A drawing tablet is an excellent tool for artists to push the limits of their creativity, without worrying about wasting costly materials.
Finding the best drawing tablet for your needs means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available models and software compatibility. With the right drawing tablet, artists can easily get creative without worrying about making mistakes.
We reviewed dozens of drawing tablets to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated drawing tablets artists can purchase to ensure an inspired creative experience.
We’ve identified the XP-PEN Artist15.6 IPS Drawing Monitor as the best drawing tablet out there. It delivers life-like colors and greater contrast for sharper, more vivid images, meaning this drawing tablet is one that will keep your creative sessions in tip top shape. These benefits allow you to create detailed images with ease.
The 5 Top-Rated Drawing Tablets
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Drawing Tablet Overall | XP-PEN Artist15.6 IPS Drawing Monitor | 4.1 |
| Best Drawing Tablet for Kids | Kimiandy LCD Writing Tablet | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Drawing Tablet | XP-Pen G430S OSU Tablet | 4.2 |
| Best Drawing Tablet for Mac | Huion OSU Graphics Tablet | 4.0 |
| Best Portable Drawing Tablet | Huion Inspiroy H950P Graphics Drawing Tablet | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Drawing Tablet Overall: XP-PEN Artist15.6 IPS Drawing Monitor
The XP-PEN Artist15.6 IPS Drawing Monitor took the top spot on our list of the best drawing tablets, as it offers life-like colors and greater contrast for sharper, more vivid images. Users can sketch, paint, design, and edit directly from the large tablet screen, but it must be connected to a computer in order to use. The battery-free passive stylus provides 8192 levels of instant pen pressure sensitivity for outstanding control and fluidity while creating.
Those who purchased and reviewed this drawing tablet appreciated that the pen and monitor felt nice in hand, and found the build quality to be excellent. People said that it was easy enough for beginners to use, but had enough features and controls that even more experienced artists enjoyed it. Those who had to contact tech support for assistance found them to be “excellent.” Creators also appreciated that it was compatible with a variety of different graphic software.
With a price tag of about $300, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
XP-PEN Artist15.6 IPS Drawing Monitor Key Features:
- Offers a 1920×1080 IPS 16:9 display with 178 degree of visual angle
- USB connectivity
- Includes 6 programmable shortcut keys
Best Drawing Tablet for Kids: Kimiandy LCD Writing Tablet
The Kimiandy LCD Writing Tablet took the runner-up spot on our list of the best drawing tablets, and boasts a built-in stylus dock that quickly converts into a kickstand for convenient use while out and about. It comes complete with two replaceable batteries, and does not require an internet connection. It offers a one button erase function, and has an anti-erasure lock to help prevent accidental erasures.
Those who purchased and reviewed this drawing tablet appreciated that it was lightweight and easy for little ones to use on their own. People said it was perfect for taking notes, in addition to drawing and doodling. People say it offers “great value” for the money, especially since it includes a spare battery and stylus. Parents appreciated that this kept their little ones from drawing on things they weren’t supposed to.
At a cost of around $8, it’s incredibly affordable, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents to make the investment.
Kimiandy LCD Writing Tablet Key Features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Includes a second stylus
- Magnetic backing will stick on fridge
Best Budget Drawing Tablet: XP-Pen G430S OSU Tablet
The XP-Pen G430S OSU Tablet is an excellent choice for those looking for a drawing tablet that won’t break the bank. It offers the ability to use for OSU! gameplay, drawing, painting, sketching, E-signatures, and more. It features a compact, 4×3” size that is ideal for use at home or while on the go, and is a good starting point for beginners. It comes complete with an advanced, battery-free stylus that allows for uninterrupted drawing and playing.
Those who purchased and reviewed this drawing tablet appreciated that it was lightweight and easy to use, and felt it offered a good option for beginners. People commented that it was “pretty small and portable, and extremely light weight” and found it offered “fantastic” results given the cost. People also appreciated that it could be used with both Windows and Mac machines.
With a cost of approximately $23, this drawing tablet is a solid choice for those looking for a drawing tablet option on a budget. It has great ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at sketching as its more expensive counterparts.
XP-Pen G430S OSU Tablet Key Features:
- Offers 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity
- One-click toggle switches between pen and eraser functionality
- Includes a 1-year warranty and lifetime technical support
Best Drawing Tablet for Mac: Huion OSU Graphics Tablet
The Huion OSU Graphics Tablet is an excellent choice for those who need a drawing tablet for Mac computers. Its lightweight and compact design easily fits into a laptop case, pocket, or briefcase, and makes it ideal for use while out and about. It is suitable for use with OSU! gaming, document signing, casual artwork, editing, inking, sculpturing, and more. It boasts 4,000 LPI and 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity.
Those who purchased and reviewed this drawing tablet appreciated that it was “super easy to use and install” and found it to be “a great deal for its price.” There were a couple drawbacks mentioned — that the stylus doesn’t come with the required batteries, and the plastic screen eventually scratched, but for this price point it’s not a deal breaker. Some people were concerned that the active area might be too small, but once they started using it they found it to be adequate.
With a price tag of about $21, it’s an affordable option for those wanting a drawing tablet, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Huion OSU Graphics Tablet Key Features:
- Compatible with most available drawing software
- Comes with 4 replacement pen nibs and 1 pen clip
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Best Portable Drawing Tablet: Huion Inspiroy H950P Graphics Drawing Tablet
The Huion Inspiroy H950P Graphics Drawing Tablet is a solid choice for those who want the convenience of a portable drawing tablet. Its compact size makes it ideal for use at home or on the go. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android devices for added convenience. It offers 8192 levels of pen pressure, and comes complete with a battery-free stylus. The innovative tilt control system provides improved pressure detection for more accurate cursor positioning and a more realistic drawing experience.
Those who purchased and reviewed this drawing tablet appreciated that it offered a quality drawing experience at an entry-level price point. Users commented that the tilt control was “top notch” and that the pen was “incredibly light.” People said that “driver installation is simple and quick” and liked that the included bag protected the tablet when not in use.
At a cost of around $40, it’s not outrageously priced, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Huion Inspiroy H950P Graphics Drawing Tablet Key Features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Includes 8 programmable shortcut keys
- Free carrying bag included
Who Should Buy a Drawing Tablet
A drawing tablet is an ideal choice for those who work in creative industries such as graphic arts or animation. Keep in mind that a drawing tablet will need the appropriate software to be fully functional. While some programs and computers allow for drawing via a mouse or touchscreen, a drawing tablet provides a more realistic creative experience that makes them easier to use.
Additionally, a drawing tablet is also a good choice for those with young children, as it allows them to create endless artwork without the mess that stacks of paper can create. There are also many models that are lightweight and compact for ease of portability. This means kids can stay entertained while traveling, or on visits such as the doctor’s office.
Finally, some people find that drawing tablets are just a fun way to express their creative side, and make a nice addition to their computer setup.
And if you’re looking for information on other electronics, such as finding the best portable hard drives, the best laptop backpacks, or the best tablets for kids, we have in-depth guides that can help make it easier.
Important Features to Consider
Not all drawing tablets are created equal. A drawing tablet should offer a responsive surface and be easy to set up. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best drawing tablet for your needs:
- Type. Probably the most important consideration when it comes to buying a drawing tablet is the type. There are three main types of drawing tablets: beginner, mid-level, and professional.
Beginner drawing tablets are a budget-friendly option, and are often ideal for youngsters. They typically offer low pressure sensitivity, which means less realistic results. You will likely have to connect them to a separate screen to view your work.
Mid-level drawing tablets are best for more serious artists, and offer a maximum resolution of 5,080 lines per inch with at least 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity for more realistic results. Some offer an integrated screen, but most will still need to be connected to a monitor.
Professional drawing tablets are the most expensive, but offer the most realistic results, thanks to 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, a minimum of 16.7 million individual display colors, and a minimum screen resolution of 5,000 lines per inch.
There are also drawing tablets for kids, which offer the most basic drawing capabilities and act more as a pen and paper substitute than a proper creative tool. - Size. Another feature to consider when choosing a drawing tablet is the size. Smaller drawing tablets are often lightweight and portable, making them ideal for use anywhere. Larger drawing tablets are best used on a desktop, and are a better option for those who do most of their work at a desk or in a studio. The larger the drawing tablet, the more free you can be with your movements when drawing.
- Resolution. The better the resolution of your drawing tablet, the better the image quality. Tablets are rated in lines per inch, or LPI. Look for those with higher LPI measurements.
- Stylus. The stylus is a key component of the drawing tablet, with some running on batteries and some that are battery-free. Some drawing tablets offer wired styluses, which are handy as you’ll never lose them, although wireless styluses or pens provide much better flexibility of movement. Extra nibs for the tip of the stylus are handy as they can wear down with use over time.
- Pressure sensitivity. In order to translate your movements into an image, a drawing tablet needs to be able to sense the level of pressure you apply with the stylus. A tablet with at least 1,024 levels of pressure is a good place to start, but as with resolution, the higher this number the better image quality you’ll get. Additionally, there are some drawing tablets that will recognize finger touches, so look for one with touch capability if that is a feature you’re interested in.
- Colors. Professional artists and graphics professionals will want a drawing tablet with at least 16.7 million colors in order to create precise graphics. The highest quality (and most expensive) drawing tablets boast 1.07 billion colors. If you’re not a professional, you can opt for a drawing tablet with fewer colors for improved cost savings.
- Shortcut buttons. Shortcut buttons on a drawing tablet make it easy to switch between drawing and erase modes, as well as other functionality that make using the drawing tablet more convenient. Some are located on the side of the unit, while others are on the top of the frame. Many models feature programmable shortcut buttons, or hotkeys.
- Connectivity. While many tablets require a USB connection to a computer, there are many that offer Bluetooth connectivity for a wireless experience. There are also some models that have WiFi or HDMI connection options.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a drawing tablet. Drawing tablets vary in price from $15-$2,000 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a drawing tablet and how does it work?
A drawing tablet is a type of accessory for your computer that allows you to draw or paint as if you were using a pen and paper. It is a flat surface that you draw on using a stylus or other pen-like device in order to create a visual image in a program on your computer. A drawing tablet works by connecting to your computer either via USB or Bluetooth. When you draw on the tablet, it sends a signal to a vertical grid of wires running across the tablet that then determines pressure and other variables before turning it into an image on your computer. Touchscreen tablets offer the ability to view the image directly on the screen, rather than requiring a computer program.
What is the difference between a graphic tablet and a drawing tablet?
The main difference between a graphic tablet and a drawing tablet is that with a drawing tablet, you are interacting with the tablet screen itself in order to see and create your image at the same time. With a graphic tablet, you are drawing on a tablet with a vertical grid of wires running across the tablet that then turns your strokes into an image viewed on a separate screen using a software program. Drawing tablets are often easier for beginners to use, although they tend to come at a higher price point.
How much is a digital drawing tablet?
A digital drawing tablet varies in price from $30-$2,500 or more, depending on a number of factors. There are many excellent digital drawing tablets with an average price of about $100-$200, so you don’t have to spend a ton in order to get a decent unit. Size is one factor that will influence the price of a digital drawing tablet, with smaller models costing less than their larger counterparts. Pressure sensitivity is another factor that will influence cost, with more sensitive models being more costly. Depending on the quality of the image you need, you can go with a less sensitive model. Drawing tablets with their own screens will cost more, but are often easier for newbies to use. Finally, added features such as programmable hotkeys, stand, and extra stylus nibs will all affect the price of a digital drawing tablet.
Can you use a drawing tablet without a computer?
Yes, you can absolutely use a drawing tablet without a computer, just be sure to read the specifications of the model that you’re looking at in order to determine if you need to use it with a computer or not.
Other Drawing Tablets We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other drawing tablets. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best drawing tablets list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your drawing needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Drawing Tablet for Mac
XP-Pen StarG640 OSU! Ultrathin Tablet
This drawing tablet for Mac has been designed for OSU! gameplay, drawing, painting, sketching, E-signatures, and more, without the need for special software.
Key features:
- Includes a battery-free stylus
- Comes with 20 replacement nibs
- Lifetime technical support included
Cost: $36
Huion H420 USB Graphics Drawing Tablet Board Kit
This drawing tablet for Mac is compatible with all major graphics applications including Corel Painter, CorelDraw, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and more.
Key features:
- Three express keys
- Plug-and-play installation
- Includes a cleaning kit and anti-fouling glove
Cost: $28
HUION New 1060 Plus Graphic Drawing Tablet
This drawing tablet for Mac boasts 12 express keys and 16 soft keys, all of which are customizable, for a fully tailored working experience.
Key features:
- Includes an 8GB MicroSD card
- Comes with a protective carrying case
- Compatible with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Corel Painter, Manga Studio, and more
Cost: $67
Huion H610 Pro V2 Graphic Drawing Tablet
This drawing tablet for Mac boasts an innovative tilt control system that offers improved pressure detection and more accurate cursor positioning with different angles for a realistic drawing experience.
Key features:
- Also compatible with Android devices
- Customizable shortcut keys
- Battery-free stylus with 8 replacement nibs
Cost: $50
This drawing tablet for Mac boasts a 10×6” active drawing space with a papery texture surface, and comes complete with 8 customizable express keys on the side for your favorite preset functions.
Key features:
- Battery-free stylus
- Suitable for left- or right-handed creators
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Animation Tablet
Wacom CTL4100 Intuos Graphics Drawing Tablet
This animation tablet boasts 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, and comes complete with three bonus software for added value. It is compatible with both PC and Mac OS, and connects via USB.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Slim, compact size
Cost: $70
Huion Inspiroy H640P Graphics Drawing Tablet
This animation tablet boasts 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity for precision projects, and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android operating systems.
Key features:
- Battery-free stylus
- Includes 6 customizable express keys
- Durable, paper-like surface
Cost: $40
XP-Pen StarG640 OSU! Ultrathin Tablet
This animation tablet boasts 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity for precision projects, and has been designed for OSU! gameplay, drawing, painting, sketching, E-signatures, and more.
Key features:
- Battery-free stylus with 20 replacement nibs
- One-click toggle
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $36
This animation tablet can be used either wired or wirelessly, and provides up to 14 hours of wireless use from a single charge. It offers 8192 pressure levels for precise details.
Key features:
- Battery-free stylus
- Six touch-sensitive shortcut keys
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $60
Wacom DTK2200 Cintiq 22HD 21-Inch Pen Display Tablet
This animation tablet boasts a large, 22” LCD display with wide format, full HD resolution and extra wide viewing angle for ease of creating.
Key features:
- Adjustable stand included
- Includes 16 customizable express keys
- Includes a 2-year warranty
Portable Drawing Tablet
XP-PEN Artist12 FHD Drawing Monitor
This portable drawing tablet boasts a full 1920×1080 HD display for vivid, vibrant colors. The programmable slim hotbar and shortcut keys make it easy to customize your creative experience.
Key features:
- Display area of 11.6”
- Anti-reflective coating
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
Cost: $200
Huion KAMVAS 20 Drawing Pen Display Graphics Monitor
This portable drawing tablet boasts 8192 levels of pen pressure, combined with ±60 pen tilt support for advanced precision. It comes complete with a 20-80 degree adjustable stand.
Key features:
- Battery-free stylus
- Anti-glare glass
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
Cost: $369
VEIKK A30 Graphics Drawing Tablet
This portable drawing tablet boasts a large work area thanks to its 10×6” size, and features a thin design at just 9mm thick. It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for creating precision details.
Key features:
- Battery-free stylus
- Includes 4 customizable express keys
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
Cost: $56
Wacom Intuos Wireless Graphics Drawing Tablet
This portable drawing tablet boasts a 10.4×7.8″ size, and offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity for adding detailing. It connects via USB or Bluetooth for added versatility.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Includes three software titles
Cost: $161
Boogie Board Jot 8.5 LCD Writing Tablet
This portable drawing tablet boasts a durable, lightweight design that is ideal for kids and adults alike. It offers the feel of drawing with a real pen and paper, mess-free.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Never needs to be charged or plugged in
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Drawing Tablet for Kids
One by Wacom Graphic Drawing Tablet for Beginners
This drawing tablet for kids offers a working area of 6.0×3.7”, and can easily be configured for either left- or right-handed use.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Battery-free stylus
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
Cost: $70
This drawing tablet for kids boasts a large, 10” color LCD writing screen, and is glare-free to be easy on the eyes.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Battery lasts up to 6 months
- Lightweight, portable design
Cost: $15
This drawing tablet for kids boasts an adorable, kid-friendly animal design with integrated carrying handles. It comes complete with two stylus pens, with onboard storage for one.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- LCD matte screen
- One-button clear function
Cost: $18
This drawing tablet for kids boasts a bright 10” color LCD writing screen, and features a one-button clear function. Its lightweight design is ideal for use at home or on the go.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Battery-free stylus
- Tablet battery lasts up to 12 months
Cost: $17
This drawing tablet for kids boasts a bright 10” color LCD writing screen, and features a lightweight yet durable ABS frame. There is onboard storage for the included stylus pen.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Available in a choice of sizes
- High sensitivity LCD panel
Cost: $19
