Best Drawing Tablet Reviews 2017

You can buy a cheap drawing tablet or splurge on a high-end device, but the difference between the two will be the features you receive. That said, these devices are available across several different price ranges, but the best one for you is one that has all it takes to match your skill level. For example, the price escalates with the size and functionality of the device, such as touch functionality.

Drawing tablets for amateurs can range between $80 and $200, and are a great choice for those who aren’t professional designers or illustrators. Moving up a notch are professional graphics tablets that can cost anywhere between $200 and $800 and are great for professionals on a tight budget wanting to enjoy high-quality and a rich set of features. And then there are the crown jewels of the graphics tablets arena – devices that can cost anywhere between $1000 and $2000+ and are appointed with premium features such as the ability to draw directly on the device.

As mentioned earlier, drawing tablets can be had in several different sizes and features, but the one you choose should match your needs perfectly while staying within budget. Next, it’s important to consider the interface of the respective graphics tablet and how it connects to your computer.

Although the list of features that graphics tablets can have is rather extensive, here are a few you should consider:

• Screen size of the device – keep in mind that bigger is not always better and many users prefer a smaller size to minimize arm motion
• Interface – most of the best graphics tablets are fitted with a USB interface and even Bluetooth to connect wirelessly to your PC
• Pen/Stylus and accessories – the pen (or stylus) that comes with the device should feel comfortable in your hand
• Pressure sensitivity – this refers to the pressure on the surface of the device, where the most common are either 256, 512, or 1024 pressure levels
• Driver software – all tablets are powered by drivers, so make sure they are provided by the manufacturer to connect with your operating system
• Warranty period – this goes without saying, but it’s important to consider the term of the warranty and if replacement parts are easily available
• Resolution – the resolution of the screen makes a big difference as to how your work is perceived on the screen. The industry standard currently is 5080 LPI (lines per inch)
• Touch functionality – only if you absolutely need it

Graphics and drawing tablets are mostly made of plastic on the outside, are available in several different sizes, and can be ordered in a choice of passive graphics and active device. The difference, in case you’re wondering, is that the former uses electromagnetic induction technology and the latter is more or less similar, except that it requires a stylus to touch the screen of the device. Small-sized graphics tablets are ideal for artists and illustrators who seek portability or those who are just getting their feet wet. Medium-sized graphics tablets are a bit heavier than their smaller cousins, and are a great choice for those who’d like to work in a single area. Large graphics tablets are of course heavier than the rest, and although they won’t rest well in your lap, they are what a professional artist needs.

Next, let’s talk color support! It’s important that you choose a device that offers superior color support because you want to see images with great depth and detailed effects. Recommended color support is 16.7 million colors and anything below this spec might not offer the true look of your drawing or illustration. And lastly, most if not all graphics tablets come with a stylus or pen, and it’s much better to use one that doesn’t require batteries than one that does. Speaking of styluses, make sure it’s wireless and compatible with the tablet.

Performance of the drawing tablet will completely depend on the one you buy and what’s under the hood. You should choose a device with a good processor and at least 8GB of RAM in order to perform even some intense tasks seamlessly. Take note that most devices in this category run apps similar to your smartphone rather than memory-intense programs such as Photoshop on PC’s, so they won’t need as much memory to perform with ease. And if you’re one of the many users who use keyboard shortcuts, choose a graphics tablet that offers programmable hot keys to ease your workflow.