Main characteristics of a graphics tablet. What is a graphics tablet and for what purposes is it used? Graphic tablet for drawing - what is it?
If you are a beginner graphic artist, then most likely you have already heard that a graphics tablet is a must-have for you. In this article, we will cover the features of graphics tablets to help you decide which tablet is right for you based on your needs and budget.
What is a graphics tablet?
Graphics tablet or digitizer is an alternative type of input device that can be used in combination with or instead of a mouse, trackball, keyboard and other devices.
The tablet consists of two parts: a flat surface for drawing and a stylus (pen) programmed to work with the tablet. Typically, the kit also contains a stand or pen holder, and sometimes a wireless mouse that works on the surface of the tablet. A graphics tablet can be useful not only for artists, but also for ordinary users, as it is a very convenient device for entering information.
Most graphics tablets can completely replace a mouse. That is, the tablet works not only within the framework of some special programs like Adobe, it functions at the level of all computer processes.
And of course, a graphics tablet - necessary tool stock artist, who, since using a tablet greatly speeds up the process of creating and preparing illustrations.
Let's look at some basic characteristics that are important if you are going to choose a graphics tablet for yourself.
Tablet size
Size is one of the first factors to consider when choosing a tablet. The screen size of a graphics tablet is indicated diagonally and measured in inches (1 inch = 25.4 mm). In this case, more does not mean better. For beginners and home use, 4" by 5" or 6" by 8" will be sufficient. Advanced users, professional artists and illustrators usually use a larger surface area, but the price of the device also increases.
Remember that with a larger area you will have to move your arms more. Many people prefer a small tablet precisely to minimize hand movement. However, this can be daunting for an artist who is used to working with a large canvas.
Until recently, popular graphics tablet sizes were 4x5, 6x8, and 9x12 inches, which closely matched the aspect ratio of traditional computer monitors. But starting from the middle of 2000, there has been an increase in the number of wide-format monitors. Because of this, Wacom began producing large-format graphics tablets to fit the size of modern monitors. This does not mean at all that the aspect ratio of the tablet should match the ratio of the monitor, because the software and device drivers will help you adjust to any screen. Among large-format graphics tablets, the leading manufacturers are Wacom and Aiptek.
Interface
Most graphics tablets today have convenient USB connection. The USB cable of a tablet is usually long enough, which will allow you to freely move the tablet around the table or put it on your lap - as you wish.
There are also tablet options with Bluetooth and radio connectivity, making it completely wire-free. Recently, graphics tablets with Wi-Fi connections have also begun to appear, but so far these are exclusively expensive professional models of Wacom tablets that cost not a single thousand dollars.
Graphics tablet stylus
Before choosing a digitizer, you should pay attention to the stylus (pen), which, in fact, will need to be used to draw. A good pen is one of the main components of the device.
Typically, the stylus is separate from the tablet and runs on a battery. But there are also wired styluses that are connected to the tablet via a wire. Usually these are tablets for children or from a low price category. Such pens are not entirely convenient to use, so it is still better to choose a tablet with a separate pen. Fortunately, the majority are like that.
The pen is usually attached to the tablet itself, or the kit includes a separate stand for it. This is convenient, since losing a stylus is easy, but the cost of some of them can reach half the cost of the entire tablet. Therefore, losing or breaking a pen is a very unpleasant event.
The stylus of a graphics tablet usually has a tip that gradually wears out and requires replacement. A big plus when buying a tablet will be the availability of a set of replaceable tips.
The pen itself usually has several buttons that can perform different functions, such as an undo function or changing the line size and sensitivity of the pen. You can program the buttons to suit you and your needs, but it’s better to familiarize yourself with the stylus’ customization options in advance.
Pen sensitivity and pressure levels
Pressure is the level of sensitivity to pressing on the surface of the tablet. Most devices have 256, 512 or 1024 pressure levels. These levels allow you to control line thickness, opacity, and color. The more levels you have, the higher your control over manipulations, and drawing becomes easier.
Drivers and software
All graphics tablets come with drivers, so be sure to ensure compatibility with your operating system. Drivers control many aspects of the tablet’s functioning; some advanced models, thanks to drivers, allow you to adapt the device to your needs to the maximum through menu settings, applications, etc.
Some tablets also include additional software: programs and utilities for artists, the most common are Adobe Photoshop Elements, Corel Painter Essentials, etc. Some manufacturers also add programs for recognizing handwritten text and converting notes into printed text.
Graphics tablet price
Price categories for tablets depend on their level. For beginners who have just started working on graphics, what manufacturers offer for around $100 may well be enough. For this money, you can choose a digitizer with good characteristics that will help you understand what a graphics tablet is and how to work with it.
Professional equipment used by artists can cost up to several thousand dollars, but I think those who are willing to spend that kind of money to buy a digitizer and without our advice know how to choose a graphics tablet.
On average, a fairly modern, high-quality tablet model with good functionality and ample capabilities can be purchased for $150-200. But I repeat: you can create masterpieces on a tablet for $100 or less - it all depends only on whether the artist’s hands grow from the right place J
How long does it take to learn how to use a graphics tablet?
If we are not talking about a professional digitizer, which can take a lot of time to learn all its functions, then mastering a graphics tablet is a matter of several hours. You just need to get used to the device in order to coordinate your movements and pressing force. If you picked up a tablet for the first time, don’t rush to open Illustrator and start drawing. Try playing solitaire first, for example. After you master moving the cursor, dragging, clicking, be sure to customize the device for yourself: program the buttons, set the optimal sensitivity of the graphics tablet pen. And after all this you can start creating masterpieces.
Graphics tablet manufacturers
Before choosing a graphics tablet, you should also familiarize yourself with the most popular manufacturers.
Wacom is the most famous manufacturer of this device. Wacom deservedly has an excellent reputation thanks to high quality products and the variety of models produced. Produces graphics tablets for operating systems Macintosh and Windows. Wacom's most popular line of tablets is Bamboo. Tablets in this series have been highly praised for their combination of price and quality.
Genius is another manufacturer that is popular among our artists, mainly due to the low prices of the devices. An excellent option for beginners.
Huion is a newcomer to the tablet industry, which in its short existence has managed to gain the trust of customers. Produces a fairly wide range of affordable prices. Due to its youth and ambition, the brand strives to use only advanced technologies to gain an advantage over more experienced competitors.
In addition to these leaders, brands such as Trust, Aiptek and others are also popular.
If we talk about, then I use the simplest tablet. This is not Wacom, not Huion, or even Trust. This is a graphics tablet from the Chinese manufacturer UGEE, purchased once on Aliexpress for $50. This was and remains my first and only tablet, which I have been using for more than 5 years, and with which I have drawn thousands. There are no complaints about use, it works clearly and quickly, despite the fact that the surface is already scratched, and the pen has survived several serious impacts on the floor. Therefore, before you shell out a tidy sum when buying a graphics tablet, especially if it is your first, think carefully about whether it is really worth paying more.
Rapid development information technology touched all aspects of our lives. At the same time, some areas have already reached a level of perfection beyond which their further qualitative improvement will be practically imperceptible for us, even with an increase in the basic technical characteristics. This fully applies to scanners and, in many respects, to graphics tablets. We will tell you how to decide on key priorities when choosing a model of a modern graphics tablet for drawing in this article.
What is a graphics tablet
Few people know, but the first graphic tablets “KoalaPad” and the first styluses for the consumer market were created in Apple For Apple computers II. Later, the idea became widespread thanks to developers from other companies. Externally, a graphics tablet is very similar to a regular one, but, at the same time, it has its own features and capabilities that fundamentally distinguish the gadget, both in diagonal size and in functionality and technical characteristics of any of the existing models of tablets we are used to.
A graphics tablet is a device that allows you to display information on a computer screen, used primarily in graphics - image editing, creating 3D animation and design work, as well as for navigating applications and OS menus, less often - for working with automatic text recognition systems and digitization of signatures.
Working with a graphics tablet
Unlike touchpads, mice and mini-joysticks located between the keyboard keys, a graphics tablet has all the capabilities of a brush, pencil, felt-tip pen and other tools used by a master for drawing.
Digital pen
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Some graphics tablet models support finger touch recognition. In other words, the work surface, if necessary, can be used as touchpad tablet - for example, in models . Such capabilities, in particular, may be required when controlling the cursor when navigating within the OS interface and not graphics applications, as an alternative to a traditional mouse.
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Many tablet models support a function that is very useful in controlling the parameters of some programs using gestures - rotating an object, scaling, building a perspective, etc.
There is also an option on the market that includes a graphics tablet with a wireless mouse. In some cases this is convenient, but in most models its use is very limited by the size of the gadget’s working area. Some models support wireless mice offered by third-party manufacturers, which should be indicated in the documentation included with the product.
Remote control included
Particularly noteworthy are models that support ergonomic multifunctional remote controls, allowing you to manipulate the image no less comfortably than on touch screen with Multi-Touch support.
Remote control for premium graphics tablet model
Manipulation of image parameters in this case is carried out using the Touch Ring, which provides the master with all the necessary capabilities for volumetric correction of the picture. It is worth noting that the capabilities of the innovative remote control significantly exceed the simplest set of actions supported by the standard Multi-Touch interface. In many cases, this advantage becomes one of the decisive arguments in favor of choosing a professional model of a graphics tablet with a remote control.
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So, we got a basic idea of what a graphics tablet is, how it works and what it comes with. At the next stage, we will try to navigate the criteria for choosing a model.
Since there are only a few key characteristics that are directly related to the professional capabilities of a graphics tablet, choosing a model is greatly simplified.
Comfort is an essential component of an excellent result
Graphic tablets, as we have already mentioned, were created in the “pre-touch era”, when even Apple did not dream of combining a sensitive surface and a screen within one commercially viable model. This largely determined both the form factor of the device and the pattern of its use for years. That is why many models of graphic tablets for drawing on the modern market are devices that depend on an additional larger screen.
At the same time, professional work with a graphics tablet requires complete concentration on one working surface. To meet the needs of professionals for the required level of comfort, models with a built-in digitizer were developed, allowing them to perform all the necessary actions with a picture directly on the screen of a graphics tablet. Naturally, such models are much more expensive and are used mainly among professionals. Accordingly, when deciding to buy a graphics tablet for drawing, you must decide not only on your budget, but also on the scale of your requirements and the prospects for using the gadget.
Work surface size
This parameter is one of the determining ones in graphics tablets. In absolutely all models, the virtual working surface area exactly matches the screen area. In other words, moving the digital pen from edge to edge will be accompanied by a similar movement of the cursor.
Pay attention to the size of the working surface
If for navigation the small formats (A6, etc.) of the tablet are quite comfortable, then for its main task - drawing/sculpting, a small screen is a serious disadvantage, since even a small physical movement of the digital pen will correspond to a fairly significant “virtual” one. Thus, to achieve the required accuracy in interpreting the picture in this case, you will have to continuously scale the image, which negatively affects the ability to perceive the picture as a whole.
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A5 format is the golden mean for beginning artists. The ratio of quality and price of a graphics tablet for models of this format is optimal.
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It is wiser for professionals to buy a graphics tablet for drawing in A4 format, especially since such gadgets are fully upgradeable hardware and, especially, regular software updates.
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The next parameter you should pay attention to is the aspect ratio of the working surface. If you are considering buying an entry-level or mid-level graphics tablet with 4:3 sides, then it is advisable to select a monitor with the same ratio, which is very, very difficult today. Likewise, widescreen devices will be the best choice if you have an appropriate monitor.
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Try buying a graphics tablet with a 4:3 aspect ratio and pair it with a 16:9 monitor (or vice versa). In this case, you will encounter a problem: the dependence of the cursor movement on the monitor screen on the movement of the digital pen will no longer be linear, which will significantly complicate drawing inclined lines. Fortunately, most modern tablets are designed in a 16:9 widescreen format.
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Resolution determines the quality of the drawing
The most important parameter that affects the comfort of work and, in many ways, the final result. The idea is that the physical movement of the stylus is digitally interpreted and processed by a program that determines how many pixels to move the cursor. Following this logic, one can easily be misled into thinking that a tablet with a high resolution and a small working surface will provide better results. However, in order to move the cursor to the desired distance on the monitor screen, the pen on a small tablet has to be moved a shorter distance. And here, due to the human factor, problems and inconsistencies will inevitably arise that can call into question the final result.
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In connection with the noted circumstance, for productive and comfortable work you should select a resolution of 2000 lpi and higher, and even better, if possible, consider purchasing a model with a resolution of 4000 lpi and higher.
Tilt, swivel, pressure
In addition to the special pleasure of using an ergonomic and comfortable digital pen while drawing, the latter is able to “tell” software information about how hard the artist presses on the working surface, at what angle the pen is tilted and at what angle it has turned. Such capabilities turn out to be indispensable when interpreting the artist’s real drawing tools, for controlling the force of pressing a virtual tool on a picture when editing it and on a 3D image in sculpting.
Unlike analog devices, graphics tablets recognize and capture discrete levels pressing force. About half of the not-so-modern models, but still on the market, support information transmission at 1024 levels, half – at 2048. The most modern models support 4096 and 8192 pressure levels. The accuracy of the interpretation of the line thickness and the force of influence of the virtual stack depends on this parameter.
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A larger number is always better, but if you are imitating a pencil, marker or felt-tip pen, then it is unlikely that there will be a significant difference in this indicator. Sculpting is another matter, working with a virtual brush, charcoal or, for example, pastel - here a significant difference in parameters will make itself felt.
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The pen tilt recognition function is supported mainly by premium segment models and is not used when working with all tools. Support for recognizing the angle of rotation of the stylus around its axis is truly exotic. This feature may be in demand if you work with tools whose tip in cross-section is a distinct rectangle (a flat brush, a marker, etc.). Functions that support tilt and rotation recognition are relevant for modelers and digital artists.
Wacom Art Marker/Art Pen (KP-701E-01) - marker pen for Intous4/Cintiq21
Accessories
Accessories for graphics tablet
Using a graphics tablet for drawing requires periodic replacement of consumables. In the case of a digital pen, these are replaceable tips, the quality of which determines how accurately and correctly the artist’s idea will be implemented. The absolute leader in the production of this type peripheral devices and accessories for graphics tablets – Wacom.
For each graphics tablet model, Wacom recommends using specific styluses. serial numbers. At the same time, the software allows you to “configure” virtual instruments independently of each other. Thus, one of the styluses in your working arsenal can be assigned the function of a pencil, another - a brush, etc.
An example of a set of styluses for solving various work tasks
Well, to spray virtual paint, you can use the airbrush pen shown in the figure below.
Airbrush stylus
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If you feel that the stylus “sank” in your hand and seems too thin, you can always “supplement” it, if desired, with a special cylinder-shaped or pear-shaped pad.
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A graphics tablet is a device that allows you to enter data using a stylus (pen) and a sensitive area. It's like a pencil with a piece of paper, but in this case it's represented by electronic device. With this description, many users might think that this tablet is only used by stylists or artists. This is actually true, this gadget is quite useful in their profession, but it can also be used for many other tasks.
Graphics tablet: what is it?
Very often, a graphics tablet is confused with a traditional tablet PC, but these devices have nothing in common. The gadget is a plastic rectangular case with a stylus and several keys.
A stylus is called a pencil, designed to capture images on a tablet. Unlike a regular mouse, it is force sensitive. The weaker the pressure on the stylus, the more transparent and thinner the line. This helps regulate the pen's dynamics, creating the illusion of real "drawing" that artists are most familiar with.
The tablet connects to a regular PC via a USB connector, and there are also wireless models. The device is compatible with Sai, Photo Shop, CorelDraw, Paint.
Graphics tablet functionality
In addition to receiving an image, with this gadget it is easier to edit photos, create animations, you can easily build graphs, make your signature on an electronic text file, and even create your own original font.
Reference! In addition to all this, the equipment makes it easier to work in any graphics applications. Now every element cannot be left unattended.
Why do you need a graphics tablet?
These devices are used by people of various professions:
- Photographers. They need this gadget to process photographs - with a pencil they can correct any flaws and edit the frame down to one pixel.
- Artists and stylists, since their work is directly related to drawing. As for web designers, their profession is precisely to create drawings and animations on the computer. Naturally, graphic drawing using a pencil will make this process much easier, more comfortable and more accurate, unlike using a regular mouse.
- Individuals who strive for development and people who spend a lot of time at the computer. For those who want to expand their knowledge and discover their potential, a graphics tablet will be useful. This gadget will help you do your work in a new way, taking a break from the keyboard and mouse. The device is also good entertainment for people who just like to draw.
- Children. Yes, it is good if children use real paper and paints, but it is also necessary to master new technologies. Confident use of graphic tools will make it possible to add variety, since the child will be able to draw both on a piece of paper and on a graphics tablet, this will be useful in the future.
- Entrepreneurs and office workers are those people who constantly deal with documents. First of all, why every entrepreneur needs a gadget is to put his own electronic signature. Of course, it is not advisable to purchase this equipment just for this purpose, but other tasks can also be performed. For example, this device makes it more convenient to work with documents and prepare presentations.
Attention! The tablet is useful for almost all users. Of course, for some it is required due to their profession, while for others it can simply provide pleasant leisure time.
How to use such a device
The tablet itself has a working part that transfers the result of a touch with a pen to the computer screen. Using a stylus, you perform actions similar to a regular mouse. But in this case, there are many more possibilities when considering drawing or design.
Thus, using the mouse you will not be able to accurately work out the pressing force of the cursor or the thickness of the lines that are displayed directly in the form of a picture. That is, the stylus is used as a full-fledged control method; you can take images as if it were on regular paper. But the result is immediately displayed on the screen.
One more advantage should be noted. For example, in order to accurately retouch a certain area, the paper cannot be physically enlarged, but this can be easily done with a drawing on the monitor.
The only difficulty that most often arises for users is getting used to the fact that drawing with a stylus takes place on a tablet, and the resulting result is shown only on the screen. So, you need to raise your head to the monitor all the time.
High-quality styluses take into account the force of impact, the angle of the pen and other little things that are required when creating images. There are tablets combined with a screen on which you can immediately see the result of your work.
Graphics tablet – universal device how to edit text files, and for creating design projects. No creative profession can do without this gadget. You just need to decide on the required characteristics, and this device will make life much easier.
We tell you what to look for when choosing a tablet for a designer.
A tablet is a useful tool not only for drawing, but also for many other tasks that a designer faces.
What does a graphics tablet look like?
This is a device on which the created drawing becomes digital image on the computer screen or immediately displayed on the tablet screen, if available.
Regular graphics tablet and screen tablet
A graphics tablet for drawing consists of two tools - a stylus and a drawing display. The presence of a screen, stylus rods, stand and other additional elements depends on specific model and its configuration.
The device differs from iPad tablets in more precise settings, synchronization with graphics programs and high input accuracy, which is important for artists and illustrators. At the same time, the process of creating a drawing and retouching an image is simplified, because you do not use a mouse or touchpad, but a convenient stylus.
How to choose a graphics tablet for drawing
Tablets differ in input accuracy, working surface diagonal, screen presence and other parameters.
The first thing you should decide on is the size of the device. An A3 tablet is not always convenient to use - it is bulky. But A4 and A5 tablets are great for daily tasks. They are compact and easy to carry.
Next is the display resolution. Everything is simple here: the higher the resolution, the higher the accuracy of the device. But along with the quality of the tablet, the price rises. For beginners, we recommend tablets with a resolution of 2.5 thousand lpi - this will be quite enough.
Another important point is the sensitivity of the stylus. The higher it is, the more accurately the tablet will perceive your actions. Pressure sensitivity is measured in levels and ranges from 512 to 8,192. We recommend a stylus with a sensitivity of 1,024 to 2,048 or higher.
Please note that some styluses also respond to pressure and angle, and have several operating modes.
The lighter the stylus, the more comfortable it is to use. The absolute leader here is Wacom, whose styluses do not require batteries, batteries, or wires.
Wacom graphics tablets
Wacom is considered the undisputed leader among graphics tablet manufacturers. If your budget allows and you need a tablet that will last a long time, choose Wacom. The manufacturer has a large selection of devices: smart notepads, classic graphics tablets, interactive displays and even full-fledged tablet PCs. Most often, designers choose One by Wacom or Intuos.
One by Wacom is a line of tablets, the cost of which starts from about 5 thousand rubles and depends on the size of the device. Two options are available: A5 and A6. This tablet is ideal for beginners and those who, in principle, doubt whether they need a tablet.
One by Wacom - good tablet for beginners
The more complex, expensive and professional Intuos also has several versions: Intuos, Intuos PRO and Intuos PRO Paper Edition. The line features a resolution of 5,080 lpi and stylus sensitivity from 1,024 to 2,048 lpi. Screen sizes are different - from A6 to A3.
Intuos tablets are positioned as devices for home use, Intuos PRO are considered professional graphics tablets, and Intuos PRO Paper Edition has an unusual paper handling function.
Wacom recently introduced new version rulers.
Video about the new line of Wacom Intuos tablets
Inexpensive graphics tablets for drawing
Despite Wacom's achievements, there are other manufacturers of good graphics tablets.
The most inexpensive graphics tablet with good reviews is the Huion H420. The cost of the device is about 3 thousand rubles. The tablet has a small working area of 102x57 mm, a stylus sensitivity of 2,048 pressure levels and the presence of three customizable buttons. The device is compatible with all graphics programs; one of the drawbacks is that you can scratch the screen with a stylus, so you should work carefully.
Huion H420 Tablet
Another budget option is the Genius EasyPen i405X, which costs less than 3 thousand rubles. The tablet's stylus is slightly worse than the previous model - 1,024 pressure levels, but the resolution is not bad - 250 lpi.
Among the shortcomings, we note the need to constantly change the batteries in the stylus, difficulties with the driver’s operation, and an ill-conceived design (just don’t attach the stylus to the clip).
Genius EasyPen i405X tablet
XP-Pen Star 06 will cost about 10 thousand rubles. You shouldn’t believe the 8,192 pressure levels stated on the manufacturer’s website - in practice, the pen seems much less sensitive. In general, the tablet has good characteristics, a battery-free stylus and well-designed buttons with a control wheel.
Graphic tablet for drawing XP-Pen Star 06
Huion Giano WH1409, costing about 24 thousand rubles, is highly praised for its increased working area, not very high price compared to similar models, the presence of built-in memory and powerful battery, capable of working for about 40 hours. The disadvantages are the thickness of the device and the insufficiently convenient stylus.
Huion Giano WH1409 tablet
The best graphics tablets with a screen
Tablets not with a traditional work surface, but with a screen, appeared relatively recently. The title of “the best graphics tablet with a screen” belongs to Wacom devices - the Cintiq line.
It presents seven types of tablets with screens of different sizes, resolutions and sensitivity. The line has only one problem - it's expensive. If with regular tablets it is not difficult to choose a budget alternative to Wacom, then in the case of screen tablets it is somewhat more difficult. The cost of Cintiq and the cost of tablets with screens from other manufacturers differ significantly.
Best graphics tablet with screen - Wacom Cintiq
Yiynova MVP22U (V3) + RH is a very powerful device with a large working surface that costs about $500, while for a Cintiq with such a diagonal you will have to pay three times more.
The A3 tablet has excellent technical specifications, monitor quality and good stylus sensitivity. The only downside is the weight of the device.
Tablet with screen Yiynova MVP22U (V3) + RH
Bosto Kingtee is considered one of the best alternatives to Wacom Cintiq. For a 13-inch device you will have to pay about 30 thousand rubles; it is considered one of the most inexpensive graphics tablets with a screen, but you need to be prepared for certain shortcomings. Bosto Kingtee users report a dim screen, limited calibration capabilities, and intermittent software issues.
Inexpensive graphics tablet for drawing with Bosto Kingtee screen
XP-Pen Artist screen tablets are an inexpensive and quite successful alternative to the Wacom Cintiq. Tablets in this line are distinguished by good hardware and stable operation. Negative reviews are rare and for the most part are related to the tablet's software rather than its capabilities.
XP-Pen Artist - graphics tablet with a screen, low price and good reviews
We hope that the selection will be useful to you. But the secret of a successful artist, designer or illustrator is not in the technique he uses, but in his skills and knowledge. In order to quickly and easily display your ideas on paper or a computer, you need to practice. You can speed up the process and improve your skills using the course.
Technology has advanced, and now many designers and photographers can breathe a sigh of relief. Of course, this device can be used not only by people associated with creativity. There are also those who find it much more convenient to use a PC using a graphics tablet. We have to deal with this gadget and understand its true purpose.
Basic Concepts
So, a graphics tablet is a gadget that helps you enter information into a computer. Its main difference from a mouse or keyboard is that the user uses his hand directly. That is, it creates information through the movement of the hand. represents the gadget itself and the pen. Some models also have a mouse.
Story
Few people know, but the first graphics tablet was a “teleautograph”. It was invented by Elisha Gray and patented in 1888. It is this scientist who is considered the predecessor of the famous
The next step in the invention of this gadget happened in 1957. Back then, a handwriting identification device was used for the Stylator PC. Later the RAND Tablet was presented. The device is considered the first graphics tablet. It was of a special design: under the “screen” of the device there was a grid of conductors. Electrical “shocks” were sent there using the ternary Gray cipher. This information was received by the stylus, which could decode the data into a position.
Over time, another graphics tablet was released. It was a device that had a special pen. It helped create sparks. The built-in microphones determined the location of the clicks, that is, they looked for the location of the pen.
In the 80s, Summagraphics Corp was able to promote this gadget to the masses. Then the devices received a commercial triumph. They were used as data entry mechanisms.
Already in today's understanding, graphics tablets appeared under the name “KoalaPad”. They were originally created for the Apple II. But later other PCs needed such an input system. Other tablet models began to appear.
How does it work?
Although the development of technology has changed, the principle of operation of a graphics tablet is still very similar to its very first analogue. The device has a grid of wires. Its step is quite large - reaches 6 millimeters. Despite this distance, the pen is fixed on the tablet very accurately. The device reads information in more detail - up to 200 lines per millimeter.
Innovations
Wacom has taken a step forward. She was able to develop a mechanism in which the grid could be both a source and a receiver. The feather in this case receives a charge from the grid. After which it sends a response signal, which is a reflection of the original one. This "response" can be considered new, since it already carries additional data. The obtained materials indicate the identification of the stylus, its pressing force, fixation and position of the pointers.
Thanks to this mechanism, you can understand what is being used at the moment: the tip of the pen or its eraser. It is also convenient that separate power supply for this gadget is no longer needed. Although such a mechanism may be influenced by other emitting devices.
Feathers
This part of the graphics tablet may also vary depending on the model of the gadget. Some are able to adjust the pressing force. To do this, they use a variable capacitor. Wacom makes just such styluses. It is also possible to use a mechanism with variable resistance or inductance.
In general, different components can be used to create a stylus. One of them may be the piezoelectric effect. It creates a potential difference that appears when interacting with the pen. This way you can find the coordinates of a point.
Again, depending on the tablet model, different principles for interaction of the stylus with the surface of the gadget can be developed. The device can perceive not only the pressing force, but also the tilt of the pen, its course, rotation and the force of squeezing the device with your hand.
What should you pay attention to?
Now many people know that a graphics tablet is the best assistant for those who work with graphic editors. Depending on its purpose, the gadget may have certain characteristics. When purchasing a device, you should pay attention to several main parameters. In addition to price, the dimensions of the device, stylus sensitivity, resolution, speed and working surface are important.
Dimensions
Depending on what you need a graphics tablet for, you need to choose its dimensions. If you use the device not only in the office, but also at home, at school, and even while walking, then you need to choose compact sizes. It will be much more comfortable if the tablet fits in your bag. For such purposes, it is optimal to choose A5.
If you only need a tablet for work, and you are not going to take it outside the office, then you can choose larger sizes. But it is worth considering that the price for such dimensions will be significantly higher.
Sensitivity
The stylus also has its own characteristics. Depending on how much more sensitive it is, its response to your commands will be correspondingly faster. There are options in which the pen can distinguish up to more than a thousand pressure levels. Relatively inexpensive tablets can identify up to 500 levels. Typically, the thickness of the drawing depends on this parameter. That is, this characteristic is important for animators and artists.
Permission
This is also an important parameter that you should pay attention to when buying a tablet. As with the image, this characteristic helps determine the number of lines per inch: more precisely, the density of working sensors on the surface. It is clear that the higher this indicator, the better the response will be. Expensive models have more than 5 thousand lpi.
Speed
This parameter speaks for itself. He has no specific indicators. Therefore, when choosing a tablet, it is better to focus on reviews. Sometimes what manufacturers say may differ from what happens in practice. However, than more speed response, the faster the tablet will transmit information to the PC.
Work surface
This parameter should not be confused with dimensions. This characteristic applies to the monitor of your gadget. Remember that when choosing, you need to know the aspect ratio of the screen. It will have to correspond to this indicator for the tablet. Otherwise, the work will not be entirely correct.
Diversity
Most likely, the meager variety of graphics tablets is due to their rare use. Nowadays, rarely does anyone choose this gadget as an input device. Most often, a graphics tablet can be found among designers, architects, artists, photographers, in general among those who need to create projects in electronic format.
Reliability
Wacom is considered the most reliable and main manufacturer of these devices. The company was founded in 1983. Nowadays it is a leader in the manufacture of these gadgets. One of the most popular and affordable graphics tablets is the Wacom Intuos Pen Small. Its cost is about 6 thousand rubles.
This device is considered the youngest of the entire series. It was developed for creative people, those who work in design, photography and illustration. Its working area is 15x9 cm. It has an average resolution of 2500 lpi. The case is of high quality: it is ergonomic, has rubberized legs and a slight inclination for ease of use. The tablet has a battery that lasts up to 15 hours of active use. The main advantage of this model can be considered the presence of customizable express keys, as well as the operation of the wireless network module.
Another model from the manufacturer is the Bamboo Pen&Touch graphics tablet. Costs about 5 thousand rubles. Has very similar characteristics to previous model. Its dimensions are a little more compact. Resolution 2540 lpi. You can enter using either a pen or a regular sensor. The sensitivity of this tablet is up to 1024 pressure levels.
Also last year, Wacom introduced a new line of gadgets. The Intuos graphics tablet was presented in four variations: Art, Comic, Draw and Photo. The models received such names due to their configuration, or rather software. Each gadget has its own software designed for one or another area of work.
The new Intuos family also includes the Wacom Pen&Touch S graphics tablet. The model also received good reviews from professionals. Its main advantage for many was its size - A6 format. The gadget also supports multi-touch, 2440 lpi and 1024 pressure levels.
The best of the best
Among all the models, it is worth highlighting the Wacom Cintiq 22HD DTK-2200. This tablet can be considered one of the best. Its main disadvantage is huge price- more than 180 thousand rubles. Nevertheless, the gadget is considered to be used not only for creating illustrations and processing photographs, but also for three-dimensional modeling. It has a large screen diagonal - 21 inches. Resolution - Full HD, more than 5 thousand lpi. To secure your information, you can use graphic key on the tablet.
The gadget can identify 2048 levels of pressure, as well as up to 60 degrees of stylus tilt. In addition to wide functionality, the tablet has thoughtful ergonomics, as well as high-quality case materials.
Other options
In addition to the most popular and reliable Wacom, there is another manufacturer. The budget graphics tablet Genius EasyPen i405X can be purchased for 2000-2500 rubles. The main advantages of this model are considered to be 28 and high-quality case materials.
This graphics tablet is unlikely to be suitable for professionals. Most of all, it will appeal to simply free artists and amateurs. It is very compact and has a good resolution of 2540 lpi. The disadvantage is that you will have to buy batteries for the stylus, the touch keys have small cells, and sometimes difficulties arise with “firewood”.
