When it comes to upping your digital art game, there probably isn't a more worthwhile investment than getting a graphics tablet or pen display. It can be difficult to figure out what to look for when buying one for the first time, though.
Here's everything you should know before going shopping for a graphics tablet...
1. Display vs. Non-Display
You're going to have to decide whether or not you think you need a display on your graphics tablet, as it has a huge impact on price.
Tablets that don't have a display are significantly cheaper, but they can take some getting used to. You'll be making drawing and writing motions on the tablet in your hands, yet looking at your computer screen. This can feel really, really odd to beginner digital artists.
Having a display tablet avoids that awkward setup entirely, so if you're transitioning from traditional art to digital art, it's made a lot easier. Drawing directly on the screen will feel more akin to putting a pencil to paper. But again, this is the more costly option.
2. The Availability of Replacement Parts and Drivers
Some graphics tablets will require you to make other purchases in the future. For example, a new battery if the tablet has Bluetooth connectivity, or more commonly, replacement tips and nibs for the stylus.
This is something that you need to keep in mind, especially if you're buying a older graphics tablet model, or getting a graphics tablet secondhand. You don't want to pick up a tablet on a good deal, only to find out later on that the manufacturer no longer makes the parts you'll eventually have to replace.
In order to really save money on a graphics tablet, choose a device that still has its "refills" in stock (if any) and still has driver support (which you can usually find on the manufacturer's website).
3. Consider Browsing In-Person
We highly recommend buying your graphics tablet from a physical store, as opposed to ordering one online. This is so that you can see, in person, how big your tablet is and hold the stylus (if the store allows this before purchase).
The part of your tablet that you draw on is called the "active area." Larger tablets tend to have larger active areas, and are more expensive. It can, however, be a worthwhile investment. You can work on big artworks without having to zoom in as much, and working on details will be made much easier.
What's more, styli come in all shapes and sizes. You'll want one that fits in your hand just right, and you won't know that until you hold it.
4. Pen Pressure or Sensitivity
Pen pressure or pen sensitivity refers to the function of a graphics tablet's stylus that recognizes how much pressure you're putting down on it when drawing or writing. The advantage of having more pressure levels is that it allows you to make finer distinctions in line thickness.
That said, having a crazy number of levels usually isn't necessary for beginner artists, and some programs have a cap as to how many pressure levels they can handle in the first place. 1,024 pressure levels should be more than enough for most graphics tablet users.
Just make sure that your tablet supports pen pressure or pen sensitivity in some capacity. Some cheaper tablets don't even have the option, leaving you to draw unattractive strokes without varying thickness or tapers.
5. Don't Be Dazzled by Brand Name or High Price
Just because a graphics tablet was created by a popular brand or is expensive, doesn't mean that it's better than those of smaller brands or ones that don't cost as much. While the phrase "you get what you pay for" is true in some ways, it's not always necessary to break the bank with every new tech purchase.
It's probably very tempting to go through the Wacom and XP-Pen lines of products, given their stellar reviews, but don't be afraid to look at other brands. Huion, VEIKK, and UGEE offer great cheap entry-level tablets.
Go through all your options and see what fits best for your needs and budget.
6. Package Deals
A graphics tablet can be a hefty investment, which is why you should be making sure you're getting the best bang for your buck.
Sometimes, the companies behind graphics tablets will pair up with the art software developers to sell both together as a bundle. This means you can get both for a lower cost than if you were to buy the tablet and program separately.
Keep an eye out for these deals! If a tablet comes with free software, it's usually listed on the box somewhere. But be careful, because some software might be region-locked (e.g. "offer only available for US customers," etc.).
7. Compatibility
This might be a no-brainer for some people, but you need to ensure that the tablet you want is compatible with your setup. Most major graphics tablet brands offer full support on Windows, Mac, and Linux, but it's not uncommon for the more budget-friendly options to only have Windows compatibility.
Some tablets can be finicky with certain programs too, so we also recommend looking into that if you aren't the typical Photoshop and Illustrator user.
8. Warranty
Spending a lot of money on anything can be stressful, but it'll help you breathe easier if your purchase has a warranty. Like many other electronic purchases, warranties often have tiers, with the more expensive tiers having more extensive coverage (e.g. damage caused by handling, water, etc.).
Most drawing tablets have a manufacturer’s warranty that activates as soon as you buy the product, but warranty's length will depend on the brand of the tablet. A good drawing tablet should come with a warranty that covers you for at least a year.
Remember That Doing Your Research Is Key
When selecting a graphics tablet, there's a lot to consider. It's a good idea to look extensively into all your options, compare prices and functions, and read reviews from existing customers. Soon, you'll find the perfect tablet for you.