A graphics tablet is a no-brainer when working in digital painting apps. Think how clumsy a mouse is and you’ll soon realize that having an input device that’s made for the job is almost essential.
At the lower end of the market is the Wacom Bamboo. Starting at $79 (wacom.com), the Bamboo is a fantastic entry point into graphics tablets. You even get a cut-down version of Painter and ArtRage (not the Pro edition) with it. Then there’s the more expensive (and pro-orientated) Intuos range. These range from small (about 4x6 inches, $229) to extra large (about 12x18 inches, $789). They aren’t cheap, but if you’re serious about digital painting they are a real investment.
The Intuos tablets hit the sweet spot between the entry-level Bamboo and pro-worthy Cintiq.
And then there’s the Cintiq range. These are interactive displays that let you draw directly on a screen. There are three models currently available: the 12.1-inch 12WX ($999), the 21.3-inch 21UX ($1,999) and the brand new 24.1-inch 24HD. The latter is a remarkable tablet--but it costs a jaw-dropping $2,599. It’s certainly aimed at pro artists, but if you’re flush with cash, it’s a lovely way to paint.
StoonHooper
February 29, 2012 at 10:22am
The Cintiq is OS agnostic ... so ya ... bag the windows apps and stick with Mac. We use the 21UX and its an excellent drawing platform.
mskippym
February 29, 2012 at 7:14am
Best thing you can use if you are experiencing wrist problems with a mouse or touchpad. Pen is so much more ergonomic than any other device for a computer.
chirpity
February 29, 2012 at 8:07pm
First of all, learn how to use the correct word (peace, ehem). Second, you obviously do not know what a graphics tablet is. An iPad does not support pressure sensitivity and does not even come close to creating the type of art that you can with a Wacom tablet on a desktop computer. You can create some nice work on an iPad use something like Sketchbook, but until the iPad has a pressure-sensitive screen, it just won't rival a Wacom.
