Choosing the right graphic tablet is essential for students who want to explore the world of digital art and design. With various options available in the market, it’s crucial to consider key factors such as the size of the active drawing area, pressure sensitivity, shortcut keys, connectivity options, and customer support. Here’s a look at the five best graphic tablets for students in 2024, highlighting their strengths and what makes them ideal for budding artists.
1) XP Pen Deco 01 V2
The XPPen Deco 01 V2 stands out with its large active drawing area of 10 x 6.25 inches, providing ample space for students to create without feeling constrained. It offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise and smooth strokes, making it perfect for detailed work. The tablet also features eight customizable shortcut keys, enabling users to streamline their workflow. With both wired and wireless connectivity options, it caters to a variety of user preferences. XPPen’s reputation for excellent customer support adds an extra layer of confidence for students who might need assistance as they begin their creative journey.
Price: 6,499 INR
2) XPPen Deco Mini 7
For students looking for a more compact option, the XPPen Deco Mini 7 is a fantastic choice. Despite its smaller size, with a 7 x 4.37-inch active area, it doesn’t compromise on quality, offering the same 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity as its larger counterpart. This tablet is highly portable, making it easy to carry around, especially for students on the go. It also includes eight customizable shortcut keys, which can be tailored to suit individual needs. The tablet supports both wired and wireless connections, providing flexibility in usage. Like the Deco 01 V2, XPPen’s reliable customer support ensures students can get help whenever needed.
Price: 3,699 INR
3) Wacom CTL 472
The Wacom CTL 472 is a basic yet reliable tablet suitable for beginners. It features a smaller active drawing area of 6 x 3.7 inches, which might feel limiting for some users. The tablet offers 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is significantly lower than its competitors. While it still delivers a decent drawing experience, students may notice the difference in pressure sensitivity, especially when working on more detailed projects. Additionally, the tablet lacks customizable shortcut keys, which could slow down the workflow for those who rely on quick access to tools. However, Wacom’s well-established brand reputation and durability make it a dependable choice for entry-level users.
Price: 4,699 INR
4) Huion HS610
The Huion HS610 is a versatile tablet with a 10 x 6.25-inch active drawing area, offering students plenty of space to create. It boasts 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring smooth and precise drawing. The tablet also includes 12 customizable shortcut keys and 16 soft keys, providing ample options for personalizing the workflow. However, one downside is that Huion’s customer support is not as robust as some of its competitors, which can be a drawback for students who may need assistance during their learning process. Nonetheless, the HS610 remains a strong contender for students looking for a feature-rich tablet at an affordable price.
Price: 7,299 INR
5) XPPen Star 03
The XPPen Star 03 is another excellent option for students, offering a 10 x 6-inch active drawing area, which provides a comfortable space for various creative tasks. With 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, the Star 03 ensures accurate and responsive input, allowing students to produce detailed and expressive artwork. The tablet features eight customizable shortcut keys, which are conveniently placed for easy access during drawing sessions. While the Star 03 is a wired tablet, it compensates with its affordability and solid performance, making it a great choice for students who are just starting out or are on a budget. Additionally, XPPen offers convenient EMI options, making it easier for students to invest in quality tools without financial strain. This flexibility allows students to get started on their digital art journey with a high-quality tablet without having to pay the full amount upfront.
Price: 4,499 INR
Conclusion
When choosing a graphic tablet, students should consider their specific needs and how the tablet’s features align with their creative goals. The XPPen Deco 01 V2, Deco Mini 7, Wacom CTL 472, Huion HS610, and XPPen Star 03 each offer different advantages tailored to various needs and budgets. Whether you prioritise a large drawing area, high pressure sensitivity, customizable shortcuts, or dependable customer support, these tablets provide a solid foundation for artistic growth. By understanding what each tablet brings to the table, students can make an informed choice that aligns with their creative ambitions.