In the past, only top-tier painters could afford expensive drawing tablets.
However, the cost of these artistic tools has decreased over the last several years as new companies have entered the market.
It might be overwhelming to pick among so many new brands and models. It is the reason I put up this shopping guide for the best drawing tablet.
I evaluated each tablet’s construction and display quality, and user capabilities.
You’ll find it simpler to pick your favorite one from the list below. I had beautiful encounters with every model. Let’s investigate them!
1. XP-PEN StarG640
Important Specifications
- Color: Black
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Operating System: Mac OS X version 10.10 or later, Windows 7 and above.
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What we like
- Simple setup
- Sleek design
- Battery-free stylus
- Low sensitivity level
- Smooth drawing area
- High resolution of 5080 LPI
Thing to consider
- High sensitivity
Product’s highlights
This tablet’s simple setup is unquestionably a benefit. Once I had installed it, all I needed to do to get it to function was connect the tablet to the laptop and input the appropriate software.
Since the stylus has no batteries, you don’t need to adjust it. Its default sensitivity level is low to medium, although you may change this using the corresponding menu.
The XP-Pen G640’s drawing area is smooth and might initially be too sensitive.
Nevertheless, it takes little time to get accustomed to, particularly with the intricate sensitivity dial that allows you to control the pressure.
The XP-Pen StarG640’s screen boasts a high resolution of 5080 LPI, allowing you to precisely and efficiently edit even the minor details. Working with the color blending and contour thickness in each piece of an image or drawing is simple.
Its design is exceptionally sleek and contemporary and gives the impression that it is more costly. It utilizes a standard Micro USB cord with a velcro strip attached to store convenience.
The suite of supported office apps, including PowerPoint, Photoshop, and PDF Viewer, will be helpful to teachers, students, and office employees. The tablet allows for instant annotation and illuminating highlighter.
The low price makes streaks quickly occur on the surface. You can adjust the pressure sensitivity only in the Windows Ink mode, reducing the comfort of using the tablet for gaming, PC management, and other settings.
2. XP-PEN Artist12
Important Specifications
- Color: Black
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
- Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI
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What we like
- Affordable price
- Smaller size
- High-quality materials
- Fast-responsive pen
- Well-made screen
- Suitable for novices
Thing to consider
- Hard-to-use pen
Product’s highlights
It is more affordable than the 13-inch competition because of its smaller size, which I find appealing. Since many months ago, the XP-Pen Artist 12 has been on my desk and acting as my primary sketching tool and secondary display.
Even though the XP-Pen Artist 12 is a low-cost pen display, it is instantly apparent that many people used high-quality materials in its creation.
The new pen is comfortable and responsive, and fully laminated panels bring XP-Pen displays up to par with rival manufacturers’ ones.
In general, it is a well-made screen that you can feel confident caring about in your laptop bag. Because Artist 12 uses a USB-C connection for electricity, the show is more portable because it doesn’t need a separate power source.
It is a perfect option if you’re searching for an economic drawing monitor. However, you should be aware of its limitations while thinking about it.
Unfortunately, unlike most other tablets, which have two pen buttons, the pen only has one pen button.
Additionally, the button is fully flush with the pen’s surface, making it hard to discover without glancing away from your screen and the cell itself.
The Artist 12 is a pen display that is reasonably priced, well-designed, and an excellent first tablet for novices and enthusiasts. It may not be able to take the place of a more prominent pen display in a stable work environment, but having a second tablet on hand is a terrific idea for creativity while you’re on the road.
3. HUION Inspiroy H640P
Important Specifications
- Colo: H640P
- Item Weight: 0.5 lbs
- Connectivity Technology: USB
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What we like
- Battery-free pen
- Small design
- Vibrant colors
- Resolution of 5080 LPI
- Matte plastic screen for anti-glare
- Fast data transmission speeds
Thing to consider
- No wireless connection
- Difficult to control the brushstrokes
Product’s highlights
A new tablet from Huion has a pen that runs on no batteries. So I just had to get it for myself to evaluate its quality!
The manufacturer covered the majority of the top surface of this tablet in matte plastic. Since the tablet is small, it should fit in just about any bag you’d choose to put it in.
The 233 PPS data transmission speeds of the Huion H640P are impressive. Additionally, it has a screen resolution of 5080 LPI that enables sketching at a professional level.
Even when the pen is out of view on the tablet, the colors are vibrant, and the cursor does not jump. No wireless connection is available; you can use a USB cable to connect the device to the computer.
The pen form makes it easy to use; you can push buttons without much effort, and the response is unambiguous. The stylus support is too light, which causes it to topple over if the stylus is not correctly adjusted.
The pen for the Huion H640P is a battery-free pen, which means you don’t need batteries to recharge it. This tablet from Huion is the first to include a battery-free pen!
However, because of the pen pressure anomaly and click sensitivity problem, I can’t suggest this tablet to someone looking to begin a career in digital art.
Since this is a drawing tablet’s most crucial characteristic, one that has an unpredictable pressure curve is a failure.
This tablet is unquestionably superb when taken into account all things. Yet, I think it would be far preferable to consider other possibilities since they’ll probably provide you with a better and more reliable sketching experience.
4. Simbans PicassoTab
Important Specifications
- Color: Black
- Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
- Operating System: Android
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What we like
- Allows additional Micro SD
- Micro HDMI connector
- Uses version 7 of the Android OS
- Stable performance
Thing to consider
- Resolution isn’t very high
Product’s highlights
The Simbans PicassoTab is a low-cost drawing tablet with both advantages and disadvantages. It is a basic tablet with few added functions.
You may add your own Micro SD card to it to increase the capacity if you find the provided 32GB to be insufficient. It’s interesting to note that the tablet has a micro HDMI connector, allowing you to connect it to a monitor or TV.
It uses version 7 of the Android OS, also known as Nougat. That is a relatively recent Android version.
I appreciate Simbans’ decision to leave out any bloatware on the tablet. Autodesk Sketchbook is the sole pre-installed program.
Performance is often relatively quick. Although it doesn’t seem as quick as a more costly Android tablet, it does not lag.
In a nutshell, it’s perfect for kids and adults who like drawing. But the PicassoTab has several drawbacks for professional painters.
For instance, the 10.1-inch screen features an IPS display and a 1280 x 800 resolution. For a screen of this size, the resolution isn’t very high.
5. GAOMON PD1161
Important Specifications
- Color: Black
- Item Weight: 1.9 Pounds
- Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI
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What we like
- Battery-free pen
- Excellent pressure sensitivity
- Everything was set up and calibrated
Thing to consider
- Pen nib would be worn
- Too many wires
Product’s highlights
The revolutionary Gaomon PD1161 is a tool for those just starting in animation, drawing, etc. It is also appropriate for folks who need it for more informal tasks like taking notes or rapidly creating a flowchart.
It is a great advantage that this pen doesn’t need a battery, which I adore! The pen’s sensation on the screen has just enough texture to avoid pressure sensitivity.
Since it employs electromagnetic resonance technology, you don’t need to charge the Gaomon PD1161 sketching pen fully. However, you will need to replace the nib since it wears out.
Additionally, the pen can detect tilt, so you’ll need to practice a little to get a feel for how the pen will write when you apply a certain pressure level and technique. It isn’t a deal breaker, but there is a little curve.
Using this tablet was an absolute delight when everything was set up and calibrated. I like that it has a screen that displays what is being shown on the computer.
In this approach, you may continuously switch between gazing at the tablet and the computer to give your eyes and posture a rest.
However, it is impossible to use it with five wires. You will detest the black cables strewn over your work table if you are a perfectionist.
If you don’t have a permanent setup, hauling around that many cables will be annoying. You may think about attaching your monitor to the wall to clear up space in your workspace.
6. UGEE M708
Important Specifications
- Color: Black
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Operating System: OS X 10.10 Yosemite
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What we like
- Spacious drawing area
- Programmable buttons
- High resolution of 8192 LPI
- Smooth and paper-like surface
- Prevents the pen from slipping
Thing to consider
- The position of the connector is not convenient
Product’s highlights
The value the UGEE M708 graphic tablet offers concerning its cost surprised me.
It costs the same as a tiny tablet and comes with a medium-sized workspace and eight programmable buttons.
With its high resolution of 8192 LPI, the Ugee M708 produces photos that seem realistic. This tablet’s spacious drawing area gives you plenty of room to create your digital art.
Because of how smooth and paper-like the surface is, you can draw uninterrupted lines. One of the significant advantages of the tablet for beginners is its textured working surface, which prevents the pen from slipping and making any mistakes.
Because of its smooth sensitivity, I could create a vibrant drawing in under 30 minutes. I should point out that the tablet only functions with the computer screen and has no display.
The tablet is USB-connected to your PC. It works with Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and Mac OS 10.2.6 or later.
This device is compatible with a wide range of well-known drawing, image-editing, and animation programs, including Photoshop, Fireworks, Comic Studio, CorelDraw, and 3D Max.
The wire connector is on the left, and I am right-handed, so it crosses across to connect to my computer, which is the one negative. This accessory would be ideal if the port were on the right edge.
If you’re looking for something inexpensive and aren’t picky about brands, I’d suggest this tablet.
7. HUION KAMVAS Pro 13 GT-133
Important Specifications
- Color: GT-133 with Stand
- Item Weight: 2 pounds
- Connectivity Technology: 3-in-1 USB-C, HDMI Signal
- Operating System: Linux(Ubuntu), Mac OS 10.12, Window 7
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What we like
- Low-glare surface
- Rimless glass
- Sturdy design
- Plastic texture reduces weight
- Extensive drawing area
Thing to consider
- Not suitable for Apple users
Product’s highlights
The screen of the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 features a low-glare surface. Because of the slight difference between the screen and the display underneath, the pen’s tip may contact the desired location on the screen without leaving a visible visual gap.
I appreciate the glass covering the screen over the edge rather than stopping there. Additionally, the tablet’s edges and corners are rounded, together with its compact design, giving it the appearance and feel of a high-end product.
The tablet exudes quality when held in hand. Additionally, plastic contributes to weight reduction, which is a bonus.
The Huion Kamvas Pro 13 graphics tablet is an Android-based device. Using a USB-C connector, you may connect the tablet to your Android smartphone to provide a more extensive drawing area.
You may connect it to a computer in two different methods. The first method involves using the 3-in-1 cable, which uses your computer’s two USB ports and one HDMI port. The USB-C to USB-C cable is the second approach.
Unfortunately, Apple users are not welcome since this only works with Android.
Overall, the Kamvas 13 is an excellent gadget for its low cost! I heartily suggest this device to artists on a tight budget and anybody else who needs a tablet for on-the-go viewing.
8. HUION KAMVAS Pro 16
Important Specifications
- Color: Black
- Item Weight: 2.98 Pounds
- Connectivity Technology: USB
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What we like
- Suitable for students
- Superb color fidelity
- 1200:1 contrast ratio
- Screen protector for anti-glare qualities
- Minimal visual noise
Thing to consider
- The presence of the pointer is irritating to the eyes
Product’s highlights
The Huion Kamvas Pro 16 is suitable for students, people using display tablets for the first time, or people on a budget.
It has a full-HD display and superb color fidelity, making it an ideal drawing tablet and second screen. Numerous visual and clarity enhancements are available.
The QHD resolution of 2560 x 1440 improves the working environment’s visuals. It features 186 PPI and 145% sRGB.
It has a well-known 16.7 million color depth and a 1200:1 contrast ratio. You may render the detail you’re after by combining all of these into a clear, bright display of your artwork.
There is also enough for your pen with a 13.76 x 7.74-inch active work surface. So the Kamvas Pro 16 performs admirably in terms of display quality and workspace.
The manufacturer laminated a textured mat screen protector over the entire screen. Though it may cause minimal visual noise, this is excellent for drawing.
However, considering the lamination also offers anti-glare qualities, prolonged viewing is gentler on the eyes.
The distance between the glass and the screen appears very little. Your marks almost precisely match how they would have appeared from the pen after calibrating the initial setup.
The cursor’s persistent presence is a touch unsettling. It makes sense in terms of mouse tracking, but it can be a little annoying when drawing.
9. HUION HS611
Important Specifications
- Color: Starry Blue
- Item Weight: 1.21 pounds
- Connectivity Technology: USB
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What we like
- Sleek design
- Sensitive stylus
- Rubber hand grip
- Lightweight and portable
- Adjustable shortcut keys
Thing to consider
- Hard to push the buttons
Product’s highlights
Ever since I bought my first Huion product, I have been shocked by how much better they are than I had anticipated. I am madly in love with this tablet.
At first glance, I was impressed by the minimalistic but sophisticated style. Because of how light it is, I can quickly put it in my backpack or any other bag, no matter how big they may be.
Click the “switch window” button on your computer’s toolbar to launch a new window. The transition from your browser to your art program is seamless.
The shortcut keys on the side buttons are fully customizable. I need quick access to the undo, redo, and erase buttons when sketching, so they are nice.
It’s been nearly two weeks since I first got my hands on this tablet. I know this tablet is compatible with Android devices since I’ve used it with my Oneplus and Samsung phones and Windows 7 and 10 desktop PCs.
On my Android phone, I utilized the Huion Sketch app. Thankfully, it works with many desktop programs I often use, including Krita, Paint Tool Sai, and Autodesk Sketch.
The stylus has good sensitivity, and I had no trouble getting it to switch between different thicknesses. Although the PW500 pen is lightweight, it is well-built. The broad rubber grip makes it easy to hold.
In essence, it succeeds. I’m trying to convey that this is an excellent option if you’re looking for something comparable at a lower cost.
10. VEIKK VK1200
Important Specifications
- Color: Gray
- Item Weight: 1.78 pounds
- Connectivity Technology: USB HDMI
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What we like
- Attractive look
- Compact size
- Colors appear great
- Well-constructed screen
- Matte screen shield
Thing to consider
- Heavy device
- Lacks an OSD menu
Product’s highlights
The Veikk VK1200’s design and construction are appealing to me. Contrary to my expectations, the colors appear great.
The Veikk VK1200 pen screen is well constructed. It seems more expensive since it is heavier than I anticipated and has a good weight.
I received two pens, which was a fantastic surprise. The manufacturer dressed it in an attractive look, which also has a quality feel.
However, the screen lacks an OSD menu. Using the Windows driver, you may change the color temperature, RGB, brightness, and contrast.
Drawing on the matte screen shield is pleasant. Although brightness may be excellent, it no longer gets dull.
Except for the tilt sensitivity problem with Krita, drawing performance is generally decent with most of the drawing software I’ve tried.
The only drawback is that anti-glare might produce a white haze when reflecting light. It’s not a significant problem.
Another drawback is that the display’s extreme right and left edges are out of alignment. Thankfully, it’s not a deal-breaker, but it is something to get accustomed to.
This table is unsuitable for moving around often because of its enormous size. Anyway, the compact size lowers the price to a very competitive level.
Buying Guide: Things To Consider
This buyer’s guide will assist you in discovering the drawing tablet that will take your artwork digitally properly.
Pressure Sensitivity
There are typically 300 – 3,000 pressure-sensitivity levels in drawing tablets.
The line will be thicker, and the pressure level will increase as you push down harder on the stylus.
The benefit of using more pressure levels is that you can distinguish between line thicknesses with more fineness. It is crucial when working on high-resolution drawings.
An entry-level tablet should have at least 1,024 pressure levels. Your tablet should have at least 2,048 pressure levels if you’re more experienced.
Size
A larger active area will make it easier for you to work on larger designs without zooming and panning.
Make sure you choose a product with a functional space that is big enough for your objectives after considering the style of art you want to create.
The overall size includes the tablet’s shell and surroundings. Ensure you don’t mix the active area size with the overall tablet size while looking at the tablet’s specifications.
You could fare better with a smaller, more portable tablet if you sketch a lot while on the road.
Resolution
Resolution measures how much the tablet’s display can read from the stylus and how many lines per inch (LPI) it has. You may add more detail to your drawings if you get a higher LPI.
Larger drawing tablets often have better resolution than those that are smaller. Yet, the differences across tablets of the same size are frequently negligible.
Controls
Most drawing tablets allow you to assign specific functions to the tablet’s and the stylus’ buttons. It may save you a ton of time, particularly if you regularly transition between projects.
Each tablet has a different amount of programmable buttons. Make sure they have hotkeys if you know you need one for a particular activity.
FAQs
Can any tablet be used for drawing?
There are many excellent tablets on the market. But most lack styluses or are not suitable for sketching.
Is there a drawing tablet that has a paper-like feel to it?
The digital reMarkable tablet feels like paper for writing, reading, and drawing. The reMarkable tablet offers a user experience unmatched by any other tablet.
What size drawing tablet should I get?
A 9 in. x 13 in. screen is the ideal size for a drawing tablet. It allows for additional drawing space and is simple to handle for most people and workstations.
The perfect size for drawing tablets without a screen is closer to your monitor’s height, around 21 inches.
Is Wacom worth buying?
The Wacom Intuos is the best drawing tablet for novices. Intuos gives the most excellent control and accuracy for the least amount of money, and it is simple to install on Windows and macOS.
Is it worth buying a drawing tablet?
Yes! Investing in a drawing tablet and beginning practice is worthwhile for beginners. There is a learning curve, and it may be challenging to use at first, but if you practice, you’ll be glad you did.
Final Words
I can confidently state that the XP-PEN StarG640 is the most significant drawing tablet you can buy. It has some features and is extremely reasonably priced.
I hope you’ve identified the model that best satisfies your needs and price range. Thank you for reading!