Are you a graphic designer looking for a tablet that can handle your creative work? Do you want a tablet that has a high-quality display, a responsive pen, a powerful performance, and a reasonable price? If so, you are in the right place.
In this blog post, we will review the top 5 tablets for graphic design under $1,000 based on various criteria such as display quality, pen and drawing experience, performance and hardware, software compatibility and shortcuts, size and ergonomics, battery life and portability, and lastly, price and value.
We will compare the features, pros, and cons of each tablet, and provide some image suggestions for each tablet. By the end of this blog post, you will have a better idea of which tablet suits your needs and budget.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, at no additional cost to you.
Table of Contents
OUR 5 TOP PICKS
Devices | Features | Review | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  Wacom Cintiq 16 | Screen Size: 15.6 inches Battery Life: Up to 5.5 hours Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) RAM: 16GB Pen Technology: Wacom Pro Pen 2 with Wacom EMR Pressure Levels: 8,192 Additional Features: ExpressKeys for efficient workflow | Jump to Review | $799 |
Best Android Tablet for Drawing  Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 | Screen Size: 11.0 inches Battery Life : Up to 13 hours Resolution: 1600 x 2560 pixels Operating System: Android 10 (upgradable to Android 13) with One UI 5.1 Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G+ RAM: Available in 6GB or 8GB variants Stylus Support: Compatible with S Pen Connectivity: Wi-Fi and optional cellular connectivity | Jump to Review | $318 |
Best Apple Tablet for Drawing  iPad 9th Gen | Screen Size: 10.2 inches Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels Chipset: Apple A13 Bionic RAM: 3GB Apple Pencil Support: Compatible with Apple Pencil (1st generation) Operating System: Upgradable to iOS 13 Connectivity: Wi-Fi Additional Features: Retina display, pressure-sensitive pen input | Jump to Review | $249 |
Best Budget Tablet  Huion Kamvas 13 | Screen: 10-inch Full HD (1920×1080). Battery Life: Up to 5 hours. Operating System: Android, Windows 7 or later, Mac OS 10.12 or later, Linux Ubuntu, and Android 6.0 or later. Weight: 980 grams. Pressure Sensitivity: 8192 levels. Workspace: 293.76 x 165.24 mm. Connectivity: USB-C. Special Features: 8 programmable press keys, full lamination screen with anti-glare film, PenTech 3.0, and 60° tilt support. | Jump to Review | $191 |
Best Tablet for Beginners  Simbans Picasso Tabl XL | Screen: 10-inch Full HD (1920×1080). Battery Life: Up to 5 hours. Operating System: Android. Weight: Lightweight at 0.353 ounces. Processor: MediaTek (4 cores). Memory: 4 GB DDR3 SDRAM. Storage: 4 GB flash memory. | Jump to Review | $179.95 |
Further Review
Wacom Cintiq 16 Tablet
Best Overall drawing Tablet
The Wacom Cintiq 16 is a 15.6-inch drawing tablet with a screen that connects to your computer via HDMI and USB. It has a full HD display, a Pro Pen 2 stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and a scratch-resistant surface. It costs $799.
- Durable Build
- Anti – Glare Screen
- Pro Pen 2
- Affordable Price
- Acts as a Second Monitor
- Lack of Touch Support
- Requires Two Computer Ports
- Low Resolution
- Limited Color Gamut
- Lack of USB Ports
More Details
Display Quality:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 has a 15.6-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The display is clear, crisp, and accurate, and supports 72% of the NTSC color gamut. The display also has a 60Hz refresh rate, which is smooth enough for most tasks, but not as fast as some competitors. The display also has an anti-glare coating, which reduces reflections and fingerprints.
Pen & Drawing Experience:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 comes with a Pro Pen 2 stylus that has a 0.9mm tip and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The Pro Pen 2 is precise and responsive, and has a low latency of 21ms. The Pro Pen 2 also has tilt recognition and an eraser on the end. The Pro Pen 2 does not have any buttons, and does not attach magnetically to the tablet. The Pro Pen 2 is battery-free and does not need to be charged.
Performance & Hardware:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 is powered by your computer, which means that its performance depends on your computer’s specifications. The tablet also has 3-in-1 cable that connects to your computer via HDMI and USB, and to a power outlet. The tablet also has a foldable stand on the back, which can be adjusted to 19 degrees for comfortable drawing. The tablet also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual speakers, a power button, and a brightness button.
Software Compatibility & Shortcuts:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 runs on Windows 7 or later, and Mac OS X 10.12 or later, and supports a variety of graphic design software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk Sketchbook, Clip Studio Paint, and more.
The tablet also has a Wacom Desktop Center app, which lets you customize your settings, update your drivers, and access tutorials. The tablet does not have any express keys or touch input, which means that you have to use your keyboard or mouse for shortcuts and gestures.
Size & Ergonomics:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 has a simple and sturdy design, with a plastic body and rubber feet. The tablet measures 16.6 x 11.2 x 1 inches and weighs 4.2 pounds, which makes it relatively heavy and bulky. The tablet also has a thick bezel around the screen, which can be used as a palm rest. The tablet also has a foldable stand on the back, which can be adjusted to 19 degrees for comfortable drawing.
Battery Life & Portability:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 does not have a battery, and needs to be plugged into a power outlet and your computer to work. This means that the tablet is not very portable, and requires a lot of cables and adapters. The tablet also does not have a wireless option, which means that you have to be close to your computer to use it.
Price & Value:
The Wacom Cintiq 16 costs around $799, which makes it one of the most expensive tablets in this list. The tablet also does not come with any accessories, such as a carrying case, a glove, or a cleaning cloth. The tablet also offers a lot of quality and performance for the price, making it a great choice for graphic designers who want a professional and reliable tablet.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 2021 Android Tablet
Best Android Tablet for Drawing
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE is a 12.4-inch Android device that comes with an S Pen stylus and supports Samsung DeX mode for a desktop-like experience. It has a vibrant display, long battery life, and a sleek design. It costs around $600 for the 64GB model.
- Excellent Battery Life
- Solid Integration with Microsoft 365
- Works Well with Other Samsung Products
- Strong Software Upgrade Policy
- Mediocre Performance
- Display Isn’t Up to Snuff with Competitors
- No Fingerprint Sensor
- Only 4 GB RAM
- 60Hz Display
More Details
Display Quality:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a 12.4-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The display is bright, colorful, and responsive, and support HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and details. The display also has a 60Hz refresh rate, which is smooth enough for most tasks, but not as fast as some competitors.
Pen & Drawing Experience:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE comes with an S Pen stylus that has a 0.7mm tip and 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. The S Pen is comfortable to hold and use, and has a low latency of 9ms. The S Pen also has a button that can be customized to launch apps or perform actions. The S Pen attaches magnetically to the back of the device and charges wirelessly.
Performance & Hardware:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G processor, which is a mid-range chip that can handle most graphic design apps and games. It also has 4GB or 6GB of RAM, depending on the storage option, and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB with a microSD card. The device also has a 10,090mAh battery that can last up to 12 hours of video playback or 8 hours of web browsing, and supports 45W fast charging with a compatible charger (sold separately).
Software Compatibility & Shortcuts:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE runs on Android 11 with Samsung’s One UI 3.1 overlay, which offers a lot of customization and features. The device also supports Samsung DeX mode, which transforms it into a laptop-like device when connected to a keyboard and mouse (sold separately). The device also has a multi-window mode, which allows you to run two apps side by side, and a quick panel, which gives you access to settings and notifications. The device also has a Samsung Notes app, which lets you create and edit notes, sketches, and drawings with the S Pen. The device also supports a variety of graphic design apps, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk Sketchbook, Procreate, and more.
Size & Ergonomics:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a sleek and slim design, with a metal body and narrow bezels. The device measures 11.22 x 7.28 x 0.25 inches and weighs 1.34 pounds, which makes it easy to hold and carry. The device also has a kickstand on the back, which can be adjusted to different angles for comfortable viewing and drawing. The device also has a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual speakers, an 8MP rear camera, and a 5MP front camera.
Battery Life & Portability:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a large 10,090mAh battery that can last up to 12 hours of video playback or 8 hours of web browsing, depending on the usage and settings. The device also supports 45W fast charging with a compatible charger (sold separately), which can charge it from 0 to 100% in about 90 minutes. The device also has an option for 5G connectivity, which can provide faster and more reliable internet access when on the go (requires a SIM card and a data plan).
Price & Value:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE costs around $600 for the 64GB model and around $680 for the 128GB model, which makes it one of the most affordable devices in this list. The device also comes with an S Pen stylus, which adds value to the package. The device also offers a lot of features and performance for the price, making it a great choice for graphic designers who want a versatile and powerful device.
iPad 9th Gen Tablet
Best Apple Tablet for Drawing
The iPad 9th Gen is the latest 10.2-inch iPad from Apple that works with the Apple Pencil 1st Gen and the Smart Keyboard. It has a powerful A13 Bionic chip, a Retina display, and a 12MP front camera. It costs around $330 for the 64GB model.
- Wide Selection of Optimized Apps
- Very Good Front Camera
- High Screen Resolution
- Functional and Familiar Design
- Support for First Generation Apple Pencil and Apple Smart Keyboard
- Design is lackluster
- Doesn’t Work with Newer Apple Accessories
- No USB-C
- No Face ID
- No landscape stereo speakers
More Details
Display Quality:
The iPad 9th Gen has a 10.2-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels and a 4:3 aspect ratio. The display is sharp, bright, and accurate, and supports True Tone technology, which adjusts the color temperature according to the ambient light. The display also has a 60Hz refresh rate, which is smooth enough for most tasks, but not as fast as some competitors.
Pen & Drawing Experience:
The iPad 9th Gen works with the Apple Pencil 1st Gen, which is a stylus that has a 0.9mm tip and 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity. The Apple Pencil is precise and responsive, and has a low latency of 20ms. The Apple Pencil also has a lightning connector on the end, which can be plugged into the iPad for charging. The Apple Pencil does not have any buttons or erasers, and does not attach magnetically to the iPad.
Performance & Hardware:
The iPad 9th Gen is powered by an Apple A13 Bionic chip, which is a high-end chip that can handle any graphic design app or game. The tablet also has 3GB of RAM and 64GB or 256GB of internal storage, which cannot be expanded. The tablet also has a 32.4Wh battery that can last up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing, and supports 20W fast charging with a compatible charger (included).
Software Compatibility & Shortcuts:
The iPad 9th Gen runs on iPad OS 15, which is a version of iOS optimized for tablets. The tablet also supports a variety of features and gestures, such as split view, slide over, drag and drop, scribble, and more.
The tablet also has a dock, which gives you quick access to your favorite apps, and a control center, which gives you access to settings and toggles.
The tablet also has a files app, which lets you manage and access your files and folders. The tablet also supports a wide range of graphic design apps, such as Procreate, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Affinity Designer, and more.
Size & Ergonomics:
The iPad 9th Gen has a classic and elegant design, with an aluminum body and thick bezels. The tablet measures 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches and weighs 1.08 pounds, which makes it easy to hold and carry. The tablet also has a lightning port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual speakers, an 8MP rear camera, and a 12MP front camera with Center Stage feature, which automatically adjusts the camera angle and zoom to keep you in the frame during video calls.
Battery Life & Portability:
The iPad 9th Gen has a 32.4Wh battery that can last up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing, depending on the usage and settings. The tablet also supports 20W fast charging with a compatible charger (included), which can charge the tablet from 0 to 100% in about 2.5 hours. The tablet also has an option for cellular connectivity, which can provide internet access when on the go (requires a SIM card and a data plan).
Price & Value:
The iPad 9th Gen costs around $249 for the 64GB model and around $480 for the 256GB model, which makes it one of the cheapest tablets in this list. The tablet also offers a lot of performance and features for the price, making it a great choice for graphic designers who want a simple and reliable tablet. However, the tablet does not come with an Apple Pencil or a Smart Keyboard, which need to be bought separately.
Huion Kamvas 13 Tablet
Best for Beginners
The Huion Kamvas 13 is a 13.3-inch drawing tablet with a screen that connects to your computer via USB-C or HDMI. It has a full HD display, a PW517 stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt function, and a laminated screen.
- High-Quality Screen Resolution
- Quality Pen Features
- Title Function Support
- 8 Programmable Keys
- Reasonably Priced
- 1080p Screen
- The Pen is Light but also Bulky
- No Carry Case Available
- A Slow Response Rate
- Not Suitable for Left-Handed Mode
More Details
Display Quality:
The Huion Kamvas 13 has a 13.3-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The display is bright, vivid, and accurate, and supports 120% of the sRGB color gamut. The display also has a 60Hz refresh rate, which is smooth enough for most tasks, but not as fast as some competitors. The display also has a laminated screen, which reduces the parallax and the gap between the pen and the cursor.
Pen & Drawing Experience:
The Huion Kamvas 13 comes with a PW517 stylus that has a 0.3mm tip and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. The PW517 is accurate and responsive, and has a low latency of 10ms. The PW517 also has tilt recognition and two buttons on the side. The PW517 does not have an eraser on the end, and does not attach magnetically to the tablet. The PW517 is battery-free and does not need to be charged.
Performance & Hardware:
The Huion Kamvas 13 is powered by your computer, which means that its performance depends on your computer’s specifications. The tablet also has a 3-in-1 cable that connects to your computer via USB-C or HDMI, and to a power outlet. The tablet also has a stand on the back, which can be adjusted to 20, 40, or 60 degrees for comfortable drawing. The tablet also has a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual speakers, a power button, and a brightness button.
Software Compatibility & Shortcuts:
The Huion Kamvas 13 runs on Windows 7 or later, and Mac OS X 10.12 or later, and supports a variety of graphic design software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk Sketchbook, Clip Studio Paint, and more. The tablet also has a Huion Tablet app, which lets you customize your settings, update your firmware, and access tutorials. The tablet also has eight express keys and a touch bar on the side, which can be programmed to perform different functions and shortcuts.
Size & Ergonomics:
The Huion Kamvas 13 has a sleek and lightweight design, with a metal body and thin bezels. The tablet measures 14.4 x 8.6 x 0.4 inches and weighs 2.2 pounds, which makes it easy to hold and carry. The tablet also has a matte surface, which reduces glare and fingerprints. The tablet also has a stand on the back, which can be adjusted to 20, 40, or 60 degrees for comfortable drawing.
Battery Life & Portability:
The Huion Kamvas 13 does not have a battery, and needs to be plugged into a power outlet and your computer to work. However, the tablet also has a USB-C port, which can be used to connect the tablet to your computer with a single cable, if your computer supports USB-C video output. This means that the tablet can be more portable, and requires fewer cables and adapters. The tablet also has a wireless option, which means that you can use the tablet without any cables, if you have a compatible wireless adapter (sold separately).
Price & Value:
The Huion Kamvas 13 costs around $240, which makes it one of the cheapest tablets in this list. The tablet also comes with some accessories, such as a carrying case, a glove, a cleaning cloth, and a nib clip. The tablet also offers a lot of features and performance for the price, making it a great choice for graphic designers who want a budget-friendly and versatile tablet.
Simbans Picasso Tabl XL
Best for Budget
The Simbans PicassoTabl XL is a 10-inch Android tablet that comes with an active pen and a pre-installed Autodesk Sketchbook app. It has a quad-core processor, a HD display, and a micro HDMI port. It costs around $230.
- Good Screen Size
- Versatile Android Tablet
- East to Set Up
- Compatible with popular drawing software
- Low Resolution: 1366 x 768
- Pen Needs AAAA Batteries
More Details
Display Quality:
The Simbans PicassoTabl XL has a 10-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The display is decent, but not very sharp or bright, and supports 60% of the NTSC color gamut. The display also has a 60Hz refresh rate, which is smooth enough for most tasks, but not as fast as some competitors. The display also has a glossy surface, which can be prone to reflections and smudges.
Pen & Drawing Experience:
The Simbans PicassoTabl XL comes with an active pen that has a 1.45mm tip and 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity. The active pen is fairly accurate and responsive, but has a high latency of 40ms. The active pen also has a button on the side, but does not have tilt recognition or an eraser on the end. The active pen does not attach magnetically to the tablet, and needs to be charged via USB.
Performance & Hardware:
The Simbans PicassoTabl XL is powered by a MediaTek MT8163 quad-core processor, which is a low-end chip that can handle basic graphic design apps and games. The tablet also has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 128
How to Choose the Perfect Tablet for Graphic Design
As a graphic designer, finding the right tablet can significantly impact your creative workflow. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, selecting the best tablet involves considering several crucial factors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what to look for when shopping for a tablet tailored to graphic design needs.
1. Screen Size and Resolution
When it comes to graphic design, having ample screen real estate is crucial. Larger screens provide more space for precise drawing, multitasking, and visualizing your creative projects. Additionally, a high resolution ensures clarity and accurate color representation. Look for a tablet with a generous screen size and a resolution that allows you to see intricate details clearly.
2. Pressure Sensitivity and Stylus
A responsive stylus with high pressure sensitivity is essential for graphic designers. It allows you to create varying line thicknesses, mimic natural brush strokes, and achieve realistic effects. When choosing a tablet, pay attention to the stylus quality. Some tablets even offer tilt recognition, which enhances the natural shading experience as you tilt the stylus.
3. Operating System Compatibility
Consider your preferred operating system (OS) when selecting a tablet. Here are the common choices:
- iOS (Apple iPad): iPads are great for portability, creative apps, and seamless integration with other Apple devices.
- Windows (Microsoft Surface): Windows tablets offer versatility and compatibility with desktop software. They’re ideal if you need a full-fledged computing experience.
- Android: Android tablets are suitable for budget-friendly options. While they may not have the same ecosystem as iOS or Windows, they can still serve your graphic design needs.
4. Color Accuracy
Graphic designers rely on precise color representation. Look for a tablet with high color accuracy and a wide color gamut. This ensures that your designs appear as intended, whether you’re working on illustrations, digital paintings, or photo editing. Some tablets even come with color calibration options to maintain consistent results.
5. Connectivity and Ports
Evaluate the tablet’s connectivity options. Ensure it has the necessary ports for your workflow. Common ones include USB-C (for fast data transfer), HDMI (for external displays), and headphone jacks. Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) is essential for seamless file sharing and collaboration.
6. Battery Life
Longer battery life translates to uninterrupted creative sessions. Consider tablets that offer at least 8-10 hours of usage on a single charge. Some models even feature fast charging capabilities, allowing you to top up the battery quickly during breaks.
7. Budget Considerations
Tablets come in a wide price range. From budget-friendly options to high-end professional models, there’s something for every budget. Popular choices among graphic designers include the Wacom Cintiq and the iPad Pro. However, keep in mind that there are excellent alternatives beyond these well-known names.
Remember to weigh these factors based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tablet for graphic design under $1000 in America can be a challenging task, as there are many factors to consider, such as display quality, pen and drawing experience, performance and hardware, software compatibility and shortcuts, size and ergonomics, battery life and portability, and price and value.
In this blog post, we have reviewed the top 5 tablets for graphic design under $1,000 in America, namely the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE, the iPad 9th Gen, the Wacom Cintiq 16, the Huion Kamvas 13, and the Simbans PicassoTabl XL. We have compared their features, pros, and cons, and provided some image suggestions for each tablet.
We hope that this blog post has helped you find the best tablet for your graphic design needs and budget.