buttons, you can set it to the function like eraser as you...
- Online Teaching and Working - Meet all your needs for every subject with online tutoring softwars: Power Point, Wrod, OneNote, PDF... Let's work more efficiently. Use Huion for for online conference...
13. Wacom MobileStudio Pro 13
A great tablet complete with Windows inside
Active drawing area: 11.6 x 6.5in | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: 3 x USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | OS: Windows 10 | Requires: Windows or macOS (with optional Wacom Link)
The first thing that you'll notice is the price of the MobileStudio Pro 13 from Wacom and with good reason. While it is quite an expensive tablet, the MobileStudio Pro 13 brings designers a choice of an Intel Core processor and solid-state drive capabilities, effectively giving you a complete Windows computer.
The tablet also benefits from the technology Wacom brings to their Cintiq line, making the MobileStudio an absolute joy to use. You can even tether it to your PC or Mac with the optional Wacom Link.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Sleek and matty display glass | ➖ Issues with battery life & slow charging |
| ➕ Fully functional Windows PC | ➖ Finicky touch ring sometimes |
| ➕ The glass creates perfect surface tension |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Wacom Mobile Studio Pro 13" Windows 10, Intel Core i7, 512GB SSD: Second Generation
- Our most powerful compact 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...
- See your graphics & artwork in great detail and clarity with high-resolution 13 3" WQHD (2560 x 1440) screen with up to 82% Adobe RGB coverage (CIE1931) and included 3-angle adjustable Wacom Stand
- Enjoy fast-processing and performance in 2D illustration and photo-editing with graphics options including Intel Iris Plus Graphics card
- Extraordinary precision with the Wacom Pro Pen 2 and 8 192 levels of pressure sensitivity tilt response & lag free tracking – drawing tablet computer includes customizable ExpressKeys & multi-touch...
- Comes with 16GB system memory and 512 GD SSD With upgradable memory and hard drive this all-in-one studio provides a future-proof creative workspace
14. XP-Pen Deco 03
A large working area in an ultra-slim design
Active drawing area: 10 x 5.62in | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: USB-C, wireless (with USB dongle) | OS: Windows or macOS
Blending style with functionality, the Deco 03 from XP-Pen follows the trend that the company sets with every tablet they create. The overall design with its matte black color and ultra-sleek build not only looks good on your workstation but is also a joy to use. This is in large part to the generous active area and pen that is very well-made and comfortable to use.
A multi-functional dial and customizable express keys help your overall productivity so you can spend less time fiddling around and more time working. While for some, the overall thickness of 8 mm may be a cause of concern, those who don't feel that way will find a great tablet at a good price.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Thin and lightweight | ➖ Less smooth flow in some software |
| ➕ Superb drawing experience | ➖ Not suitable if you need pen tilt/rotation |
| ➕ Solid build quality and essential features |
Latest Price on Amazon:
XP-PEN DECO-03 Wireless Drawing Tablet, Graphic Tablet with 8192 Level Pen, Dial Knob, 6 Express...
- DECO 03 Unique designed drawing tablet with 10*5.62 large drawing area and full screen scratch free protective layer offers grand creation space for natural and smooth digital art creation without...
- Creative multi-function Red Dial built-in for faster operation, utilized the functional dial by rotating for creative design, 6 programmable short cut keys increase the productivity and performance...
- Wireless drawing tablet release you from limitation of connection cable, enjoy the freedom of movement for digital art creation, the built in rechargeable battery offers hours of working time and...
- 8192 level pressure sensitivity pen stylus enables you to draw lines and sketch with brush tool with the pressure you apply to the pen in more precise and accurate way, newly design Pen holder with 8...
- Ultra thin 8mm body with light weight design, makes it easy to hold and carry in hand, compatible with Windows 10/8/7 Mac OS operating system, suits for creative software such as Photoshop, SAI,...
15. Huion Kamvas Pro 24
The top of Huion's Kamvas range of tablets
Active drawing area: 20.7 x 11.6in | Resolution: 2.5K 2560 x 1440 QHD | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: HDMI/DP/VGA
In 2020, Huion refreshed the tablets that they offer and the Kamvas Pro 24 is the best that the newest line from the manufacturer has to offer. While it's more affordable than some higher-end tablets on this list, the specs aren't lacking in any way with a 1440p QHD display that looks beautiful.
A delightful drawing experience awaits any designer with a stylus included that touts pressure sensitivity of 8,192 levels. With a big drawing surface to work on, you have more than enough space for all of your designs and with the tablet covering 120% of the sRGB color gamut and its ability to display 16.7 million colors, the Kamvas Pro 24 ensures that your image is rendered with perfect accuracy.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Fantastic drawing experience | ➖ No eraser |
| ➕ High resolution for clarity | ➖ Can't customize the sensitivity |
| ➕ Matte display | ➖ Quality of the stand is not good |
Latest Price on Amazon:
HUION Kamvas Pro 24 Graphic Drawing Monitor Pen Display Drawing Tablet Screen Full-Laminated Tilt...
- [Note: It must be worked with the computer]As the largest drawing monitor of Huion, Kamvas Pro 24 equip the 23.8 inch screen that boasts 2.5K(2560X1440) QHD resolution enables every detail of your...
- The etched anti-glare glass, which makes the screen can virtually eliminate reflections and reduce eye strain. The etched surface can also provide a matte finish and paper-like texture. Besides, it...
- 120%sRGB color gamut combined with 16.7 million display colors enables your work to be presented in a more vivid way, which can be further enhanced with the help of 5080 LPI pen resolution. Such high...
- Multiple video interfaces including VGA, HDMI and DP, which helps to support the connection to other devices, also maxmize your creativity and productivity. Adjustable desk stand ST100 allows you to...
- Battery-free stylus support ±60° tilt function on tablet screen, you don't need to adjust the brush direction in the software again and again, drawing with smooth and delicate line presentation....
16.Xencelabs Pen Tablet
Best value pen tablet bundle
Active drawing area: 10.3 x 5.8 inches | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: USB-C to USB-A
Xencelabs Pen Tablet is new to the graphics tablet world. It is an ideal tablet for graphic designers, illustrators, and photographers looking for an option that is a solid and reliable value for their money. It has an ergonomic, curved front edge with a beautiful design. So for those who are considering this piece of beauty for long hours of drawing, it is the perfect pick. The active area of the tablet has four customizable LEDs, which you can set for different apps. And there are three customizable buttons at the top for quick access to programs and switching apps.
The pens that come with this tablet are lightweight and customizable for different operations. These pens offer the ultimate drawing experience; smooth lines and no lag issues. So, whether you're a professional or just getting started, the Xencelabs Pen Tablet is a good choice, especially considering the reasonable price.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Incredible build quality | ➖ Only three built-in express keys |
| ➕ Delightful drawing experience | ➖ Requires separate dongle for wireless functionality |
| ➕ Accessories included | ➖ Lacks touch/gesture functionality |
| ➕ Great performance |
Latest Price on Amazon:
XENCELABS, Graphic Tablet Medium, Wireless Drawing Tablet with 2 Battery-Free Digital Pen, Tilt...
- Professional digital design tablet: This tablet was co-designed with the input of industry leading creatives. The active area (10.33"x5.8") has true 16:9 aspect ratio to match industry...
- Battery-free digital pens: The Pen Tablet ships with two pens of different diameters and number of buttons. Both pens come with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt recognition and virtually...
- Driver design: You can quickly access the settings from the buttons at the top of the pen tablet.
- At only 8mm, it is thinner than many other tablets. Part of the minimalist design features three nested buttons centrally located the top of the tablet for easy access and less clutter.
- Eco-Friendly packaging: With package design, we use environmentally friendly boxes with inserts to keep the tablet and accessories separated and well-presented.
17. XP-Pen Innovator 16
Best mid-range tablet with amazing value
Active drawing area: 13.54 x 7.62in | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8,192 levels | Connections: HDMI | OS: Windows, Linux, or macOS
Reasonably priced, the Innovator 16 from XP-Pen is a welcome addition to their already amazing stable of pen display tablets. With a good build design and a sleek profile, the Innovator is built for artists on the go.
Packed with Artrage 5, a free drawing software, the Innovator is a pretty incredible piece of tech. This is not to say that the tablet doesn't have some faults. Without a touchscreen, adjustable stand, or brightness that could be better, the Innovator is not going to be replacing your high-end drawing pad.
It may not beat some of the best options on our list, it doesn't have to. This is especially true if you are looking for incredible value and portability, you have found your tablet.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Slim and portable | ➖ Brightness could be better |
| ➕ Decently priced | ➖ No adjustable stand |
| ➕ Free drawing software | ➖ Not touchscreen |
Latest Price on Amazon:
XP-PEN CR Innovator 16 Drawing Pen Display 15.6 Inch Graphics Display for Art and Animation Artist
- XP-PEN Innovator 16 Anniversary Edition combines superb performance with stunning design. With this sleek graphic display, you can express yourself on the go. It comes with the Pantone blue pen that...
- Innovator 16 Drawing Monitor supports work with Windows 10/8/7, Mac OS X 10.10 (and higher), and Linux. It is also compatible with popular digital art software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator,...
- XP-PEN Drawing pen display Innovator 16 is perfect for drawing on the go with its industry-leading 9 mm profile and sleek black and silver design. 3.Innovator Display 16 features full lamination...
- Newest battery free stylus and support tilt function. Innovator 16 Drawing Monitor comes with a battery-free stylus that never needs charging, allowing for hours of uninterrupted drawing. The PA5...
- Innovator16 drawing tablet Features 8 programmable shortcut keys and both a mechanical and a virtual wheel, allowing you to zoom in/out of your canvas, adjust the brush size, and more with the two...
18. GAOMON PD1560
The best widescreen tablet
Active drawing area: 6.5 x 4 inch | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels | Connections: HDMI | OS: Windows 7/8/10 or later, Mac OS 10.11 or later
GAOMON PD1560 is a widescreen tablet designed especially for graphic designers. It is an affordable option with a full HD 15.6-inch monitor, making it a decent alternative to laptops. Designers can have a smooth drawing experience on this sophisticated unit and can see what they are drawing on the tablet itself. With a massive drawing space, everything is clear to you as you create your designs. With a 178-degree viewing angle, you can easily adjust the angle of the pen display. Overall, it is an amazing pick for creatives and artists.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Wide screen | ➖ Reduced mobility due to the big size |
| ➕ Great pen sensitivity (8192 levels) | ➖ Battery is not that good |
| ➕ 10 shortcut buttons available |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
GAOMON PD1560 15.6 Inches 8192 Levels Pen Display with Arm Stand 1920 x 1080 HD IPS Screen Drawing...
- 【FOR ONLINE TEACHING & MEETING】You can use PD1560 pen display for online education and remote meeting. It works with most online meeting programs, like Zoom, and so on. 【FOR DIGITAL ART &...
- 【10 EXPRESS KEYS & 8192 PEN PRESSURE SENSITIVITY】-- 10 shortcut keys are customizable . 8192 leves's pen pressure gives you better control of lines. About 2 hours to 2.5 hours for full charge of...
- 【ADJUSTABLE STAND】-- You can find a perfect and comfortable position by dragging the switch to adjust the angle of pen display . 【3-in-1 CABLE】-- To reduce the cable clutter.f there is no hdmi...
- 【OS SUPPORT& PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY】-- Windows 7/8/10 or later, Mac OS 10.11 or later; compatible with most major drawing software. Works great Photoshop、Pant Tool SAI 2、Cilp Studio Paint,...
- 【Others】---Please use extra hdmi adapter if there is no hdmi port on your computers. We don't usb to hdmi adapter. And better using one to one type hdmi adapter instead of multi ports hub. If you...
19. One by Wacom Student
The best tablet for students
Active drawing area: 6.0 x 3.7 inch | Pen pressure sensitivity: 2048 levels |OS: Latest version of Chrome OS
One by Wacom Student is a tablet that is designed especially for graphic design students for educational purposes. As it is for a specific user base, the price point is pretty reasonable. And it's an ideal pick for students, facilitating seamless collaborations and sharing of creative projects. However, expect little on the design side, as it only lets you edit photos and express your ideas in online lectures. But we think you will love the pressure-sensitive pen that is comfortable to use and battery-free. So, if you are looking for a decent and reliable tablet for beginners, this is the One!
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great for students/beginners | ➖ Not much of real estate to work on |
| ➕ Compatible with all the operating software |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
One by Wacom Student drawing tablet for Windows PC, Mac and certified Works With Chromebook, Small
- Move beyond the limitations of a mouse with a Wacom drawing tablet; Ideal for students & teachers seeking a digital pen for their computer to draw, edit photos, express ideas & interact in online...
- Battery-free, pressure-sensitive pen is comfortable, sturdy, accurate, and feels like pen on paper
- Compatibility: Mac (OS X 10.10 and above), PC (Windows 7 and above) and Chromebook (devices running the latest Chrome OS); Easy plug-in via USB-A: some devices require USB-C adapter
- Compact and portable with an active working area of (6.0 x 3.7 inch) and can be configured for both left or right-handed use
- This product is tested and certified as Works With Chromebook, which means it meets Google's compatibility standards and is compatible with your Chromebook
20. Huion Inspiroy H640P
The best affordable tablet
Active drawing area: 6.3 x 3.9 inch | Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels | Connections: USB | OS: Windows and Mac
Huion Inspiroy H640P is another budget-friendly tablet for students and beginners looking to get a basic tablet. It is compatible with almost any computer and is super easy to use for photo editing, animation, drawing, etc. As it supports several design tools, you can work with it to get started in graphic design. And for an affordable price, you will get a small drawing space and an extraordinary pen, ideal for drawing quick designs and taking notes. So, if you are simply looking to try out a tablet with graphic design functionality, then this one is a good pick.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great compatibility with operating systems | ➖ Small activity area |
| ➕ Budget-friendly |
Latest Price on Amazon:
HUION Inspiroy H640P Graphics Drawing Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus 8192 Pressure Sensitivity 6...
- Support Mac/Windows/Android: Not only compatible with Mac and Windows, Huion H640P also supports Android 6.0 or later via an included OTG adapter to turn your phones or tablets into a digital drawing...
- Ideal for Online Education: With stylus and H640P,teachers and studernts can easily handwritten edit,diagram,do math,annotate on virtual whitebord in Zoom, Team and Xsplit while streaming or...
- Accurate Pen Performance: Digital pen PW100 features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity,5080LPI pen resolution and virtually no lag, providing you ultimate precision and control. It is also...
- 6 Customized Press Keys: Set up the 6 programmable express keys to any shortcut combination you prefer in Huion driver and optimize your work flow. It also works for both left and right handed users.
- Compact and Portable: H640P art tablet is designed with slim and compact sized with an active area of 6.3x3.9inch offering perfect creative space for limited desktop areas.It is easy to carry out and...
How to choose the best drawing tablet for graphic design
While tablets have been around on the marketplace for more than a decade, for professional graphic designers, many of the tablets that would be considered professional grade won't be available at your local electronics store.
With all of the tablet choices available, today we're going to narrow it down and take a look at the best graphics tablet for graphic designers. If you're ready, we'd like to get started by letting you know what you should be on the lookout for when you start shopping so you can make sure that you're choosing the tablet that's right for you.
Type of Drawing Tablets: Graphics tablets vs Pen displays vs Tablet computers
For many artists, the choice of tablet typically resulted in either a graphics tablet or pen display. With the advancements in tablets like the Apple iPad and the Samsung Galaxy Tab, they have provided artists another avenue to create amazing work. Let's take a closer look at each option.
Tablets for Graphics Design
A graphics tablet features a flat, plain surface that you use a stylus to draw on, with the image being displayed on your computer monitor. While these remain the best budget-friendly option, their downside is that they can give a user a feeling of disconnection between the tablet and the monitor although many will become accustomed to this quite easily.
Pen Displays
A pen display is a flat-screen monitor that has a pressure-sensitive surface you draw on using a stylus. Unlike graphics tablets, users don't experience the disconnect that can happen. They are also better at portability and do cost relatively more. There do tend to be a lot more cables between the display and monitor than with a graphics tablet, and for some, a pen display doesn't provide the same feeling that a graphics tablet does.
Tablet Computers
A tablet computer such as the Apple iPad Pro or Samsung Galaxy Tab does things that the other two options don't. With a tablet computer, you don't need to connect to an external monitor or use another computer. Simply download the art app you want and start creating. While the price can range from affordable to super expensive, they are portable and a great combination of the features of both other options.
What are you using your tablet for?
Like any other purchase, buying a graphics tablet can be quite an investment. Making sure that you know what you're looking for before buying can help you narrow down your choices so you get exactly what you need. To help narrow down your choices, you should ask yourself questions such as the following:
- Are you a student in college with a limited budget but still need a good quality tablet?
- Are you a professional graphic designer looking to take the next step in your career and upgrade your tech?
- Are you looking for a standalone option or maybe a tablet computer so you can save space without extra cables and equipment?
The answers to these questions will help you pick the right option that meets your needs and your budget.
Do graphic designers need a tablet?
Having a graphic tablet as a designer is an option but not a requirement. Tablets offer a more natural way for designers to draw and interact vs just using a mouse or a touchpad. They are particularly useful for illustrators.
What's your budget look like?
No matter what you're buying, at some point, it always comes down to what you're able to spend. Graphics tablets can vary greatly in price from $20 up to $3000. This doesn't mean that if you can't afford to spend $3000 on a graphics tablet, then all you'll be able to get is bargain-basement products. There are quite a few tablets that are of excellent quality for less than $100.
If you do spend less, you will have to compromise on the active area the tablet has. Generally, the more expensive a tablet is, the larger area it comes with.
Does it work with your OS/software?
While you could find the perfect tablet that checks off all of your boxes from features to price and everything in between, if it only runs on macOS and you own a Windows PC, there's nothing that will get them to work together.
While the majority will work with both, some will only work with one or the other. Compatibility with the software you use is important to check as well. Again, most of the major design software names such as Photoshop, Corel, and others will be supported but it doesn't hurt to double-check.
Do you have enough real estate?
No, we're not talking about the land in your backyard. When it comes to tablets, there will generally be two important measurements:
- The size of the overall tablet
- The size of the active area, i.e. the area you'll be drawing on
Considering both when choosing a tablet is important. There are small, portable tablets that come with a large amount of drawing surface and the larger the drawing area the graphics tablet comes with, the more comfortable you will be using it.
EMR Styluses
EMR styluses use low energy levels that are generated by the pen's circuits which react with the active area on the tablet. They tend to be thinner than battery-operated styluses and have a thicker point. On the other hand, a battery-operated stylus is designed with a finer point and made to be used for pen-to-tablet drawing.
On-screen Monitor or Flat Models
When you're looking to buy a tablet to use for your projects, you're going to run into one of two basic tablet designs. Flat and on-screen monitor models. Now, obviously there can be a price difference between the two of them, but which one is better for you generally comes down to personal preference. The LPI (lines per inch) for an on-screen tablet will generally be the same as the LPI for a flat model tablet.
For some though, using a flat model can take some getting used to. Drawing on a tablet while looking at your monitor or laptop screen can be discombobulating at first, while those who prefer drawing on an on-screen tablet are comfortable drawing right on the screen as they do not have any other option.
Pressure Sensitivity
A drawing tablet typically isn't something that someone would buy unless they need it for a specific purpose such as drawing, illustrating, or graphic design work. The one that is ultimately chosen has many things considered, but one of the most important is the table sensitivity. Everyone has a different drawing or illustration style. Depending on yours, you may want to choose a tablet with an ultra-sensitive and responsive surface.
Another major factor is the pressure sensitivity, although this is a hardware issue for the tablet. Pressure levels on tables start at about 300 levels of pressure and go up to around 3000. In this case, the higher the number, the more responsive the tablet will be for you. For illustrations and design work, the optimal pressure level to look for on a tablet is in the 1024 range.
Resolution
If you work in a field where you need to make very high-resolution images that also have very sharp graphics, picking a tablet with a high LPI would be best suited for you. Think of LPI the same way that people think of 4K resolution found on televisions and computer monitors. With 4K resolution, the image on the screen is as bright and sharp as it can be, and a higher LPI can provide the same effect on a tablet.
Scrollers
Moving around the screen on your tablet using the stylus to get around or even your finger could cause mistakes to be made on your project, meaning you'd have to spend more time fixing errors and not meeting your deadline. Thankfully, many tablets have a scroller built into the tablet already. This will help you move around the project quickly without unforeseen errors occurring.
Wireless or Wired
Like the tablet you choose, whether you decide to use a tablet that is wireless or wired is a personal choice. While a wired tablet keeps you at your desk and doesn't give you the freedom of movement that a wireless tablet may, it will give you a direct connection to your workspace or monitor.
Wireless tablets have become a default choice for a lot of graphic designers. The freedom that it gives you to move around without accidentally pulling on the cord and possibly damaging the tablet is beneficial. However, with a wireless tablet, you're reliant on having a good connection to your monitor or workspace, which may not be as secure.
The best drawing tablet accessories
1. Adonit Jot Pro
A great stylus pen for just about anything
The Jot Pro from Adonit features an etched aluminum body that makes it appear more expensive than it is but doesn't let the affordable price fool you this is a surprisingly good stylus. Available in four colors, the Jot Pro 3 comes with a magnetic cap for protection. While it's not pressure-sensitive, it doesn't need to be paired and there is no battery to charge which makes it a perfect pick up and go option. The only downside is that the little disc surrounding the nib can get annoying, especially if your display isn't perfectly clean.
Latest Price on Amazon:
Adonit Jot Pro 3 (Silver) Stylus for iPad Pencil Magnetic Cap Disc Stylus Touch Screen Pens for...
- 😘 Disc Stylus - Silver Available! Please Search👉 B081YYK8LN 👍 on Amazon. Simply accurate: The new precision disc Not only creates a precise point with the screen to write exactly where you...
- Magnetic Cap : Quickly protect your stylus with the satisfying click of the new magnetic cap closure.
- Improved Textured Grip : Pro 3 features a textured grip etched onto the barrel of the stylus. This keeps the stylus right where you want it when sketching or taking notes.
- Clip to Carry : The solid aluminum stylus has a built in clip so you can keep track of it on the go.
- The most precise analog stylus for writing and drawing on any touchscreen.
2. Wacom Bamboo Fineline Stylus
A stylus pen perfect for writing, sketches and scribbles
Made specifically for writing, the Bamboo Fineline Stylus from Wacom may only have a pressure sensitivity of 1024 levels but that doesn't mean that it can help you take notes during your next meeting. The Fineline is adequate if you're doing some quick sketches or scribbling diagrams but it's not meant for more detailed forms of digital artwork.
t's a great choice for taking notes with its nice design and simple twist mechanism to turn it on and off. While it has a battery life of around 15 hours, the Fineline comes with a single programmable shortcut button, charges via USB, and comes in four different colors.
Latest Price on Amazon:
![Bamboo Duo Stylus + Pen for iPad (CS110K) [Old Version]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31YHO+hnLLL._SL160_.jpg)
Bamboo Duo Stylus + Pen for iPad (CS110K) [Old Version]
- Exchangeable responsive smooth nib/ pen tip for best pen-on-screen feeling; Weight-balanced design to feel right in your hand
- Great experiences to use with iPad or iPhone, or Bamboo or most other tablets and mobile phones with a touch screen for sketching, drawing or writing
- Polished anodized-aluminum body and Soft-touch finish, offers an attractive look and enables a comfortable hold
- Soft rubber rings for a smooth fit of the cap on both tip ends
- Doubles as a ball-point Pen for writing capability on paper
3. Logitech Crayon (Editor's Choice)
The best value stylus for Apple iPad
The Apple-affiliated Crayon from Logitech is a great, affordable stylus that works with the iPad and all of Apple's apps. While it was originally only available for schools and educators, Logitech changed directions and made it available to everyone. The Crayon features palm rejection, tilt support, and an instant wireless connection. While the features that the Crayon comes with are nice, they aren't groundbreaking but it is an affordable option and comes with a quality battery life of 7 hours. This is the perfect Procreate Pen if you're into digital illustration!
Latest Price on Amazon:
Sale
Logitech Crayon Digital Pencil for iPad Pro 12.9-Inch (3rd Gen), iPad Pro 11-Inch, iPad (6th, 7th,...
- No limits to what you can do. Works seamlessly with iPad Pro 12.9 Inch (3rd Gen), iPad Pro 11 inch, iPad (6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Gen), iPad Air (3rd and 4th Gen), iPad Mini 5, iOS 12.2 and above,...
- Write and draw naturally without fear of missing a single line or detail.
- Go right ahead and rest your palm on the screen while you write. Palm Rejection Technology lets you enjoy natural hand placement while using Logitech Crayon.
- Need a thicker or thinner line? Just tilt — the smart tip adjusts line weight automatically.
- Logitech Crayon connects to iPad instantly — just turn on and draw. No complex device pairing or other delays required.
4. Apple Pencil
The best stylus for iPad
There is no denying that when it comes to the iPad, there is no better stylus than the Apple Pencil.
Providing artists with the best drawing experience possible, it comes with palm rejection, pressure sensitivity, and doesn't experience any lag. The biggest downside is the price. While the Apple Pencil may be an incredible tool, it may also be outside many designer's budgets which is why we wanted to highlight some of your choices.
Latest Price on Amazon:
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Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)
- Compatible with iPad mini (6th generation), iPad Air (4th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, and 5th generations), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generations)
- Apple Pencil (2nd generation) brings your work to life. With imperceptible lag, pixel-perfect precision, and tilt and pressure sensitivity, it transforms into your favorite creative instrument, your...
- It makes painting, sketching, doodling, and even note-taking better than ever.
- It magnetically attaches to iPad mini (6th generation), iPad Pro and iPad Air, charges wirelessly, and lets you change tools with a simple double tap.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best graphic tablet for beginners?
Wacom Intuos S is a perfect graphic tablet for beginners. It is Wacom's least expensive, entry-level tablet that will last for years.
What is the difference between a graphic tablet and a drawing tablet?
To use a graphic tablet, you'll need to attach it to a screen to see your work. This isn't necessary with a drawing tablet, as you can draw right on the display.
What tablet do most graphic designers use?
Is the iPad suitable for drawing?
Yes, the iPad is an excellent choice for any work, be it drawing, designing, or editing pictures.
What is the best drawing tablet for animation?
The 2021 Apple iPad Pro is the best drawing tablet for animation. It houses Apple's new M1 Chip that produces 40% faster graphics than previous versions of the iPad and has a luminous 12.9-inch liquid retina XDR display.
The Best Drawing Tablet in 2021: Our Top Pick
Like any artist, having the right tools is key. The right tools can take a piece of art that might otherwise end up on your parent's refrigerator and instead place it in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. With the choices we've highlighted on our list of the best graphic design & drawing tablets, you can grab the best tools for your work and take your career to new heights!
- What is the best drawing tablet in 2021?
The Wacom Cintiq 22 is the best overall drawing tablet with its combination of a huge drawing area, a highly sensitive stylus, and a comfortable drawing experience.
Latest Price on Amazon:
Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet with HD Screen, Graphic Monitor, 8192 Pressure-Levels (DTK2260K0A)...
- A more affordable pen Display with Wacom Pro Pen 2 technology, 8, 192 pressure levels, low activation force and tilt recognition. Its amazing precision and reduced Parallax provide the most natural...
- Cintiq's 21.5" 1920x1080 HD Display provides you with clarity to see every detail of your work. The scratch-resistant Anti-Glare surface prevents distracting reflections as you create
- See your creations in vibrant color on the cinq's HD display (16.7 million colors, 72% NTSC/Cue 1931 typical). Work as long as you'd like with the battery free pen that charges off the screen while...
- Connect to your computer with the convenient HDMI and USB cables and get into the perfect position with the included adjustable stand that lets you adjust how you want to work
- What's in the box: Wacom Cintiq 22 pen display, Wacom Pro Pen 2, detachable pen holder with 3 replacement nibs (standard) and nib removal tool, Adjustable Stand, HDMI & USB 2.0 cables, AC adaptor,...
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Best Drawing Tablet for Professionals
Source: https://justcreative.com/best-tablets-for-graphic-designers/
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