Graphic tablets are used for drawing, photo retouching, handwritten notes and electronic signatures. Our range has over 100 models: pen tablets without a screen, pen displays and signature pads. Main brands include Wacom, Huion, XPPen and Signotec.
How to choose a graphic tablet
Type of tablet. A tablet without a screen connects to your computer and you draw while looking at the monitor, so the first few days go on getting used to separating hand and eye. A pen display lets you draw directly on the image and feels more natural to illustrators, but it takes up more desk space and needs more cables.
Active area. A small active area fits beside a keyboard and suits retouching, notes or moving the cursor with a pen. Larger areas are more comfortable for drawing with free arm movements, but they take up desk space and add weight if you carry the tablet in a bag.
Pen sensitivity. What matters is how many pressure levels the pen recognises and whether it detects tilt, because these control line thickness and shading. Illustrators and retouchers should look for higher sensitivity, while notes and signatures need only the basics. Some pens work without a battery, so they never need charging.
Compatibility and connections. Check that the tablet works with your Windows, macOS or Linux system, and note that some also work with Android devices. Pen displays often need an HDMI or USB-C connection, so look at what your laptop or desktop offers.
Signature pads. On pads made for signing documents electronically, drawing features do not matter. Compatibility with your document software is what counts, so find out which program and operating system you use before buying.
Brands we carry
- Wacom: a pen tablet maker often chosen by professional illustrators and designers, known for its Intuos and Cintiq lines.
- Huion: makes pen tablets and pen displays that are popular with beginners and hobby artists, for example the Kamvas series.
- XPPen: offers tablets with and without a screen, known for its Deco and Artist series.
- Signotec: a German manufacturer specialising in signature pads for signing documents electronically.
Also in our range: Denver, LogiLink, Evolis, LG, ELMO.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a graphic tablet and a tablet computer?
A graphic tablet is a computer accessory, not a computer in its own right. It connects to a PC or Mac and sends pen movements to the software, while the image appears on your monitor or on the device's own screen. A tablet computer has its own operating system and works on its own.
Is a graphic tablet suitable for a beginner?
Yes, most beginners do well with a tablet without a screen and a medium-sized active area. It takes a few days to get used to looking at the monitor instead of your hand, and after that it feels natural. A pen display makes sense once you know you will be drawing regularly.
Can I use a graphic tablet for handwriting and online lessons?
Yes, you can write by hand, mark up documents and explain material during an online lesson. Connect the tablet to your computer and use it in a program that accepts pen input. For this kind of work a comfortable size matters more than top pen sensitivity.
How does a signature pad work?
A signature pad records the movement and pressure of the pen and passes them to the document software as an electronic signature. It connects to a computer, and the signature is placed directly into the electronic document. Before buying, check that your document software supports the pad.
