Graphics tablet for drawing and retouching: seller offers
With a screen or without
This is the first decision. A graphics tablet without a screen is a surface for the pen, and you see the picture on your monitor. It is cheaper and lasts long, but it takes longer to get used to. A tablet with a screen (pen display) shows the drawing right under the pen. It is more comfortable for illustration and retouching, but costs more and has to be connected to a computer.
There are also standalone tablets that work without a PC. On BlaBlaPrice you don't have to guess what is better: write what you draw, and sellers will suggest options with price and delivery.
What really affects comfort
- Active area. A5 or size S is handy on the go, but size M is better for wide arm movements. An area that is too large for a small monitor gets in the way instead.
- Pressure levels. 4096 or 8192: the difference is noticeable mostly to professionals. Lower values are enough to start.
- Pen tilt. Important for lettering and shading in illustration.
- The pen. Whether it needs a battery or works without one, and whether spare nibs are included.
- Compatibility. Support for Windows, macOS, Android, Linux.
What to put in your request
- Tablet type: without a screen, with a screen, or standalone.
- What for: illustration, photo retouching, 3D, learning, for a child.
- Model, or a brand, for example Wacom Intuos M.
- Active area or screen size.
- Features: pressure, tilt, shortcut keys, wireless connection.
- New or used, warranty.
- Delivery and budget.
Example: “I need a new graphics tablet without a screen, A5 size, 8192 pressure levels, pen tilt, for digital illustration on Windows. Brand warranty, delivery to Johor Bahru, budget up to RM 490.”
New or used
A used tablet lets you get a bigger size for the same money. But check the condition of the surface (scratches show up in how the pen glides), whether the pen wobbles, and whether everything needed is included: cable, pen, nibs. For a pen display, also ask about dead pixels and backlight bleed.
How to compare offers
Compare what's in the box: some sellers add a glove, spare nibs or a USB-C cable, others don't. Ask about the brand warranty and the option to return. Download the driver from the maker's website, and you can check that it exists before you buy.
BlaBlaPrice shows the offer that is best on substance first, with seller reviews next to it. Sellers see where their offer ranks, so they compete for your request. You can read about the principle on the page “How it works”.
If you want an all-round device, look at tablet computers, and for pens and covers, accessories.
