Graphics Tablets - Digital Workflow
Posted on: 3/1/2008 8:33:56 PM
:: Last updated: 3/2/2008 1:09:44 AM
If you just don't want the hassles of working on paper, you could always get a graphics tablet. Granted, they are quite expensive, and most are a bit disorientating, but in the end, it's worth it. It's not only for drawings to - it operates as a mouse (it usually also comes with a mouse if you don't fancy using the pen for general use) so you can use it for writing with the included handwriting recognition software (although I'm not sure if it's included or the one I'm using is built into Vista).
I'm going to show some examples from the apparent leading manufacturer of tablet solutions, Wacom. At one end, you have the average budget consumer tablets, the bamboo (avg. 10,000 yen) and at the other end of the scale you have the Cintiq series, which has monitors built in to the surface, to make the workflow more natural (no-screen models can get very disorientating) which ranges from 110,000 yen to 250,000 yen.
First you have the Bamboo CTE-450 which is an A6 sized tablet.
From owning this model, I can say that it's a good model if you aren't so serious about your work, and the software that comes bundled with the Japanese edition is quite good (adobe phtoshop elements 5, a watercolour application, and some other programs). It is probably the most affordable tablet, but you might have a problem with high screen resolutions.
There's also the Intuos3 series which are for people with bigger needs, with more sensitivity and sizes. It also comes with more options such as different pen and nibs. It's price ranges from 20,000 yen ($199) to 78,000 yen ($749).
Then there is the Graphire Bluetooth tablet, which is basically a wireless tablet. It only comes in 1 size, 6x8 and is priced 26,000 yen ($249).
Finally there's the Cintiq, which is the solution for professional users. Because you draw directly on the screen, you can achieve much better control and productivity. It costs 110,000 yen ($999) for the 12WX to the 21UX which is 250,000 yen ($2400).
In conclusion:
For the average user with a limited budget, the Bamboo is for you. If you're willing to go a bit further, then the Intuos line is a ideal upgrade choice.
However, if you have a limited space, the Bluetooth Graphire is the ideal choice.
But, if you have the money and need, I would seriously recommend the Cintiq line.
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