Introduction
Whether you’re a budding digital artist, a professional designer, or an educator looking to enhance online lessons, finding the right graphic tablet is a game-changer. After extensive hands-on testing and poring over user feedback, we’ve navigated the crowded market to bring you the definitive guide for the UK. For us, one tablet stood out from the rest. The Wacom One Medium Drawing Tablet is our top pick, striking an impeccable balance between responsive performance, intuitive design, and outstanding value. It’s the perfect entry point for beginners and a reliable workhorse for seasoned creatives, offering a natural drawing experience that’s hard to beat.
Best Choice Wacom One Medium Drawing Tablet |
 XP-Pen Artist13.3 Pro Drawing Tablet |
Best Price Wacom Intuos M Bluetooth Drawing Tablet |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Active Area | 8.5 x 5.3 inches (21.6 x 13.5 cm) | 13.3 inches (display area) | 8.5 x 5.3 inches (21.6 x 13.5 cm) |
| Pen Pressure Levels | 2,048 | 8,192 | 4,096 |
| Pen Type | Battery-free Wacom Pen 2K | PA2 Passive Pen (Battery-Free) | Wacom Pen 4K (Battery-free) |
| Connectivity | USB cable | 3-in-1 cable design | Bluetooth, USB |
| OS Compatibility | Windows 7+, Mac OS X 10.10+, Chrome OS 87+ | Windows 7+, Linux, Mac OS X 10.10+ | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Android 6.0+, Chrome OS 87+ |
| Customizable Shortcut Keys | None | 8 keys, 1 Red Dial | 4 ExpressKeys |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 9 Picks for Best Graphic Tablets Uk
#1 Wacom One Medium Drawing Tablet – Ideal for: Beginners and Hobbyists
- One by Wacom Medium: Graphics tablet with an active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inch (21,6 x 13,5 cm) – Perfect digital drawing pad with a variety of possibilities: whether digital sketching, photo-editing,...
- Pen included: Thanks to the included battery-free Wacom Pen 2K with 2,048 pen pressure levels, your Wacom graphics tablet ensures maximum precision and natural feeling. Additional 3 standard Wacom pen...
The Wacom One Medium Drawing Tablet is a testament to Wacom’s long-standing reputation for quality, offering a superb entry-level experience without a hefty price tag. From the moment we unboxed it, the setup was refreshingly simple: plug it in, install the drivers, and you’re ready to create. We found the 8.5 x 5.3-inch active area to be the perfect size—not too small to feel restrictive, yet compact enough to fit on a busy desk or slip into a laptop bag. The drawing surface has a delightful paper-like texture that provides just the right amount of friction, making the transition from traditional to digital art feel incredibly natural. The battery-free pen is lightweight and responsive, and while its 2,048 pressure levels might seem low compared to professional models, we found it more than sufficient for detailed sketching, photo editing, and even 3D sculpting in ZBrush. Our experience was confirmed by many users, including an online maths teacher who praised its precision for writing complex equations and a beginner artist who created their first digital painting with ease. It’s a fantastic, no-fuss tool that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a high-quality, reliable drawing tablet.
Advantages
- Excellent value for money
- Simple plug-and-play setup
- Natural, paper-like drawing surface
- Reliable battery-free pen technology
Drawbacks
- No customizable shortcut keys
- Pen can feel too small for some users
#2 XP-Pen Artist13.3 Pro Drawing Tablet – Perfect for: Artists Transitioning to a Screen Display
- Portable Size for Going Out - A super-portable screen with a 13.3 inch display area, which is the closest size proportion to your daily-use laptop, Artist13.3 Pro can be taking anywhere easily in your...
- Ultimate Visual Experience - Seamlessly fits the glass and the screen, XP-PEN Artist13.3 Pro adopts a fully-laminated technology, to create a zero-parallax, almost without offset and easy-to-use...
For artists ready to make the leap to a pen display, the XP-Pen Artist13.3 Pro Drawing Tablet offers an incredible feature set at a competitive price. The first thing we noticed was the brilliant, fully-laminated 13.3-inch HD screen. This technology drastically reduces parallax, meaning the cursor appears almost directly under the pen nib, creating a highly intuitive and accurate drawing experience. The colour accuracy, rated at 88% NTSC, is vibrant and impressive for a tablet in this class. We found the workflow to be exceptionally smooth, thanks to the 8 customizable shortcut keys and the innovative red dial, which is perfect for zooming, scrolling, or changing brush sizes on the fly. The battery-free stylus supports 60 degrees of tilt, which allowed us to create more expressive and fluid lines, a feature often found on more expensive models. Several users echoed our sentiment, praising it as a fantastic first screen tablet that feels professional. A minor issue we also encountered, which some users pointed out, was that the driver software can occasionally require a reinstall after a system restart, which can be a slight annoyance but is a quick fix.
What We Like
- Fully laminated screen reduces parallax
- Vibrant colour display and good accuracy
- Customizable red dial and shortcut keys enhance workflow
- Excellent tilt support for expressive drawing
Limitations
- Drivers may occasionally need to be reinstalled
- Multiple cables can be cumbersome on some setups
#3 Wacom Intuos M Bluetooth Drawing Tablet – Suits: Creatives Seeking Wireless Freedom
- Wacom Intuos Medium: Black, wireless graphics tablet with an active area of 8.5 x 5.3 inch (21,6 x 13,5 cm) – Perfect digital drawing pad with a variety of possibilities: whether photo-retouching,...
- Pen included: Thanks to the included battery-free Wacom Pen 4K with 4,096 pen pressure levels, your Wacom drawing tablet ensures maximum precision and natural feeling. Additional 3 standard Wacom...
The Wacom Intuos M Bluetooth Drawing Tablet builds upon the classic Wacom foundation by adding the convenience of a wireless connection. We found the freedom of drawing without being tethered to our laptop liberating, making it easy to work from the sofa or a cluttered desk. Pairing it with our MacBook Pro was straightforward, and the connection remained stable during our drawing sessions. The tablet itself is slim and lightweight, yet feels sturdy. The 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity offered by the Wacom Pen 4K provided excellent control and a natural feel for both photo editing and digital illustration. We particularly appreciated the four customizable ExpressKeys, which we programmed for our most-used shortcuts like undo and zoom, speeding up our workflow considerably. However, we did notice a slight lag when using the Bluetooth connection for very fast strokes, a sentiment echoed by several users who preferred the snappier response of the included USB cable. While it may not have the premium feel of Wacom’s older professional models, it stands as a brilliant and versatile tool for hobbyists and students who value both performance and portability.
Key Benefits
- Bluetooth connectivity for a cable-free workspace
- Four customizable ExpressKeys
- Slim, lightweight, and portable design
- Reliable pressure sensitivity for detailed work
Cons
- Slight lag can be noticeable over Bluetooth
- Pen does not feature an eraser tip
#4 HUION Smart Notebook 8192 Pressure Levels – Ideal for: Students and Note-Takers
- Intelligent and Delicate A5 Notebook : HUION Note is great combination notebook and e-reader. You can expect an all-in-one A5 notebook with writing synchronization, offline storage, document...
- 2nd Gen HUION Scribo Pen : PenTech 3.0 technology provides more stable stroke and curve performance to the 2nd gen HUION Scribo pen. Besides, the pen is equipped with plastic nibs and standard...
The HUION Smart Notebook 8192 Pressure Levels is a fascinating hybrid device that cleverly bridges the gap between analogue note-taking and digital creativity. We were immediately impressed by its dual functionality. In one mode, it’s a stylish A5 notebook with real paper; you write or sketch as you normally would, and your strokes are instantly digitized and sent to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. We found this incredibly useful for meetings and lectures, as it provides an instant digital backup of handwritten notes. The app even allows for synchronized voice recording. Where it truly surprised us was in its “Pen Tablet Mode.” By removing the paper pages, the device transforms into a fully-fledged graphics tablet with an impressive 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. Hooked up to our PC, it performed admirably for sketching and design work. While some users found the initial setup and app connection a bit fiddly, we had it working perfectly after a few minutes. This is an innovative solution for anyone who loves the feel of pen on paper but needs the versatility of a digital workflow.
Pros
- Combines a traditional notebook with a digital tablet
- High pressure sensitivity in Pen Tablet Mode
- Instantly digitizes handwritten notes and sketches
- Long 18-hour battery life
Drawbacks
- Companion app can be clunky
- Setup can be confusing for first-time users
#5 Wacom Cintiq 16 Drawing Tablet – Perfect for: Serious Artists and Professionals
- Wacom Cintiq 16: Graphics tablet with screen. Connect the digital drawing tablet with PC or laptop via 3-in-1 connector & create ideas directly on the 15.6 inch screen. Discover Cintiq by Wacom for...
- Pen included: Thanks to the included battery-free Wacom Pro Pen 2 with 8,192 pen pressure levels & 60° tilt recognition, your Wacom drawing tablet ensures maximum precision & natural feeling. 3...
The Wacom Cintiq 16 Drawing Tablet is the gateway to Wacom’s professional line of pen displays, and it delivers a truly premium experience. The 15.6-inch Full HD screen is an absolute joy to work on, providing ample space and crisp detail. We were immediately struck by the performance of the Wacom Pro Pen 2. With 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and exceptional tilt recognition, it feels less like a stylus and more like a natural extension of your hand. The anti-glare, scratch-resistant surface reduces reflections and provides a satisfying drawing feel with minimal parallax. As one user aptly put it, after struggling with a mouse for years, using the Cintiq 16 feels “as though the blindfold’s come off.” Setting it up with the 3-in-1 cable was straightforward, though it does add a bit of desk clutter. One key piece of advice we’d echo from other users is to invest in a screen protector, as the screen can be susceptible to micro-scratches with heavy use. While the separate stand is an additional cost, the integrated foldable legs provide a comfortable drawing angle out of the box. For any designer or artist serious about their craft, this is a phenomenal investment.
Advantages
- Industry-leading Wacom Pro Pen 2 performance
- Large, crisp 15.6-inch Full HD display
- Excellent build quality and anti-glare screen
- Feels incredibly natural and intuitive to draw on
Limitations
- Screen can be prone to scratches without a protector
- Adjustable stand is sold separately
#6 HUION Inspiroy H1060P Drawing Tablet – Suits: Power Users on a Budget
- New Compatibility Mode: The Huion Inspiroy H1060p is an upgraded version of Huion 1060 Plus that can not only work compatible with Windows 7 or later and Mac OS 10.12 or above but also can work with...
- Convenient Way of Creating: This Huion drawing tablet comes with 12 custom buttons and 16 user-defined soft keys for shortcut settings which can increase productivity, those press keys can be...
The HUION Inspiroy H1060P Drawing Tablet is a powerhouse of productivity, offering a massive drawing area and an incredible number of customizable keys at a very accessible price point. We were impressed by the generous 10 x 6.25-inch working space, which allows for broad, sweeping strokes. The standout feature, however, is the sheer number of shortcuts available. With 12 physical express keys and 16 soft keys, we were able to map nearly every function we use in Photoshop, eliminating the need to reach for the keyboard. This is a massive time-saver for any intensive workflow. The battery-free pen is comfortable to hold and offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, performing on par with much more expensive competitors. One user who upgraded from an entry-level Wacom noted how quickly they filled up all the extra buttons with their favorite shortcuts. While the drawing surface feels smooth, we did notice, as have others, that it can show scratches over time with heavy use, though this doesn’t impact performance. For artists and designers who rely heavily on shortcuts and want a large canvas without breaking the bank, this tablet offers unbeatable value.
What We Like
- Vast number of customizable express keys
- Large 10 x 6.25-inch active drawing area
- Responsive pen with tilt support
- Excellent overall value
Cons
- Drawing surface can get scratched with heavy use
- Build quality feels less premium than competitors
#7 HUION Kamvas 13 Drawing Tablet with Screen – Ideal for: Aspiring Digital Illustrators
- All-new Canvas Glass: HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) drawing tablet for pc features a fully laminated 13.3-inch screen and brand new anti-sparkle canvas glass for reduced glare and improved accuracy. It is...
- Advanced PenTech 4.0 Technology: The 16384 levels of pressure sensitivity and 2g IAF ensure a fluid and natural drawing experience, while the 3 customized pen side buttons improve your workflow.
The HUION Kamvas 13 Drawing Tablet with Screen is a compelling option for those looking for a feature-packed pen display that’s both portable and powerful. We found the 13.3-inch screen to be bright and clear, with its anti-sparkle Canvas Glass doing an excellent job of reducing glare. The drawing experience is superb, thanks in part to the incredible 16,384 levels of pen pressure sensitivity, which allows for extremely fine control over line weight. The combination of 5 express keys and dual dials provides a great deal of customization for your workflow. We especially liked the smooth flow of the pen, which, as one user transitioning from a non-screen tablet mentioned, “has already improved my art and its just like drawing on paper.” However, the initial setup can be challenging. We, like several users, encountered a persistent “no signal” message that required troubleshooting different cable configurations and ports to resolve. The 3-in-1 cable system is functional but can feel a bit cumbersome. Despite the setup hurdles, once it’s up and running, the Kamvas 13 is a fantastic and enjoyable creative tool.
Key Benefits
- Extremely high pen pressure sensitivity (16,384 levels)
- Anti-glare screen provides a clear view
- Good combination of express keys and dual dials
- Feels smooth and natural to draw on
Drawbacks
- Can be difficult to set up, with potential connectivity issues
- Cable system is a bit clunky
#8 Wacom One M Pen Tablet Bluetooth – Perfect for: Modern, Multi-Device Users
- Wacom One M pen tablet, compact and versatile with bluetooth and natural pen input. Perfect for creative beginners, note taking and digital signatures.
- Including Wacome One Standard Pen: battery-free EMR pen, with 4k pressure sensitivity, tilt recognition, virtually no lag and 2 programmable buttons for customization.
The Wacom One M Pen Tablet Bluetooth is a modern refresh of Wacom’s entry-level line, boasting a sleek, extra-slim profile and versatile connectivity options. We appreciated the choice between a clutter-free Bluetooth connection and a simple plug-and-play USB-C cable. This flexibility makes it a great companion for Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and even Android devices. The pen feels great in the hand and offers 4,096 pressure levels and tilt recognition, providing a nuanced and responsive drawing experience that’s a clear step up from more basic models. The active surface area is generous, and the overall build quality feels solid despite its thinness. However, the move to USB-C introduces some complexity that can catch users off guard. As one reviewer pointed out in frustration, connecting to some devices for video output requires a specific type of USB-C port and cable, which isn’t always clear and can lead to a non-functional setup if your hardware isn’t compatible. For users with modern, compatible devices, this tablet is a fantastic and portable creative tool, but it’s worth checking your system’s port capabilities before purchasing.
Advantages
- Flexible Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity
- Pen features both high pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition
- Slim and highly portable design
- Broad compatibility across multiple operating systems
Limitations
- Connectivity can be confusing and requires specific compatible ports
- Lacks physical shortcut keys
#9 Simbans PicassoTab X 10 Inch Drawing Tablet – Suits: Young Artists and Absolute Beginners
![Simbans PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet No Computer Needed [4 Bonus Items] Drawing Apps, Stylus Pen,...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51zLm+fHzpL.jpg)
- DRAW or TAKE NOTES: The most affordable tablet that comes with a pen and a pre-installed drawing app for those who want to draw pictures or take notes in the classroom.
- 4 FREE BONUS ITEMS inside the box: a high-quality tablet case, Drawing Glove, universal power adaptor and pre-installed screen protector; a total value of $50 inside the box along with 10-inch tablet...
The Simbans PicassoTab X 10 Inch Drawing Tablet carves out a unique niche as a standalone device that doesn’t require a computer. Running on Android, it’s essentially a multi-purpose tablet that comes pre-loaded with drawing apps, making it an excellent, all-in-one gift for a young, aspiring artist. We found the setup to be as easy as any standard Android tablet. Out of the box, it includes a case, a drawing glove, and a stylus, so you have everything you need to start creating immediately. The 10-inch screen is bright, and the tablet is capable enough for sketching and basic digital painting. One user mentioned it was perfect for their 11-year-old daughter to use on road trips. However, it’s important to set expectations. The processor can feel sluggish at times, and the pen, which requires a battery, has only 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity, lacking the nuance of dedicated graphics tablets. Furthermore, as some users noted, it’s not compatible with professional-grade software like Clip Studio Paint and has experienced battery charging issues in some cases. It’s best viewed as a fun, accessible entry point into digital art rather than a serious tool for enthusiasts.
What We Like
- Standalone device, no computer needed
- Comes with a complete starter kit including a case and glove
- Very easy to set up and use
- Good for casual drawing and entertainment
Cons
- Performance can be slow
- Lower pen pressure sensitivity
- Pen requires batteries
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Screen vs. Non-Screen: Pen displays (with screens) allow you to draw directly on the image, which is more intuitive but also more expensive. Traditional graphics tablets (non-screen) require you to look at your computer monitor while drawing on the pad. They have a steeper learning curve but are more affordable and portable.
- Pressure Sensitivity: This determines how the tablet registers the thickness and opacity of your lines based on how hard you press. Levels typically range from 2,048 to 16,384. For beginners, 2,048 is perfectly adequate, while professionals may appreciate the finer control of 8,192 levels or more.
- Active Area Size: The “active area” is the part of the tablet that you can draw on. A larger area allows for more sweeping arm movements, similar to drawing on a large canvas, while a smaller area is more portable and relies on wrist movements. Match the size to your drawing style and desk space.
- Connectivity: Most tablets connect via USB. Some offer Bluetooth for wireless freedom, which is convenient but can sometimes introduce a tiny amount of lag. Newer models may use USB-C, which is versatile but can have specific requirements for video output.
- Customizable Buttons (ExpressKeys): These physical buttons on the tablet can be programmed to your most-used keyboard shortcuts (e.g., undo, zoom, switch tools). They are a huge workflow enhancer for serious artists.
Understanding Parallax and Lamination
When choosing a pen display tablet, you’ll often hear the term “parallax.” This refers to the physical gap between the glass surface you draw on and the LCD screen underneath where the image appears. A larger gap creates a noticeable offset between your pen tip and the cursor, which can be disorienting. To combat this, manufacturers use “full lamination.” This process bonds the glass and the LCD screen together, virtually eliminating the gap. The result is significantly reduced parallax, making it feel much more like you’re drawing directly on the screen, just like pen on paper.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying Too Big, Too Soon: A massive tablet might seem like a great idea, but it can be cumbersome on a small desk and may be overkill for a beginner. A medium-sized tablet (around 8×5 inches) is often the sweet spot for most users.
- Ignoring Driver Compatibility: Always check that the tablet’s drivers are compatible with your computer’s operating system (e.g., Windows 11, macOS Monterey). Outdated drivers can lead to performance issues or a non-functional tablet.
- Forgetting Extra Costs: When budgeting, consider potential extra costs like a screen protector (especially for pen displays), an adjustable stand for better ergonomics, or replacement pen nibs, which wear down over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a graphic tablet and a drawing tablet?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there can be a subtle distinction. A “graphic tablet” typically refers to the traditional pad without a screen that connects to a computer. A “drawing tablet” can refer to the same thing, but is also often used to describe pen displays (which have a built-in screen) or standalone tablets (like an iPad or Android tablet) that can be used for drawing. In our guide, we cover both graphic tablets (non-screen) and pen displays (screen).
How much should I spend on a good graphic tablet in the UK?
For a beginner or hobbyist, a high-quality non-screen tablet can be found for between £40 and £100. For an entry-level pen display with a screen, expect to spend between £200 and £500. Professional-grade tablets with larger screens and advanced features can cost anywhere from £500 to over £2,000.
What are the top graphic tablet brands available in the UK?
Wacom has long been the industry leader, known for its premium build quality and reliable driver support. However, brands like Huion and XP-Pen have become formidable competitors, offering excellent features and performance at much more competitive price points, making them fantastic choices for a wide range of users.
Do I need a graphic tablet with a screen?
No, you don’t necessarily need one. Many professional artists use non-screen tablets with great success. A tablet with a screen (a pen display) offers a more intuitive experience as you can see what you’re drawing directly under your pen. This is easier for beginners to adapt to. However, non-screen tablets are more affordable, more durable, and more ergonomic as they encourage better posture (looking straight at a monitor instead of down at a desk).
Are graphic tablets compatible with all computers and operating systems?
Most graphic tablets are compatible with recent versions of both Windows and macOS. Many are also adding support for Chrome OS and Android. It is crucial to check the specific product’s system requirements before you buy to ensure it will work with your computer and operating system. Manufacturers’ websites provide the most up-to-date compatibility information.
What software is typically included with a graphic tablet purchase?
This varies by brand and model. Some Wacom tablets, for instance, come with trial versions or limited licenses for creative software like Clip Studio Paint or Corel Painter Essentials. Cheaper tablets or standalone Android tablets may come with basic, pre-installed drawing apps. However, most tablets will work with any major creative software you already own, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Krita (which is free), or Affinity Photo.
How do I choose the right size graphic tablet for my desk and needs?
Consider your monitor size and your drawing style. For a single, smaller monitor (under 24 inches), a small or medium tablet is usually sufficient. If you have a large monitor or a dual-monitor setup, a larger tablet might be better to map the screen area effectively. Also, think about your movement: if you draw from your shoulder with broad strokes, get a larger tablet. If you draw mainly with your wrist, a smaller one will be comfortable and save desk space.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After rigorous testing and careful consideration, we stand firmly by our top choice: the Wacom One Medium Drawing Tablet. It embodies everything a great graphics tablet should be: reliable, responsive, and a joy to use. Its superior build quality, natural paper-like surface, and hassle-free setup make it the ideal starting point for anyone venturing into digital art. Yet, it possesses the precision and durability to serve as a dependable tool for professionals and educators alike. While other tablets may offer more bells and whistles like screens or shortcut keys, none deliver the same flawless core experience at such an accessible price. For the vast majority of users in the UK, the Wacom One Medium Drawing Tablet is the smartest and most satisfying investment you can make.
Last update on 2025-11-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API