Want to see your graphic design career grows? Invest in a good tool, like a drawing tablet. There is a wide range of products for all levels, with various specs and price ranges. Having a nice drawing tablet also allows you to collaborate or bring your works everywhere, supporting a more mobile career.
Not drawing tablets are similar, and your decision to purchase may depend on various factors. However, having a good list of references will help you list the most ideal tablets. Here are seven great products to purchase in 2022.
Waqom Cintiq (16 and 22)
Waqom is one of the most recommended brands among designers who use tablets, and this product proves it. The tablet provides an almost seamless transition between manual and digital drawing pens. It is responsive with great pressure sensitivity, allowing you to draw better lines, forms, and shades.
The year 2022 sees the 16-inch and 22-inch options for this product, although the 22-inch tablet does not give significant raise in image quality. Waqom Cintiq also does not have built-in ExpressKeys. However, it offers decent performance for an affordable drawing tablet.
Microsoft Surface 3
The 13.5-inch version of Microsoft Surface 3 makes great graphic design hardware. The fast performance and powerful battery allow you to work anywhere. Attach the tablet to the keyboard, and suddenly, you have a portable studio to further improve your work. Since it runs on Microsoft, you get advantages from other Microsoft apps to collaborate and share your works.
Aside from the high-performance Surface Pen, you also get Surface Dial and portable Studio Mics. They allow you to record inspiration verbally and in writing wherever you are. It also has up to 17 hours of battery life, plus an improved standby feature to extend it.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 is a great option for a mid-range drawing tablet. The stylus has a smart chip that allows for extra sensitivity, allowing you to perfectly execute your vision in a drawing. The sensitivity level also makes it easier for designers to create fine lines, resulting in better details and effects.
XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 comes with a convenient control panel and eight shortcut buttons. The all-metal material adds an expensive feeling to this tablet. However, it does not come with a stand, which is a minor irritation, especially for mobile designers.
Gaomon PD 1561
Gaomon PD 1561 is a perfect large drawing tablet for beginner graphic designers. It comes with shortcut buttons on the left, giving you an easy configuration for control while drawing. The wires and ports have convenient positions, allowing for a smoother drawing experience without something blocking your path.
The large screen has vibrant colors and quite a good image quality for its price. The stylus gives you a smooth drawing experience with a comfortable silicone grip and ergonomic handle. Plus, there is a pen holder and tablet stand, little features that make your work easier.
Wacom One
Wacom One was released in 2020, but it is a great “on-the-go” product you can carry as the second drawing tablet. This is great graphic design hardware for those with daily mobile activities. You can carry this lightweight tablet for a quick sketch drawing or inspiration trip before returning to your more sophisticated tablet at the studio or office.
Wacom One only has an 11.6 x 6.5-inch drawing area, but it has the good image quality and vibrant colors. The anti-glare screen film allows you to comfortable draw under natural light. It comes with a little stand for a more convenient drawing position.
Huion H610 V2
Huion H610 V2 is an affordable, lightweight tablet with Android compatibility that provides convenient drawing performance. It allows you to draw on both tablet and phone modes, giving you more freedom on the go. The cursor and tilt control system allows you to draw more naturally with a lightweight cordless stylus that promises better hand movements.
The position of the cable and cords does not block your drawing movements. The control panel and shortcut buttons are located on the left, giving you a more convenient drawing area.
Apple iPad Air
The fifth generation of Apple iPad Air is perfect if you are looking for a powerful drawing tablet in 2022. It has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity for a complete working space. The powerful specs give you smooth, seamless drawing experiences. The display may not be as bright as the iPad Pro, but it is decent enough for daily needs.
Choosing the right graphic design hardware is important for boosting your career. Start from these products when you make a shopping list for drawing tablets in 2022.