Best Drawing Tablet with Screen for Beginners

Are you looking to dive into the world of digital art or tired of using drawing tablets with no screen?

Whether you're a beginner exploring the world of digital art or looking to upgrade your current drawing tablet, this blog will guide you through everything you need to know about a drawing tablet with a screen and give you recommendations so you can make an informed decision. We will also provide answers to common questions to help you choose the perfect drawing tablet with a screen that ets your needs.

Features to Consider When Picking Drawing Tablet with Screen

A drawing tablet with a screen allows you to draw on the screen with a stylus directly and offers a smooth and natural drawing experience similar to drawing with pen and paper. Feeling overwhelmed with numerous options available? No worries. We've got you covered. Here we sum up several key factors to consider.

Screen Size

The screen size of your display drawing tablet is a key factor as it determines the size of your working area. With a larger screen size, you have more drawing area so you won’t feel cramped or limited by a small drawing area. And you can see a full interface of your drawing application like Photoshop at once, which means you don’t have to keep scrolling down to access some of the drawing or painting tools you need.

Also, consider the type of work you’ll be doing. If you’re a professional artist who works on complex illustrations or digital paintings that require precise detailing or fine lines, you may want a larger screen to accommodate the size of your canvas.

On the other hand, if you want to travel with your display tablet or you’re a beginner who wants to explore the world of digital art, a medium-size screen would be more practical and more convenient for on-the-go use.

Screen Resolution

Screen resolution is another crucial feature that every user should consider before making a decision. It directly affects image quality, the level of detail of the work displayed, and workflow efficiency.

A higher screen resolution enhances the visual experience and provides better image quality, color representation, finer details, and smoother lines. If you’re an illustrator or animator who requires high levels of precision and detail, a screen with a higher resolution is a must to create professional-looking digital artwork.

What’s more, because of the clarity, sharpness, and high level of detail provided by a high-resolution screen, you can work more comfortably and efficiently without constantly zooming in and out.

Stylus/Pen Technology

EMR (Electro-Magnetic Resonance) technology is the vital factor for stylus pens to replicate the natural feel of traditional pen. You can find two types of widely-used EMR. passive EMR stylus and digital chip EMR stylus. The main difference between the two is in how they process signals.

XPPen offers both types. Our passive EMR styluses use analog circuits offering excellent pressure sensitivity at very reasonable prices. These EMR styluses don't require batteries or charging. Instead, they work by interacting with the electromagnetic field created by the tablet itself. They are more accurate and have better pressure sensitivity than other styluses, making them a favorite among artists.

More recently, XPPen also launched the new state-of-the-art X3 Smart Chip stylus which has 10x the IAF sensitivity of a regular stylus allowing for a much more natural feel when drawing. It really is the next level and offers a range of benefits including more stability and accuracy, and greater pressure sensitivity.

The X3 Smart Chip stylus is compatible with the graphic tablets Deco L, Deco LW, Deco M, Deco MW and Artist 10/12/13/16 (2nd Generation) pen display tablets with screens.

Pressure Sensitivity

Pressure sensitivity determines how responsive the drawing tablet is to the amount of pressure applied with the stylus. Higher pressure sensitivity allows more control over line thickness and opacity, providing a more natural drawing experience.

The majority of XPPen's styluses have 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which marks the highest in the industry. It allows the stylus to naturally present lines of various widths and enables the more exquisite expression of lines and strokes with ease.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Beginner or not, you want your drawing tablet with screen to work seamlessly with the software you will be using like the Adobe Suite for example. Make sure your drawing display meets your need before making a purchase.

Another compatibility factor to consider is the connectivity options of the display drawing tablet with your computer or even smartphone. Does the display tablet connect with your target device via USB, USB-C, HDMI, or Bluetooth? Take that into account before buying.

Customizable controls

Most drawing tablets with screens feature programmable buttons and keys, to provide quick and convenient access to your commonly used functions and shortcuts. This is a great feature to save time and effort and improve workflow efficiency and productivity. However, not everyone likes the buttons and keys. Some users may prefer a clean and minimalist-style screen. In short, if working fast is a priority for you, choose a drawing tablet with many customizable controls.

Price, Brand, and Quality

Lastly, price and brand are crucial factors to consider when buying a drawing tablet with a screen. The price of a drawing tablet can vary widely, with higher-priced tablets often offering advanced features, better build quality, and improved performance. Make sure how much budget you have and do some research. You can always find a budget-friendly display tablet that fits your needs.

For beginners with a limited budget, it’s better to choose reputable brands like XPPen. We offer better warranty services, software support, and high-quality drawing tablets with affordable prices.

6 Best Graphic Drawing Tablet With Screen From XPPen

There are a ton of drawing tablets on the market. However, here are some that stand out, especially for beginners.

Basic feature comparison of the 6 best drawing tablets

* Prices are accurate at the time of writing. Subject to change.

The Artist 12 (2nd Gen)

The Artist 12 is the best entry-level and cheap drawing tablet with screen for beginners. We recommend the 2nd Gen version with an X3-Chip Stylus for you. Here are some key features:

The Artist 13.3 V2

The Artist 13.3 V2 is the best drawing tablet with screen for beginners due to its portable size, and high-resolution display. Here are some key features:

The Artist 15.6

The Artist 15.6 drawing tablet with screen stands out because its larger screen size offers more space for sketching, and it's small enough to carry around.

• A Large Display: The tablet has a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. You will be sure to enjoy creating directly onto this high-definition display.

• EMR Battery-Free Stylus: The battery-free stylus means you don't have to charge the pen.

• Pressure Sensitivity: The stylus provides 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, giving you full control over the thickness and opacity of your lines.

• Tilt: You'll get a tilt sensitivity of up to 60 degrees, which is helpful when you're shading or creating textures.

• Express Keys: You'll get 20 customizable express keys. This gives you quick access to all the frequently used functions.

• Compatibility: The Artist 15.6 is compatible with Windows and Mac OS operating systems, and you can use it with Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, etc.

The Artist 22R Pro

The Artist 22R Pro is a premium drawing tablet with screen for beginners who want a professional-level drawing experience.

• A Large Display: The XPPen Artist 22R Pro comes with a strikingly large 21.5-inch display and features 1080p resolution, allowing you to draw, design, model, and create directly onto the 22R Pro’s surface, letting you unleash new creative possibilities.

• Superb Color Accuracy: The 21.5-inch FHD Display pairs a superb color accuracy of 88% NTSC (Adobe® RGB≧90%，sRGB≧120%), adding brilliance to your creation with more exquisite details and vibrant colors.

• EMR Battery-Free Stylus: The battery-free stylus means you don't have to charge the pen.

• Pressure Sensitivity: The stylus provides 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, giving you full control over the thickness and opacity of your lines.

• Tilt: You'll get a tilt sensitivity of up to 60 degrees, which is helpful when you're shading or creating textures.

• Shortcut Keys: You'll get 20 customizable express keys. This gives you quick access to all the frequently used functions.

• Compatibility: The Artist 22R Pro is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS operating systems. What’s more, it supports a USB-C to USB-C connection, letting you directly connect your iMac/Mac Book Pro and other Windows computers that support USB-C input to the 22R Pro without using a USB-C to HDMI & USB adapter.you can use it with Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, etc.

The Artist 24 Pro

The Artist 24 Pro is the top drawing tablet with screen for those who have a larger budget and want a 2K QHD display.

• A Large Display: The Artist Display 24 Pro is the first 23.8-inch 2K QHD graphics display.

• Superb Color Gamut: The drawing Display pairs a superb color gamut (Adobe® RGB≧90%), adding brilliance to your creation with more exquisite details and vibrant colors.

• EMR Battery-Free Stylus: The battery-free stylus means you don't have to charge the pen.

• Pressure Sensitivity: The stylus provides 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, giving you full control over the thickness and opacity of your lines.

• Tilt: You'll get a tilt sensitivity of up to 60 degrees, which is helpful when you're shading or creating textures.

• Express Keys: You'll get 20 customizable express keys. This gives you quick access to all the frequently used functions.

• Compatibility: The Artist 24 Pro is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Chrome OS and Linux operating systems, and you can use it with Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, etc.

The Innovator 16

The Innovator 16 is the best drawing tablet with screen for beginners who prefer a sleek design. Here are some key features:

The Magic drawing Pad

The Magic Drawing Pad is a perfect drawing tablet with screen. Here are some key features：

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pen display tablet without a computer?

No. All drawing tablets, with or without a screen, require a computer to function. They are not like standalone tablets like the Ipad. They are only hardware with no operating system, hard drives, etc.

Is it easier to draw on a tablet than on paper?

Yes. Here are 2 key reasons:

• Digital tools: Tablets offer the convenience of digital tools, such as the ability to quickly switch between different brushes or colors, as well as the ability to undo and redo strokes, making it easier to correct mistakes or experiment with different ideas. You don’t have to carry a lot of tools with you as drawing on paper.

• Easy Workflow: drawing tablets also offer the convenience of digital workflows, such as easy file management and the ability to quickly share artwork online.

Drawing tablet with screen VS. iPad: Which is better?

If you are looking for a tablet that is focused on drawing/sketching itself, a classic graphic display definitely beats a standalone tablet like iPad.

Here are the disadvantages of a standalone tablet like an iPad:

Small display space

When it comes to drawing or illustrating, you need a large screen to see your work in detail. Drawing detailed work on a small screen can be challenging, especially when it comes to fixing details.

Stylus has to be charged

You don’t usually have to charge your stylus that comes with your drawing tablet, thanks to the widely applied EMR Technology on the market. While you usually have to buy a pencil and charge it for a standalone tablet.

Software Options

A drawing tablet works well with the desktop version of drawing software. But a standalone tablet like iPad is a mobile device that only runs software designed for it.

Most high-end software options are available only on computers. Whether it’s drawing software like Krita, Photoshop, or 3D modeling applications like Blender or Zbrush, you can access a full range of options with a drawing tablet.

Why Choose Us?

Since 2005, XPPen has been one of the top brands in the global drawing tablet industry, producing top-notch and reliable drawing tablets and offering efficient services.

• Wide Range of Choices:XPPen offers a wide range of drawing tablets with screens that cater to different preferences and requirements of the artists.

• Extensive Compatibility:Most of XPPen tablets with screens support a wide range of operating systems, digital art software, as well as mobile learning platforms.

• Operating Systems: Windows 7 (or later), Mac OS X 10.10 (or later), Chrome OS 88 (or later), and Linux

• Digital Art Software: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, CDR, GIMP, Krita, MediBang, FireAlpaca and Blender3D

• Mobile Learning Platforms: Zoom, XSplit, Twitch, WizIQ, Idroo, Scribblar, Udemy, and DingTalk

• It’s also easy to use XPPen display tablets with Microsoft Onenote, PowerPoint, and interactive whiteboards.

• Stylus/pen technology: As mentioned before, most XPPen tablets are equipped with the industry-leading EMR or X3-Smart-Chip stylus, both deliver an authentic drawing experience. X3-Chip Technology drastically upgrades the structure and performance of the stylus.

• Ergonomics and build quality: XPPen drawing tablets come with adjustable stands, comfortable grip, and solid build quality to ensure a pleasant and durable drawing experience.

• Price and Affordability: Whatever your budget is, you are always able to get a quality drawing tablet with a screen from XPPen without breaking the bank. XPPen is always committed to supplying good value for money, with competitive pricing compared to other brands on the market.