Drawing is a form of art that requires creativity, precision, and a lot of practice. In today’s digital age, drawing tablets have become an essential tool for artists of all levels. For beginners, finding the right drawing tablet can be overwhelming, especially with the variety of options available in the market.
When looking for the best drawing tablets for beginners, it’s important to consider factors such as size, pressure sensitivity, and compatibility with software. Size is a crucial factor as it affects the level of detail and comfort when drawing. Pressure sensitivity determines the level of control an artist has over the thickness and opacity of their lines. Compatibility with software is also important as it affects the range of tools and features available for use.
After researching and testing various options, we have identified the top drawing tablets for beginners. These tablets offer a balance between functionality and affordability, making them a great option for those new to digital drawing. When choosing a drawing tablet, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences to find the best fit for you.
Best Drawing Tablets for Beginners
We understand that choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. There are so many options available in the market, each with its own set of features and specifications. As avid artists ourselves, we have tested and reviewed several drawing tablets to bring you this comprehensive list of the best drawing tablets for beginners. Our selection includes tablets that are affordable, easy to use, and offer excellent performance. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, we are confident that you will find a tablet on this list that meets your needs.
1. Simbans PicassoTab Drawing Tablet
If you’re a beginner digital graphic artist looking for an affordable drawing tablet, the Simbans PicassoTab Drawing Tablet is a great option to consider. With a stylus pen and pre-installed drawing and animation apps, this tablet is perfect for those who want to draw, make animations, or take notes in the classroom.
Pros
- Comes with a high-quality tablet case, drawing glove, universal power adaptor, and pre-installed screen protector, a total value of $50 inside the box
- High power MediaTek Quad-core processor boosts the multitasking abilities of the tablet
- IPS HD screen resolution makes crystal clear pictures and the 64GB disk allows you to download thousands of free apps from the play store
Cons
- Lack of accuracy of where the tip of the pen is and where it’s showing up on the tablet
- The pen may stop working after a few uses
- Tablet may be too laggy for some users
We highly recommend the Simbans PicassoTab Drawing Tablet due to its affordability and the fact that it comes with a stylus pen and pre-installed drawing and animation apps. The tablet is perfect for beginners who want to explore digital art and take notes in the classroom.
The tablet comes with a high-quality tablet case, drawing glove, universal power adaptor, and pre-installed screen protector, making it a great value for the price. The high power MediaTek Quad-core processor boosts the multitasking abilities of the tablet, and the IPS HD screen resolution makes crystal clear pictures.
However, some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the pen and laggy performance. Despite these drawbacks, the Simbans PicassoTab Drawing Tablet is still a great option for beginners who want to start exploring digital art.
2. Simbans PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet No Computer Needed with 11.6 Inch Screen
We highly recommend the Simbans PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet for beginners who want an all-in-one package that comes with all the accessories needed to protect and maintain the device.
Pros
- The tablet is standalone and does not require a computer to work, making it easy to draw anywhere and everywhere.
- The all-in-one package comes with all the necessary accessories, including a high-quality tablet book-case, drawing glove, universal power adaptor, and pre-installed screen protector.
- The large 11.6-inch screen and 64GB disk provide ample space for drawing and downloading thousands of free apps from the play store.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the tablet is a little slow when running apps.
- The pen has a limited pressure sensitivity of 1024 levels.
- The tablet may freeze or have charging issues.
The Simbans PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet is a great option for beginners who want a tablet that is easy to use and comes with all the necessary accessories. The tablet is standalone and does not require a computer to work, making it easy to draw anywhere and everywhere. Additionally, the all-in-one package comes with all the necessary accessories, including a high-quality tablet book-case, drawing glove, universal power adaptor, and pre-installed screen protector.
One of the best features of the Simbans PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet is the large 11.6-inch screen, which provides ample space for drawing and downloading thousands of free apps from the play store. The IPS HD resolution makes the art crystal clear and enjoyable to view. The tablet is also an android-based device, making it compatible with all your favorite apps. You can connect your tablet to your home WIFI network and take it wherever you are; your entertainment always goes with you.
On the downside, some users have reported that the tablet is a little slow when running apps. The pen has a limited pressure sensitivity of 1024 levels, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, the tablet may freeze or have charging issues, which can be frustrating for users.
Overall, the Simbans PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet is a great option for beginners who want an all-in-one package that comes with all the necessary accessories. With its large screen, ample disk space, and android-based operating system, the tablet is a great option for drawing, watching movies, playing games, and browsing the internet.
3. HUION HS64 Drawing Tablet
We highly recommend the HUION HS64 Drawing Tablet for beginners who are looking for an affordable and reliable option.
Pros
- The tablet is compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows, and Android 6.0 or later, making it versatile and easy to use.
- The digital pen PW100 features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing ultimate precision and control.
- The HS64 tablet is compact and portable, making it easy to carry and use on-the-go.
Cons
- The tablet does not come with a stand, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Some users have reported issues with the tablet drivers, although these seem to be rare.
- The active area of the tablet is relatively small, which may not be ideal for more advanced artists.
The HUION HS64 Drawing Tablet is a great choice for beginners who are looking for a reliable and affordable option. The tablet is easy to set up and use, and the digital pen provides excellent precision and control. The tablet is also compatible with a wide range of programs, including Adobe Photoshop, Paint Tool SAI, and more.
One of the best things about the HS64 tablet is its versatility. The tablet is compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows, and Android 6.0 or later, making it easy to use with a wide range of devices. This makes it an excellent choice for artists who want to be able to work on-the-go.
Another great feature of the HS64 tablet is the digital pen PW100. The pen features 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing ultimate precision and control. The pen is also battery-free, so you don’t need to worry about charging it.
The HS64 tablet is also compact and portable, making it easy to carry and use wherever you go. The tablet is designed with a slim and compact size, with an active area of 6.3×4 inches, making it perfect for limited desktop areas.
Overall, we highly recommend the HUION HS64 Drawing Tablet for beginners who are looking for an affordable and reliable option. With its versatility, precision, and portability, it’s an excellent choice for artists of all levels.
4. XP-PEN Drawing Monitor Artist12 Pro Pen Display Line Friends Edition Drawing Tablet for Digital Drawing Beginner and Animation(Tilt Support 8192 Levels Pressure Sensitivity) 11.6 Inch Gift Edition
If you’re looking for a drawing tablet with a fun and cute design, the XP-PEN Drawing Monitor Artist12 Pro Pen Display Line Friends Edition Drawing Tablet might be for you. It’s a great option for beginners who want to start learning digital art.
Pros
- The fully-laminated screen gives no parallax, making it feel like drawing on paper.
- The 3-in-1 cable design allows for easy and quick connection to your computer.
- The red ring dial featuring BROWN is a cool and customizable shortcut tool.
Cons
- Some users have experienced driver issues.
- The pen can be a bit too sensitive, causing accidental marks.
- The tablet can be a bit heavy, making it difficult to carry around.
In terms of performance, the XP-PEN Drawing Monitor Artist12 Pro Pen Display Line Friends Edition Drawing Tablet is impressive. Drawing on the tablet feels natural and smooth, thanks to the fully-laminated screen and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The 3-in-1 cable design is also convenient, allowing for easy connection to your computer without any hassle.
However, some users have reported driver issues, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the pen can be a bit too sensitive, causing accidental marks if you’re not careful. Lastly, the tablet can be a bit heavy, which might make it difficult to carry around.
Overall, if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly drawing tablet with a cute design, the XP-PEN Drawing Monitor Artist12 Pro Pen Display Line Friends Edition Drawing Tablet is a great option to consider. Just be aware of the potential driver issues and sensitivity of the pen before making your purchase.
5. Frunsi Drawing Tablet
We highly recommend the Frunsi Drawing Tablet for beginners who want to start drawing and taking notes digitally.
Pros
- Comes with a pre-installed drawing app and a pen for immediate use
- 10-inch 1920*1200 HD IPS screen for a vivid display
- Standalone drawing tablet with no need for a computer
Cons
- Some durability issues have been reported
- The pen may not work properly out of the box
- Battery life could be longer
The Frunsi Drawing Tablet is a great option for beginners who want to start drawing or taking notes digitally. The tablet comes with a pre-installed drawing app and a pen, so you can start creating right away. The 10-inch 1920*1200 HD IPS screen ensures a vivid display that makes drawing and note-taking a breeze.
The tablet is standalone, so you don’t need a computer to use it. It runs on Android 12 and is powered by MTK quad-core CPU chips, with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. It supports TF card reading up to 128GB, providing ample storage for apps and digital drawings.
The Frunsi Drawing Tablet performs well with SketchBook, ArtFlow, Clip Studio, ibis Paint X, and other drawing apps you can download. It is also certified by GMS, FCC, and CE, and comes with a 12-in-one bundle that includes a portable standalone drawing tablet, drawing stylus, charger adapter, USB cable, magnetic tablet case, screen protectors, black drawing glove, two white drawing gloves, cleaning brush, cleaning cloth, and user guide.
However, some durability issues have been reported, and the pen may not work properly out of the box. The battery life could also be longer, as it only supports working for five hours above.
Overall, the Frunsi Drawing Tablet is a great choice for beginners who want an affordable standalone art drawing tablet that comes with a pen and a pre-installed drawing app. It breaks down creative barriers and allows you to paint and draw on a portable graphics monitor.
6. GAOMON S620 Graphics Tablet
If you’re looking for an affordable drawing tablet for beginners, the GAOMON S620 is a great option.
Pros
- The passive pen doesn’t require charging, making it convenient to use.
- The tablet has 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity and 4 customizable express keys, providing precise control and improved workflow.
- The tablet is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android OS, and works with most popular art programs.
Cons
- The active area is only 6.5 x 4 inches, which may be too small for some users.
- The tablet doesn’t come with a glove, which may cause some discomfort during use.
- The tablet may not be suitable for professional use due to its basic features.
We recently got our hands on the GAOMON S620 and were impressed with its performance. The tablet was easy to set up and worked seamlessly with our art programs. The passive pen was a great feature, as we didn’t have to worry about charging it. The pen pressure sensitivity was also impressive, providing natural lines and strokes.
However, the tablet’s active area may be too small for some users, especially those used to larger tablets. Additionally, the lack of a glove may cause some discomfort during use, as our hand tended to sweat while drawing. Finally, while the tablet is great for beginner use, it may not be suitable for professional use due to its basic features.
Overall, we would recommend the GAOMON S620 for beginners looking for an affordable drawing tablet. Its compatibility with multiple OS and art programs, as well as its customizable express keys, make it a great option for those just starting out in digital art.
7. GAOMON M106K Pen Tablet
We highly recommend the GAOMON M106K Pen Tablet for anyone looking for a high-quality drawing tablet that is both beginner-friendly and professional-grade.
Pros
- The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take on the go.
- The large work area of 10 x 6.25 inches gives you plenty of space to create your artwork.
- The rechargeable pen can be used for up to 350 hours after just 2 hours of charging, making it very convenient to use.
Cons
- The tablet can be a bit temperamental to set up, but once it’s working, it’s smooth sailing.
- The proprietary plug for the pen can be a bit of a hassle if you lose it or need a replacement.
- Some users have reported difficulty using the tablet with note-taking applications.
The GAOMON M106K Pen Tablet is an excellent choice for digital artists of all skill levels. The tablet is easy to use and comes with 12 shortcut keys and 16 softkeys that you can customize to your liking. The tablet is also compatible with most major drawing software, including Photoshop, Krita, and Gimp.
If you’re a beginner looking for a high-quality drawing tablet that won’t break the bank, the GAOMON M106K Pen Tablet is definitely worth considering. With its large work area, rechargeable pen, and customizable shortcut keys, this tablet is sure to help you take your digital art to the next level.
8. Artisul A601 Drawing Tablet
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly drawing tablet that’s portable and easy to use, the Artisul A601 is a great option.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight, easy to carry around
- Battery-free stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity provides natural and vivid lines
- Perfect for playing games like OSU, with a read rate up to 266PPS
Cons
- Not suitable for professional artists or those who require larger drawing areas
- Some users have reported issues with compatibility with certain software
- Limited customizability with only four shortcut keys
We found the Artisul A601 to be a great option for beginners who want a simple and affordable drawing tablet. The tablet is easy to set up and use, and the battery-free stylus provides a fluent drawing experience. The tablet is also compatible with a wide range of devices and software.
One of the standout features of the Artisul A601 is its portability. Weighing in at just 213.7g and with a thickness of only 6mm, it’s easy to carry around and use on the go. The tablet is also compatible with Android devices, making it a great option for those who want to draw on their phone or tablet.
The battery-free stylus is another great feature of the Artisul A601. With 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, it provides natural and vivid lines that are perfect for drawing and sketching. The stylus also has four customizable shortcut keys, making it easy to access frequently used functions like zoom in and out, copy, and undo.
The Artisul A601 is also a great option for gamers, particularly those who play games like OSU. With a read rate up to 266PPS, you can enjoy the game without delay. The tablet is also easy to use, with no need to install drivers when playing games.
While the Artisul A601 is a great option for beginners, it may not be suitable for professional artists or those who require larger drawing areas. Some users have also reported issues with compatibility with certain software. However, overall we found the Artisul A601 to be an excellent choice for those who want a simple and affordable drawing tablet.
9. VEIKK A15Pro Graphics Pen Tablet
If you’re a beginner looking for a drawing tablet, the VEIKK A15Pro Graphics Pen Tablet is a great option.
Pros
- The quick dial and 12 customized express keys simplify your workflow and increase productivity.
- The intelligent passive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and 250 PPS report rate allows for precise and accurate drawing.
- The ultra-large drawing area of 10×6 inches provides enough space for your digital artwork creation.
Cons
- The pen holder is not very stable and can easily fall over.
- The driver installation process can be tricky and confusing.
- The tablet surface can be a bit too smooth, making it difficult to control the pen at times.
We’ve had a great experience using the VEIKK A15Pro Graphics Pen Tablet. The quick dial and 12 customized express keys have been a game-changer for our workflow, allowing us to easily access the functions we need without having to use a keyboard. The intelligent passive pen is also a standout feature, providing a natural and accurate drawing experience. The ultra-large drawing area is perfect for creating detailed and intricate artwork.
However, we did have some minor issues with the product. The pen holder is not very stable and can easily fall over, which can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of a project. Additionally, the driver installation process can be a bit confusing and time-consuming, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. Finally, the tablet surface can be a bit too smooth, making it difficult to control the pen at times.
Overall, if you’re a beginner looking for a reliable and affordable drawing tablet, we highly recommend the VEIKK A15Pro Graphics Pen Tablet.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing a drawing tablet, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. In this section, we will go over some of the key features to look for when shopping for a drawing tablet.
Size and Resolution
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a drawing tablet is the size and resolution of the screen. A larger screen can provide more space for drawing, while a higher resolution can offer more detail and clarity. However, larger screens and higher resolutions can also be more expensive, so it’s important to balance your needs with your budget.
Pressure Sensitivity
Another important feature to consider is pressure sensitivity. This refers to the level of sensitivity the tablet has to the pressure of your stylus, allowing you to create lines of varying thickness and opacity. A higher pressure sensitivity can provide more control and precision in your drawings.
Compatibility
It’s also important to consider the compatibility of the tablet with your computer or other devices. Make sure that the tablet is compatible with your operating system and any software you plan to use, and that it has the necessary ports and connections.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as customizable buttons, wireless connectivity, or multi-touch support. These features can add convenience and functionality to your drawing experience, but may also add to the cost of the tablet.
By considering these key features, you can choose a drawing tablet that will meet your needs and help you create your best work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good and affordable drawing tablets for beginners?
There are several good and affordable drawing tablets for beginners. Some of the popular options include Wacom Intuos, Huion H610 Pro V2, XP-Pen StarG640, and Gaomon S620. These tablets are priced under $100 and offer a decent drawing experience for beginners.
How do I choose a drawing tablet with a screen?
When choosing a drawing tablet with a screen, there are a few factors to consider. The size of the screen, resolution, color accuracy, and pressure sensitivity are some of the important factors to look for. Some popular options for drawing tablets with screens include Wacom Cintiq, Huion Kamvas Pro, and XP-Pen Artist.
What is the difference between a drawing tablet and a graphic tablet?
A drawing tablet and a graphic tablet are essentially the same thing. They are both input devices that allow you to draw and create digital art. However, the term “graphic tablet” is often used to refer to professional-grade tablets used by graphic designers and artists, while “drawing tablet” is used to refer to consumer-grade tablets used by hobbyists and beginners.
Which is better for beginners, a Wacom or Huion drawing tablet?
Both Wacom and Huion offer good drawing tablets for beginners. Wacom is a more established brand and offers premium tablets with advanced features. Huion, on the other hand, offers more affordable options that are great for beginners. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and budget.
What are the best drawing tablets for use with a laptop?
There are several good drawing tablets that can be used with a laptop. Some popular options include Wacom Intuos, Huion H610 Pro V2, and XP-Pen StarG640. These tablets are compact and portable, making them easy to use with a laptop.
What is the best tablet for drawing with a pen?
The best tablet for drawing with a pen depends on your personal preferences and budget. Some popular options include Wacom Cintiq, Huion Kamvas Pro, and iPad Pro with Apple Pencil. These tablets offer excellent pressure sensitivity and accuracy, making them great for digital art.
