Top 10 Best Drawing Tablets 2023 for Beginners, Artists, and Graphics Designers

Digital drawing brings in a plethora of benefits such as mistakes being easily correctable, saving work is much easier and you don’t need to get your hands dirty with colors and brushes. All of this cannot be achieved without having the best drawing tablet – no matter if you’re a beginner, professional, or passionate artist. You must buy the best tablet for drawing having all the bells and whistles to draw imaginary and stunning paintings.

We as hobbyist artist knows this and that’s why crafted this list after thorough research to help any level of users (beginner to professional) find the good drawing tablet packed with advanced features such as high sensitivity levels, ergonomic design, hassle-free connectivity, and the most importantly affordable prices.

So, let’s begin without further ado!

10 Best Drawing Tablets 2023 for Beginners, Artists, and Graphics Designers

Wacom Mobile Studio Pro 13

Wacom Mobile Studio Pro 13 is a professional drawing tablet with screen so much expensive than other devices mentioned in this list. And it’s not suitable for everyone due to a high price point so only experienced and professional artist should choose this one but beginners or passionate users can also buy if they can afford. But, there are many cheap drawing tablers available that also provide similar features regarding drawing though you sacrifice few perks like exponential processing speed and high resolution.

Now, the question is why Wacom Studio Pro 13 is expensive? What’s so distinctive in this beast? You might be surprised to know that it’s, basically, a powerful laptop packed with Intel Core i5 CPU and 128GB SSD. There are different variants available regarding CPU family, graphics card model, webcams, and display screen size. However, we’re discussing standard i5 13″ model built with 8GB DDR3 Ram, Intel Iris Graphics 550, 5MP front and 8MP back cameras.

The highest specs model 16″ comes with 512GB SSD, Core i7 processor, 16GB DDR3 Ram, and monstrous Nvidia Quadro M1000M 4GB GDDRP GPU for ultimate graphics designing, 3d sculpting, and in-depth illustrations. Even the standard variant has remarkable 4k resolution offering 2560×1440 superior display, express keys, radial menus, one-touch shortcuts, and multi-touch functionality. The newly designed pen has 4x greater accuracy due to 8192 pressure levels, tilt recognition, and lag-free tracking. All of these only weighs just 3.13 lbs or almost 1.3kg with 14.4 x 9 x 0.7″ dimension.

Note: the 16” mobile studio pro comes with UHD (3840 x 2160 resolution).

Wacom Drawing Tablet for Artists – Cintiq Pro

Graphics tablets are the devices comprises with extensive features with affordability. These tabs come with capabilities to draw thin and thick lines depends on the pressure you put thus deliver an experience like drawing on the paper. Wacom pads are fanatic and known to provide the natural experience of drawing. Wacom Cintiq pro presents the 1080p Full HD display which is incredible for painting. It’s one of the best drawing tablets for artists that provides 11.6 x 6.5 active area as well as a stand that can be set up to 20 degrees for comfort.

Cintiq is nicely finished design with a metallic body that gave it a premium look. Also, it is one of the lightest tablet so excellent for professional artists to carry around. It comes with a Pro pen 2 which is 4x improved than its preceding version and deliver the lag free and high accuracy. The stylus has 8192 pressure levels and tilt-recognition that makes it a fully featured stylus. Most importantly unlike most of the pens, it has an eraser on the opposed side of the nib.

It is a multi-touch tablet and has easily accessible radial menus so you can switch between different features by finger sweeping which is really time-saving. As the tablet work with a computer so for connection use a USB-C cable or a display adapter (Wacom Link) for mini-display port and USB-A cable, all of these things come within the box. It is compatible with most of the versions of Windows and Mac OS. All in all Wacom Cintiq pro is the king that support IPS Full HD display, touch sensitive and lots of distinctive features.

Huion KAMVAS GT – 191 – Best Cintiq Alternative

If you are an enthusiast for digital drawing and seeking for something that is affordable, features loaded, lightweight and the tablet that delivers the money value then Huion KAMVAS GT-191 is the right choice to go. Compared to early version GT-156, it comes with various upgrades such as larger area, Full HD display, and stylus with more pressure levels. Along with these features, the capability to directly draw on the screen makes it a top alternative to Wacom Cintiq.

With a wide 19.5 inch screen, you get an ample active area for drawing. Another thing that makes it a strong Wacom Cintiq alternative is its ability to show up 16.7 million colors allowing the tablet display to be more precise. Besides charging cables and adapter etc. there are two rechargeable pens and one screen protector inside the box. One artist glove also included which help professional artists draw smooth lines seamlessly. Both pens featured 8192 pressures sensitivity, and there are eight replacement tips in total.

Unlike the aforementioned graphics tablet, the Huion GT-191 contains a multi-angle stand which means you can adjust it between multiple angles. It is a lightweight and so easy to carry to the workplace. GT-191 has HDMI, USB, and VGA interfaces for connecting to the computer. On top of that, it is compatible with most common Windows and MAC OS versions as well as drawing applications. So if you can’t afford the Wacom Cintiq now drawing your creativity through Huion KAMVAS GT-191 is certainly a great choice.

Ugee 1910B

Before discussing this best drawing tablet for artists, let me ask one question. Are you searching a digital tab that packed with high-end features but cost less than expensive devices such as Cintiq? If so, then choosing Ugee 1910B would be the best option. You get all the essentials like sharp color display, sensitivity levels, support for widely used photo editing softwares, and two stylus pens with additional nibs.

Ugee artist tablet has 19″ TFT widescreen boasting 1440×900 pixels resolution and 16.7M colors which deliver exceptional graphics. The wide panel has 2048 sensitivity pressure levels to provide real pencil using feels. It’s compatible with Windows and Mac operating system and can be connected via VGA, or DVI port. However, the company suggests using HDMI to VGA connector for better performance.

Ugee is compatible with a plethora of editing softwares including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, AutoDesk, Corel Painter, Maya, 3D Max, Sketchbook, Pixologic, and much more. So, what about the drawing pens? Well, you get two rechargeable P505 pens and 10 nibs for different drawings or lining. Instead of placing the eraser on the back side, it has a quick button employing which the users can change between painting/erasing mode on the go.

The overall weight of this affordable drawing tablet is only 6.80kg or 15lbs and 20.9×18.3×7.1 inches dimension. Further, it includes power cord, power adapter, screen protector, artist glove, pen charging cable, VGA and USB cable, pen holder, drivers disk, and user manual in the box.

XP Pen Artist 22E

XP-Pen Artist 22E is an improved version of its preceding model featuring 16 express keys located on both sides to help left and right-handers take maximum outcomes. It has a wide 21.5″ full HD panel with 2048 pressure levels to provide robust accuracy and precision hence help you draw striking sketches. For extreme accuracy, it pairs pressure levels with 4 and 9 point calibration. The 1080P monitor also backed by IPS technology for outstanding, vibrant, and detail-rich display. So, it won’t make your paintings look noisy while zooming instead offers detailed and smooth results.

Drawing imaginary stuff takes a lot of time and having the ergonomically designed artist tablet can reduce tiredness and work stress. So, to address this, XP-Pen tablet got an adjustable stand which can be adjusted to any comfortable position and better viewing angle. The XP stylus pen comes with 9 nibs and one-click eraser/pen switching instead of flipping when needed to remove unnecessary things. Plus, auto sleep feature enhances the battery time for longer usage.

Users can easily connect XP-Pen Tab with Windows, Mac through HDMI, DVI, or VGA cable and use Adobe Photoshop, Illustrators, Corel Painter, ZBrush, Autodesk Mudbox, and Autodesk Maya, etc. One artist glove also included which helps regarding smooth and fluid hand movements. It weighs 19.84 lbs (quite heavier – So, it’s better to set up the device at one fixed place) and 22.6 x 13.2 x 1.6 inches in dimension.

Wacom Intuos Pro

Wacom Intuos Pro is another marvelous product when we talk about the best graphics tablets. It’s a pen tablet which means it does not have a display monitor and everything you draw on its surface will show on the connected computer screen. For artists having some digital drawing experience, it is worthy to invest in such devices. The Wacom Intuos Pro comes in multiple sizes so you can pick as per your needs.

The noteworthy thing that makes it stand out from the crowd is a multi-touch capability along with express keys and touch ring. This put numerous shortcuts of your favorite drawing software at your fingertips; you just have to assign shortcuts to the finger gestures and express keys. The tablet can be connected via Wireless or USB cable. Establishing the wireless connection is dead simple – only requires to press down the button for few times given in the center of the touch ring.

There is an included Pro Pen 2 that recognize 8192 pressure levels as well as tilt-responsive. The pen has an eraser on its back side which is handy for most of the users. Here note that Intuous Pro Small comes with the earlier stylus “Grip Pen” while all other versions include “Pro Pen 2”. The Intuos Pro is an ultra slim size and lightweight device which is great for portability. Furthermore, it’s absolutely compatible with Windows and Mac. Just make sure to download the latest drivers from their website. The lots of pioneering features, intuitive usability, and different size availability make it a great choice.

Best Drawing Tablet for Beginners – Huion 1060Plus

The Huion 1060Plus is one of the complete package tablets for beginners and a good option for everyone who wants to experience digital drawing. It effectively delivers the money value to the user with plentiful express keys, compatibility with editing applications and 10 x 6.25 inches drawing area. Moreover, the package also includes Lycra made free drawing glove that let you enjoy digital painting seamlessly.

One of the great advantages of Huion 1060plus is that it contains 12 physical express keys while 16 soft keys. All keys are programmable with your desired shortcuts and may eliminate the need for a keyboard. Another best part is the included 8GB MicroSD Card which allows you to save the work and so effortlessly carry the painting files to any place where you like to work.

The Huion 1060Plus appears with a rechargeable pen which may not favor by some users, but it’s not a headache as it lasts for weeks. The pen supports up to 8192 pressure levels while you can adjust it where you feel it comfortable with the software. Within the pen holder, you will get four replacement tips. It easily can be integrated with Photoshop, Manga Studio, ZBrush, and Medibang, etc. Briefly, if you are an enthusiast, hobbyist, or a novice user Huion 1060 Plus is undoubtedly the decent choice to invest.

XP-Pen Star06

XP-Pen Star06 is a powerful but cheap drawing tablet with pen available in the market, but you get all essential features. It provides 10 x 6 inches active area which is quite sufficient to draw anything. It supports tons of mainstream designing application such as Photoshop, Maya, and illustrator, etc. Both left and right-handers can make use of it conveniently.

The tablet box comprises with a battery-free stylus having 2 buttons on it. The stylus has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity which is considered entirely satisfactory by professional artists. Unfortunately, there is no eraser on the opposite side of the pen tip. An artist glove is included by the company so no need to purchase a separate one. There is 6 time saving express keys and a dialer which are easily programmable.

For a wired connection, it can be connected through USB cable. On the other hand within the box, there is an ISM 2.4G USB receiver – just plug in the computer for wireless connection. In addition, you will get a 4GB flash drive that contains the tablet driver. For lefty’s you can set its orientation to left-hand mode. It just weights around 670g and easily fit in any backpack. Overall, XP Pen is a good drawing tablet for beginners that encompasses almost all the bells and whistles.

Wacom Intuos Draw – Best Budget Tablet

Honestly, it’s one the best drawing tablets under 100 suitable for beginners and entry-level artists to polish their skills or learn basics by turning their computer into a digital canvas. Wacom Intuos Draw features four customizable hotkeys which can be set up to assign frequently used functions thus increase productivity and faster work. This tablet bundled with Art Rage Lite Sketching, Clip Studio Paint Pro, and Anime Studio Debut as well as DIY guides for self-learning.

Artist having low budget should buy this one to improve sketching and art skills by utilizing any photo editing software. It’s compatible with all the popular applications and operating systems. You can attach it via USB cable with Windows and Mac but keep in mind, must install official drivers first. However, a wireless kit (sold separately) also available for connectivity. The active screen has 2540 LPI which is good enough for novice users.

Intuos Draw’s stylus pen is battery free featuring 2048 pressure levels – no need to recharge or replace batteries. It lacks eraser, but you can make use of express keys. Are you a left-hander? No problem, Intuos Draw can be configured for both right and left-hand users – provides flexibility for maximum ease. Overall, it’s suitable to draw, paint, or sketch images and enhance picture quality with the help of industry-leading softwares. Though it lacks advanced features but still, great deal for the price you pay.

Huion Inspiroy Q11K

Compared to Wacom Intuos Draw (cheapest drawing tablet) it costs a few more dollars, but you get amazing features such as premium built quality, 11″ active area, eight customizable shortcut keys, 8192 pen sensitivity pressure levels, and 5080 LPI touch resolution. Personally, we would recommend Huion Inspiroy Q11k for users can’t compromise on high-pressure levels and LPI for detailed arts. Ultimately it delivers extreme precision and advanced performance to draw thin or thick strokes for professional artwork.

The tablet has ergonomic knurling on the border of the device which allows comfortable and firm gripping. Shortcut keys can be assigned to preferred functions and play a vital role in term of productivity. Its rechargeable pen made with superior material and designed in a way to deliver comfortable grip and remarkable maneuverability. In return, you get smooth, elegant, and fluid strokes and enhanced drawing experience.

Q11k drawing tablet holds a whopping 40 hours of battery life with one recharge – best fit for travelers. There is also a “Lock Key” that limits express keys unexpected interaction to avoid enabling any unrequired feature. Tethering with Windows and Mac OS is dead simple, and users can use favorite editing software seamlessly. Along with the device, the box comes with micro USD cable, pen, pen holder, charging cables, wireless receiver, 8 tips, drivers CD, and quick manual.

Conclusion

The above mentioned drawing tablets are our recommended devices for beginners, professional, and passionate users. Choosing the best fit is not a complex task, you can easily decide on one by reading this guide. And most particularly by keeping in mind your needs you can avoid any unnecessary spending. For example, it’s not encouraged to make a heavy investment without having any digital drawing experience.

As described in this guide Huion 1060Plus is the best drawing tablet for beginners which featured 12 physical and 16 soft express keys as well as 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. For something compact, the popular Wacom Intuos Draw is another great choice to go for.

We strongly recommend Wacom Intuos as the upgraded choice. Once you have some experience it is one of the best money value tablets that come with 8192 pressure levels, touch-sensitive capability, and lots of other professional and vital features.

For those looking for something big and more professional, Wacom Cintiq Pro 13 and Wacom Mobile studio pro 13 are the best choices out there. These are the best tablets for artists where Cintiq Pro 13 is a multi-touch tablet requires connection with a computer to work. While on the other hand Mobile Studio Pro 13 powered with Windows and has its dedicated processor and GPU which means it can work independently i.e. without connecting to any other computer. Moreover, its lightweight and exceptional 4K display make it a remarkable tablet for artists to work professionally.