best graphics tablet with screen

Drawing tablets with screens combine the best of both worlds for designers and digital artists. They allow you to sketch, just like you would with paper and pen. But you also have access to powerful digital software. Plus, you get the flexibility to work with ease without using a computer screen.

These drawing tablets with a screen used to be more expensive. So, only professional artists and designers could afford a digital drawing tablet with monitor. The good news is that they are now available at affordable prices. It's possible for anyone to own an excellent drawing tablet with screen.

Here's my roundup of the best drawing tablets with a screen on the market right now! I'll also share my tips on how to choose the best tablet for graphic design.

What to look for when buying a digital drawing tablet with screen

With so many options on the market, it's hard to know what to buy. You might be wondering which tablet is best for drawing. There are some specific factors to look out for. Here's a quick summary to help you choose:

Pen pressure levels/screen sensitivity

The more sensitive the pen pressure and screen are, the more control you will have over your designs. You can create precise details, depending on how hard you press. A sensitive pen will also allow you to create shading effects.

Does it include a stylus?

Ideally, you want a tablet that comes with a pen, to save you money.Is it battery operated?

Some tablets are rechargeable. This can be a benefit as it will save you money on batteries. But you'll have to remember to charge it. You will also be limited to the battery life of the tablet.

Vivid and true-to-life colors

Look for a tablet that can display a wide range of colors in lifelike shades. The best drawing monitors will have crisp, clear displays.

Is it compatible with your computer's operating system?

Will it work with the software you use? These are essential questions – make sure to check before you buy.

Multi-touch capability

A drawing tablet with a screen should have a multi-touch capability. This will provide the best results and a user-friendly experience.

Ergonomic design

This is vital if you will be using it for long periods. You need to be comfortable and sit in an ergonomic position.

The Top 3 Drawing Tablet with Screen

Now you know what the different options are, let's move onto the reviews. But before we dive in, here's a quick summary of the top three pen display tablets in 2021!

The Best Drawing Tablets with Screen in 2021

Wacom Cintiq 16 Drawing Tablet
Wacom One Digital Drawing Tablet
GAOMON PD1161 11.6 Inches
Huion KAMVAS Pro 12
Wacom Cintiq Pro
Huion KAMVAS GT-191V2
Huion Kamvas Pro 13
XP-PEN Artist 15.6 Pro
Huion Kamvas Pro 16
XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro
XP Pen Artist 13.3 Pro

Wacom Cintiq 16 Drawing Tablet

The best overall drawing tablet with screen for digital artists & designers

(Image credit: Wacom)

If you have a little more money to spend, you could consider grabbing the Wacom Cintiq instead. This nifty drawing tablet offers all the features you get from the Wacom One. It also has a larger 16-inch screen, giving you more space to sketch and create. You can draw in vivid, bright colors on this generous screen, thanks to the 16.7 million colors bit.

There are lots of other useful features like the ergonomic pen design. The crystal-clear clarity makes this drawing tablet stand out from other models. The Wacom Cintiq also provides superior sensitivity with 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity and a Full HD display.

I also like the Anti-Glare display, as it gives you the freedom to work from anywhere. The Wacom Cintiq is a superb drawing tablet with a screen. It sets you up for creative success, all without breaking the bank.

Dimensions: ‎16.6 x 11.2 x 0.4 inches
Screen display size: 15.6 inches
Active area: 13.6 x 7.6 inches
Resolution: ‎1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: HDMI port and standard USB-A

You get incredible colors on the large displays
Very sensitive
Doesn't have multi-touch capability

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Wacom One Digital Drawing Tablet

The best cheap Wacom drawing tablet with screen for digital artists

(Image credit: Wacom)

The Wacom One is one of the most popular drawing tablet with screen among artists and designers. It's portable, high-quality, and responsive. And as a bonus, it's also reasonably priced.

The Wacom One drawing tablet comes with an incredible pen that's comfortable to hold. It doesn't need batteries and feels just like a real pen. This model also comes with the latest smart software. This allows you to change the pressure, type of brush, and color according to your needs. It's very versatile and suitable for all sorts of artwork.

It also offers great compatibility with most operating systems, of which of course macOS and Windows. You can even link it up to your smartphone if necessary. These factors combine to make the Wacom One an excellent choice for all creative people.

Dimensions: 8.86 x 14.05 x 0.57 inches
Screen display size: 13.3 inches
Active area: 11.6 x 6.5 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 4096 levels
Connectivity: HDMI port and standard USB-A port

The stylus is very responsive / Sensitive pen pressure
Easy compatibility with laptops and other devices
Some models have more vibrant color displays

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GAOMON PD1161

The best affordable drawing tablet with screen for digital art

(Image credit: Gaomon)

Not everyone has a huge budget, and there's the right drawing tablet out there for everyone. The GAOMON PD1161 is a fantastic example of a low-cost drawing monitor with a screen. Despite the low price, you still get 11.2 inches to work on. It also offers all the basics you need to get started with digital drawing.

Your artwork will look great thanks to the 1920 x 1080 high-resolution screen. The latest tilt technology also enhances pen pressure sensitivity. This feature allows you to work freely and naturally. Plus, you won't need to recharge the pen or stock it with batteries. It works via electromagnetic resonance technology, so your drawing time is limitless!

You can even program the tablet with customizable shortcuts to streamline your workflow. Despite the low price, GAOMON has created a truly impressive product with this tablet!

Dimensions: 8.86 x 14.05 x 0.57 inches
Screen display size: ‎13.3 inches
Active area: 10.09 x 5.67 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: Mini HDMI and Type-C signal ports

The pen provides excellent accuracy and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
GAOMON offer lifetime technical support
You might not like the smaller screen size

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Huion KAMVAS Pro 12

The best slim & lightweit drawing tablet with screen

(Image credit: Huion)

Every detail of the Huion Kamvas Pro 12 has been carefully thought through. The result is an effortless and enjoyable drawing experience. The Kamvas Pro is slim, lightweight, and portable. But it still provides you with almost 11 inches of space to draw on.

Huion has gone above and beyond when creating this drawing tablet. The laminated anti-glare touchscreen has 130% color gamut for vibrant designs. Plus, the pen offers both tilt recognition and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity.

And here's the good news – it's incredibly affordable. The low price makes this tablet accessible to anyone, including students and amateurs. That's why it's one of the best drawing tablets with screen, in my opinion!

Dimensions: 13.78 x 7.82 x 0.43 inches
Screen display size: ‎11.6 inches
Active area: 10.09 x 5.67 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: 3-in-1 Cable

Handy, slim size makes it easy to take anywhere
The best cheap drawing tablet with screen (great value for money)
It doesn't have a USB-C connection

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Wacom Cintiq Pro

The best high-range drawing tablet for digital artists & designers

(Image credit: Wacom)

Of the Wacom drawing tablets, the Wacom Cintiq Pro will set you back the most money. But don't write it off straight away! It comes with an outstanding range of features that are powerful and user-friendly.

You can buy the Wacom Cintiq Pro in sizes from 13 inches up to a whopping 32 inches. While the larger sizes are very expensive, the Pro 13 won't cost you quite so much. But with stats like 87% Adobe RGB, 4x the accuracy, and Full HD display, it's easy to see why.

Some other notable features include the multi-touch capability, intuitive shortcuts, and its speed. Plus, the pen feels light and easy to control in your hands and moves smoothly across the surface.

Dimensions: ‎16.1 x 10.4 x .69 inches
Screen display size: 15.6 inches
Active area: 13.6 x 7.6 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: 3 USB-C ports, one SDXC slot, and one headset jack

High-quality features for user comfort and enjoyment
Breathtaking accuracy and sensitivity allows for minuscule detailing
Very expensive compared to other models

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Huion KAMVAS GT-191V2

The best large drawing tablet with screen

(Image credit: Huion)

When it comes to drawing tablets, the bigger they are, the more they cost. That's why this 19-inch Huion Kamvas is a bargain. Huion drawing tablets are top-rated among artists and designers, and it's not hard to see why.

This beauty looks sleek and has a laminated, anti-glare screen that feels like paper. As you can imagine, it's a joy to sketch on. The battery-free pen is very responsive with faultless accuracy. Plus, the stats don't disappoint. You get a 178-degree viewing angle, HD high-res screen, and 16.7 million colors to play with.

If you've been dreaming of a large drawing tablet with screen, snap this bargain up. It offers exceptional value for money!

Dimensions: 18.77 x 12.44 x 1.45 inches
Screen display size: 19,5 inches
Active area: 17.12 x 9.39 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: HDMI, VGA, DVI ports

It's easy to create spectacular, accurate artwork with vivid colors
The larger screen allows you to draw freely
Not so easily portable

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Huion Kamvas Pro 13

The Best Mid-Range Pen Display Tablet

(Image credit: Huion)

This model is the next step up from the Kamvas Pro 12. If you need a slightly larger screen, this Huion drawing pen display tablet fits the bill. It also comes with customizable buttons for ease of use and a simple setup. The 266 PPS report rate means that it's super speedy as you work. You can sketch away happily with no risk of lags on this device!

Just like the Kamvas Pro 12, it also has the same high-quality build. The pen is sensitive, with the bonus of tilt recognition. You even get ten different tips to use, depending on the desired effect. You'll also love that the screen is anti-glare and fully laminated. So, you can work anywhere and reduce the strain on your eyes.

Dimensions: 15.28 x 8.62 x 0.43 inches
Screen display size: 13.3 inches
Active area: 11.56 x 6.50 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: HDMI & USB port

The affordable price makes this art tablet with screen more accessible
Sturdy yet lightweight build for easy portability
Not the largest screen to work on

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XP-PEN Artist 15.6 Pro

The best cheap drawing tablet with screen

(Image credit: Xp-pen)

The XP-Pen Artist Pro is another excellent choice for any experienced artist. It falls in the mid-range of pen display drawing tablets. That means that it has some advanced features that basic tablets don't offer. For example, you get 120% color accuracy and 178 degrees of visual angle. Plus, it's very easy to zoom in and out of your images for tiny details or an overview.

As you'd expect, the pen works flawlessly with the laminated screen. The reduced glare makes it easier for you to work for longer periods, which means more time creating. Plus, it has a super-slim profile that allows you to take it anywhere. It's an ideal drawing tablet for graphic designers, art students, or professionals.

Dimensions: 13.55 x 7.62 x 0.47 inches
Screen display size: 15.6 inches
Active area: 13.54 x 7.62 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: USB

Superb sensitivity and color rendering
The screen has a smooth feel and reduced glare
Not the cheapest drawing tablet on the market

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Huion Kamvas Pro 16

The best Combo low price/quality pen display

(Image credit: Huion)

If you prefer to have a larger space to work on, check out the Huion Kamvas Pro 16. It provides a high-res 16-inch screen to allow your creativity to flow. The screen feels matte and quality – it's the closest thing to paper on a digital tablet!

This design makes it feel intuitive, while the pen is a delight to use. It moves smoothly across the surface and provides incredible accuracy. You can also achieve any effect you like, from shading to intricate colors, details, and more.

Despite the larger screen size, the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 can still fit in your backpack with ease. It's been designed to be lightweight and slim, so you'll hardly feel its weight.

It's simple to connect this tablet to any macOS or Windows computer with the included HDMI cable. You can also use all your favorite programs with this tablet.

Dimensions: 17.32 x 9.84 x 0.39 inches
Screen display size: 15.06 inches
Active area: 13.54 x 7.62 inches
Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: USB-C

The laminated, anti-glare screen is high quality and feels pleasant to the touch
Increased screen size at a great price
It doesn't come with a stand

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XP-Pen Artist 12 Pro

The best small drawing tablet with screen

XP-PEN Artist12 11.6 Inch Drawing Monitor Pen Display and Adjustable Metal Stand

(Image credit: Xp-Pen)

If you're short on space or money, you might be looking for a smaller drawing tablet. Then, this 12-inch XP-Pen tablet ticks all the boxes. At an affordable price, it won't use up all your savings. And it comes with all the necessary features for intricate artwork.

You get the standard 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a 1920×1080 HD screen. When it comes to color, it doesn't disappoint with 100% SRGB. On the tablet itself, there are several shortcut keys. The programmable touch bar is also a welcome feature for easy scrolling and zooming.

In conclusion, the XP-Pen Artist Pro is the ideal pen display tablet for anyone on a tighter budget. All without passing on any of the key features!

Dimensions: 7.09 x 9.84 x 0.08 inches
Screen display size: 11.6 inches
Active area: 10.09 x 5.67 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: USB

The pen is super responsive and precise
Comes with an adjustable, collapsible stand
The screen size might limit your creativity

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XP Pen Artist 13.3 Pro

The drawing tablet for beginner and professional artists

(Image credit: Xp-Pen)

The XP Pen Artist 13.3 Pro is a great drawing tablet for beginner and professional artists. It's easy to set up and compatible with both Mac and Windows computers.

The specs are impressive, and it's fast and responsive.

But most importantly, the screen is high quality and feels nice to draw on. It's smooth but provides just enough friction to provide feedback as you work.

The XP Pen offers advanced features like tilt recognition and 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. So, you can make your drawings as detailed and intricate as you like.

It's possible to create beautiful drawings and perfect your shading with this tablet. It provides all the tools and controls you need to achieve your best work.

As for colors, they look vibrant and realistic. It's not quite as vivid or true-to-life as the most expensive models. But the 88% color gamut is enough for most artists.

When you install the XP Pen, you might need to uninstall graphic design drivers first. That can be a bit time-consuming, but you only need to do it once. Then, you're good to go.

Overall, the XP Pen is an excellent pen display screen that offers great value for money.

Dimensions: 15.37 x 9.84 x 0.51 inches
Screen display size: 13.3 inches
Active area: 11.53 x 6.50 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Pen pressure sensitivity: 8192 levels
Connectivity: USB

Fantastic sensitivity with 8192 levels of pressure
Advanced features like tilt recognition set it apart from cheaper models
It's not a standalone tablet, so you can't use it on the go.

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The Wrap Up

So there you have recommendations for the best portable drawing tablet with a screen. Buying one of these gadgets will improve your workflow. These tablets combine the best features that are essential for any touchscreen monitor for drawing.

Hopefully, I've helped you work out which drawing tablet with screen to go for! You can use this list of recommended reviews to pick out the perfect tablet for your needs. Plus, it will be useful in deciding whether to go for a Huion vs Wacom model, if you've been stuck between these brands.

If you have any other questions or comments, drop them below! I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Plus, don't forget to sign up for the Proactive Creative newsletter. You'll get regular bursts of inspiration, creative guides, tips, and reviews!

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