Technology has largely been a boon for artists. Thanks to recent advancements, there are many new ways to draw. Some people like using computers or devices specially made for art, but many choose to create on tablets.
When picking out an artist’s tablet, you need to think about specific characteristics like internal power, display coloration, and inherent functionality. The below options excel in those categories and are why they make our list.
Contents
Quick Summary
- If you want a pure drawing tablet, look no further than the Wacom Cintiq 22. This machine comes with 192 levels of pressure sensitivity alongside an anti-glare surface and extremely accurate stylus.
- The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is for artists who want laptop functionality. The keyboard and excellent S Pen allow you to seamlessly switch between tablet and laptop mode.
- The iPad Pro is the best choice for artists who want options. The device’s high-resolution screen looks great while you create, but it also gives you the ability to work or relax when you aren’t drawing.
Who Should Get This?
All of the tablets in this guide are for people who like to create art. That includes anyone who likes to draw. It doesn’t matter if you’re a painter, comic book writer, classic artist, or someone who just enjoys it as a hobby, you’ll see great results from the below options.
These tablets, due to their bright screens and vivid color, are also good choices for users who want a device with a solid display. Nothing, from movies to websites to word documents, looks bad on the following models.
Best Tablet for Artists: What to Consider in 2022
Display/Screen
The first characteristic you want from a writing tablet is a good screen. Not only will a sharp display let you better see your art, it will also provide you with excellent coloration. Nobody wants to use less-than-stellar tools when they work. Rather than doing your best with low resolution, get a bright, vibrant tablet that looks great all of the time. Glare-resistance and multiple viewing angles also go a long way.
Battery Life
Many artists know what it feels like to get in the zone. You start to draw, and everything comes together. That is why your tablet suddenly dying on you can quickly interrupt your flow. Always choose a model with long battery life. While you don’t need an all-day charge (though that certainly helps) you do want something that won’t lose power too quickly. Make sure it can hold a charge when using programs as well.
Apps
Apps are a good way to take a solid artist tablet and make it great. There are a wide range of art-related programs on the market, and the more you have access to, the better. Each tablet has its own store. Don’t be afraid to check them out before making your final purchase to see what they all have to offer.
Best Tablet for Artists: Our Picks in 2022
1. Wacom Cintiq 22
There are many tablets on the market that can handle a range of different tasks. However, if you want something solely for making art, the Wacom Cintiq 22 is your best bet. This large tablet comes with a wide drawing area, responsive screen, and fantastic stylus. All three of those are then complemented by the crisp resolution and premium display to ensure your creations come out exactly as intended.
The Wacom Pro Pen 2 has a staggering 192 levels of pressure sensitivity and the anti-glare screen can be viewed from all angles. In addition, the pen has no battery. Rather, it charges off the screen as you work so you’ll never have to worry about it dying. This device is also scratch-resistant and quite durable, meaning you won’t have to replace it in the event of an accident.
What We Like:
- 192 pressure levels
- Sensitive stylus
- Anti-glare screen works in all light conditions
- Comes with creative software
- Durable
- Beautiful display
- Battery-free pen
- Scratch-resistant surface
- Connects to both Mac and PC
What We Don’t Like:
- Nothing. This is the perfect artist tablet
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 may not come with the Surface Pen (it has to be purchased separately) but the two items work together to create one of the best artist tablets on the market. Equipped with Windows 10, this device runs a range of great drawing apps, including Adobe Photoshop. Such programs are then powered by the 10th generation intel core processor so you can create without any hiccups.
This Surface Pen is sensitive and the crisp screen is responsive. In addition, this model has 10.5-hour battery life. Though that performance dips if you’re working a lot, it still ensures you can sit down for hours and work on a project without needing to be plugged in. If you like to draw outside or in different settings, this model is also one of the lightest large tablets around.
What We Like:
- 10th gen intel core processor
- Easily runs Adobe Photoshop
- Great drawing apps
- USB-C and USB-A ports
- Versatile
- Lightweight and slim design
- 10.5-hour battery life
- Responsive screen
- Solid stylus
What We Don’t Like:
- Stylus sold separately
3. iPad Pro
While many may be surprised, the iPad Pro is a great tablet for art. The well-known device has one of the best displays on the market thanks to the premium Liquid Retina display. That then works with the True Tone and P3 wide color to ensure all of your drawings come to life in vivid detail. While the stylus is sold separately, it performs nicely on the responsive screen. Your drawings will always be as accurate as possible.
Of course, one of the iPad’s biggest draws is that it goes far beyond art. If you’re someone who wants to get a lot of functionality from their tablet, this model is the perfect relaxation machine. There are thousands of great apps on the iOS app store, and the wide screen looks great when streaming movies or TV. Add in the solid word processor and optional keyboard, and this can do it all.
What We Like:
- Wide screen
- Beautiful Liquid Retina display
- iOS store
- ProMotion
- True Tone
- P3 wide color
- Two sharp camera
- Sleek design
What We Don’t Like:
- High price
- Not the best for specialized artists
Useful Tips and Information
Drawing on a tablet can take some getting used to. Even seasoned artists may not be able to get started right away. However, all you need to do is go along with a few easy-to-follow tips and you’ll be working to your full potential in no time.
Remember, there are many ways to improve your tablet drawing experience. If you’re an iOS user, these accessories are great for the iPad. If you’re someone who prefers to draw on Windows tablets, check out these apps.
Final Words
Drawing on a tablet can be quite fun. The experience may not be for everyone, but if you’re someone who doesn’t mind working in a new medium, there’s nothing quite like it. It is not easy to track down a good drawing tablet, but the ones in this guide have the specs, display, and attributes you’ll need for every piece or style.
Do you use a tablet for drawing? What brands do you like? Let us know in the comments below!
