Drawing tablets are popular for their irreplaceable utility when creating art. These tablets have historically provided an upgrade from the clunky experience of drawing digitally with a mouse, and exchanging it for a natural feeling that resembles scribbling directly on a canvas or a sketchbook. Although common belief may lead one to think that drawing tablets are only for seasoned professionals, or that they are an expensive and unreachable tool for the average hobbyist, that couldn’t be more untrue. Although there are many tablets designed for professional use in mind, drawing tablets are still an exceptional tool for both budding and seasoned artists.
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Generally, digital artists mostly utilize drawing tablets to create high-quality 2D art, including paintings, comics, and sketches. However, they are also favored by animators and 3D modelers because of the comfort and feel of working with a drawing tablet. A drawing tablet is great for detailed work, offering stability and precision that a standard mouse cannot match. They even have practical use in day-to-day life by working as a note-taking tool often utilized by teachers and students.
If purchasing a drawing tablet has ever felt intimidating, don’t be afraid to take the leap! Game Rant is here to help make an informed decision.
How To Choose The Perfect Drawing Tablet
Now that users can see that these tablets aren’t just for professionals, some key factors need to be considered before purchasing a drawing tablet:
- Comfort: The most important element is finding a tablet that ultimately feels comfortable to use. Remember, that this tablet is a tool and will be used for hours, and just as a keyboard and mouse need to feel right in one’s hands— so does a drawing tablet. This comfort manifests in a variety of ways, from the size and feel of the pen, to the express keys available, to the tablet itself. Although many new artists prefer the appeal of drawing tablets with displays included, they can cause pain in the neck and shoulders over time. This is because many tablets rely on stands that prop the tablet up and force the user to look slightly down.
- Size: Drawing tablets vary in size to accommodate different working environments. It’s important to determine the amount of flat workspace one has available before purchasing a tablet. If it is too big of a tablet, then it cannot be used in the designated space. If it is too small of a tablet, this means that there will be less digital workspace.
- Pen Pressure Sensitivity: Most modern tablets feature Pen Sensitivity to some degree. Pen sensitivity is measured by different levels of pressure which affects the way the pen marks a digital canvas (if the software used is compatible with pen pressure.) Applying light pressure will make a thin, faint line much like a traditional pencil. Likewise, applying a lot of pressure makes for a bolder drawing.
- Tilt: Tilt is similar to pen pressure in the way that it affects a digital drawing. Think of tilting a pencil or paintbrush against a sheet of paper, and the way it produces a fainter result. A tablet that supports pen tilt and pressure will allow for the most natural experience.
- Display or No Display: When choosing a drawing tablet, users will ultimately need to decide on purchasing a tablet with or without a screen. Many artists vouch for the ease of use and comfort that a display offers, creating an experience that almost perfectly mimics working with a real canvas. These tablets can be used in a variety of positions and layouts. The included display can also provide a multipurpose edge to drawing tablets, as whenever not in use, they can be utilized as a second or third display. This experience, however, comes at a steep cost. Drawing tablets that include a display easily triple in price.
- Parallax & Color Accuracy: If a user is set on a drawing tablet with a display included, parallax and color accuracy are two key factors to keep an eye out for. Color accuracy is self-explanatory. Although this factor may be of the most importance to digital painters and animators, it is still valuable to prioritize a tablet that has been vetted for its color accuracy to prevent confusion and muddy colors when creating and distributing digital art. Parallax is another issue commonly seen in drawing tablets with a display, as it refers to the “off” feeling one may get when drawing on a screen. Parallax is all about minimizing the space between the pen and the cursor. However, this issue can be somewhat remedied with calibration tools and software.
Game Rant’s Best Drawing Tablets for Digital Artists for 2024
XP-Pen Artist Display 13.3 Pro
Best Overall Drawing Tablet
The Artist Display 13.3 Pro balances utility and cost, which makes it Game Rant’s best choice for a Drawing Tablet that features a display. This tablet has eight fully customizable express keys and one red tactile dial. The Artist Display 13.3 Pro has a 13.3-inch 1080 screen with full 60-degree tilt and pressure sensitivity. The 13.3-inch display is scratch-resistant and anti-glare, with virtually no parallax. For under $300, this is a quality tablet that won’t break the bank.
- Active Area
- 293.76mm x 165.24mm
- Max Report Rate
- 220RPS
- Resolution
- 1920 x 1080p, 5080 LPI
- Compatability
- Windows, Chrome OS, Linux, Mac OS
- Brand
- XP-Pen
- Pressure Levels
- 8,192
- Tilt
- 60 Degrees
- Many Tactile Express Keys
- Stand Comes Included
- Easy For Left-Handed Artists
- Color Calibration Is Not Perfect
- Needs A Lot of Pen Calibration
The days of wildly overpriced drawing tablets are over, and XP-Pen proves it with the Artist Display 13.3 Pro. This drawing tablet is about the same size as an average laptop, making it convenient enough for everyday use. This drawing tablet features eight individual express keys, which are great for programming commonly used commands like undo or save. These keys are tactile and offer a pleasant click when pressed. Although some users have reported issues with pen and color calibration, it can be expected at this price point.
Regardless, the Artist Display 13.3 Pro offers smooth and responsive performance with 8,192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity and pen tilt up to 60 degrees. This tablet is also compatible with different operating systems, including Windows, ChromeOS, MacOS, and even Linux. All of these factors combined make for a well-rounded drawing tablet that can serve any artist.
Huion Inspiroy H1060P
Best Drawing Tablet Without A Display
For those uncertain about purchasing a drawing tablet, the Huion Inspiroy is a great place to start. This balanced tablet offers full tilt and pressure compatibility. There are twelve express keys featured on this drawing tablet which can be customized to one’s liking through Huion’s software. Additionally, this tablet features a symmetrical design that can be flipped around to provide a comfortable experience for left-handed artists.
- Active Area
- 254×158.8mm
- Max Report Rate
- 220PPS
- Resolution
- 5080 LPI pen resolution
- Compatability
- Windows, MacOS, Andriod
- Brand
- Huion
- Pressure Levels
- 8192
- Tilt
- 60 Degree
- Easy For Beginners
- Good For Left-Handed Users
- Plenty of Programmable Express Keys
- Software Has Issues
- Lackluster Design
The Huion Inspiroy H1060P is a great drawing tablet for all. This tablet is a reasonable size, around 10 x 6.25 inches, befitting most desks and workspaces. Although the Huion Inspiroy doesn’t have an included display, its overall connectivity and performance are not hampered by its price. Due to its simplicity, this tablet is a great choice for curious beginners, hobbyists, or even professionals looking for a portable and inexpensive alternative to drawing tablets.
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Wacom Cintiq Pro 27
Best High-End Drawing Tablet
The Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 features a stunning 4K UHD resolution and a 10-bit color-accurate 27-inch display. This drawing tablet can be easily mounted onto an arm or one of Wacom’s adjustable stands. The included pen can be further customized to a user’s liking with a variety of grips and weight options.
- Active Area
- 23.5 x 13.2 in
- Resolution
- 3840 x 2160p, 5080 lpi
- Compatability
- Windows, MacOS
- Brand
- Wacom
- Pressure Levels
- 8192
- Tilt
- 60 Degrees
- Industry-Grade True Colors
- 4K Mountable Display
- Smooth, Low Latency Pen Controls
- No Stand Included In Box
- Requires Additional Purchase of Mount
- Expensive
Wacom has garnered well-established fame and prominence in the world of drawing tablets for its ever-increasingly innovative designs. For many, Wacom is considered the tried and true premium option, preferred by professionals due to its industry-grade standards. The Cintiq Pro 27 is no different. This drawing tablet can be utilized as both a high-end monitor and an efficient tool for creation, due to its color-accurate 120Hz 4K display and its innovative weight-customizable pen. This tablet offers an array of customization options, from its accessories to its many mounting options.
That being said, quality like Wacom comes at a steep price that might be too much for the average hobbyist.
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation)
Best Drawing Tablet For Procreate
Although the iPad Pro isn’t a traditional drawing tablet, it has largely been favored by the art community ever since the release of Procreate. Procreate is a great program for 2D design, art, and animation. One thing that sets the iPad Pro apart from the other options on this list is the ultimate ease of use and portability, making drawing anywhere possible.
- Active Area
- 12.9‑inch display
- Resolution
- 2732 x 2048p
- Brand
- Apple
- Tilt
- 90 Degrees (Apple Pencil)
- Multi-use & Portable Drawing Solution
- Easy For Beginners
- Vibrant Colors
- Expensive
- Stylus Does Not Come Included
Procreate is an extraordinarily popular application among many digital artists because of its ease of use, functionality, and learning curve. However, Procreate is exclusively available on iOS and iPadOS, which makes it so that an Apple product is necessary to utilize this program. Luckily, The iPad Pro offers a neat all-in-one solution for any budding artist. This tablet features all the usual inbuilt functionality of a smart device, which is incredibly helpful for creating art on the go. The iPad Pro comes equipped with a bright and vibrant display. However, the iPad Pro is not a traditional drawing tablet and the additional purchase of the Apple Pencil 2 is necessary to utilize all the artistic functions of this device.
XP-Pen Artist Display 12
Best Budget Drawing Tablet
The XP-Pen Artist Display 12 is another great solution for a low-cost drawing tablet with a display. This tablet is on the smaller side, with an 11.6-inch 1080p screen. The Artist Display 12 features a battery-free pen with a digital eraser and six customizable express keys.
- Active Area
- 256x144mm
- Max Report Rate
- 266 RPS
- Resolution
- 5080 LPI
- Compatability
- Windows, MacOS
- Brand
- XP-Pen
- Pressure Levels
- 8192
- Response Time
- 14ms
- Easy For Beginners
- Good Value
- Excellent Screen Clarity
- Cables Are Messy and Confusing
- Cables Aren’t Durable
Finding an affordable drawing tablet with a display included can be a bit of a challenge, but the XP-Pen Artist Display 12 offers a well-balanced and quality product. Common functionalities like pen pressure and resolution are not sacrificed for the sake of price, either.
This tablet does not lose its efficiency and is ideal for beginner artists, or professionals shopping on a budget. It should be noted that although the 11.6-inch display is enough space for working closely with this tablet, users may find the small screen somewhat uncomfortable to use at a distance. This is especially true for those who are visually impaired. However, its compact size lends itself to being an ideal addition for those working in small spaces.
Wacom Intuos – Small
Best Entry-Level Drawing Tablet
Available in both wired and Bluetooth wireless options, the Wacom Intuos is by far the most beginner-friendly drawing tablet. Its understated and minimalist design is great for artists as well as students. This barebones tablet is on the smaller side, measuring about 7.87 x 6.3 inches.
- Active Area
- 152.0 x 95.0 mm
- Max Report Rate
- 133 pps
- Resolution
- 2540 lpi
- Compatability
- Windows, Linux, MacOS
- Brand
- Wacom
- Pressure Levels
- 4096
- Excellent For Beginners
- Great Value
- Reliable and Efficient
- Issues With Delay
- Small Workspace
The Wacom Intuos is considered a fantastic option for anyone looking for a basic and affordable no-frills drawing tablet, regardless of the reason. These tablets are great for drawing, painting, animation, 3D modeling, or even school work where handwritten material is necessary. The Intuos drawing tablet is small and thin, and its price makes it ideal for beginners who are interested in purchasing a drawing tablet but cautious about its practicality.
If beginners are looking for the best place to start, the Wacom Intuos would be it.
FAQ
Q: What drawing tablet do graphic designers use?
Professional graphic designers prefer to use the Wacom Cintiq 22 for its mid-sized appeal and cost.
Q: What drawing tablets do Disney use?
Many artists working at Disney Studios prefer to use iPads.
Q: What drawing software do most people use?
Clip Studio Paint, Krita, Procreate, Medibang, PaintTool SAI, Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are among the top choices for drawing programs.
