A graphics tablet is a useful tool for a designer, cartoonist, illustrator who creates visuals for Hellspin games, and just a fan of drawing. The choice of such a gadget may seem incredibly difficult to a novice artist because you need to consider many characteristics. Here’s what to consider when choosing a graphics tablet.
Connection Type
Everything is simple here — the connection can be wired and wireless. In the first case, the tablet is connected to the computer via USB cable, in the second case, via Bluetooth.
Device Type
There are two types of graphics tablets: with a screen and without. If the tablet doesn’t have a screen, the device must be connected to the computer to see the drawing process. If you have a screen, you don’t need to connect it.
Each type of tablet has advantages and disadvantages. For a beginner, both can be suitable, it’s just a matter of habit. Consider that in the absence of a screen you will draw on one surface, and the result will be seen on another (computer monitor). If possible, test the gadget before buying, so you can understand which option is more convenient and practical for you.
Workspace Size and Resolution
The size of the working area, as a rule, is smaller than the size of the tablet itself, so when choosing a device, pay attention to this parameter. There are several options — A6, A5, A4, A3, each of which is approximately the same size as the paper format. It’s also important to check the convenience of different formats for you. You shouldnt immediately chase the biggest gadget or limit yourself to a miniature one. A drawing tablet should be comfortable to work with and not restrain your hand movements.
The resolution of the device is measured by LPI (the number of lines per inch). The higher the resolution, the more accurate the drawing will be. A beginner can limit themselves to a lower resolution. If the computer to which the tablet is connected has a low resolution display, LPI 2540 is suitable.
Input Method
It can be pen and touch. The main difference is that a tablet with touch input allows you to zoom with your fingers, but you will still need to use an electronic pen to draw.
Response Speed
The higher the responsiveness of the tablet’s surface, the more accurate and faster the device will respond to commands. If a drawing tablet is bought by a beginner artist, a speed of up to 150 DPS will be enough. For professional tasks you will need a higher speed (from 200 DPS).
Pen and Its Sensitivity
The final result of drawing largely depends on the convenience and functionality of the pen. Like the tablet itself, it can be wired or wireless. Besides, there are pens with a battery and without a battery — such pens are more convenient for those who don’t always have the opportunity to recharge the device.
The most important characteristic of a pen is its sensitivity. The higher it is, the more accurately you can control the gadget — adjust the color and thickness of lines, draw fine details. If a specialist needs sensitivity from 4096 to 8192 levels, then for a beginner 1024 to 2048 levels will do.
Brand
Wacom One by Wacom 2 Small
A great small A6 tablet that’s a pleasure to work on. Compatible with most drawing and 3D modeling software. With a resolution of 2540 LPI, 2048 levels of sensitivity and a response speed of 133, the Wacom One by Wacom 2 Small can easily handle basic and more advanced tasks.
Huion Kamvas 13
It’s a tablet with a screen — you can draw without connecting the device to a computer. Thanks to its excellent performance, the model is suitable for both beginner and advanced drawing. High resolution of 5080 LPI and sensitivity of 8192 levels will allow even a professional to use this tablet.
The device comes with 10 interchangeable pen nibs. It’s important to always have them on hand to keep the picture quality at an excellent level.
Wacom One 13
Wacom One 13 works with macOS, Linux and Windows. It can also be connected to Android devices (see the official website for a full list of gadgets).
The working area of the gadget is 13.3 inches. The display is matte, with large viewing angles (170 degrees). The picture is sharp, and color reproduction is natural. The pen has a sensitivity of 4096 levels. It’s also sensitive to tilt up to 60 degrees. Working with the pen is easy and convenient. You can draw a line with any slope, pressure, transparency and thickness.
XP-Pen Artist 16 (2nd)
This is a graphics tablet with a diagonal of 16 inches (A4 size), 1920×1080 pixels resolution. The body is thin, lightweight. On the left side there is a panel with express access buttons. The viewing angle of the device is large – 178 degrees. The picture is contrasty, bright, well visible even in bright light. Color rendering is natural – and this is especially important when working with photos.
The device works with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, and other editors. So you will be able to use your favorite and familiar software for work. Drawing and retouching is easy with a special stylus that has 8192 sensitivity levels.
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Standard S
Xencelabs Pen Tablet Standard S is a compact desktop drawing tablet. The distinctive feature of this model is the presence of two electronic pens with three customizable buttons and an eraser. The pens are comfortable in your hand and will help you create the most detailed drawings. Also, a special glove reduces friction between the surface of the tablet and your hand and helps you draw smoother lines.