Best pen tablets for Photoshop and suitable for Graphic Design

Any graphic designer or photographer can do without a graphics tablet today—at least not if he wants to create or edit photos and work on the computer digitally. Adobe Photoshop is the standard image editing program used by almost every photographer and graphic designer. Since not every graphics tablet integrates with every software, many wonder which pen tablets are the best for Adobe Photoshop.

Anyone working with Photoshop for a long time will eventually consider purchasing a tablet. This raises the question: What are the best pen tablets for Photoshop? What needs to be considered when buying? If you are a beginner and decide on your first graphics tablet, you must read many test reports to find out which suits you and your wallet. I especially want to help beginners find the best tablet for Photoshop.

Buy: Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020

The following guide provides information on various graphics tablets and helpful tips on finding the perfect pen tablet for graphics, making the purchase decision a little easier.

Why pen tablets for Photoshop are most popular with graphic designers?

Which graphics pen tablet is best for Photoshop? A graphics tablet is a pointing device that works like a computer mouse. The cursor can be moved across the computer screen using a graphics tablet. However, because the device is operated with a pen, much more precise control is possible. In addition, most input devices can perceive additional information about the pen guide. This includes:

• Pen print: The strength with which the pen is pressed onto the tablet is passed on to the computer.
• Pen tilt: The angle at which the pen tip is placed on the graphics tablet is passed to the computer.
• Finger pressure: The pressure with which your fingers grip the pen and press it on the tablet is transferred to the computer.
• Various graphics tools: Depending on the graphics program, the pen can be used for drawing, painting, hatching, or working with a spray can.

However, graphic artists and photographers constantly need different tools for image processing or must be able to work so precisely that the investment is worthwhile. If you have never worked with a graphics tablet before, you can, first of all, buy a cheaper device. However, he will probably quickly miss a high-quality graphics tablet’s many functions. Therefore, it is worthwhile as a beginner to buy a high-quality graphics tablet for Adobe Photoshop or other professional image editing programs.

The pen tablet is a must-have for computer artists. These input devices allow you to draw images and graphics like a pen and paper on a computer. Pen tablets come in quite handy when creating digital works using Photoshop. They are accurate and precise. If you are looking for the best drawing tablet with a screen, below are the top ten best pen tablets for Photoshop.

The Best Pen Tablets for Photoshop – Suitable for Photo Editing

After extensive research, we found the best Photoshop tablets suitable for photographers, graphic designers, and other draftsmen. Let’s discuss them.

1. Wacom Intuos CTL4100

Wacom CTL4100 Intuos Graphics Drawing

This is one of the best pen tablets for Photoshop under the $100 budget. It is battery-free and perfectly replaces your keyboard and mouse for photo editing. The Wacom incorporates a pressure-sensitive feature that allows you to draw different lines depending on the pressure you apply.

The package includes free online tutorials on using the device and an Art Rage lite sketching app. The device is compatible with both MAC and Windows and can be connected to either via USB cable.

2. Wacom Intuos Pro

Wacom Intuos Pro – Best Graphics tablet

The Pro version of the Wacom Intuos is a ‘beast’ regarding Pen Tablets. Weighing only 1.5 pounds, this tablet has the best features. It also uses pressure sensitivity but is more advanced because it has 8192 levels. Its exterior is made of glass fiber and anodized aluminum.

Though lighter than its predecessors, it is four times more accurate. Therefore, regardless of your Photoshop skills, this is a pen tablet that you can rely on. The pen buttons have tactile feedback, and the tab allows you to customize express keys to improve work efficiency. The Wacom Intuos Pro is a powerful, ergonomic tablet for digital artists.

3. Huion KAMVAS GT-191

Huion KAMVAS GT-191 – Pen Tablets for Photoshop

If you have been in this industry for a while, you probably heard of the Huion KAMVAS GT-191. This is an affordable yet efficient device. Working on the 19” IPS Display is fun and exciting because it incorporates a 72% NTSC color gamut. Thus, you will be able to see the progress of your editions in every step.

Additionally, this tablet is quite responsive. Similar to the Wacom Intuos Pro, it has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. It’s ergonomic and compatible with both MAC and Windows.

4. XP-Pen Artist 15.6

XP-Pen Artist 15.6 – Artist pen tablet

The 15.6” resolution delivers crystal clear images on the 16:9 display of the XP-Pen Artist. This pen tablet boasts an impressive design and weighs only 3.3 pounds, making it one of the lightest tablets on the market.

Other than that, this remarkable device incorporates modern pen technology. Compared to its predecessors, the Huion Pen offers twice the accuracy. As a result, it improves your Photoshop results. It also features multi-touch gestures such as zooming and panning.

5. Microsoft Surface Pro 4

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 – Graphics pen tablet

It’s one of the best drawing tablets with a screen suitable for graphics work. For years, Microsoft has strived to prove to its users that a tablet can replace a laptop. Well, the Surface Pro 4 is a living testimony. It’s powerful and standardly sized, thus the best device to edit photos. It is built with a powerful Intel core i5 processor, 4GB RAM, and 128GB capacity storage. Also, it has a 5MP rear webcam, and it can record HD videos on a widescreen, giving you a powerful experience.

if you don’t have an idea: How to Use the Camera on a Microsoft Surface Pro?

Compared to the Surface Pro 3, Microsoft has improved the hardware and tweaked the software to give us a better version. Nonetheless, the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is a high-end tablet with a starting market price of approximately $400.

6. Apple iPad (2018 Model)

Apple Ipad Graphic Tablet

Apple is a leading tech company, and its products have and continue to deliver top-notch services. The Apple iPad 2018 Model isn’t your ordinary pen tablet. It has a 9.7” Retina display suitable for Photoshop owners. It’s also very light and slim and easily fits in your backpack.

The iPad 2018 features an A10 Fusion Chipset to enhance picture quality. This model also supports Apple Pencil, giving you an experience. If you can afford it, don’t hesitate to get yourself the Apple iPad 2018 model. This device will take your Photoshop experience to the next level.

7. Ugee M708

Ugee M708 – Drawing pen tablet

With the Ugee M708, you can do more than edit pictures. It allows you to draw and also design software. It boasts a 10×6-inch LED drawing area. Inside the package, you will find two rechargeable pens. Both pens feature 8192 pressure levels, making them ideal for sensitive editing tasks.

Also, it will compatible with Windows 10 / 8 / 7 and Mac OS 10.8.0 or above; the Driver program works with creative software included such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Fireworks, Macromedia Flash, Comic Studio, 3D MAX, Autodesk MAYA, Pixologic ZBrush and more.

The tab has stands to support it, making work more accessible. One drawback of the Ugee M708 is that it does not support 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch). However, thanks to its many advanced features, you will get value for your money.

8. XP-Pen Artist 12

Xp Pen tablet

It is smaller than the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 but very affordable. The 11.6” screen delivers clear and lifelike colors, allowing you to edit and draw as accurately as possible. You will be able to see the difference between unedited and edited pictures. The XP-Pen Artist 12 is built for ergonomics. Its screen reduces glare by 56%, so you can work for longer hours without worrying about it affecting your eyes.

Similar to the Ugee 1910B, its pen has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This pen tablet is the best you can give a Photoshop lover. It’s compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems and costs around $249.99.

9. Samsung Galaxy tab S6

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6

One of Apple’s biggest competitors is Samsung. And they, too, have not been left behind. The Galaxy Tab S6 is a top pick pen tablet for Android lovers. One of the perks of this device is that it comes with a stylus. Therefore, you don’t have to purchase it aside from the Apple iPad 2018 model. Meet the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, one of the best ultra-slim 2-in-1 that performs like a laptop with the mobility of a tablet. Imagine a better personal Laptop experience— without a laptop.

The screen size is 10.5”, and the battery life is 16 hours. You can connect it to your computer via a USB cable. Also, make it all happen with a Skyrocket Fast-Charging battery that keeps up with you all day. This device costs about $647.99.

10. The Apple iPad Pro 12.9

Apple iPad Pro 12.9

Yes, we did save the best for last. For Photoshop lovers who prefer Apple gadgets and have a higher budget, the iPad Pro 12.9 is the ideal pen tablet. You will, however, have also to buy the Apple Pencil 2. This device works best with Photoshop and any other type of editing device. The screen size measures 12.9 inches. There is also another version that has an 11-inch screen. Both feature a large liquid retina display for enhanced views.

Choosing the best pen tablet for Photoshop and graphic design is crucial for enhancing your workflow and achieving professional results. When selecting a pen tablet, consider pressure sensitivity, size, resolution, and additional features to find a device that best suits your creative needs. Here’s a summary of key points to keep in mind:

1. Pressure Sensitivity: Higher pressure sensitivity allows for more nuanced and precise control, essential for detailed work in Photoshop and graphic design.
2. Tablet Size: Larger tablets provide more space for sweeping strokes, while smaller tablets are more portable and easier to use in limited workspace environments.
3. Resolution: Higher resolution ensures greater accuracy and detail in your designs, which is crucial for intricate graphic work.
4. Compatibility: Ensure the tablet is compatible with your operating system and integrates smoothly with Photoshop and other graphic design software.
5. Customizable Buttons: Additional buttons can streamline your workflow by allowing you to assign frequently used shortcuts.
6. Build Quality: A well-built tablet with a sturdy pen will provide a better drawing experience and last longer.
7. Pen Features: Look for a pen with good ergonomics, tilt recognition, and minimal lag for a more natural drawing experience.

From the above list of the ten best tablets for Photoshop, you can choose one that meets your product specifications and budget. Suppose you are getting into the Photoshop industry from a professional point of view. In that case, you should consider investing in a quality pen tablet to make work easier and improve accuracy. We recommend using the Wacom Intuos Pro because it’s an excellent pen tablet for graphic designers.

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