[Tonecrafter]

Hey guys. I've been giving some thought to getting a graphics tablet, but I know little about them. I just need suggestions on good, affordable units. Thanks. /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Philbert]

No contest --- Wacom.
Many to choose from in terms of size, capability and price.

[Tonecrafter]

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No contest --- Wacom.
Many to choose from in terms of size, capability and price.

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Thanks! That's just what I was looking for. /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Alan]

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No contest --- Wacom.
Many to choose from in terms of size, capability and price.

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Excellent idea!
Could you please paint a picture /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif about what you use it for? I am not a graphics artist. (can't draw a straight line /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif let alone a picture). Daughter # 2 is an unbelievable artist /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif but she has gone to Art College.
I was fascinated by the mouse idea and signing documents and marking them up. Can you illuminate me on any other angles.
The Bluetooth looked like a great idea although a bit pricey.

[Alan]

Can you use the pen as a separate item or does it have to be used with the tablet?

[moose_n_squirrel]

The tablet's pen and mouse can only be used when it is on or just a small distance above the tablet. It reflects a signal given off by the tablet. However, this technology means the pen doesn't need a battery.

[Tonecrafter]

I'm going to order one of these very soon. I'll post my thoughts on it asap.

[semiotics101]

I've got the 6x11 and absolutely love it. The only problem is desk space, which you can probably overcome within a month. As for the Bluetooth - it sounds awesome, but I heard/read too many problems about losing it's connection

[Alan]

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I've got the 6x11 and absolutely love it. The only problem is desk space, which you can probably overcome within a month. As for the Bluetooth - it sounds awesome, but I heard/read too many problems about losing it's connection

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What do you use it for?

[Philbert]

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What do you use it for?

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[/indent] You asked me this question a while back and I never answered so ...
I'm not an artist in the traditional sense but a photographer. That means I live and breath Photoshop and that's where the tablet is most useful for me. While I don't draw/paint pictures, the tablet is indispensable for brushing in masks, adding textures with customized brushes, drawing selections/paths, etc. Using a mouse for these tasks is like drawing with a brick.
I also dabble quite a bit with Corel Painter - the combination of the tablet and Painter is extremely fun. While I can't draw a lick either, I have come up with some very cool effects that I use to augment my photography.
When set up correctly, the pen/tablet is extremely precise, allowing you pin(pixel) point accuracy. Also, the pressure sensitivity allows for an even higher degree of control - these are both areas where a mouse just can't compare.
Many tablet users don't use a mouse at all, even for general computing. It takes some getting used to but it's said that if you put the mouse in the drawer for two weeks and only use the pen/tablet, you'll never go back to a mouse. I've never been able to get there (even after using a tablet for 10 years), because I rely too much on a scroll wheel - if it wasn't for scrolling, I could live very comfortably without a mouse.
The side benefit of using a tablet is that it's MUCH easier on the wrist than a mouse. Using a pen provides a more natural position for the wrist.
Can't say I've ever heard of anyone regretting a Wacom purchase.
Hope that helps ...

[Alan]

Thanks Philbert
What size or model or options do you have? Do you have a bluetooth?

[Philbert]

No bluetooth - I don't want to deal with the connection headaches. I don't even like wireless mice.
At home, I use an original Intuos 6x8 that has a mini menu bar at the top. It's worked great for almost 5 years. At work, I use an Intuos3 6x8 with the scroll strips. I was hoping that the scroll strips would solve my scrolling needs but I've found they mostly just get it the way. While working, my hands are all over the tablet because my kb is forward of the tablet - too many inadvertent scrolls. The tablet works great but I've disabled all of the strip features.
I haven't investigated the widescreen tablets (6x11), enough to know the benefit, but the 4:3 aspect ratio of the 6x8 tablets map perfectly to widescreen displays - even in multiple display setups. The 6x11 wasn't an option when I purchased the Intuos3.
I think the larger tablets are geared more for traditional artists who paint on canvas or draw large(ish) sketches. For them, the size they select is more than a desk space consideration, but the type of stroke they are used to. Someone who is used to painting traditional media will probably be more comfortable with a large tablet that allows for large, sweeping strokes. That ain't me so the 6x8 is perfect.