How To Choose a Drawing Tablet

Definite Guide on How To Choose a Drawing Tablet

A graphic tablet is a kind of pocket easel that reflects a drawing as a digital image on a computer monitor. In terms of its functionality, it is not inferior to the computer and sometimes surpasses it.

It is used for drawing pictures and sketches, embodying various design concepts. Today you can find different drawing tablets in the market. Let’s consider how to choose a graphics tablet and what to pay attention to.

What is a graphic tablet and why it is needed

This is a device that allows you to create digital paintings. It is connected to a computer, pictures, and projects are drawn on the work surface with an electronic pen, and pen movements are transmitted to the computer monitor. The pen recognizes the pressure and the tilt angle.

A drawn tablet is necessary for those who:

• want to learn how to draw without a brush and pencils;
• illustrators, artists of different directions;
• photo Retoucher;
• designers who are engaged in vector graphics (the tablet makes it easier to create complex vector lines).

Representatives of other professions can do without the tablet. Especially if a person has a good command of the mouse and can use it to create high-quality images. This applies to designers engaged in three-dimensional graphics or simple vector images.

What to pay attention to when choosing a graphics tablet

Take into account several important points, namely:

• what kind of skills you have;
• what is the purpose of your tablet;
• how much money you are willing to spend.

This will help you decide which graphics tablet you need.

All tablets are divided into three groups:

1. Entry-level. Designed for beginners, children, for those who draw as a hobby or for use in the office.
2. Advanced. They are used by experienced artists, designers, architects, animators, 2D and 3D artists.
3. Professional level. Designed for those who constantly use a tablet at work, so they want more convenience and features.

Advanced tablets are equipped with programmable buttons, have a good response, angles, and a large working area.

Technical characteristics of graphic tablets, determining the choice

When choosing a drawn tablet, pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Size. A3 models are too large and inconvenient, it is better to choose the compact A4 and A5 versions.
2. Screen resolution. The larger it is, the better the device works, but its cost also increases. For a beginner, a resolution of 2,500 Ipi is sufficient.
3. The sensitivity level of the pen (stylus). Standard values are from 512 to 8192. With higher sensitivity, the tablet responds better to actions, so it is recommended a level of at least 1,024-2,048.

You must take into account the weight of the pen: the lighter it is, the easier it is to work with. Sensitivity to the force and angle of pressing and the number of operating modes are also important. 

Professional and non-professional models

Differences between a professional and non-professional graphics tablet:

• broader functions;
• flexible system of settings for each application;
• the multi-functional ergonomic pen that can work in different programs with a flexible adjustment system;
• a set of tips that imitate brushes, markers, and markers.

A professional graphics tablet is thicker and larger than a non-professional model and can create stress on the wrist. It needs a separate workspace, and it is equipped with convenient “legs”. The professional tablet comes with a wireless kit, as well as a convenient pen stand.

Which graphic tablet to choose for drawing

There are two main types of graphic tablets: with and without a screen.

How to choose a graphics tablet with a screen

A graphic tablet with a screen is probably the dream of all illustrators and designers who love to draw by hand. In fact, such a device is a canvas for the creator. The horizontal screen allows you to work in your favorite program, as on a sheet.

When choosing a graphic tablet with a screen, you should pay attention to the following features:

1. Format. Everything will depend on how you use the tablet. For artists, the A4 format will be optimal, for engineers – A5. But here everything is individual, the main thing is that the tablet corresponds to the aspect ratio of the screen.
2. Input method. With a touch screen or stylus, which is important for the level of pressing. The recommended sensitivity is 1024-2048 or more.
3. The resolution of the screen. Naturally, the larger it is, the better. It is better to choose from 2500 LPI.
4. Convenience. One of the most important parameters that is individual for each designer. It’s worth seeing the tablet live before you buy it.

A drawn tablet plays an indispensable role in the lives of artists and designers, as well as people who are interested in drawing. The choice of a suitable model is left to the person who is going to use the tablet to implement his creative ideas.