If you’re serious about digital art and graphic design, picking up a drawing tablet is pretty much essential.

One of the biggest decisions you have to make when choosing a drawing tablet is its type.

When it comes to drawing tablets, there are several types now available, each catering to different needs and preferences of artists.

Understanding these types can help you choose the best drawing tablet for your creative journey.

What is a drawing tablet?

A drawing tablet, also known as a graphic tablet, pen tablet or drawing pad, is an input device for computers that allows users to draw, sketch, or paint on a flat surface using a stylus or pen-like device.

The pressure-sensitive stylus or pen sends the digital signal to the computer, allowing the user to create digital art, graphics, and designs.

Simply put, a tablet allows you to draw lines on the computer with varying pressure like regular, traditional tools.

Drawing tablets come in a variety of sizes and styles, and can be used for a wide range of applications, including digital art, graphic design, animation, photo editing, and online teaching.

Different Types of Drawing Tablets

There are three main types of drawing tablets with different structures for you to decide. These have pros and cons on these tablets.

1. Graphics Tablets without screen

Pen tablets are screenless devices that connect to a computer, allowing users to draw with a stylus while looking at the monitor.

A graphic tablet can benefit for a user experience such as good posture, portability, connectivity, and pricing.

It can hook up to a computer via a USB cable or even wirelessly. There are ones you can connect to an Android phone if you don’t have a computer.

Non-display graphics tablets are also known for their durability so if you invest in a nice one it could last you many great years.

graphics tablet is regarded as the most accessible, user-friendly, and budget-friendly type of digital drawing tablet.

It’s possible to find a good one for under $100 so this is the way to go if your budget is tight. Or if you’re just beginning to explore digital art and you aren’t ready to make a big commitment to a tablet.

Note that with these Non-display tablets, you do not see the image on the tablet, only on the computer screen. The tablet basically maps the location of your pen to a location on the screen to give you control.

This requires hand-eye coordination and some practice to overcome as this type of tablet has a steep learning curve and drawing on it feels unnatural to use.

2. Drawing Tablets with Screen

These tablets include a built-in screen, allowing the user to draw directly on the display. You don’t have to look back and forth between the tablet and a computer screen.

This type of tablet is popular among digital artists who prefer a more traditional drawing experience.

The direct interaction with the matte screen surface provides a natural feel, similar to drawing on paper, which can enhance precision and control.

Display drawing tablets are also the way to go if you’re looking for something professional to create high quality work. These are usually top-of-the-line tablets compared to non-display models.

But be prepared to drop a lot of cash for these, since they start at $200 and can easily exceed $600+ for the most advanced models.

Compared to standalone models, The downside to display tablets is their connectivity, You will need a Windows or MacOS computer to connect to utilize it. This undoubtedly limits its portability.

In addition, Sometimes, your hand gets in the way through pinpoint cursor while drawing.

3. Standalone Drawing Tablets

These devices combine the functionality of a display drawing tablet and a computer that doesn’t require connection to a separate computer to work. That makes them portable and very convenient for artists who want to work on the go.

Standalone drawing tablets such as Apple iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, and Microsoft Surface can run drawing apps independently.

With the inclusion of powerful styluses like the Apple Pencil, Samsung S Pen and Surface Pen, artists can enjoy pressure sensitivity and tilt support for a natural drawing feel.

These tablets come with a variety of mobile creative apps, ranging from professional software like Procreate and Adobe Fresco to versatile tools for note-taking and productivity.

The combination of portability, ease of use, and advanced features makes standalone tablets a popular choice. However, there are downsides as well.

One notable drawback of standalone tablets is that they operate independently from a PC or Mac, which typically contains a user’s entire library of work-related materials.

Generally, The painting, animation and 3D programs for these standalone tablets tend to be less powerful than those for computers.

Beside the high-end apple pencil and Samsung S pen, the digital pens on these tablets don’t feel as natural and precise as the traditional drawing tablets like Wacom stylus.

Standalone tablets are usually extra expensive as you need pay for the built-in computer.

Conclusion

There are basically three types of drawing tablets – Graphic Pen Tablets, Pen Display monitors and Standalone Drawing Tablets.

The choice of graphic tablet type will depend on the individual’s needs, budget, and preferences, as well as the type of work you will be doing.

Explore More: The 12 Best Drawing Tablets for Mac of 2025