If you're an artist on a budget, finding the right art tablet can be a challenge. You want something that's affordable, but you don't want to sacrifice quality or functionality. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options out there for those looking for the best cheap art tablet.
When it comes to selecting a budget art tablet, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to consider the size of the tablet. Larger tablets can be great for artists who need more space to work, but they can also be more expensive. You'll also want to think about the tablet's resolution, as well as its pressure sensitivity and accuracy.
After researching and testing several different models, we've determined that the best cheap art tablet on the market is the XP-Pen StarG640. This tablet offers a great balance of quality and affordability, making it the perfect choice for artists on a budget.
In order to make the most of your art tablet, it's important to consider the software you'll be using as well. In the following section, we'll take a closer look at the XP-Pen StarG640 and the software that pairs best with it.
Best Cheap Art Tablets
If you're an artist on a budget, finding a good quality art tablet that won't break the bank can be a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of options available that offer a balance of affordability and functionality. In this roundup, we've compiled a list of the best cheap art tablets on the market. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, these tablets offer a range of features that will help you bring your creative vision to life without breaking the bank.
UGEE M708 V3 Graphics Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable drawing tablet, the UGEE M708 V3 could be a great option for you.
Pros
- The large 10 x 6 inch active drawing space with papery texture surface provides an enormous and smooth drawing experience for your digital artwork creation.
- The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity in the passive stylus technology allows you to draw accurate lines of any weight and opacity according to the pressure you apply to the pen.
- The 8 customizable express keys on the side provide convenience and help to improve productivity and efficiency when creating with the drawing tablet.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the tablet's drivers and compatibility with certain software.
- The tablet may have a slight learning curve for beginners who are not familiar with using drawing tablets.
- The pen may feel a bit too light for some users.
The UGEE M708 V3 graphics drawing tablet is a great option for those who are looking for a cheap drawing tablet with a large active drawing space and customizable express keys. The passive stylus technology with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity allows for accurate line drawing and unique brush effects. However, some users have reported issues with the tablet's drivers and compatibility with certain software, and the tablet may have a slight learning curve for beginners. Overall, if you're on a budget and looking for a reliable drawing tablet, the UGEE M708 V3 could be a great option for you.
Simbans PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for a budget-friendly art tablet, the Simbans PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet might be a good option for you.
Pros
- Comes with a stylus pen and pre-installed drawing and animation apps, making it easy to get started with digital art.
- Includes four bonus items, including a tablet case, drawing glove, universal power adaptor, and pre-installed screen protector.
- Has a clear screen, large disk, and superior CPU, making it great for watching movies, playing games, and browsing the internet.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the stylus/pen not working properly.
- The tablet is smaller than some users expected.
- The battery life is only around five hours.
This tablet is a great option for beginners who want to try their hand at digital art without breaking the bank. With the included stylus pen and pre-installed apps, you can start drawing and animating right away. Plus, the bonus items make it a great value.
However, some users have reported issues with the stylus/pen not working properly, so keep that in mind. Additionally, the tablet is smaller than some users expected, so it may not be the best choice if you're looking for a larger screen. Finally, the battery life is only around five hours, so you'll need to make sure to charge it regularly.
XP-PEN StarG640 Digital Graphic Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable art tablet, the XP-PEN StarG640 is a great option for you.
Pros
- The battery-free stylus pen allows for uninterrupted drawing and improves overall performance.
- The tablet is slim and portable, making it easy to carry with you on-the-go.
- Compatible with Microsoft Office apps like Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Zoom, and Xsplit, making it ideal for online education.
Cons
- The working area might be too small for some users.
- The tablet doesn't have any shortcut buttons.
- The surface of the tablet may scratch easily.
The XP-PEN StarG640 is a great choice for beginners or those on a budget. The battery-free stylus pen allows for uninterrupted drawing, making lines flow quicker and smoother. The tablet is also slim and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. Additionally, it's compatible with Microsoft Office apps, making it ideal for online education.
However, the working area might be too small for some users, and the tablet doesn't have any shortcut buttons. Additionally, the surface of the tablet may scratch easily. Despite these drawbacks, the XP-PEN StarG640 is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable art tablet.
XPPen Artist 22 2nd Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable drawing tablet with a screen, the XPPen Artist 22 2nd is worth considering.
Pros
- The USB-C to USB-C connection allows you to connect your iMac, Mac Book Pro, or Windows computer without using an adapter.
- The adjustable stand lets you change the screen's angle from 16 to 90 degrees to suit your needs and create comfortably and freely.
- With better accuracy, the XPPen Artist 22 2nd pen tablet lets you draw with more precise cursor positioning, even at the four corners.
Cons
- The tablet is relatively heavy at 16.42 pounds, which may make it less portable.
- The screen color gamut is 86% NTSC, which is lower than some other drawing tablets on the market.
- Some users have reported issues with the stylus not working properly or needing to be charged frequently.
This drawing tablet is designed for digital drawing, painting, sketching, e-signatures, online teaching, remote work, and photo editing. It's compatible with Microsoft Office apps like Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Zoom, Xsplit, and more. The battery-free stylus supports up to 60 degrees of tilt function and 8,192 pressure sensitivity levels, helping you to effortlessly create exquisite strokes and seamless shading.
The XPPen Artist 22 2nd drawing monitor supports Windows 10/8/7 and Mac OS X 10.10 (and higher). It is also compatible with popular digital art software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, CDR, GIMP, Krita, MediBang, FireAlpaca, and Blender 3D.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable drawing tablet with a screen that offers decent accuracy and a good range of features, the XPPen Artist 22 2nd is worth considering.
XP-PEN Artist Pro 16 Gen2 Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for a budget-friendly art tablet with high-end features, the XP-PEN Artist Pro 16 Gen2 is worth considering.
Pros
- The 16K pressure sensitivity levels of the X3 Pro smart chip stylus deliver precise and smooth lines, making it a game-changer in details.
- The 2.5K QHD screen with full laminated technology, anti-glare etched glass, and 178° wide angle helps avoid parallax errors between the stylus nib and cursor, precisely positioning every single one of your strokes.
- The 99% sRGB color gamut coverage and 159% sRGB color gamut area ratio with high color accuracy let you create boldly in stunning color accuracy and detail.
Cons
- The size and weight of this tablet may make it less portable compared to smaller models.
- The price point may be higher than some other budget-friendly art tablets.
- The need to use a 3 in 1 cable may be inconvenient for some users.
The XP-PEN Artist Pro 16 Gen2 is a great option for artists looking for a budget-friendly art tablet with high-end features. The 16K pressure sensitivity levels of the X3 Pro smart chip stylus deliver precise and smooth lines, making it a game-changer in details. The 2.5K QHD screen with full laminated technology, anti-glare etched glass, and 178° wide angle helps avoid parallax errors between the stylus nib and cursor, precisely positioning every single one of your strokes. The 99% sRGB color gamut coverage and 159% sRGB color gamut area ratio with high color accuracy let you create boldly in stunning color accuracy and detail. However, the size and weight of this tablet may make it less portable compared to smaller models, and the price point may be higher than some other budget-friendly art tablets. Additionally, the need to use a 3 in 1 cable may be inconvenient for some users.
HUION HS64 Drawing Tablet
If you are looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly art tablet, the HUION HS64 is worth considering.
Pros
- Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows, and Android
- Battery-free stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- Some users may find the active area too small
- The tablet surface may scratch easily
- The pen buttons may feel cheap
The HUION HS64 is easy to use and can be a great tool for kids, beginners, and hobbyists. It supports a variety of software and platforms, making it versatile and adaptable to different workflows. The stylus is accurate and responsive, allowing for precise and natural drawing and painting. The tablet is also lightweight and slim, making it easy to carry around and use on the go.
However, the active area of the tablet may be too small for some users, especially those used to larger or more professional tablets. The surface of the tablet may also scratch easily, which can affect the overall drawing experience. Additionally, some users may find the pen buttons to be flimsy or unresponsive.
Overall, if you are looking for a cheap and functional art tablet that can work with different devices and software, the HUION HS64 can be a good option. However, if you need a larger or more advanced tablet for professional work, you may want to consider other models.
XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro Graphics Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable drawing tablet with a high level of functionality and compatibility, the XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro Graphics Tablet might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The fully-laminated screen creates a distraction-free working environment with virtually no parallax.
- The tilt function supports up to 60 degrees, allowing for smoother and more natural transitions between lines and strokes.
- The high color gamut and superb color accuracy of 88% NTSC (Adobe RGB≧91%，sRGB≧123%) with a 178-degree viewing angle delivers rich colors, vivid images, and dazzling details in a wider view.
Cons
- The Red Dial interface and 8 fully customizable shortcut keys might take some time to get used to.
- The 13.3-inch screen size might be too small for some artists.
- Some users have reported issues with the pen not working properly.
If you're looking for a drawing tablet that can improve your workflow and is compatible with a variety of software, the XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro Graphics Tablet might be worth considering. The fully-laminated screen and tilt function are standout features that make this tablet a good option for artists who want to create natural-looking strokes and transitions. However, the Red Dial interface and customizable shortcut keys might take some time to get used to, and the 13.3-inch screen size might not be ideal for everyone. Overall, if you're looking for an affordable drawing tablet with a good level of functionality and compatibility, the XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro Graphics Tablet is worth checking out.
GAOMON PD1161 Drawing Tablet with Screen
If you're looking for a cheap art tablet with an impressive display, the GAOMON PD1161 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Create Right On Screen: Drawing and painting directly on the full HD 11.6" IPS screen feels like sketching on paper with reduced glare and reflection.
- Vivid Color Performance: A combination of 72% NTSC (100% SRGB) color gamut and 16.7 million display colors presents drawings in a lifelike way with smoother color gradation.
- Battery-free Stylus AP50: The stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt function is easy to control, giving you the familiar feel of standard pencil.
Cons
- Not a Standalone Tablet: It needs to be connected to a computer running Windows or Mac OS to work.
- Limited Screen Size: The 11.6" screen may not be large enough for some artists.
- Learning Curve: It may take some time to get used to drawing directly on the screen.
The GAOMON PD1161 is a versatile tablet that can be used for drawing, editing images, design work, and more. The 8 press keys on the side of the tablet and 2 pen buttons can be programmed in the driver, which is great to get easy shortcuts and improve workflow. The tablet is compatible with a wide range of creative software, including Krita, Medibang, Blender, Photoshop, Sai, as well as many other applications and platforms for online education or remote work like OneNote, Microsoft Whiteboard, Zoom, etc.
In the box, you'll get a battery-free stylus, pen holder, replacement nibs, drawing glove, 3 in 2 USB cable, AC adapter, and quick guide. The tablet is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. If you're looking for a budget-friendly tablet with a good display and pressure sensitivity, the GAOMON PD1161 is worth considering.
PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable art tablet that you can take anywhere, the PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- DRAW ANYWHERE: With the PicassoTab XL, you can take your art and work with you anywhere, without needing to be connected to a computer.
- ALL-IN-ONE PACKAGE: When you buy the PicassoTab XL, you get everything you need to protect and maintain the device, including a high-quality tablet book-case, drawing glove, universal power adaptor, and pre-installed screen protector.
- BIGGER SCREEN, LARGE DISK: The 11.6-inch screen gives you 30% more screen area to enjoy your drawing, and the large 64GB disk allows you to store all your drawings and download thousands of free apps from the Play Store.
Cons
- PRESSURE SENSITIVITY: The PicassoTab XL only has 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity, which may not be enough for some professional artists.
- SCREEN RESOLUTION: While the IPS HD resolution makes the art crystal clear, it's not the highest resolution available on the market.
- ANDROID-BASED: If you're used to working with Apple products, you may find the Android-based PicassoTab XL to be less intuitive.
The PicassoTab XL is a standalone drawing tablet that's perfect for beginner digital graphic artists who want to draw anywhere. With its all-in-one package, you don't have to worry about buying additional accessories to protect and maintain your device. The 11.6-inch screen is larger than many other affordable art tablets on the market, giving you more room to create. However, the pressure sensitivity and screen resolution may not be enough for professional artists. Overall, the PicassoTab XL is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable, portable art tablet.
XP-PEN Drawing Tablet
Looking for an affordable art tablet that doesn't compromise on quality? The XP-PEN Drawing Tablet might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- Designed for OSU! gameplay, drawing, painting, sketching, E-signatures, and more.
- Ultra-thin tablet with an active area of 4 x 3 inches and 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity.
- Advanced battery-free PN01 stylus for accurate pen performance and uninterrupted drawing.
Cons
- Only compatible with Windows 7 and above, or Mac OS X version 10.10 or later.
- Some users may experience driver conflict problems if other brand's drivers are not removed from their computer before installing XP-PEN's driver.
- The tablet may take some time to set up and find the right spot to draw.
The XP-PEN Drawing Tablet is an excellent choice for both hobbyist and professional artists alike. With its ultra-thin design and advanced pen performance, you'll have groundbreaking control and fluidity to expand your creative output. The tablet is also compact and portable, allowing you to hold it in one hand and carry it on the go.
One of the standout features of this tablet is that it's designed for both right and left-hand users. You can easily switch between left and right-hand mode to remove all limitations and set out to what you want to be. Additionally, the tablet is compatible with Microsoft Office apps like Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Zoom, Xsplit, and more, making it perfect for online teaching and remote work.
However, it's important to note that the tablet is only compatible with Windows 7 and above, or Mac OS X version 10.10 or later. If you have a Mac, you'll need to grant permission to Mac preference first before installing the driver. Also, be sure to remove other brand's drivers from your computer and reboot before installing XP-PEN's driver to avoid any driver conflict problems.
In summary, if you're looking for an affordable art tablet that delivers high performance and accuracy, the XP-PEN Drawing Tablet is a great choice. With its compact size, advanced pen performance, and compatibility with various software applications, it's an excellent investment for any budding artist.
GAOMON M10K Drawing Tablet
If you are looking for an affordable drawing tablet, the GAOMON M10K is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The GAOMON M10K comes with a large working area that offers a paper-like texture surface, providing you with a natural drawing experience.
- You can customize your workflow with the 10 press keys on the M10K. Additionally, the tablet has 2 pen side buttons that allow you to switch between pen and eraser instantly.
- The touch ring on the GAOMON M10K can be programmed for canvas zooming, brush adjusting, and page scrolling, making it easy to use for both right and left-handed users.
Cons
- The GAOMON M10K is not compatible with all creative software, so be sure to check the compatibility before purchasing.
- There have been some reports of the tablet malfunctioning after a few months of use.
- The stylus needs to be charged before use, which may be inconvenient for some users.
The GAOMON M10K is a great option for beginners who want to experiment with digital art without breaking the bank. The tablet comes with a battery-free stylus that has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing you with accurate and precise pen strokes. Additionally, the tablet is compatible with Windows, Mac, and some Android devices, making it easy to use with a variety of devices.
In terms of design, the GAOMON M10K is sleek and lightweight, making it easy to carry around with you. The tablet comes with a carrying bag and pen bag, making it easy to transport and protect. The tablet also comes with 8 replacement nibs and a nib clip, ensuring that you can continue to use the tablet long after the initial nibs wear out.
Overall, the GAOMON M10K is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable drawing tablet that provides a natural drawing experience. While there are some limitations to the tablet, it is a great option for beginners who want to experiment with digital art.
Frunsi Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable standalone drawing tablet, the Frunsi Drawing Tablet may be a good option for you.
Pros
- Multi-functional drawing tablet that can be used for drawing or taking notes in meetings
- FHD resolution display with IPS FHD screen for clear digital drawing
- Long battery life of up to 5 hours
Cons
- Pressure sensitivity is only 1024 levels
- Slight delay between drawing and line appearing on screen
- Only compatible with Android operating system
This drawing tablet is perfect for beginners who want to get into digital drawing without breaking the bank. It's also great for those who want a tablet that can be used for both drawing and note-taking during meetings.
The FHD resolution display with IPS FHD screen provides a clear display for digital drawing, making it easier to see details and colors. The long battery life of up to 5 hours means you can use it for extended periods of time without having to worry about recharging.
However, the pressure sensitivity is only 1024 levels, which may not be enough for more advanced artists. There is also a slight delay between drawing and the line appearing on the screen, which can be frustrating for some users. Additionally, the tablet is only compatible with Android operating systems, so it may not work with all devices.
Overall, the Frunsi Drawing Tablet is a great option for those who want an affordable standalone drawing tablet with decent features. However, if you're a more advanced artist, you may want to invest in a tablet with higher pressure sensitivity.
HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet
If you're looking for an affordable art tablet, the HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The HUION art tablet is equipped with a comfortable 10 x 6.25 inches working area, making it easy to work on your art.
- The battery-free stylus PW100 allows for constant uninterrupted drawing, and its tilt function enables imitation of lines input with diverse drawing gestures, with accuracy ensured.
- With 12 programmable press keys plus 16 programmable soft keys, you can set shortcut keys on the drawing tablet's driver based on your preferences.
Cons
- The cursor will not show up in the SAMSUNG Galaxy S series at present.
- iPhone and iPad are NOT compatible at the moment.
- The tablet doesn't come with a screen, so you'll need to connect it to a computer or phone to see your work.
The HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet is a great option for both professional artists and beginners. Its 10 x 6.25 inches working area provides the user with a comfortable size to work, and the 10mm slim structure and minimalist design of appearance make the drawing tablet more attractive. The battery-free stylus PW100 allows for constant uninterrupted drawing, and its tilt function enables imitation of lines input with diverse drawing gestures, with accuracy ensured. The tablet also comes with 12 programmable press keys plus 16 programmable soft keys, allowing you to set shortcut keys on the drawing tablet's driver based on your preferences.
However, there are a few downsides to consider. The cursor will not show up in the SAMSUNG Galaxy S series at present, and iPhone and iPad are NOT compatible at the moment. Additionally, the tablet doesn't come with a screen, so you'll need to connect it to a computer or phone to see your work.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable art tablet that offers a range of features and customization options, the HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a cheap art tablet, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to consider:
Size and Display
The size of the tablet and its display are important factors to consider. A larger tablet will give you more space to work with, but it may also be heavier and less portable. The display should be bright and clear, with good color accuracy and a high resolution.
Pressure Sensitivity
Pressure sensitivity is an important feature for artists, as it allows you to control the thickness and opacity of your lines by varying the pressure you apply to the tablet. Look for a tablet with at least 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity for the best results.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Make sure that the tablet you choose is compatible with your computer or mobile device. Some tablets require specific software or drivers to function properly, so be sure to check the manufacturer's website for compatibility information.
Accessories and Extras
Some tablets come with accessories like styluses or cases, while others may offer additional features like touch screens or wireless connectivity. Consider what extras you may need or want before making your purchase.
By considering these factors, you can find the best cheap art tablet for your needs. Remember to do your research and read reviews before making a final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top budget-friendly drawing tablets with screens for artists?
If you're on a budget but still want a drawing tablet with a screen, there are several options available. Some of the top budget-friendly drawing tablets with screens for artists include the Huion Kamvas Pro 13, the XP-Pen Artist 12, and the Gaomon PD1560. These tablets offer good value for their price and are suitable for both beginners and professionals.
Which affordable drawing tablets come with a pen included?
Many affordable drawing tablets come with a pen included, which is a great value for artists on a budget. Some of the best options include the Huion H610 Pro V2, the XP-Pen Deco 01, and the Wacom Intuos. These tablets offer good performance and come with a stylus that is comfortable to use and responsive.
What are the best options for a drawing tablet under $50?
If you're looking for a drawing tablet under $50, there are several options available. Some of the best options include the Huion H420, the UGEE M708, and the XP-Pen StarG640. While these tablets may not have all the features of more expensive models, they are still suitable for beginners and offer good value for their price.
What drawing tablet features should beginners look for when on a budget?
If you're a beginner on a budget, there are several features you should look for when choosing a drawing tablet. These include a comfortable and responsive stylus, a good drawing area size, and compatibility with popular drawing software. It's also important to choose a tablet with good build quality and durability, as well as one that is easy to set up and use.
How do the most recommended budget tablets for drawing compare to more expensive models?
While more expensive drawing tablets may offer additional features and better performance, many budget tablets offer good value for their price and can still provide a good drawing experience. Some of the most recommended budget tablets for drawing, such as the Huion H610 Pro V2 and the XP-Pen Deco 01, offer good performance and features at a fraction of the cost of more expensive models.
Can you explain the differences between graphic tablets and drawing tablets?
Graphic tablets and drawing tablets are similar in many ways, but there are some key differences to be aware of. Graphic tablets are typically used for tasks such as photo editing and graphic design, and do not have a built-in screen. Drawing tablets, on the other hand, are designed specifically for drawing and come with a built-in screen. While both types of tablets can be used for drawing, drawing tablets offer a more natural and intuitive drawing experience.
