Can Drawing Tablets Be Used Without Computer?

No matter where you are in your journey as a digital artist, you likely know that when inspiration strikes, you need to capture it quickly or risk losing it forever.

The trouble is that inspiration often comes when you're waiting for the subway or taking a pleasant stroll. In such moments, drawing tablets that need to be connected to a computer can be a real hassle.

After all, you can’t exactly pull out your whole laptop. So, it’s natural to ask: can drawing tablets be used without a computer?

Good news—the answer is yes.

In this article, we'll show you how you can use your drawing tablet without a computer and what that means for your digital artwork.


Standalone Drawing Tablets Offer the Best of Both Worlds

From the invention of MacPaint in 1984 to the latest releases from brands like Wacom, traditional drawing tablets have acted as input devices that send signals from your stylus to your computer screen.

That's great for getting your digital art on a big screen, but not ideal if you want to draw on the go.

Fortunately, drawing tablets come in different types, and artists seeking portability have options. The two main types of drawing tablets currently available are:

• Passive drawing tablets: Classic tablets from brands like Wacom and Huion that must be connected to a computer before you can draw.
• Standalone drawing tablets: Portable tablets like the Simbans PicassoTab that use a self-powered input device and active pen to transmit signals directly to the tablet.

In other words, standalone tablets eliminate the need for a computer, making it easier to create high-quality digital art on the go.


How Can Standalone Drawing Tablets Help Your Artwork?

If you currently have a passive drawing tablet, even the promise of portability might not be enough to convince you to switch to a standalone option.

However, a portable drawing tablet can benefit your artwork in many ways and can complement your existing setup. Here are some benefits to consider:

• Pen-enabled screens
• Portability
• Cleaner workspaces
• Drawing-centric features
• Improved drawing experience

Which Portable Drawing Tablet is Best for Your Art?

Choosing a digital drawing tablet that can be used without a computer requires considering your options. Some tablets will be better suited to your needs than others.


The Best Portable Drawing Tablet for Beginners

PicassoTab X14
Designed for beginners, the PicassoTab X14 Portable drawing tablet is a great option for budding graphic designers. It includes an all-in-one accessories package and a 14.1-inch, crystal-clear screen, providing everything beginners need to start their next drawing project anywhere.


The Best Advanced Portable Drawing Tablet

Microsoft Surface Pro 9
For advanced digital artists, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is hard to beat. It features a 13-inch screen, Windows 11 support, and a powerful processor capable of handling 3D applications and multiple drawing layers.


The Best Portable Drawing Tablet for Big Spenders

Apple iPad Pro
For professional artists willing to invest, the Apple iPad Pro is a powerful option. It offers an impressive 2388 x 1688p resolution and a compact design, making it perfect for professionals who need a high-performance tablet.


The Best Android-based Portable Drawing Tablet

Samsung S9 Tablet
Launched recently, the Samsung S9 tablet is an exciting option for artists willing to try new technology. It features simple Android app integrations, up to 256 GB of storage in some variants, and an S-Pen with an excellent response rate.


How to Start Enjoying Your Standalone Drawing Tablet

Using a standalone tablet will feel different from the desk-based experiences you're used to. However, your art can benefit from this change if you consider key performance factors such as:

• Protection for your tablet
• Backup batteries for your pen
• Drawing glove

Portable drawing tablets that come with accessories can help you adjust seamlessly. Investing in additional extras like sturdy cases will also ease your transition. From there, creating your best art is all about experimenting, having fun, and getting to know your new device.

Conclusion

Standalone drawing tablets are excellent for artists seeking more accessible creation at any stage of their development. By choosing high-quality options like the Simbans PicassoTab, which comes with all the necessary accessories, you can enjoy creative freedom like never before.