The Best Drawing Tablets for 2022
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Drawing Tablet
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Drawing tablets combine the flexibility of freehand drawing with the precision and power of modern technology. For digital artists, these devices are often just as essential as a high-quality sketchbook and drafting pencil. However, it is quickly being adopted by a range of professions, from architects and engineers to designers and illustrators to online teachers and salespeople.
To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best drawing tablets currently available.
UPDATED: May 2, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro because it features an 11.6” display with a 1920 x 1080 HD resolution screen and the stylus doesn’t need batteries or charging.
Whether you’re looking for a gift or something for yourself, you are sure to find one that fits your needs and budget. Read on to learn how drawing tablets can help you get in touch with your creative side!
The Different Types of Drawing Tablets
When you’re shopping for a drawing tablet, you’ll generally encounter two types: display and non-display tablets.
Display tablets have a screen, and you can draw directly on the display. They’re high-quality, easy to use, and great for professionals. The only drawback is the cost. Good display tablets are an investment, so do your research to make sure that this is a product you’ll want to use for years.
Non-display tablets also called general graphics, digitizers, or pen tablets, don’t have a screen. They resemble a flat box or a dark brick and connect to your computer monitor with a USB. You draw on the surface, and the picture shows up on your computer monitor. These tablets are much more affordable than display tablets. They’re generally very compact, and they’re highly durable.
The main drawback is that you have to get used to drawing in one place and seeing the lines show up on a different screen. This can feel awkward at first, but most people get used to it quickly. Consider trying out a non-display tablet if you’re a beginner or on a strict budget.
Here are some important features to look out for when selecting a specific model:
Pressure Sensitivity
Pressure sensitivity measures how responsive the tablet is to the pressure from your pen. Most basic drawing tablets have at least 4,000 pressure-sensitivity levels, and they can go as high as 8,000+. If you’re a beginner or a hobbyist, you probably won’t notice the difference between mid-range and high-pressure sensitivity.
Resolution or LPIs
Resolution is measured in lines per inch, or LPIs. The higher the LPI, the greater detail you can include in your drawings. Usually, larger tablets have a higher resolution.
Make sure your tablet has at least 1000 LPI. If you work with highly detailed drawings, aim for a higher LPI.
Product Size, Weight, and Surface Area
Drawing tablets come in a range of sizes. Before you browse, think about how you’ll be using the tablet. For frequent travelers or digital nomads, consider a smaller, lightweight tablet. If you typically draw at home, at a desk, or at a dedicated workspace, you may want a larger tablet so you can draw and zoom easily.
Also, pay attention to the size of the screen or active area. If your drawings are usually large or intricate, you’ll want a larger active area.
Pen Types
There are three main types of pens for drawing tablets: battery-powered, rechargeable, and electromagnetic resonance (EMR).
Battery-powered pens are becoming less and less common these days. While they are cheap, they’re not very ergonomic. They’re often chunky to hold, due to the battery being inside. You’ll also need to carry extra batteries with you, which is not ideal for convenient transport.
Most pens today are rechargeable, meaning you plug them into the wall or a laptop to charge. Many have long lives, and they tend to be sleek and ergonomic. They’re usually the middle-of-the-road in terms of cost.
If you draw for a living, you can’t get a better option than an electromagnetic resonance or EMR pen. These styluses charge wirelessly from the tablet as you draw. You’ll never need to pause to plug them in. However, they are typically pricier than rechargeable or battery-powered options.
What is Parallax?
You will see the term “parallax” brought up in the individual product descriptions below, but what is it? Essentially it is when the pressure sensors under the glass do not precisely align to the location of the pen tip. This causes an offset which can be annoying when working. While almost all display tablets have at least some parallax, it can be mitigated by recalibrating the screen when you make a signifigant change to the viewing angle.
Learn more: What is parallax?
Tilt Sensitivity
Some screens offer a tilt response that mimics the behavior of a real pencil. This means that when you angle the pen to the side while drawing it will widen the line, which is a nice option for shading.
Shortcut Keys
Another nice feature to look out for is customizable shortcut keys. These are physical buttons usually located on the side of the tablet outside of the screen or active area. They offer the ability to set each button to a particular software function to allow for a faster workflow.
Compatibility
One important note: all these products must be used with a computer in order to work. In other words, these are not stand-alone units.
Most are compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems however, check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it will work with your current setup.
Some connect via USB or HDMI; others use Bluetooth or USB-C plugs. Double-check your computer before you buy, and make sure to purchase the appropriate adapter, if needed.
Now, let’s dive into the selection!
With its sleek pen, easy setup, and incredible tilt sensitivity, the XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro earned an easy top spot on my list. It’s affordable enough for entry-level artists, yet has the quality and features to support professionals.
The tablet has precise sensors to match the cursor to your pen: no parallax at all! The pen is battery-free, so it fits in your hand easily and has 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The tablet also contains 60° of tilt sensitivity, so you can shade like a real pencil.
The tablet comes with a portable stand for an ergonomic work set up. It also comes with a pen holder to keep your pen from rolling to the ground during a break. Compatible with most Windows and Mac operating systems, the tablet is easy to set up, though a few users report problems setting up with a Mac. If you run into issues, XP-Pen has a team of technicians available via live chat and a California-based support line.
Other features:
3-in-1 cable design
8 customizable shortcut keys, so you can draw more efficiently
Connects to your computer using HDMI and USB ports
Color gamut: 72% NTSC/100% sRGB
Runner-up: Wacom Intuos Pro PTH860 Drawing Tablet
If you want to own a Wacom product but price is an object, the Wacom Intuos Pro PTH860 pen tablet is the perfect place to start. The super-slim tablet design is compact, yet features a large active area for you to draw. Customize the intuitive shortcut keys to speed up your workflow, and choose between medium and large sizes.
The tablet comes with 2 months of free Adobe After Effects & Premiere Pro, as well as 3 months of Boris FX. This is a great choice for new artists who want to experiment. The Pro Pen 2 charges as you draw, never disrupting your flow state.
One drawback is the fact that the surface sheet is a bit rough and tends to flatten the edges on the nibs quicker than most devices. However, the product comes with several extra pen nibs.
Other features:
8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
Tilt-response.
Lag-free tracking.
Compatible with recent Windows and Mac systems.
Connect with USB or Bluetooth.
Best Value: Huion Kamvas 13 Drawing Tablet
The Huion Kamvas 13 offers great value for all of the features it is equipped with. It’s a display tablet, with a large 13.3 inch screen. The device has an impressive 178-degree viewing angle and includes an anti-glare screen protector to cut down on annoying reflections while preventing scratches on the surface.
The included PW517 stylus is equipped with EMR so it charges from the tablet while you draw, so you’ll never have to plug it in. It also includes two programmable buttons on the side of the stylus for a range of customization options. There are 8 programmable keys on the side of the tablet that you can customize with software shortcuts for a faster workflow. Overall, it offers a lot of premium features found on pricer models.
Other features:
Features a 1920 x 1080 high definition screen resolution.
Can connect to an Android phone/tablet or a Mac/ Windows PC via a USB-C cable.
Compatible with Windows 7 and MacOS 10.12 or later versions.
Works with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and more.
Best Large Display: Gaomon PD1560 15.6 Drawing Tablet
The Gaomon PD1560 15.6 is an ideal choice for teachers, professors, and digital artists. It has no parallax, comes with 10 customizable shortcut keys, and is compatible with Zoom and most online meeting programs.
The rechargeable pen lasts up to 350 hours and only takes 2 to 2.5 hours to charge, so you can work for days on end without worrying about dead batteries. The screen is covered with a paper-like film, which you can leave on or take off. This protects the device and gives you the feeling of drawing on paper.
Other features:
Compatible with Photoshop, Illustrator, and most major drawing software.
Comes with a 1-year guarantee.
Ships with everything you need to set it up: no extra tools required.
Includes a stand, stiff carrying bag to protect the tablet during a move, cables, replacement nibs, and a two-finger glove.
Switch to left-hand mode if needed.
Best Premium Option: Wacom Cintiq 22 Drawing Tablet
Ready to take your craft to the next level? The Cintiq 22 Wacom will take you there, with an HD screen and one of the best pens on the market. And while the price tag is no joke, it’s actually one of the most affordable Wacom display tablets. I recommend this product for professional digital artists, animators, and illustrators.
Perhaps the biggest benefit to this drawing tablet is the included Pro Pen 2. The pen charges as your draw, using electromagnetic resonance technology. There are no bulky batteries, and you never have to interrupt your art to plug in the pen. It’s highly responsive and contains 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
The device itself features an anti-glare, scratch-resistant display with an adjustable stand. The 1920 x 1080 HD screen is incredibly high-res, and it’s very lightweight so you can travel with it easily. There are two main drawbacks to the Wacom Cintiq 22. It doesn’t have any shortcut buttons, though this is mostly a personal preference. There is also a bit of parallax, between 1/16 and 1/8 of an inch. However, most users report that it’s not enough to be disruptive.
Other features:
Compatible with Adobe Suite, Autodesk Sketchbook, Corel Suite, and most other operating systems and applications.
Features 16.7 million colors and 72% NTSC.
Check out this video for five quick tips on using a drawing tablet:
Best Anti-Slip: Huion H610 Pro V2 Wireless Drawing Tablet
The Huion H610 Pro V2 Wireless offers an astonishing level of quality at a very low price point. It’s a non-display tablet, so you will draw on a blank surface and watch the lines show up on your computer monitor. The device has 60º of tilt support, so you can shade to your heart’s content. Anti-slip pads on the back of the tablet keep it from slipping around when you’re drawing — a small feature but one that makes a big difference over time!
The included PW100 stylus charges from the tablet while you draw, so you’ll never have to plug it in. There are 8 hard keys on the side and 16 soft keys on the front of the tablet that you can customize with software shortcuts for a faster workflow. Overall, this is a great choice for beginners or professionals on a budget.
Other features:
Can connect to an Android phone/tablet or a PC/laptop (the work area will vary based on the device).
Compatible with most recent Windows, Mac, and Android systems.
Works with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Corel Painter, Zbrush, and more.
Best Ergonomic Design: Huion 1060 Plus Drawing Tablet
Another quality offering by Huion, the 1060 Plus features 60º of tilt recognition, so you can shade and draw with incredible precision. The lightweight pen charges itself automatically as you draw. The generous working area allows you to draw from the shoulder instead of the wrist. It’s perfect for professionals who spend all day at a desk.
The product ships with 8 extra pen nibs, a micro USB cord, an artist glove, and a pen holder. It’s compatible with most recent Windows and Mac systems, and works with all major applications such as Adobe, Autodesk Maya, Gimp, and Zbrush.
Other features:
8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
5080 LPI.
Working area measures 10 x 6.25 inches.
Best for Educators: Wacom CTL4100 Intuos Drawing Tablet
This non-display tablet by Wacom caters perfectly to teachers. It’s small and compact, so you can transport it from home to the classroom easily. It’s compatible with most Windows and Mac systems. And it comes with 3-month free trials of five top players in the EdTech software industry: Kami App, Explain Everything, Pear Deck, Limnu, and Collaboard.
It’s also one of the more affordable tablets out there, especially considering the fact that it’s a Wacom product. It has 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is not as high as some premium tablets, but is more than enough for most beginners.
Other features:
Measures 7.87 x 6.3 x 0.35 inches.
Weighs 8.1 ounces.
2540 LPI.
Self-charging EMR pen.
Best Surface Area: Monoprice 110594 Drawing Tablet
Manufactured by US-based company Monoprice, this tablet features a generous amount of drawing space, high LPI, and a long-lasting battery-powered pen. The tablet has 8 express keys on the side and 16 hot cell keys on the top. You can customize them to perform whatever keyboard functions you use most frequently, speeding up your workflow.
The tablet has a 4000 LPI and 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity. Due to the lack of tilt sensitivity and the battery-powered pen, I’d recommend this tablet for beginners. Many users also report an issue with setting up the drivers, though there are workarounds. In short, this is a durable, user-friendly tablet that is great for hobbyists who want a larger surface area.
Other features:
Works with most recent Windows and Mac systems.
USB interface.
Can be programmed for use with Linux.
Best on a Budget: Huion H420 USB Drawing Tablet
The Huion H420 USB is a small, durable non-display tablet that is a great choice for beginners. It’s small and lightweight, making it a good choice for traveling. Despite the low price tag, it actually has a lot of pressure sensitivity, allowing you to make smooth strokes and different line sizes.
The tablet is easy to set up: just insert the included CD into your computer to install the software. If you don’t have a CD drive, you can download the software from Huion’s website. The device comes with a USB cable, user manual, 4 spare tips, lightweight wool bag, glove, and a cleaning kit. With three customizable express keys and the option for left-handed set up, this drawing tablet will get you started in no time.
Other features:
Measures 10 x 7.5 inches.
No need to install an external driver, just plug and play using a USB cable.
Weighs just 0.3 pounds (132 g).
Compatible with most applications, including Corel Painter, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, 3D Max, Autodesk MAYA, and more.
Best Tech Support: VEIKK A30 V2 Graphics Drawing Tablet
For the hesitant artist who is worried about setup, the VEIKK A30 V2 is a great product to launch you into the digital art world. It comes with a lifetime of technical support. The large surface space gives you plenty of room to draw without constraint. And, with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, you can use the self-charging pen just like an ordinary pen.
This tablet comes with a 1-year warranty. It’s compatible with most Windows and Mac operating systems, and it also works with many Android devices — not Samsung, though.
Other features:
Has a Type C USB port.
Works with Office software.
Compatible with most design software (Photoshop, SAI, Illustrator).
Offers a setup for left-handed users.
Smart gesture touch allows you to zoom, undo, and redo.
I hope this list has been helpful, if I left out a drawing tablet you think is important, let me know in the comments below.
Thanks for reading, see also my posts on:
Good luck!
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
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