How to choose a graphic tablet: the principle of operation and device, 5 best graphic tablets

Industry Digital art It was published relatively recently, but in a few years it managed to develop so much that even experienced artists find it difficult when it comes to finding new equipment for drawing.

When choosing it is important to pay attention to the list of characteristics that determine the convenience of their use:

1. Display extension and type.
2. The appearance of the pen and its sensitivity levels.
3. Convenience.
4. Multifunctionality.

In this article, you will understand what a drawing tablet is; learn about the 5 best models in this segment. And also understand what to focus on if you are a beginner.
Externally, the device looks like a flat plastic tablet with a matte display or monitor on the front, responding to touch with a pen. Next to the workspace is a panel for quick access buttons that can be reassigned to taste and needs. A USB port must be placed on the case, there may be switches or indicators.

Initially, a graphics tablet was created to more easily enter text into a computer. That is, he had to recognize the entered written text and translate it into digital format. Since then, they heard a little about him, but noticed when his functions began to be used to create graphic images.

They decided to develop them specifically for creating graphic content, and at the moment the device is indispensable for instantly displaying the image creation process on the screen. At the moment, he successfully replaces the artists with familiar paper, pencil and brushes, and distills them in convenience and functionality.

Reference. To calculate the functionality of a graphics tablet, you need to understand the meanings of universal characteristics.

• Workspace dimensions: A6 (148X105 mm) - universal for many processes and is suitable for aspiring artists. A5 (210 x 148 mm) - traditional for any type of activity. A4 (297 x 210 mm) - an option for more advanced users who love a detailed study. These are the most common sizes for a tablet. But if you want to buy a graphic monitor, get ready for a much larger size.
• Type of: graphic tablet and display for drawing. The second option is a screen that displays on itself all the actions performed by the pen. They also often have a multi-touch function, which allows for some manipulations with the touch of your fingers.
• Types and sensitivity of feathers: Most models require periodic recharging or the use of a battery, which can significantly complicate the process. But the new generation of feathers does not require any of this. Sensitivity is an independent characteristic independent of others. Her levels start from 512 to 8192. The most universal indicators are 2048–4096.
• Resolution: measured in lines per inch (lpi), the same as dots per inch (dpi). This indicator is responsible for the correspondence of the lines drawn on the tablet with the lines that appear in the figure. The higher this indicator, the higher the accuracy. The minimum value is 2540 lpi, the maximum is 5080 lpi.
• Reading Height: From this indicator, at what height from the tablet, the tip of the pen is recognized as valid. In modern models, this parameter exceeds 10 mm.

5 best drawing tablets.

In this list you will find the best tablet models in terms of price - quality ratio, starting from budget options (suitable for beginners) to the most advanced ones.

• HUION H430P
  Price: ~ 4,500 rubles
  Weight: 135 gr
  Size: 139.2x186x6.3 mm
  Work area: 122x76 mm
  Resolution: 5080 lpi
  Click Levels: 4096
  Pen buttons: 2
  Express buttons: 4
  Reading Range: 10 mm

The manufacturer HUION introduced the first tablet made specifically for the Russian user, the software is completely localized. Its compact size and weight allow you to carry it with you without discomfort. A smooth work area is highlighted with gray dots for clarity. The pen is lightweight and works without connecting to a tablet, and also does not require any recharging or use of batteries and has two assignable buttons.

• ONE BY WACOM M CTL-672-N
  Price: ~ 6.000 rubles
  Weight: 436 gr
  Dimensions: 277x189x8.7 mm
  Work area: 216x135 mm
  Resolution: 2540 lpi
  Click Levels: 2048
  Pen buttons: 2
  Express buttons: no.
  Reading Range: 7 mm

A traditional drawing tablet in black and red plastic with a fabric pocket for a pen on the side seam. The presented model can also be carried with you without unnecessary inconvenience. Externally, it is made minimalist, almost all of its area is working and is indicated by white dots. The pen model is wireless and does not require charging.

• HUION INSPIROY Q11K
  Price: ~ 15,000 rubles
  Weight: 880 gr
  Size: 390x223x11 mm
  Work area: 279x174 mm
  Resolution: 5080 lpi
  Levels: 8192
  Pen buttons: 2
  Express buttons: 8
  Reading Range: 12 mm

This device is much larger than its budget predecessors both in size and functionality. Carrying this giant with him will no longer be easy, and he will not want to take him on a visit. Externally, the device is made of black plastic, a smooth working area is marked with 4 points on each corner. All tablet buttons are reassignable. Distinctive features of this device are expressed in the possibility of wireless device operation and the presence of express panel lock.

• WACOM INTUOS PRO M PAPER EDITION
  Price: ~ 34,000 rubles.
  Weight: 700 gr
  Size: 338x219x8 mm
  Work area: 224x148 mm
  Resolution: 5080 lpi
  Levels: 8192
  Pen buttons: 2
  Express buttons: 8
  Reading Range: 10 mm
  Tilt Levels: 60.

The tablet has its own memory, which allows you to save up to 200 multilayer drawings or 1000 single-layer. The pen does not require charging and has an eraser button on the end. The device can work without connecting and has an original function: it can be used as a tablet for drawing on A5 paper with a special ink pen that comes with the kit. When connected to a computer, the figures are digitized, and they can be edited or modified in graphic programs.

Reference! Tilt levels - a function that allows you to recognize the position of the pen on the display, and change the line thickness in accordance with this. Not every new device has this ability, and it is not often necessary in work, but its presence can slightly simplify the work with adjusting the thickness.

• WACOM CINTIQ PRO 13
  Price: ~ 77,000 rubles
  Weight: 1.1kg
  Size: 360 x 235 x 11.9 mm
  Work area: 294x166 mm
  Resolution: 5080 lpi
  Levels: 8192
  Pen buttons: 2
  Express buttons: 5
  Reading Range: 16 mm

The Cintiq Pro 13 is the next-generation interactive pen display. The manufacturer promises convenience in everyday use and carrying, as well as the most natural sensations when the pen interacts with the screen. The model has folding legs for working at a custom angle and multi-touch for more functionality. On the frame above the screen are touch buttons with no longer reassignable actions. This device requires a direct connection to a laptop or computer.

Graphic tablet for drawing, which is better to choose a beginner.

If you are a beginner who has never touched digital drawing with your own hand, then in choosing you need to focus on several characteristics:

• Pressure levels. For a novice author, more than enough for the coming years will be enough from 2048. But if there is a more advanced option for the same money, it is better to purchase it. Addiction is always the same process, but you will already learn more sensitive controls.
• The size. At first, it’s better to take a small tablet. It will not take up much space during work or if you put it aside, and will be most convenient during travel or daily movements.
• Budget. You are a beginner and are not sure if you will take this seriously? Then you should not spend more than 10,000 rubles to buy your first tablet. Take a look at miniature models with simple functionality, they cost much less than their competitors with bells and whistles, and they are easier to master. It is better to start your journey with simpler models, as it is easier to adapt to them.
• Form factor. In order to protect future drawings from distortion during creation, try to choose a device of the same shape as the monitor of your computer or laptop. The shape can be almost square (4: 3), and can be approximated to the scale of a standard monitor (16: 9). Otherwise, while working, you can change the display settings of the monitor to the shape of the tablet.

Manufacturers

After determining the necessary characteristics of the first tablet, it is important to narrow down the number of options by reliable manufacturers.
Wacom is the most recognizable and used manufacturer of graphic tablets among beginners and professional users. With the quality and variety of models, he has earned himself a reputation as a reliable manufacturer of graphic technology.

Huion - A newcomer to the production of drawing tablets, which have already recommended their products with quality and an inexpensive price category. The range is growing rapidly, using many advanced developments. Thanks to this, it is rapidly catching up with its more experienced competitors.

Why are these two brands placed in the first two places? Firstly, they are most popular among artists from Russia, and in case of unforeseen difficulties in your work, you can easily learn how to fix them. Secondly, because of their prevalence, they present a diverse selection of equipment for any request.