The 10 Best Drawing Monitors
This wiki has been updated 18 times since it was first published in January of 2020. Drawing monitors, also known as drawing tablets or graphic design tablets, are versatile tools for artists, architects, and many other creative types. They often feature a spacious surface, comfortable pens, and the ability to connect to the internet wirelessly. Not all are created equal, though, so we put together a selection of some of the best to help you find the right one for your needs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Gaomon PD2200
2. Huion KAMVAS Pro 16
3. Kenting KT16
Editor's Notes
January 23, 2020:
This list attempts to pull together the best drawing tablets for artists, designers, and other creative types. There are several considerations for purchasing one, which I have consulted for ranking the above devices.
One such consideration is the durability of the tablet. Most drawing monitors fall in price ranges above $100, so it's important to find one that will last you a long time. It is for this reason that the Huion KAMVAS Pro 16 makes it in to the #2 spot, with its aluminum alloy build.
Another factor I've looked at is the convenience and ease of use. This can take many forms, including the use of shortcut keys and dial wheels. Tablets with shortcut keys make drawing easier, quicker, and let's face it - more fun.
I also looked at other special features that might be included. Many of these tablets include anti-glare glass, battery-free pens, and high pressure sensitivity levels. Some of them go beyond the standard, though. For example, reduced Parallax, which gives drawing a smoother feel, is offered by the Gaomon PD2200, Wacom Cintiq 16, and XP-PEN Artist12 Pro. I have always found smooth to be better when creating.
Another useful feature is tilt function. This allows you to adjust your strokes without having to constantly make changes in the program. It is available in the Gaomon PD2200, Kenting KT16, Wacom Cintiq 16, XP-PEN Artist12 Pro, Huion Inspiroy Ink, and Huion KAMVAS 20.
Most of these tablets are meant for beginners and intermediate designers, but you will find some on the market that are intended for advanced artists. The Wacom Cintiq Pro 24 is one such model, which is why it comes with such a hefty price tag.
4. Gaomon PD1161
5. Wacom Cintiq 16
6. Gaomon S620
7. XP-PEN Artist12 Pro
8. Huion Inspiroy Ink
9. Huion KAMVAS 20
10. Wacom Cintiq Pro 24
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.