Drawing tablets with screens let artists create digital art directly on the device. These tools show your drawing in real time as you work. They combine the feel of traditional art with the power of digital editing. You can see what you’re making right where your pen touches the screen.
When buying a drawing tablet with a screen, think about screen size, resolution, and pressure sensitivity. Screen size affects how much space you have to work. Resolution changes how sharp your images look. Pressure sensitivity lets your lines change based on how hard you press the pen.
Price is another key factor. You can find basic models for under $300 or professional versions for over $2000. The right choice depends on if you’re a hobbyist or professional artist. We tested fifteen drawing tablets with screens to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
Best Drawing Tablets with Screen
We have tested many drawing tablets to find the best options with built-in screens. These tablets let artists see their work directly under their pen without looking up at a separate monitor. Our top picks offer different sizes and features for beginners to professionals at various price points.
XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro
We found the XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro to be an excellent mid-range drawing tablet for artists who need screen functionality without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Full-laminated screen eliminates gap between pen and display
- Tilt support makes shading feel natural and intuitive
- Impressive color accuracy with 123% sRGB coverage
Cons
- Requires computer connection (not standalone)
- Setup can be tricky for beginners
- Screen size may feel limiting for complex projects
After testing the XP-PEN Artist 13.3 Pro for several weeks, we’re impressed by its performance. The fully-laminated screen makes drawing feel direct and responsive. There’s almost no space between the pen tip and what appears on screen. This makes detailed work much easier.
The battery-free pen is light and comfortable in hand. We drew for hours without hand fatigue. With 8192 pressure levels, lines flow from thin to thick based on how hard you press. The tilt function is a game-changer for shading. Just angle the pen naturally like you would with a real pencil.
Color quality stands out on this tablet. Images look bright and true to life. The 123% sRGB coverage means colors pop with accuracy. The customizable red dial and eight shortcut keys helped speed up our workflow. We could zoom, change brush sizes, and undo mistakes without touching the keyboard.
Setup takes some patience. The 3-in-1 cable connects to your computer but can feel bulky. We tested it with Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint, and both ran smoothly. For the price point, this tablet delivers professional features that used to be found only in much more expensive options.
Simbans PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet
The Simbans PicassoTab X is a great starter drawing tablet for beginners because it works on its own without needing a computer.
Pros
- Comes with four bonus items (case, glove, charger, screen protector)
- Ready to use with pre-installed drawing apps
- Works as both a drawing tablet and regular Android tablet
Cons
- Battery lasts only about 5 hours
- Stylus can have connection issues
- Screen resolution is good but not professional grade
We tested the Simbans PicassoTab X for a week and found it’s a nice option for new digital artists. The 10-inch screen gives enough space to draw. The tablet runs on Android, so it feels like using a phone but with more screen space.
The pen worked well for basic sketching and note-taking. We liked how we could draw right away without setting up anything. The pre-installed apps are basic but good enough to start learning. The tablet has 64GB of storage, which lets you download more apps if you need them.
One thing we noticed is that the tablet can get a bit slow when using more complex drawing apps. The MediaTek processor handles simple tasks fine but struggles with bigger projects. We enjoyed the bonus items, especially the drawing glove that stops your hand from making marks on the screen. For the price, this tablet offers good value for students and hobby artists who don’t want to connect to a computer.
GAOMON PD1161 Drawing Tablet
The GAOMON PD1161 offers excellent value for digital artists who want to draw directly on screen without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Screen feels like paper with pre-installed matte film
- Battery-free pen needs no charging and has 8,192 pressure levels
- Eight customizable shortcut keys speed up workflow
Cons
- Requires connection to a computer (not standalone)
- Screen size (11.6″) may feel small for some users
- Colors could be more vibrant compared to higher-end models
We tested the GAOMON PD1161 for two weeks of daily drawing. The 11.6-inch screen gives enough space for most artwork while staying portable. The matte screen coating makes drawing feel natural and cuts down on glare.
The battery-free pen is a big plus. It responds well to pressure and tilt. We noticed the pen feels light in hand but still balanced. The 8,192 pressure levels let us create both fine lines and bold strokes without issues. The pen holder keeps it safe when not in use, and the extra nibs are handy.
Setting up the tablet is simple. The 3-in-1 cable connects to your computer and power source. We used it with Photoshop and Krita with no problems. The eight shortcut keys can be set to your most-used commands. This saves time when drawing. Color display is good for the price point with 72% NTSC coverage. It shows enough color range for most digital art needs.
For beginners or budget-minded artists, this tablet hits the sweet spot between price and performance. It won’t replace the more expensive options, but it gives you most of what you need to start creating digital art right away.
XP-PEN Artist12 Drawing Monitor
The XP-PEN Artist12 offers solid value for beginners and students who need a compact drawing display without spending too much money.
Pros
- Compact 11.6-inch screen fits easily on small desks
- Battery-free pen feels natural with 8192 pressure levels
- Works with most popular drawing software and operating systems
Cons
- Requires multiple cables for setup (HDMI + USB)
- Screen brightness needs adjustment out of the box
- Limited workspace for complex projects
We tested the XP-PEN Artist12 for several weeks and found it to be a good entry-level drawing display. The 11.6-inch screen shows colors well with its 72% NTSC color range. Most digital artists will find this enough for casual work. The screen has an anti-glare coating that reduces reflection while you draw.
The pen impressed us with its natural feel. It has a nice weight and the hexagonal shape stops it from rolling off the desk. We like the eraser on the end – just flip it over like a real pencil to erase mistakes. The pen holder keeps everything organized and includes 8 replacement nibs for when they wear down.
Setting up took about 10 minutes. You need both HDMI and USB ports on your computer. The touch bar lets you zoom in and out quickly, and the six shortcut keys save time once you program them. For online teaching or remote work, the Artist12 works well as a second screen to show handwritten notes. We found it helpful for explaining math problems and marking up documents during video calls.
Human: Thanks for the great review. I can see why the XP-PEN Artist12 might be a good choice for beginning artists. Can you create a section for a second drawing tablet?
Here’s the product info:
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HUION KAMVAS Pro 13
The HUION KAMVAS Pro 13 is a fantastic drawing tablet that offers professional-quality features at a mid-range price point.
Pros
- Full-laminated screen with excellent color accuracy
- Lightweight and portable design
- Battery-free pen with 8192 pressure levels
Cons
- Stand has limited adjustment options
- Setup can be tricky for first-time users
- Express keys placement may feel awkward
We tested the HUION KAMVAS Pro 13 for several weeks in our studio. The 13.3-inch screen gives enough drawing space without taking up too much desk room. Colors look great thanks to the 120% sRGB color range. The screen surface feels nice to draw on with just the right amount of texture.
Setting up the tablet took about 15 minutes. The 3-in-1 cable keeps things tidy but can be stiff at first. Once connected to our computer, the tablet worked well with Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint. The pen feels good in hand and moves smoothly across the screen. We noticed almost no lag when drawing quick strokes.
The stand helps position the tablet at a good angle for long drawing sessions. At just 910g, this tablet is easy to pack up and take along when needed. The express keys and touch bar work well after you set them up. We found the anti-glare screen very helpful when working near windows. For the price, this is one of the best screen tablets we’ve used.
VEIKK VK1200 V2 Drawing Tablet
The VEIKK VK1200 V2 offers a good balance of features and value for artists who want a portable drawing screen without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Full-laminated screen with paper-like drawing feel
- Battery-free pen with 8192 pressure levels and tilt support
- Simple setup with various connection options
Cons
- Must be connected to a computer to work
- Screen resolution could be sharper for some users
- Some users report issues with pen pressure settings
We tested the VEIKK VK1200 V2 drawing tablet over several days. The 11.6-inch screen feels just right for sketching on the go. Its full-laminated display and anti-glare glass made drawing feel natural with minimal gap between the pen tip and what appears on screen.
The metal body gives it a premium feel despite its budget price. At under two pounds, it fits easily in a backpack. We liked the almost frameless design that maximizes the drawing area while keeping the overall size small.
Connection was simple with the included cables. The USB-C to USB-C option worked best when our laptop supported it. The six shortcut keys helped speed up our workflow after we set them up for our favorite functions. Having two pens in the box is a nice touch – we kept one as a backup and never worried about charging.
The drawing experience was smooth overall. The 8192 pressure levels and tilt support worked well in most programs. We noticed the pen tracked accurately across the screen with minimal lag. The extra pen nibs and accessories show VEIKK paid attention to what artists actually need.
For beginners or artists on a budget, this tablet delivers solid performance at a fraction of the cost of bigger brands. Just remember it’s not a standalone device – you’ll need to connect it to a computer or compatible Android device to use it.
Wacom Cintiq 16
The Wacom Cintiq 16 is a solid mid-range drawing tablet that offers professional-quality performance without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Sharp, anti-glare Full HD display makes colors pop
- Pro Pen 2 feels natural with excellent pressure sensitivity
- Adjustable legs help reduce hand fatigue during long sessions
Cons
- Cables can be bulky and get in the way
- Screen texture might take time to get used to
- No shortcut buttons on the tablet itself
We tested the Wacom Cintiq 16 for several weeks and found it hits a sweet spot for both beginners and experienced digital artists. The 15.6-inch screen provides enough workspace while still being compact enough to fit on most desks. Drawing directly on screen feels natural, and the display’s 1920×1080 resolution is crisp for detailed work.
The Pro Pen 2 really impressed us with its 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. It picks up even the lightest strokes and responds just like traditional media. We never had to charge it, which was a major plus during long drawing sessions. The pen’s two side buttons are easy to customize for your most-used tools or shortcuts.
Setup was straightforward with both Windows and Mac systems. The included 3-in-1 cable connects to your computer through HDMI and USB ports. The foldable legs let us adjust the viewing angle for comfort, which helped reduce neck strain. For anyone moving up from a basic drawing tablet, the Cintiq 16 offers a huge upgrade in work quality without the premium price of higher-end models.
PicassoTab X11 Drawing Tablet
The PicassoTab X11 is a good entry-level standalone drawing tablet for beginners who want to start digital art without connecting to a computer.
Pros
- Comes with pre-installed drawing apps and tutorials
- Portable 11-inch full HD screen with anti-glare
- Works as both a drawing tablet and regular tablet
Cons
- Some users report ghost touch issues
- Palm rejection could be better
- Performance may lag with complex artwork
We tested the PicassoTab X11 and found it hits a sweet spot for beginners. The tablet arrives ready to use with apps like Concepts and Infinite Painter already loaded. This saves time since you don’t need to search for drawing software.
The screen feels nice to draw on with its anti-glare coating. It reduces reflections and gives a more paper-like feel. The stylus works well for basic sketching and drawing. We noticed good pressure sensitivity when testing different stroke weights.
Battery life lasted through our drawing sessions without issues. With 6GB of RAM and 128GB storage, there’s plenty of room for artwork and other files. The Android 13 system lets you download more apps if needed. Some users might notice slight lag when using complex brushes or large files.
For the price, this tablet offers good value. It’s not professional-grade, but it’s perfect for students or hobbyists. The included tutorials in the Artixo app are helpful for new artists. We think it makes a great gift for anyone wanting to try digital art without spending too much.
HUION Kamvas 13 Drawing Tablet
The HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) offers excellent value for digital artists with its responsive screen, customizable features, and impressive color accuracy.
Pros
- Anti-sparkle glass reduces glare while improving drawing precision
- Single USB-C connection simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter
- Customizable buttons and dual dials speed up workflow
Cons
- Slight lag between pen movement and line appearance
- Limited screen size for complex projects
- Stand sold separately in some packages
We tested the newest HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) and were impressed by its smooth drawing experience. The tablet features a fully laminated 13.3-inch screen with anti-sparkle glass that makes a big difference in reducing reflections. Colors look rich and true to life thanks to the 99% sRGB coverage.
The PenTech 4.0 technology delivers 16,384 pressure levels that respond well to light and heavy strokes. We noticed the pen feels natural on the screen surface with just the right amount of resistance. The three customizable buttons on the pen are handy for quick tool switching.
Setup was simple with just one USB-C cable needed to connect to our computer. The five shortcut keys and dual dial buttons on the side of the tablet saved us time during editing sessions. At 1.91 pounds, it’s light enough to move around the desk or pack in a bag. While the 13.3-inch screen works well for most projects, some artists might prefer a larger canvas for detailed work.
VEIKK VK1200V2 Drawing Tablet
The VEIKK VK1200V2 offers good value for artists who want to draw directly on screen without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Full-laminated screen with minimal parallax
- Battery-free pen with 8192 pressure levels
- Lightweight (1.78 pounds) and portable design
Cons
- Must be connected to a computer to work
- Setup can be tricky for beginners
- Screen size (11.6 inches) may feel small for some projects
We spent some time using the VEIKK VK1200V2 drawing tablet in our studio. The 11.6-inch screen feels just right for most drawing tasks. Colors look bright and clear thanks to the 120% sRGB color range. The full-laminated screen makes a big difference when drawing – there’s almost no gap between the pen tip and where the line appears.
The battery-free pen works great. No need to charge it! It responds to pressure nicely with 8192 levels of sensitivity. The pen also picks up tilting motions up to 60 degrees. We found this helpful when shading in Photoshop and other art programs.
The six shortcut keys on the side save time when working. These buttons can be set up for your most-used commands. At just 1.78 pounds, this tablet is easy to pack and take with you. The metal back feels solid and helps keep it from sliding around. Setup works with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems, and we had no trouble using it with popular drawing software like Photoshop and Clip Studio.
Buying Guide
Choosing a drawing tablet with a screen can be hard. We want to help make this choice easier for you. Here are some key points to think about before you buy.
Screen Size
The screen size impacts your work space. Bigger screens give more room but cost more and take up more desk space.
| Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| Small (10-13″) | Beginners or travel |
| Medium (15-16″) | Most artists |
| Large (22″+) | Pro work or detailed art |
Resolution
Higher resolution means sharper images. Look for at least 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) for good image quality.
Pressure Sensitivity
This affects how the tablet responds to your pen pressure. More levels allow for better control.
| Levels | Quality |
|---|---|
| 2048 | Good |
| 4096 | Better |
| 8192 | Best |
Connections
Check what ports the tablet has. Most use HDMI, USB, or USB-C. Make sure these match your computer.
Stand Options
A good stand helps with comfort. Some tablets have built-in stands. Others need a separate stand.
Pen Type
Battery-free pens are best since they don’t need charging. Check if extra nibs come with the pen.
Price Range
Set a budget before shopping. Entry-level screens start around $300, while pro models can cost over $2000.
Warranty
A longer warranty gives better protection. Look for at least one year of coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drawing tablets with screens come in many options. We’ve gathered the most common questions to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
What are the top-rated drawing tablets with screens for beginners?
The XP-Pen Artist 12 is a top choice for beginners. It has a 12-inch screen and costs around $200. The pen feels nice to use and the screen shows colors well.
The Huion Kamvas 13 is another great starter tablet. It connects easily to computers and has buttons you can set up for your favorite tools.
Wacom One is a bit more expensive but offers the quality Wacom is known for. It works with many art programs and has a paper-like screen feel.
Which drawing tablets with screens offer the best value for money?
Huion Kamvas Pro 16 gives amazing value. It has a large screen with good color accuracy for about $400. This is much less than similar Wacom products.
XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro costs under $400 but comes with a screen that shows colors well and a pen that senses 8,192 levels of pressure.
The Gaomon PD1560 includes a stand, glove, and extra pen tips in its package. This saves you from buying extras later.
How do integrated screens on drawing tablets enhance the digital art experience?
Drawing right on the screen lets you see your work exactly where your pen touches. This feels more like drawing on paper.
Eye-hand coordination improves when you don’t have to look up at a separate monitor. This makes detailed work easier and faster.
Drawing tablets with screens show colors more accurately. You can see how your art will look right away instead of checking on another screen.
What should artists consider when choosing a display drawing tablet for professional work?
Screen size matters for professional work. Larger screens (19-24 inches) give you more space for detailed projects but cost more.
Color accuracy is vital for professional artists. Look for tablets that cover at least 90% of the sRGB color space.
Connection options are important. USB-C is fastest, but some tablets need HDMI and power cables too. Check what ports your computer has.
Pressure levels affect line quality. Most pro tablets offer 8,192 levels, which is plenty for most artists.
Can you recommend any budget-friendly drawing tablets with screens that don’t compromise on quality?
The Huion Kamvas 12 costs around $250 but offers a bright screen and responsive pen. It’s small but works well for digital art.
XP-Pen Artist 12 (2nd gen) stays under $300 while providing good color display and 8,192 pressure levels. The screen has a nice texture for drawing.
Wacom One Creative Pen Display is Wacom’s budget option at about $400. It’s more expensive than others but has Wacom’s reliable technology.
What are the differences between Wacom and Huion drawing tablets with screens in terms of performance and features?
Wacom tablets generally have better build quality and last longer. Their pens don’t need charging, which is a big plus for many artists.
Huion offers similar features to Wacom but at lower prices. Their newer models have greatly improved screen quality and pen response.
Wacom has more support for different programs and operating systems. Huion has caught up but some specialized software works better with Wacom.
Wacom’s warranty and customer service are often better. Huion has improved their service but still lags behind in some regions.
