5 Best Drawing Tablets in 2024

Choosing the Right Drawing Tablet in 2024

A quality drawing tablet is one of the most important investments for any digital artist. With technology constantly evolving and new models being released each year, finding the perfect tablet for your needs can be overwhelming.

Over the past three months, our team has thoroughly tested more than 15 different drawing tablets, evaluating them on factors like pressure sensitivity, build quality, display quality (for screen tablets), software compatibility, and overall value for money.

In this guide, we'll share our top 5 recommendations for 2024, organized by category to help you find the perfect match for your specific needs and budget.

Types of Drawing Tablets Explained

Before diving into our recommendations, it's important to understand the three main types of drawing tablets available:

1. Graphics Tablets (Pen Tablets)

These tablets don't have displays—you draw on the tablet surface while looking at your computer monitor. They're typically the most affordable option and great for beginners.

2. Screen Tablets (Pen Display)

These tablets have built-in displays that allow you to draw directly on the screen. They provide a more intuitive experience but are more expensive than graphics tablets.

3. Tablet Computers

These are standalone devices (like the iPad Pro) that run their own operating systems and apps, allowing you to create digital art without being connected to a computer.

Each type has its advantages and ideal use cases, which we'll discuss as we present our top picks for each category.

Best Pen Tablet: Wacom Intuos Pro Medium

Key Specifications:

• Active Area: 8.7 × 5.8 inches
• Pressure Sensitivity: 8,192 levels
• Resolution: 5,080 lines per inch
• Connectivity: USB and Bluetooth
• Customizable ExpressKeys: 8 + Touch Ring
• Compatible With: Windows and macOS

Why We Love It:

The Wacom Intuos Pro remains the gold standard for pen tablets in 2024. Despite growing competition, its combination of precision, build quality, and intuitive software puts it at the top of our list. The Medium size offers an ideal balance between work area and desk space.

The tablet's 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity provide exceptional control over line weight and opacity, while the included Pro Pen 2 feels perfectly balanced in the hand. We particularly appreciate the battery-free pen technology, which means you'll never have to worry about charging your stylus.

The customizable ExpressKeys and touch ring allow you to create powerful shortcuts for your favorite software, significantly speeding up your workflow. The tablet's ability to connect via both USB and Bluetooth gives you flexibility in how you set up your workspace.

Who Should Buy It:

The Intuos Pro Medium is ideal for professional artists and illustrators who prioritize precision and reliability. It's also perfect for users who work across multiple applications and appreciate robust customization options. While it's not the cheapest option, its durability and performance make it a worthy investment for serious digital artists.

Drawbacks:

The main downside is the price—at around $379, it's significantly more expensive than entry-level alternatives. Some users also report that the textured surface wears down pen nibs faster than expected, increasing long-term maintenance costs.

Best Budget Pen Tablet: XP-Pen Deco Pro

Key Specifications:

• Active Area: 9 × 5 inches (Medium)
• Pressure Sensitivity: 8,192 levels
• Resolution: 5,080 LPI
• Connectivity: USB-C
• Customizable Buttons: 8 + Dual Wheel
• Compatible With: Windows, macOS, Android

Why We Love It:

The XP-Pen Deco Pro delivers exceptional value without significant compromises. Its premium aluminum-alloy construction feels solid and professional, while the dual-wheel design offers intuitive control over brush size, zoom, and other parameters.

In our testing, we found the drawing experience remarkably smooth, with the 8,192 pressure levels providing nuanced line control comparable to much more expensive tablets. The tilt support (up to 60 degrees) is particularly impressive at this price point, allowing for natural-feeling brush effects.

The tablet's USB-C connectivity ensures fast data transmission and compatibility with modern computers, while the included stylus is lightweight and comfortable for extended drawing sessions.

Who Should Buy It:

The XP-Pen Deco Pro is perfect for intermediate artists, students, and budget-conscious professionals. It's also an excellent choice for those new to digital art who want room to grow without investing in premium-priced equipment immediately.

Drawbacks:

The driver software, while functional, isn't as polished or intuitive as Wacom's. Some users may also find the active area slightly smaller than ideal for certain types of work, particularly detailed illustrations.

Best Screen Tablet: Wacom Cintiq Pro 16

Key Specifications:

• Display: 15.6-inch, 4K UHD (3840 × 2160)
• Color Accuracy: 98% Adobe RGB
• Pressure Sensitivity: 8,192 levels
• Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort
• Included Pen: Wacom Pro Pen 2 (battery-free)
• Compatible With: Windows and macOS

Why We Love It:

The Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 represents the pinnacle of screen tablet technology. Its 4K display with exceptional color accuracy (98% Adobe RGB) delivers stunning visual clarity, making it ideal for color-critical work.

The etched glass surface creates a paper-like drawing experience with just the right amount of resistance, while the Pro Pen 2 provides unparalleled precision. The virtually lag-free performance means your lines appear instantly as you draw, creating a natural and responsive feel.

The edge-to-edge glass design maximizes your working area, and the built-in ExpressKey Remote gives you customizable shortcuts without cluttering the screen bezel. We also appreciate the adjustable stand, which allows for comfortable drawing angles.

Who Should Buy It:

The Cintiq Pro 16 is designed for professional illustrators, concept artists, and designers who require the highest level of precision and color accuracy. It's particularly well-suited for detailed work in industries like animation, game development, and professional illustration.

Drawbacks:

The primary drawback is the steep price—at around $1,499, it represents a significant investment. It also requires a powerful computer to drive the 4K display effectively, particularly when working with complex artwork or 3D applications.

Best Value Screen Tablet: Huion Kamvas Pro 16

Key Specifications:

• Display: 15.6-inch, QHD (2560 × 1440)
• Color Accuracy: 120% sRGB
• Pressure Sensitivity: 8,192 levels
• Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI
• Customizable Buttons: 6 + Touch Bar
• Compatible With: Windows, macOS, Android

Why We Love It:

The Huion Kamvas Pro 16 offers an impressive balance of performance and affordability. Its QHD resolution display provides sharp image quality, while the 120% sRGB color gamut ensures vibrant and accurate colors—more than adequate for most digital art applications.

The full-laminated display reduces parallax (the visual offset between the pen tip and cursor), creating a more intuitive drawing experience. The anti-glare etched glass surface feels pleasant to draw on and reduces eye strain during long sessions.

We found the included PW517 pen comfortable and responsive, with excellent pressure detection and tilt sensitivity. The six customizable express keys and touch bar are well-positioned and help streamline common tasks.

Who Should Buy It:

The Kamvas Pro 16 is ideal for intermediate to advanced artists who want the benefits of a screen tablet without the premium price tag of a Wacom Cintiq. It's also an excellent option for students, hobbyists, and professionals on a budget.

Drawbacks:

While the driver software has improved significantly, it still occasionally experiences compatibility issues with certain applications. The display, while excellent for the price, doesn't quite match the color accuracy of the Cintiq Pro series.

Best Tablet Computer for Artists: iPad Pro 12.9" with Apple Pencil

Key Specifications:

• Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR
• Processor: Apple M2 chip
• Storage Options: 128GB to 2TB
• Stylus: Apple Pencil 2 (sold separately)
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Key Art Apps: Procreate, Adobe Fresco, Clip Studio Paint

Why We Love It:

The iPad Pro with Apple Pencil provides the most versatile and portable digital art solution available in 2024. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display delivers exceptional brightness, contrast, and color accuracy, making it suitable for professional work even in challenging lighting conditions.

The Apple Pencil 2 offers virtually lag-free performance with impressive pressure and tilt sensitivity. The magnetic attachment and wireless charging make it convenient to use and difficult to lose. The 120Hz ProMotion technology creates an ultra-responsive drawing experience that feels remarkably natural.

Perhaps the biggest advantage is the robust ecosystem of professional-grade art applications. Procreate, in particular, has become an industry-standard tool that leverages the iPad's capabilities brilliantly, offering a comprehensive suite of brushes and features in an intuitive interface.

Who Should Buy It:

The iPad Pro is perfect for artists who value portability and versatility. It's ideal for illustrators, concept artists, and designers who work in multiple locations or travel frequently. It's also an excellent choice for those who prefer a self-contained solution that doesn't require a separate computer.

Drawbacks:

The complete package (iPad Pro + Apple Pencil + apps) represents a significant investment. Some professional software, like the full desktop versions of Adobe Creative Cloud applications, isn't available on iPadOS. The smooth glass surface may feel too slippery for artists accustomed to the texture of traditional media or etched-glass tablets.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Drawing Tablet

When evaluating which tablet is right for you, consider these important factors:

1. Pressure Sensitivity

Higher pressure sensitivity (measured in levels) allows for more nuanced control over line weight, opacity, and other brush properties. Most professional tablets now offer 8,192 levels, which is more than adequate for detailed work.

2. Size and Active Area

Larger active areas provide more room for sweeping strokes and detailed work but require more desk space and typically cost more. Consider your workspace limitations and typical art style when choosing a size.

3. Resolution

Measured in lines per inch (LPI), higher resolution means greater precision in tracking the pen's position. For detailed work, look for at least 5,000 LPI.

4. Display Quality (for Screen Tablets)

Consider resolution, color accuracy (sRGB or Adobe RGB coverage), brightness, and surface texture. Full lamination reduces parallax, while anti-glare coatings reduce eye strain during long sessions.

5. Connectivity

USB-C offers the fastest data transfer and often allows for single-cable solutions that transmit both display and input data. Bluetooth options provide greater flexibility in workspace setup.

6. Software Compatibility

Ensure the tablet supports your preferred operating system and creative software. Some tablets offer better integration with specific applications.

7. Customizable Controls

ExpressKeys, touch rings, and programmable buttons can significantly improve workflow efficiency by providing quick access to commonly used tools and functions.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Digital Canvas

The best drawing tablet for you depends on your specific needs, workflow, and budget. For professional artists who prioritize precision and customization, the Wacom Intuos Pro Medium remains the top pen tablet choice. Those seeking a more immersive drawing experience will find the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 unmatched in quality, while the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 offers an excellent balance of performance and value.

For artists who value portability and versatility, the iPad Pro with Apple Pencil provides a powerful all-in-one solution that continues to gain traction among professionals. Budget-conscious artists and beginners will find the XP-Pen Deco Pro offers impressive capabilities at an accessible price point.

Remember that the most important factor is finding a tablet that feels comfortable and intuitive for your specific style and workflow. Many artists find it beneficial to start with a more affordable option and upgrade as their skills and requirements evolve.

Whatever your choice, each of our recommended tablets represents the best in its category for 2024, offering the tools you need to bring your creative vision to life in the digital realm.