What is a Graphics Tablet?

A graphics tablet is an input device used by artists which allows one to draw a picture onto a computer screen without having to utilize a mouse or keyboard. A graphics tablet consists of a flat tablet and some sort of drawing device, usually either a pen or stylus. A graphics tablet may also be referred to as a drawing tablet or drawing pad. While the graphics tablet is most suited for artists and those who want the natural feel of a pen-like object to manipulate the cursor on their screen, non-artists may find them useful as well. The smooth flow of a graphics tablet can be refreshing for those who find the mouse to be a jerky input device, and repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome are less likely when using a graphics tablet.

A graphics tablet may come in a range of sizes, from smaller 3" by 4" (7.6 by 10.2 cm) models to larger 7" by 9" (17.8 by 22.9 cm) ones. Even larger graphics tablets exist, up to enormous 14" by 14" (35.6 by 35.6 cm) tablets targeted towards professional designers and architects. Size is the major factor in determining cost for a graphics tablet, however, and one should expect prices to ramp up dramatically at the high end of the size spectrum. A good range of pressure sensitivity in the drawing surface of your graphics tablet is also something to look for. High pressure sensitivity, ideally at least 512 levels, allows you to control a number of aspects of your drawing, including color and line thickness, simply by pressing the stylus more or less heavily, mimicking drawing with an actual pen.

The stylus included with a graphics tablet is also an important consideration for the consumer. A stylus may be either attached to the tablet by a cord or tether-free. Corded tablets do not require batteries, but many people find the cord severely limiting to their range of motion. A good stylus will also have function buttons on the side, so that you can perform common actions, such as switching a tool in a drawing program from paint to erase, without having to use the mouse or keyboard.