7 Best Drawing Tablets for Photoshop & Illustrator

Are you looking for an unbiased, objective review of the best drawing tablets for photoshop and illustrator? Artists using Adobe photoshop & illustrator require a drawing pad with the right specs; display size, pressure sensitivity, and compatibility (especially for photo editing).

Grabbing the right photoshop tablet means a lot of research behind the pros and cons of sketching in adobe using a graphics tablet (pen & pad). I found that the best drawing pad for adobe are the ones that have a built-in screen.

If you are a new artist, please view this post first: Best Digital Art Tablets for Beginner Artists

The best part about these is that they are nearly as good as Wacom (Cintiq & intuos), but at a much lower price point. These brands are great for beginner/intermediate artists who want to create professional level artwork using a photoshop pen tablet. If you’re strictly editing photos then view our list of the best Tablets for Lightroom and Photo Editing.

In this article, you’ll see a list that includes professional advice on what the best pen tablets for Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop are.

Related: 5 Best Stylus for Photoshop (Photo Editing)

Best Drawing Tablets for PhotoShop & Illustrator – At a Glance

The drawing tablets for photoshop and illustrator do not differ based on the app- they typically work just as well in each adobe application.

My absolutely favorite is the Xencelabs tablets. I found them far more intuitive than the Wacom & XP-Pen tablets

Update For photoshop, our absolute top pick is the XenceLabs Medium pen tablet bundle (full review). It provides an incredibly customized experience for the artist. The hardware & software provides for the most natural experience I’ve personally tested.

1. XenceLabs Pen Tablet Medium (Bundle): Best Overall for Professional Artists
2. XP-PEN Artist 15.6 Pro: Best Drawing Tablet for Photoshop & Illustrator with Screen
3. Wacom CTL4100 Intuos: Best Pen tablet for Photoshop & Adobe Illustrator (Under $100)
4. iPad Air: Best Drawing Pad for Photoshop & Illustrator (Mac)
5. Huion KAMVAS Pro 12: Best Budget Tablet for Sketching in Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator (with screen)
6. Surface Pro 7: Best photoshop tablet for sketching (Drawing Pad for Photoshop)
7. Huion Inspiroy H640P: Good cheap tablet for drawing in Adobe (photoshop & illustrator)
8. Huion Dial Q620: Best Adobe photoshop draw pad for Artists (Wireless)

See: The ultimate drawing tablet setups for Digital artists.

How to choose the Best Drawing Tablet for Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop

It’s important to remember these three main qualities when choosing the best photoshop/illustrator drawing tablet:

Drawing tablet feature	Requirements for illustrator & photoshop
Display size:	13 inches or larger is the ideal size for photoshop projects.
Pressure sensitivity:	8192 pressure sensitivity is used by professionals
Compatibility:	Mac, Windows, Chromebook, & Adobe Photoshop/illustrator

The 11 inch tablets are widely accepted as a portable option for high level artwork and perform quite well in both photoshop and illustrator, especially for a graphics tablet. I personally enjoy the larger 13,15.6 & 21.5 inch screen sizes.

• Plan on using a Laptop? We tested the 7 Best MacBooks for Photoshop & Photo Editing

Wired vs Wireless Drawing tablets for photoshop/illustrator: There are wireless drawing tablets available out there, but they don’t have a screen. This is likely because of the battery consumption as well as the tablet needing to be the strength of a computer to run software. You can see our list of the 7 Best Drawing tablets that don’t need a computer.

Wired drawing tablets typically use USB cables for photo editing on photoshop; so if you’re using a new Apple product, a USB-C adapter will likely be necessary.

Best Drawing Tablets for Photoshop & Illustrator (Adobe)

There’s a big difference between different drawing tablets many are unaware of. Here are the best drawing tablets for Photoshop & Illustrator for those looking to accomplish professional level artwork at a great price point.

1. XenceLabs Pen Tablet Medium (Bundle): Best Overall for Professional Artists

A minimalist design encourages maximum creativity by combining efficiency and careful design. The Xencelabs tablet offers maximum comfort for hours, which will appeal to many creatives.

We personally have tested and reviewed this drawing tablet. You can see the full review here: Xencelabs Pen Tablet Medium [Artist Review] Wireless

Why we liked it:

• We immediately noticed that the XenceLabs Pen Tablet was created by creative professionals when we tested it.
• In addition to the palm rest, slim design, and slim pen option, there are several features specifically designed for professional artists.
• At the top of the pen tablet are buttons that enable you to quickly access the settings. Driver settings also allow Quick Keys to be customized.
• All the accessories you need are included in the bundle.

The two included stylus pens are different sizes and have 3 programmable button that help those who thrive on a customized experience.

The XenceLabs pen tablet will appeal to those who yearn for a device tailored to professional artists. The OLED display and dial are designed carefully. Not much will stand in the way of your workflow with this choice.

2. XP-PEN Artist 15.6 Pro: Best Drawing Tablet for Photoshop & Illustrator with Screen

Who this is for: The XP-PEN is the most affordable, yet powerful drawing tablet used for photoshop & illustrator with a screen for professional level Artwork. Ideal for professional digital artwork. 

Why this tablet is good for Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop: The XP-Pen boasts similar features and performance of an expensive Wacom tablet, but at a budget price.

It has a built in display and the pen preciseness worked just as well as it’s Wacom competitor, but at a significantly smaller price point (since it doesn’t have the big expensive name brand.)

Related: Best drawing Tablet with screen built-in

This drawing tablet is an absolute steal for both beginners and professionals and has come quite a long way making its name in the drawing pad space. It also has fantastic customer support.

Why the XP-Pen so popular: Professional Artists have found there’s almost no difference in performance when compared to it’s expensive competitors… it has all the same capabilities needed to create top tier level artwork.

Professionals specifically use the XP-pen to for animation, design and drawing artwork in Adobe and Photoshop. The XP-Pen provides accurate brush strokes and a consistent experience with no lag or issues.

It has the features of it’s expensive competitors (like Wacom and Huion), but at a budget price… making it one of the best drawing tablets for photoshop & illustrator.

In fact, I was able to accomplish every single difficult task I threw at it in Adobe photoshop and illustrator.

XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro boasts 120% sRGB color accuracy, 8 programmable shortcut keys, dial interface, zoom, rotate, scroll and tilt technology… not to mention your choice between 15.6 & 21.5 inch displays. (22E) 

Overall, when it came to professional level animation and photo editing I was able to create top tier, high level projects and professional work at a budget price.

3. Wacom CTL4100 Intuos: Best Pen tablet for Photoshop & Adobe Illustrator

Who this is for: The Wacom is for those looking for a reliable, highly compatible, drawing tablet to create professional level digital art in Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.

What it’s good for: Pressure sensitive Photo editing & graphic design projects. This tablet works great for any project being created with adobe photoshop & illustrator and beyond.

The Wacom One is hands down one of the best drawing tablets without a screen for adobe photoshop & illustrator. IT also works well for drawing apps such as Krita, TVPaint, and autodesk sketchbook. 

While, the price may vary; it’s been titled the best drawing tablet under $100 amongst the online art communities.

For more on these apps, see our post comparing Krita vs Photoshop: Which software is better for artists?

Wacom is a leading brand name in the drawing tablet space ensures the confidence of no small issues such as lag, incompatibility and complicated setups occuring. No more frustrating issues occur during the mid creation of art projects with this drawing tablet.

This tablet: 

• Doesn’t have a screen and instead has a drawing pad
• Best for those who don’t care for a second built-in display to draw on.
• Many professionals use this because Wacom is a reputable company/brand and it’s affordable.

Related: How to Use an old Tablet as a Digital Picture Frame

As far as compatibility, the Wacom One connects to Mac, PC, and even chromebooks, no driver required. The pen doesn’t require a battery or need to charge. There are 2 shortcut keys on the included pen itself and installing the drivers couldn’t have been more simple.

If you’re a professional who doesn’t tolerate cheaper plastic looking aesthetics, then Wacom is for you.

The real benefit of choosing a Wacom is that it has such a strong reputation in the drawing tablet space, especially for graphic design in adobe photoshop and illustrator. I found virtually no issues regarding setup, lag or incompatibility.

4. iPad Air: Best Drawing Pad for Photoshop & Illustrator (Mac)

Who this is for: Apple fans that want an intuitive, portable, and highly capable drawing tablet to edit photos, graphics and animation on adobe photoshop & illustrator. The iPad Air/Pro has become one of the top drawing pads for photoshop and illustrator. If you’re torn between the two: the Pro simply has a better camera and is slightly faster (the air worked fine for me)

Why it’s so good for drawing: The iPad air is built for advanced creative tasks such as graphic design and photo editing. Making it one the best drawing tablets for adobe photoshop and illustrator. 

Now that photoshop & illustrator are available on iOS, iPad Air users can access their creative cloud libraries and portably edit photos and graphics on the go. The iOS tablet version of photoshop is simple, intuitive and allows for adjusting brush properties with ease.

Alternatively, those with a Mac laptop can turn their iPad air into a photoshop drawing tablet by having it act as a second monitor by using the Mac “sidecar” app. The iPad is actually one of the few wireless drawing tablet options with a screen that works as we all wished.

The Apple pencil/iPad combination enables users a nearly identical pressure sensitivity of that of the Wacom, Huion and other drawing pads. The difference is that you also get a full tablet experience to use for processes other than just drawing. (ie. streaming, internet, etc). (compatibility)

The lightweight design of the iPad Air allows for a truly portable drawing experience. You can sketch anywhere; from the couch & kitchen to the car, airport or bedroom. For this reason, the iPad air is one of the top choices for the best adobe illustrator drawing pad for mac users.

5. Huion KAMVAS Pro 12: Best Budget Tablet for Sketching in Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator (with screen)

Who this is for: Those that want to connect a low-cost, high quality drawing tablet for their laptop for Adobe photoshop or illustrator sketching and painting. 

Why it’s a good drawing tablet for photoshop/illustrator: This adobe compatible drawing tablet has a anti glare display built-in with a battery free pen and adjustable stand, making it perfect for digital art projects that require sketching.

The Huion KAMVAS Pro 12 is actually a carry-on size at 11.6 inches and has a fully laminated display; making it ideal for both portable and workstation use on photoshop. It’s small size and adjustable stand allows artists to pop your Huion tablet in the same backpack as your laptop to draw and sketch anywhere. 

The 11.6 inch screen size is large enough for most artists on graphic design and photo editing projects. The dimension/shape of the screen is roughly the ratio of an A4 sheet. The tablet has a touch bar for controls, 4 keys and the device allows for tilt recognition and requires a wired connection (unlike the Huion Inspiroy model, which is wireless, but lacks a screen).

Keep in mind that drawing tablets similar to this type are always a ‘stand-alone’ device; meaning a laptop/PC is required (Unlike the iPad Air).

 Additionally, the Huion is compatible with Mac, Windows and Chromebook computers. At a price point under $300, this illustrator drawing tablet can’t be beat.When it comes to Adobe art projects in photoshop & illustrator, the Huion Kamvas’s battery free stylus, compact size, programmable express keys, and broad software compatibility gives the digital artist everything he needs for professional artwork.

6. Surface Pro 7: Best photoshop tablet for sketching (Drawing Pad for Photoshop)

Who this is for: Those looking for a luxury 2-in-1 tablet to use with photoshop, strictly designed for drawing on it’s touchpad display. Many professional artists boast that the Surface Pro is the best tablet for illustrator (adobe).

In fact, it was primarily created with drawing and sketching in mind (it even comes with a high performance pen).

If you’re looking for the best computer tablet for photo editing, and not a drawing tablet; then the Surface Pro 7, 8, and 9th gen models also satisfy this because it is a 2-in-1, hybrid laptop/tablet.

Why the Surface Pro 7 is great for Adobe software: The surface Pro is slim, has a top tier display with a fair color accuracy score and unbelievable speed.

This can be used as your main tablet or computer in addition to your primary drawing tablet… and since it runs on windows you likely won’t have to worry about software compatibility as you would with an Android device.

This pen tablet/laptop is extremely comfortable and works great for vector artists using adobe illustrator and photoshop (Adobe community). The only downside I could find was that the tablet is super sleek-meaning it slides off surfaces with ease if you don’t have a cover for it.

Related: How to fix photoshop pen pressure sensitivity not working

The Surface pen competes with the tilt and pressure sensitivity of an Apple pencil or Wacom stylus pen. If you’re a windows fan and you’re looking for a highly portable, 12.3 inch touchscreen display there’s no reason why the surface Pro shouldn’t be top of mind.

The surface Pro is unique and hard to compete with. If you’re a windows user and are in search of a 2-in-1 tablet to double as your drawing pad device, then the Surface Pro is for you.

7. Huion Inspiroy H640P: Good cheap tablet for drawing in Adobe (photoshop & illustrator)

Who this is for: Those who want a pro level, screenless tablet and are willing to sacrifice aesthetics. Artists looking for a drawing tablet with similar capabilities of Wacom’s model, but at a lower price point due to no wireless connection and a less trendy appearance.

What its good for: Great for photo editing & retouching in photoshop due to it’s compatibility, pro level features, and express keys (similar to it’s competitor, Wacom and XP-Pen). 

Huion has grown significantly over the years to compete with Wacom and XP-Pen.

The Huion Inspiroy is a great cheap tablet for drawing in Adobe Photoshop and illustrator due to its lower price, yet similar functionalities of a Wacom tablet.

The strokes proved slightly less accurate than that of it’s expensive competitors, but I saw no issue overall when drawing on photoshop & illustrator. Whether you’re a beginner or a top tier level artist and are on a budget, the Huion will work wonders as your personal Digital pen and pad for photoshop

8. Huion Dial Q620: Best Adobe photoshop draw pad for Artists (Wireless)

Who this is for: Those who want a wireless graphics drawing tablet for photoshop or illustrator. This Huion is also known as an adobe illustrator drawing pad because it’s affordable, yet is known to work well as a pad to draw on in many adobe apps.

Why it’s a good drawing pad: While it has no built-in screen, this drawing pad satisfies the needs of many artists who are fed up with their wired device. It even supports Android. 

Huion has quite the  reputation in the drawing pad space, the Huion Dial Q620 is compatible with samsung and can run Adobe photoshop, illustrator and many other android based photo editing apps.

The dial on this illustrator pad allows for zooming in when your drawing, making the painting process significantly quicker (really cool feature). The Huion Dial has default settings for photoshop and it’s battery life is 20 hours!

Moreover, the stylus pen is battery free and has tilt control as well as very accurate pressure sensitivity. 

While I’m extremely satisfied with the core, essential features I’d need for photoshop and Adobe software, my favorite feature of the Huon Dial is actually the anti-sweat durable material it’s made with. It’s highly customizable and the wireless connection is not bluetooth, but it’s own wireless receiver. 

Con: I noticed very 3-4 hours it would disconnect for a split second. Not bad for a cheap digital painting pad compared to the other pen pad prices. Overall, I was very happy with the tablet.

If you’re looking for a wireless alternative to your old wired drawing pad, then the Huion Dial is hard to compete with considering it’s fair price point.

FAQ

Is there Photoshop for drawing tablets?

Yes, there are Adobe Photoshop software for drawing tablets in the form of both Windows and iOS. The versions on iOS are slightly different, but achieve the same effect. You’ll be using an Apple Pencil ideally if using the tablet version as it appeared to perform the best in our tests amongst the Apple Pencil 1 vs Apple Pencil 2 comparison post.

Do drawing tablets automatically have pressure for photoshop & illustrator?

Yes, there are default settings, but these pressure settings for photoshop and adobe software can be modified through properties/settings of both the software and your drawing tablet device.

There are also different settings that are native to the drawing tablet and stylus you choose. For example, on Wacom you will have your own menu, whereas using an iPad and Apple Pencil the settings for pressure to be adjusted will differ.

Always keep in mind there are two different settings that can be adjusted:

1. from the app you are drawing on; ex. photoshop or illustrator.
2. From the drawing tablet or stylus brand software that you can install

Why won’t my Drawing tablet work on Illustrator?

If you purchased a drawing tablet and downloaded adobe illustrator, but it simply won’t work (issues with the tools, lag, stutter or delay), then you might want to try resetting the Tablet configuration settings.

Usually when this happens the drawing tablet doesn’t have any issues at first, but then all the sudden – problems occur between the device and your Adobe Illustrator software. 

In some cases users have the issue of a pencil in a circle with a line through it showing rather than allowing you draw, use shapes, and use other functions related to illustrating digitally. Sometimes there’s even issues with layers.

If you’re using Gaomon, Huion, Xp-Pen, Wacom, or a similar drawing tablet, then there are a few things you can do when your drawing tablet won’t work on illustrator:

• First, ensure all your software drivers on your drawing tablet are updated and that your laptop or computer operating system is also updated to its latest settings.
• Next, you’ll want to reset your Adobe illustrator settings. Launch Tablet Utility and use ‘delete’ to reset to default settings.
• Once your Tablet configuration settings are reset, your drawing tablet may work again.

Can you use XP-Pen in photoshop?

You can use Xp-Pen with both photoshop and illustrator! I’ve tested XP-Pen Pro with the adobe suite on the default settings and noticed the pressure sensitivity, tilt, and keys all worked as intended.

Many who are used to big name brands such as Wacom and Huion are now understanding that XP-Pen is becoming a strong player in the drawing tablet space. I personally have used XP-Pen 21.5 and found you can create pro-level art just like on the other tablets. It’s highly capable with windows in addition to Mac.

Overall, the XP-Pen is a good adobe illustrator drawing and photoshop drawing pad.

Can you use a Huion tablet in photoshop?

You can use Huion with Adobe Photoshop and illustrator. In fact, Huion tablets were created with these softwares in mind and have specific drivers to help the compatibility between the Huion drawing pad and the connected laptop or PC.

Alternatively, If you’re using Android, then you’ll want to use the Android Tablet itself like an iPad. You’ll also need a certain stylus based on the type of Android tablet your using. The photoshop app is different on these tablets so the type of pen you choose will matter. See our post: The Best Stylus for Drawing on Android

What should cache levels in photoshop be set to for drawing tablets?

For projects with many small files, such as 1280 x 1024 or lower, setting cache levels in photoshop to level 1 or 2 is ideal. Level 1 disables caching of images and only the screen you are currently using gets cached.

For dimensions larger than 1280 (or larger than 75 Megapixels), setting cache to level 4 or high will increase speed of drawing. For best results, test both out and see what results in a smoother experience.

Conclusion

Overall, The Best drawing tablets for photoshop are oftentimes also the best tablets for illustrator. This is because these adobe photoshop drawings pads are good for photo editing, retouching, precise brush strokes and accurate sketching in adobe illustrator due to their built-in screens… because you can draw right on the tablet! 

They also have pressure sensitivity (8192) and tilt technology as well as rechargeable stylus… many love this feature on their drawing pen tablet. These Digital drawing pads are of course compatible with adobe illustrator/photoshop.

The best, well known drawing tablet for Photoshop brand is Wacom, which many believe to be too expensive. Instead, many digital artists on a budget are using the XP-Pen and Huion graphics tablet. There are some pros and cons to this for a proper drawing experience. As a professional myself I highlighted these in this article.

Mac/Apple fans often choose their iPad as their primary drawing tablet because it is compatible with adobe software (photoshop/illustrator) and also has a screen they can draw right on. Additionally, they can connect it to their Mac by using an app if they want a larger or second display monitor to draw with.

Now that you can understand which is the proper drawing tablet for photoshop and illustrator you’re ready to create those top tier level art projects on the correct pen tablet/drawing pad of choice.