Graphics tablet

[martin goddard]

Anyone here use a graphics tablet? they are like a computer screen that can be drawn upon with a special pen.
I am considering if it is a good idea. The pen nibs wear out quickly apparently.

[The Bane]

I use one. Have had it about 9 months and absolutely love it and recommend it!

It is an XP-PEN 15.6

I use Medibang for software (it's free, has a low learning curve and has features found in high end software).

As for nibs, the pen is battery free (huge plus in my book) and I am still on my first nib with very little wear. Should mention it comes with two pens as well and spare nibs in the pen stand.

When not using it for drawing/art/etc. it makes a great third monitor as well.

The ONLY thing that I would mark off for this particular tablet is that it only has 6 shortcut keys on the tablet and two on the pen and it doesn't come with a stand. I used it for the first 6 months leaned up on some books, but then found a good cheap ( < $24 ) stand on Amazon. But for the price (they are still pricey) it's still quite a bit cheaper than other brands/models. Four & a Half Stars from this user.

If you have any questions, let me know!
The Bane

[SimonC]

I've used Wacom tablets for nearly 20 years. It depends on what you want to do with them... for freehand work that requires precision they are great (Photoshop - Illustrator type stuff)

That said in the past few years I use iPad pencil on the tablet with files synchronised to the MacBook (cloud storage). I find it better to look at the pencil and see what you are 'drawing' rather than look at the screen and use the pen on the tablet, if that makes sense.

[martin goddard]

Thank you gentlemen!

[The Bane]

No problem.

I used a Wacom tablet for a few years before getting the XP-PEN. It worked really well and is cheaper than a screen tablet. I will say the eye-to-hand coordination, at least for me, took a couple weeks to get used to but your brain will work it out.

I know you asked about a screen tablet, but I guess it depends on what you want to use it for in the long run and how much you want to pay for it.

Either way. Dive in.
The Bane