rating of 2021 and which one to choose with a drawing screen

Graphics tablets are used by designers, photographers, and artists to draw images, handwriting, and other creative purposes digitally.
Wacom is the most famous company that produces various types of graphics tablets.

The Japanese manufacturer produces a wide range of devices for both amateur and professional use.

After analyzing the purchase statistics of Wacom graphics tablets for 2021, we have selected the top 15 models in terms of price / quality ratio.

At the same time, the functionality and safety of the operation of devices, official test results (Rostest), reviews of experts and customers, as well as the adequacy of the cost of each instance of graphics equipment, were taken into account.

Top 15 Best Wacom Graphics Tablets of 2021

Interactive displays

Graphic tablets with screen incredibly convenient for drawing due to the fact that the user can observe the result of his work without taking his eyes off.

An overview of Wacom’s best interactive drawing screen displays.

WACOM One (DTC133)

The WACOM One Drawing Tablet (DTC133) will become a favorite tool for those who are just getting started with digital creativity or who want to get a new experience in imaginative thinking and artistic expression.

The tablet is equipped with everything necessary for creativity and diversification of such activities.

The pen gives you a natural paper-writing experience, the large 13.3-inch screen provides comfort, and the included software expands your device’s capabilities.

The device is compatible with pens from other brands. It comes with a Wacom One X-cable, a 10W power supply, and three interchangeable nibs.

Main characteristics:

• size of the working space (L × W) — 294 × 166 mm;
• the number of lines per inch — 2540 lpi;
• the number of pressure levels — 4096;
• screen parameters — 13.3 ″, 1920 × 1080;
• features — USB-interface;
• tablet dimensions (L × W × T) — 357 × 225 × 14.6 mm;
• weight — 1000 g.

Advantages

• high build quality and materials;
• comfortable stand and legs;
• scratch-resistant screen film;
• simple driver installation.

Flaws

• high price;
• low resolution workspace;
• few levels of pressure.

WACOM Cintiq 16 (DTK1660K0B)

The WACOM Cintiq 16 Interactive Pen Graphic Display (DTK1660K0B) is equipped with everything professional and budding illustrators need.

Vibrant colors, high-definition, FullHD resolution, ergonomic design and the responsive Pro Pen 2 deliver an incredible experience that takes your creativity to the next level.

The 15.6-inch screen makes your creative session productive and comfortable.

The anti-reflective film prevents any distracting reflections, and the reduced parallax guarantees complete control over the controls.

The pen responds well to the tilt of the hand and has an instant response to movement.

Main characteristics:

• size of the working space (L × W) — 344 × 194 mm;
• the number of lines per inch — 5080 lpi;
• number of pressure levels — 8192;
• screen parameters — 15.6 ″, 1920 × 1080;
• features — USB-interface;
• tablet dimensions (L × W × T) — 422 × 285 × 25 mm;
• weight — 1900

Advantages

• soft and sensitive pen;
• optimal display size;
• excellent color reproduction of the matrix;
• silent active cooling;
• optional stand with fine tilt adjustment.

Flaws

• not the most convenient cable outlet;
• hard wire for connection;
• rigidly fixed inclination of regular legs.

WACOM Cintiq Pro 32 (DTH-3220)

WACOM Cintiq Pro 32 Graphic Tablet (DTH-3220) with 31.8-inch IPS display and anti-reflective surface is able to provide maximum picture quality when drawing, retouching or editing photographic masterpieces.

The screen of the presented device displays 99 percent of the Adobe RGB space, the display contrast is 1000: 1, its brightness is not less than 350 cd per square meter.

The glass-surfaced matrix guarantees a clear tactile sensation, comparable to drawing on paper.

The parallax in this model reaches its minimum values, the characters are always displayed where the user expects to see them.

The presented tablet is a powerful standalone graphics computer for professionals.

The configuration allows you to use the device, among other things, to create and view virtual reality content.

Main characteristics:

• size of the working space (L × W) — 697 × 392 mm;
• the number of lines per inch — 5080 lpi;
• number of pressure levels — 8192;
• screen parameters — 31.5 ″, 3840 × 2160;
• features — express keys, multitouch, USB interface;
• tablet dimensions (L × W × T) — 854 × 506 × 53 mm;
• weight — 13000 g.

Advantages

• huge working space;
• Comfortable Pro Pen 2;
• high quality matrix with 4K resolution;
• lack of parallax;
• high response speed.

Flaws

• poor display coverage (screen scratches);
• high price tag.

WACOM Cintiq 22 (DTK2260)

The WACOM Cintiq 22 (DTK2260) premium pen display with an optimized feature set for all creative uses provides a feeling that is comparable to drawing on paper.

The ultra-responsive Pro Pen 2 also delivers a natural feel, making your creative process productive and comfortable.

Anti-reflective screen coating prevents reflections. The large display is high definition.

Built-in folding legs allow you to adjust the position of the screen in a wide range.

The device comes with three interchangeable pen nibs and a set of cables for connection.

Main characteristics:

• size of the working space (L × W) — 476 × 268 mm;
• the number of lines per inch — 5080 lpi;
• number of pressure levels — 8192;
• screen parameters — 21.5 ″, 1920 × 1080;
• features — USB-interface;
• tablet dimensions (L × W × T) — 570 × 359 × 40 mm;
• weight — 5600 g.

Advantages

• rich colors;
• high resolution workspace;
• sensitive screen responsiveness;
• excellent value for money.

Flaws

• bulky and heavy apparatus;
• Pen tips wear out quickly
• few interchangeable tips in the kit (only 3 pieces).

How to choose a Wacom pen tablet?

When purchasing a Wacom pen tablet, the user must rely on the following selection criteria:

1. Ruler. In 2021, Wacom is releasing several lines of graphics tablets. Each is aimed at a specific consumer:

• Home — Suitable for work, study or teaching.
• One — easy-to-learn and inexpensive models for students and amateurs to draw.
• Intuos — basic tablets with a minimum set of functions and a standalone module that allows novice artists to use the gadget without being tied to a computer.
• Cintiq – Feature-optimized pen tablets are used for medium-level graphics work.
• Intous Pro – professional gadgets with multi-touch capabilities. Such tablets can be customized for a specific user. They are used by professionals for graphic creativity. The Paper Edition from this line will also allow you to work with paper and special pens.

1. Display resolution. High resolution makes the device more accurate. It is measured in lines per inch (lpi). Resolution of 2540 lpi is enough for beginners, for professional work this parameter should be higher — from 5080 lpi.
2. Stylus sensitivity. The higher sensitivity of the working tool allows the tablet to more accurately perceive the user’s actions. This parameter is measured in the number of pressure levels. Ideally, the sensitivity of the stylus should start at 2048 pressure levels.
3. Workspace Format and Size. These options determine the size of the picture or text you create. They are selected individually depending on the purpose of using a graphics tablet.

How to choose and what to look for?

When choosing a tablet, it is important to understand that its surface is a projection of the screen, which allows you to achieve greater accuracy in manipulation than when working with a mouse..

Therefore, it is necessary to correctly select the gadget for the size of your monitor, otherwise you can get a mismatch in proportions. This is a basic characteristic that you should rely on when choosing a tablet as a whole.

Wacom produces several lines of graphics tablets, each of which is aimed at a different consumer segment.:

• Intuos — basic gadgets with a minimum set of functions. Some of them are equipped with an autonomy module, which allows them to be used wirelessly. Most suitable for beginners and amateurs.
• Intous Pro — professional digitizers designed for high-class masters. Often equipped with additional features and the possibility of individual customization.
• Wacom One – Beginner level, suitable for learners and amateurs. The most simple and inexpensive models, easy to learn.
• paper edition — a special line of the highest class, the main difference of which is the ability to work with paper and special pens. Professional gadgets, the cost of which is very high.

Also, each model has a letter indicating the size of the device.

Choosing a tablet, you should build on the capabilities and skills.

Beginning artists do not necessarily need to purchase Pro models — they may seem too overloaded in functionality. Also, the basic models are not suitable for a professional due to limited work.

TOP 5 Best Wacom Graphics Tablets by Price/Quality for 2021

WACOM Intuos M Bluetooth (CTL-6100WLK-N/CTL-6100WLE-N)

The WACOM Intuos M Bluetooth wireless pen tablet features four ExpressKeys™ located in the stylus groove for the ultimate in customizable settings during your creative workflow.
When registering on the official website, the user can get free applications for a graphics tablet. Also included in the package are three free creative applications for working on commercial projects.

You can connect your tablet to your computer using a USB cable or using a Bluetooth connection..

For maximum use of all functions, it is recommended to connect the device to computers with 64-bit operating system Windows 7 or later (excluding Windows 10 S), Mac: OS X 10.11 or later.

Specifications:

• display resolution — 2540 lpi;
• stylus sensitivity — 4096 levels of pressure;
• working area size – 216 ⨯ 135 mm.

pros

free drivers and drawing programs included;

wireless connection;

battery life.

Minuses

quick erasing of the stylus tips.

WACOM Intuos S Bluetooth (CTL-4100WLK-N/CTL-4100WLE-N)

The WACOM Intuos S Bluetooth Pen Tablet is designed to bring creative ideas to life.. To do this, the manufacturer has provided a seven-inch screen and four buttons for quick and comfortable work.
Thanks to the high response time (133 points per second), the drawings are as clear as possible with the right expressive lines.

Cordless stylus with 0.25mm accuracy and interchangeable nibs that expand the artist’s options and give the illusion of using a variety of creative tools.

With built-in Bluetooth, you can connect your graphics device wirelessly to your computer. And in case of discharge of the tablet, it is easily connected to the computer using a USB cable.

The model is compatible with Windows 7 and 10, as well as Mac OS X 10.11 and above.

The manufacturer provides the tablet with three special applications for various types of creativity.

Specifications:

• display resolution — 2540 lpi;
• stylus sensitivity — 4096 levels of pressure;
• working area size – 152 ⨯ 95 mm.

pros

wireless connection;

free software;

long battery life.

Minuses

stylus tips wear out quickly.

WACOM Intuos S (СTL-4100K-N)

The compact WACOM Intuos S graphics tablet has small dimensions that allow you to place it on a small desktop and work comfortably.
And the presence of a built-in Bluetooth module will save the user from unnecessary wires in the workplace. The battery capacity of the tablet allows it to work without connecting to a computer for 6-8 hours.

Improved multi-touch gestures allow you to manage your file work. And to speed up the work on the case, there are ExpressKeys and a Touch Ring that can be used as keyboard shortcuts.

Personalized circular menu allows you to configure the necessary parameters.

It is recommended to connect the tablet to a PC with 64-bit operating system Windows 7 or later (excluding Windows 10 S), Mac: OS X 10.11 or later.

Specifications:

• display resolution — 2540 lpi;
• stylus sensitivity — 2048 levels of pressure;
• working area size – 152 ⨯ 95 mm.

pros

wireless connection;

long battery life.

manufacturing materials.

Minuses

freezes when connected.

WACOM One Medium (CTL-672)

The WACOM One Medium Pen Tablet is capable of a wide range of tasks with standard graphic design features..
The tablet is ideal for beginners as it is easy to use. The manufacturer made it possible for all buyers of the device to use the graphics programs Corel Painter Essentials 6 and Corel AfterShot 3 for free.

To do this, you need to install them on a computer with a 64-bit OS and enter the serial number indicated on the tablet for confirmation.

In the package, the manufacturer also included an ergonomically shaped wireless pen and a USB cable for connecting the tablet to a computer.

For maximum use of all functions, it is recommended to connect the device to computers running Windows 7 and later (excluding Windows 10 S) Mac: OS X 10.11 and later.

Specifications:

• display resolution — 2540 lpi;
• stylus sensitivity — 2048 levels of pressure;
• working area size – 216 ⨯ 135 mm.

pros

ideal for work purposes;

quick setup;

matte rough screen coating.

Minuses

the stylus tip wears off quickly.

WACOM One Small (CTL-472-N)

The WACOM One Small Pen Tablet is ideal for beginners who are just learning how to use pen tablets and for educators teaching the basics of digital art..
The model is available in size M (A5 sheet format) with a working area that occupies almost the entire surface of the tablet.

The One by Wacom pen tablet lets you bring your amazing imagination to life more accurately, faster and easier than you ever imagined.

Before starting work, the tablet is connected to the computer using a USB cable and the driver is installed. After that, the device is completely ready for use, you just need to select the appropriate tip on the sensor pen and start drawing.

The tablet is adapted for drawing with both left and right hands. The model is compatible with Windows 7 and later, Mac OS 10.10 and later.

Specifications:

• display resolution — 2540 lpi;
• stylus sensitivity — 2048 levels of pressure;
• working area size – 152 ⨯ 95 mm.

pros

simple setup;

free drivers;

high build quality.

Minuses

there is no eraser on the stylus.

What diagonal to choose?

Matching the size of the working surface of the graphic tablet and the screen of the computer monitor is very important. Because it affects the ratio of pen movement to the distance the cursor travels. As a result, equally proportional elements are displayed on the monitor and tablet.

Wacom recommends choosing the diagonal of a graphics tablet in the following ratio::

1. Monitor 13–17″ – tablet A6.
2. Monitor 17–22″ – tablet A5.
3. Monitor over 22″ – tablet A4 or A3.

Tablets

Graphics tablet — a device designed to enter, correct graphic information. Its feature is the need to connect to a computer / laptop. This is due to the fact that the tablet does not provide the ability to display an image.

Graphics tablet, drawing which is much easier than using standard input methods (keyboards, mice), it is advisable to use for people of creative professions: designers of all directions, design engineers, office workers in creative areas.

Graphic tablet: buy and choose the right one

Choosing graphics tablet for drawing or work, you should be guided by an assessment of the main parameters. These include:

• The size. It has a big impact on the cost of the tablet. There is no direct unconditional relationship between the size of the work surface and the comfort of its use. This is affected by the range of functions performed. For children and beginners, small A7-A4 tablets are suitable, high-precision work requires A4-A3 format.
• Connection method. To pair graphics tablet with a computer, various technologies can be used: wired connection via USB port, wireless Bluetooth. Professional models may also require an electrical connection (due to their high productivity).
• Electronic pen. Before buying, you should clarify what kind of stylus is used, whether batteries are needed for its operation, their type (they can make the pen heavy). They can be equipped with additional functions, buttons, wheels for fixing the cursor.

Stylus types in graphics tablets

Functionality graphics tabletthe result obtained depends on the pen used:

• Grip Pen — the most common option, its tip has standard sizes;
• Classic Pen — the main difference from the previous version is a thinner tip, with which you can make thin lines;
• Art Marker — similar to a familiar marker, the beveled tip allows you to change the angle of inclination, line thickness;
• Air Brush — a multifunctional pen that is used as a brush, has the ability to spray, the density and transparency of the line are adjustable;
• Ink Pen — the tip of the pen is replaced by an ink ball that can be used to write / draw on a regular sheet of paper located on the work surface.

Graphics tablet: Wacom — leading manufacturer

Wacom graphics tablet — a wide range for beginners and professional users. The manufacturer has provided three main groups of tablets:

• Bamboo — for novice users, work with office applications. They are characterized by low productivity, small size of the working surface. Even small children can handle them perfectly (the tablet is absolutely safe to use).
• Intuos – professional solutions for professional activities. With it, you can work with 2D, 3D programs.
• PL and Cintiq are special interactive tablets that input and output graphic information. They provide the ability to quickly make edits without being distracted by looking at the computer display.

Graphics tablet can be used for drawing in simple editors, making drawings, volumetric images. It greatly simplifies and speeds up work, makes it ergonomic and comfortable. Choose a tablet according to the functions it performs.

How to work with him?

Externally, the graphic tablet is very similar to a regular one — it has several buttons and a light indicator. But in addition, such a device is equipped with a stylus for drawing.

On a graphics tablet, draw as on a regular sheet of paper using a special graphics pen that comes with the tablet.

When drawing on desktop graphics tablets, the digital image is transmitted to the computer screen. And when using a tablet with an interactive pen display, the created image appears directly on the tablet screen.