As the new year unfolds, digital artists and creative professionals alike are eagerly anticipating the cutting-edge tablet offerings that will shape the creative landscape in 2024. This comprehensive guide delves into the top-performing tablets poised to elevate the artistic experience, meticulously selected based on crucial factors such as pressure sensitivity, display quality, compatibility, and exceptional value.
Whether you're a seasoned illustrator, a hobbyist exploring the boundless possibilities of digital art, or a student honing your skills, this article presents an insightful and unbiased analysis to assist you in making an informed purchasing decision. By closely examining the latest advancements in tablet technology, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to find the perfect companion for your creative endeavors.
From industry-leading pressure sensitivity and stunning display resolutions to seamless integration with your preferred software and exceptional value for money, we've scoured the market to curate a selection of tablets that cater to the diverse needs of the creative community. Prepare to be inspired and empowered as you embark on your artistic journey with the best tablets of 2024.
Apple iPad Pro: Best Tablet for Creative Professionals
iPad Air (5th Generation): with M1 chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display... -- 599.99(Amazon)
Apple 11-Inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi 256GB - Space Gray -- 398.95(Reebelo USA)
Apple iPad Pro 9.7-Inch 32GB Space Gray Wi-Fi Only (Scratch and Dent) -- 133.99(Walmart - Wireless Source)
Why We Picked It
The Apple iPad Pro is a top-tier tablet designed to cater to professionals and creatives who require a powerful device for their work. Its high-resolution display with ProMotion technology offers a smooth and responsive experience, which is essential for artists and designers. The support for Apple Pencil 2 allows for precise and fluid sketching, making it an excellent tool for digital art creation.
Who It's For
The iPad Pro is best suited for creative professionals, such as graphic designers, illustrators, and digital artists, who need a portable and versatile canvas for their creative projects. It's also a great choice for business professionals and students who can take advantage of its powerful performance for multitasking and productivity applications.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution, color-accurate display with ProMotion | ❌ Higher cost compared to other tablets on the market |
| ✅ Support for Apple Pencil 2 for precise drawing and note-taking | ❌ Closed ecosystem may limit some software options |
| ✅ Powerful performance suitable for professional creative software | ❌ Accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are sold separately |
Wacom MobileStudio Pro: Ultimate Portable Studio for Professionals
Mobile Studio Pro 16" Windows 10, Intel Core i7, 512GB SSD: Second Gener... -- 2499.95(Amazon)
Wacom MobileStudio Pro 13 Inch, 2nd Gen, Intel Core i7-8559U, 512GB SSD,... -- 2931.23(Microless.com)
Why We Picked It
The Wacom MobileStudio Pro stands out as a top-tier choice for professional artists and designers who require a portable yet powerful creative workspace. With its high-resolution 4K/UHD screen, exceptional color accuracy, and the industry-leading Wacom Pro Pen 2, it offers an unparalleled digital drawing and design experience. The inclusion of an Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA Quadro P1000 graphics, and a solid-state drive ensures that it can handle demanding 2D, 3D, video, and CAD applications with ease.
Who It's For
This device is best suited for professional artists, animators, and designers who need a portable studio with the power to handle complex projects. It's also a great fit for those who value precision and detail in their work, thanks to its high-pressure sensitivity pen and 4K display. However, it might be overkill for casual artists or hobbyists due to its high price point.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution 15.6” 4K/UHD screen with 85% Adobe RGB coverage for exceptional clarity and color accuracy | ❌ High price point may be prohibitive for casual artists or hobbyists |
| ✅ Wacom Pro Pen 2 with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity for extraordinary precision and control | ❌ At 4.7 pounds, it's relatively heavy for a portable device |
| ✅ Powerful performance with Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA Quadro P1000 graphics, and fast SSD storage | ❌ Limited upgradeability compared to traditional desktop workstations |
Microsoft Surface Pro 8: Versatile 2-in-1 Computing Powerhouse
Surface Pro 8-13" Touchscreen - Intel® Core™ i5-8GB Memory - 128GB SSD -... -- 748.88(Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Pro 8 Tablet - 13" - Core i5 - 8 GB Ram - 512 GB SSD -- 863.48(Walmart - DealClock)
Microsoft Surface Pro 8-13" Touchscreen - Intel® Evo Platform Core™ i5-8... -- 694.99(Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Pro 8-13" Touchscreen - Intel Evo Platform Core i5-16G... -- 834(Amazon)
Surface Pro 8-13" Touchscreen - Intel® Evo Platform Core™ i7-16GB Memory... -- 958(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Microsoft Surface Pro 8 stands out as a top choice for professionals and creatives seeking a versatile computing solution. It combines the power of a laptop with the flexibility of a tablet, thanks to its detachable keyboard and the iconic Kickstand. Built on the Intel Evo platform, it offers impressive performance, graphics, and battery life in a sleek, portable package. The Surface Pro 8 is designed to make the most of Windows 11, providing a seamless experience for productivity, creativity, and entertainment.
Who It's For
Ideal for professionals, creatives, and students who need a powerful, versatile device that can handle a wide range of tasks. Whether you're drafting documents, creating digital art, or managing spreadsheets, the Surface Pro 8 adapts to your needs. It's also perfect for those who value the ability to switch between a laptop and a tablet without compromising on performance.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Versatile 2-in-1 design with detachable keyboard and iconic Kickstand | ❌ Battery life may not meet the expectations of some users |
| ✅ Built on the Intel Evo platform for top-notch performance and graphics | ❌ Surface Pen and Signature Keyboard sold separately, adding to the overall cost |
| ✅ Supports the best pen experience with Surface Slim Pen 2 for natural writing and drawing | ❌ Limited port selection compared to some other laptops |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Best Android Tablet for Artists and Creatives
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra 14.6" (2022) 128GB SM-X900 WiFi - Graphite (... -- 555.58(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra | Super AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ 14.6" Screen |... -- 753.95(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra Graphite 128GB -- 919.99(Samsung)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (Wifi) SM-X900 WIFI 256GB Graphite Very Good -- 599.36(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a top-of-the-line Android tablet that boasts a massive, high-resolution Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for artists and multimedia enthusiasts. The included S Pen with its low latency and high precision enhances the creative experience, allowing for detailed and fluid drawing and note-taking.
Who It's For
This tablet is ideal for artists and creatives who prefer the Android ecosystem and require a portable device with a large canvas for their work. It's also suitable for users who enjoy consuming media on a large, vibrant screen and those who need a powerful device for multitasking and productivity.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Expansive 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate | ❌ Android may lack some professional-grade art applications compared to iOS or Windows |
| ✅ Included S Pen with low latency for precise drawing and writing | ❌ Premium price point may be a barrier for some users |
| ✅ Powerful octa-core processor for smooth multitasking and performance | ❌ Heavier and larger than typical tablets, which may affect portability |
Huion Kamvas Studio 22: All-in-One Creative Workstation
Kamvas 22 Plus QLED Drawing Tablet with Full-Laminated Screen USB-C Conn... -- 549(Amazon)
New! huion kamvas studio 22 21.5 inch lcd drawing tablet pc digital writ... -- 2073.84(AliExpress.com)
Huion Kamvas 13 Cosmo Black -- 209(Huion USA)
KAMVAS 22 Graphics Drawing Tablet with Screen 120% sRGB PW517 Battery-Fr... -- 449(Amazon)
21.5 inch Huion Kamvas studio 22 digital design graphic tablet drawing l... -- 1878.25(AliExpress.com)
KAMVAS 22 Plus Graphics Drawing Tablet with Screen Full Laminated QD 140... -- 549(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Huion Kamvas Studio 22 stands out as an exceptional all-in-one solution for artists and designers who require a large drawing surface integrated with a computer. Its key features include a battery-free stylus with tilt support and pressure sensitivity, offering a natural drawing experience. The device's compatibility with multiple operating systems and its full-laminated, glare-free QLED screen with 140% sRGB color gamut make it a versatile and high-quality choice for creative professionals.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for digital artists, graphic designers, and illustrators seeking a comprehensive drawing and design workstation. It's especially suited for those who prioritize screen size, color accuracy, and pen precision in their workflow. However, its less portable nature might not appeal to creatives who frequently work on the go or those who prefer a more compact setup.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large, full-laminated QLED screen with 140% sRGB for vivid colors | ❌ Less portable compared to other drawing tablets |
| ✅ Battery-free stylus with tilt support and pressure sensitivity for precise drawing | ❌ May require an additional keyboard for non-drawing tasks |
| ✅ Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux, and certain Android devices, offering flexibility in workflow | ❌ Higher price point than standalone drawing tablets |
XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro: Best Drawing Tablet for Detailed Artwork
15.6" Drawing Tablet with Screen XPPen Artist 15.6 Pro Tilt Support Grap... -- 359.99(Amazon)
XPPen 15.6 Inch Drawing Tablet with Screen Artist 15.6 Pro Tilt Support ... -- 299.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is a well-rounded drawing tablet that offers a generous active area combined with a high-resolution display, making it ideal for artists and designers who require precision and detail in their work. The fully-laminated display minimizes parallax, and the responsive stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced strokes and a natural drawing experience.
Who It's For
This tablet is best suited for digital artists, graphic designers, and illustrators who need a reliable and precise tool for creating detailed artwork. It's also a great choice for educators and professionals who engage in online teaching or remote work that involves visual presentations or graphic manipulation. However, it may not be the best option for those seeking a standalone device, as it requires connection to a computer.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution 15.6 inch fully-laminated display for clear visuals | ❌ Needs to be connected to a computer, not a standalone device |
| ✅ Advanced pen performance with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity | ❌ May be less portable due to its larger size |
| ✅ Customizable shortcut keys and Red Dial for efficient workflow | ❌ Price point may be higher compared to entry-level tablets |
Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i: Versatile 2-in-1 for Creatives
Yoga 7i Intel Core i7-1355U 16" WUXGA 2 in 1 Touch-Screen Laptop16GB Mem... -- 776(Amazon)
Yoga 7i 16" WUXGA 2 in 1 Touchscreen Laptop, Intel i5-1335U 10-Core Proc... -- 821.99(Amazon)
2022 Newest Yoga 7i 2-in-1 16" 2.5K Touch Premium Laptop | Intel Core i5... -- 694.99(Amazon)
Lenovo Yoga Duet 7 13iml05 82AS004XUS 13" Touchscreen 2 in 1 Notebook -- 1799(Jar Hearts)
Why We Picked It
The Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i stands out for its versatility and innovative features, making it an excellent choice for artists and professionals who require the flexibility of a 2-in-1 device. With its detachable keyboard, users can easily switch between laptop and tablet modes, enhancing productivity and creativity. The inclusion of the Lenovo E-Color Pen, capable of picking colors from real-life objects, offers a unique advantage for artists and designers who seek precision and inspiration from their surroundings. Despite some concerns about the stylus experience, the Yoga Duet 7i's overall performance, coupled with its portability and design, positions it as a compelling option for those needing a blend of functionality and creativity.
Who It's For
This device is best suited for artists, designers, and creative professionals who value the flexibility of a 2-in-1 design and the unique capabilities of the Lenovo E-Color Pen. It's also a great choice for users looking for a portable and versatile laptop that can handle both productivity tasks and creative projects. However, users who prioritize stylus performance above all else might want to consider alternatives.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Detachable keyboard for flexible use | ❌ Stylus experience may not match Apple Pencil or Surface Pen |
| ✅ Lenovo E-Color Pen for creative precision | ❌ High price point |
| ✅ Powerful Intel Core i7 processor for high performance | ❌ Limited upgradability due to soldered memory |
GAOMON PD1560: Best Entry-Level Artist's Tablet
Drawing Tablet with Screen GAOMON PD1560 Drawing Monitor Art Tablet with... -- 269.99(Amazon)
PD1560 Pen Display & AP40 Pen- 15.6'' 8192 Pen Pressure Graphics Drawing... -- 254.99(Amazon)
GAOMON PD1560 15.6 inch IPS HD Screen Drawing Monitor Pen Display with 1... -- 495.43(Newegg.com - ChantSong)
Why We Picked It
The GAOMON PD1560 is a well-rounded drawing tablet that offers a generous 15.6-inch display and high levels of pressure sensitivity, making it an excellent choice for artists and designers who are starting out or working within a budget. Its affordability combined with a suite of features tailored for creative work, such as programmable shortcut keys and an adjustable stand, make it a compelling option for digital art creation.
Who It's For
This tablet is ideal for beginner to intermediate digital artists, graphic designers, and 3D animators who require a large canvas for their work but do not want to invest heavily in a high-end drawing monitor. It's also suitable for educators and professionals who need a reliable tablet for online teaching, presentations, and document annotation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large 15.6-inch IPS HD display for an expansive drawing area | ❌ Must be connected to a computer to function, limiting portability |
| ✅ 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity for precise control | ❌ Build quality may not be as robust as more expensive competitors |
| ✅ 10 programmable shortcut keys and an adjustable stand for ergonomic use | ❌ Compatibility limited to Windows 7 or above, and macOS 10.12 or above |
Asus ZenBook Duo: Innovative Laptop for Creatives
ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED UX582 Laptop, 15.6” 4K Touch Display, Intel Core... -- 1999(Amazon)
Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED Laptop, Intel Core i9-12900H, GeForce RTX 3070 T... -- 2299(Amazon)
Zenbook Pro 14 Duo 14.5” 16:10 Touch Display, 120Hz Refresh Rate, Screen... -- 2265.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Asus ZenBook Duo series stands out for its innovative design, featuring a secondary touchscreen, the ScreenPad Plus, which offers additional creative space for multitasking and artistic endeavors. This unique feature, combined with high-end specifications like a 4K OLED main display, powerful Intel Core i9 processors, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti graphics, makes it a compelling choice for professionals and creatives who require a powerful laptop that goes beyond traditional computing tasks.
Who It's For
The ZenBook Duo is best suited for creative professionals, such as graphic designers, video editors, and digital artists, who can benefit from the additional screen real estate and touch capabilities for drawing and editing. It's also ideal for power users and multitaskers who need to manage multiple applications or windows simultaneously. However, due to its size and weight, it might not be the best choice for those who prioritize portability above all else.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dual-screen setup with 4K OLED main display and ScreenPad Plus for enhanced multitasking and creativity | ❌ The secondary screen might offer limited drawing area compared to dedicated tablets |
| ✅ High-performance components including Intel Core i9 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti, and up to 32GB RAM | ❌ Heavier and less portable than traditional laptops or tablets, making it less ideal for on-the-go use |
| ✅ Comes with a complimentary 3-month Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, enhancing its value for creative professionals | ❌ High price point, making it a significant investment |
Google Pixel Slate: Versatile 2-in-1 Google Tablet
Pixel Slate 12.3-Inch 2 in 1 Tablet Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB, Aspec... -- 849(Amazon)
Google Pixel Slate 12.3-inch 2 in 1 Tablet Intel Core M3 8GB Ram 64GB As... -- 499.99(Amazon)
Google Pixel Slate Tablet - 12.3" - Core i5 8th Gen i5-8200Y Dual-Core (... -- 899(Chapman University Bookstore)
Pixel Slate 12.3" Touchscreen LCD Tablet w/Pen | Intel 8th Generation Co... -- 549.99(Amazon)
Pixel Slate 12.3" Touchscreen LCD Tablet w/Pixelbook Pen | Intel 8th Gen... -- 599.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixel Slate is a versatile 2-in-1 tablet that offers a high-resolution molecular display and a clean Android experience, making it a solid choice for entertainment and productivity within the Google ecosystem. Its support for the Pixelbook Pen also makes it appealing for artists or note-takers who prefer to write or draw directly on the screen.
Who It's For
The Pixel Slate is best suited for users who are already invested in the Google ecosystem and are looking for a portable device that can handle entertainment, multitasking, and creative tasks with ease. It's also a good fit for those who prioritize a high-quality display and audio experience for media consumption.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution 12.3-inch molecular display with 6 million pixels | ❌ Pixelbook Pen is sold separately |
| ✅ Support for the Pixelbook Pen and Google Assistant | ❌ Product has been discontinued, which may affect availability |
| ✅ Dual front-firing speakers for a premium audio experience | ❌ Limited storage capacity before formatting |
Thanks for checking out the best tablets for artists in 2024! If you need more help or recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy creating!