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.

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

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.