Graphic and Drawing Tablets - What is the Difference?

For artists aspiring to break into the world of digital art, choosing your first drawing device can be daunting.

You may have seen your favorite artists use two kinds of digital drawing tools: graphic tablets and drawing tablets. While both can create great art, each device has its own set of pros and cons.

Without proper research, you might end up wasting money on a piece of hardware that doesn’t help you reach your full potential.

Here, we’ll talk about the similarities and differences of these devices so you can choose the tablet that’s right for you.


What is a Graphics Tablet?

A graphics tablet (often the cheapest drawing tablet) is a hardware input device composed of two main parts: a digital pad and a pen-like stylus. To function, the tablet must be plugged into a computer via USB or paired with your screen through Bluetooth.

Underneath the graphics tablet’s flat surface, a grid of horizontal and vertical wires transmits electromagnetic waves. The coil inside the stylus converts these waves into electrical energy, calculating pen pressure and button press data. The tablet’s sensor board receives these signals, detects the incoming data, and tracks the pen’s current position.

Strokes drawn with the stylus are displayed on the computer in real-time, not on the tablet itself. Because the stylus is so accurate and easy to use, many artists see it as a great replacement for a standard computer mouse.


What is a Drawing Tablet?

A drawing tablet (also known as a pen display tablet, drawing screen tablet, or drawing screen monitor) shares several features with a graphics tablet. Both devices have a drawing surface and a pressure-sensitive stylus, using the same touch technology. The major difference is that a drawing tablet has an integrated screen.

With an LCD screen built into the tablet, it functions as both your monitor and canvas. Drawing tablets come in two versions: computer-connected and standalone. You can find more details about this in our blog: top 6 drawing tablets.

The ability to draw directly on the screen makes a standalone drawing tablet the more intuitive option. It can mimic the feel of traditional pen and paper, making the transition to digital art more seamless for artists.

Choose the Tablet That’s Best for You

Graphic tablets without screens are significantly cheaper and are ideal for those on a smaller budget. Their hard plastic exterior also makes them less prone to wear and tear. However, having to look back and forth between the tablet and the computer may discourage aspiring artists from regular practice.

If this is your first foray into digital art tools, a drawing tablet with a display screen is a better choice. Its intuitive design offers a more natural experience, easing the learning curve for beginners. You can use standalone drawing tablets to practice anywhere, anytime.

Investing in the right tools is essential for honing your craft, and both types of tablets are highly recommended by artists. While drawing tablets with display screens are relatively expensive, more affordable models like the Simbans PicassoTab are also available.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, skill level, and personal preference. Before making a big purchase, carefully assess your needs to find the tablet that will be the best companion for your artistic journey.