Standalone: Pen-enabled mobile computers

Overview

If you're primarily interested in drawing or notetaking I think pen-enabled mobile computers are your best options.

For years, we've had two two real options in this space are:

In 2025, new options became available:

Basics

Given what people want in standalone devices, often I think these kinds of devices are your best choice for a standalone drawing tablet.

  • Operating system: a mobile OS (iOS, Android)

  • Scenario: General purpose

  • Pen tech: varies and depends on the specific model. Apple Pencil protocol, AES, EMR. EMR provides the "classic" drawing tablet experience.

Apple iPads

Apple iPads can play the role of a drawing tablet very well. Do keep in mind, the Apple Pencil does not come with an iPad so you will have to purchase the pencil separately

My notes on using Apple iPads

There have been many models of the iPad released over the years. And many models of the Apple Pencil. What I recommend is getting any iPad that is compatible with the Apple Pencil 2nd generation or the Apple Pencil Pro.

The vary quite a bit in price, below are three models I personally own. You will find many others that work also.

  • Apple iPad Air (4th gen and later) ($600)

  • Apple iPad Pro 11 inch (4th gen and later) ($800+)

  • Apple iPad pro 12.9 inch 6th gen ($1100+)

For a list of applications for iPads: Apps for iPad

Samsung Galaxy Tab S series

As an alternative to the Apple ecosystem, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S series of tablets is compelling. One great advantage of the Galaxy Tab S series is that they come with the Samsung S pen. So that keeps the cost down.

There are many models available over the years, so it is likely you can find something that works for your budget. Below are three that I have personal experience with. But many others might suit your needs.

For applications that run on Android see this list: Apps for Android

My notes on Samsung Galaxy Tab S Series

My notes on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy Tab A Series

I do not recommend this series of tablets. More here: Samsung Galaxy Tab A

Wacom MovinkPad 11

Of the current generation of standalone drawing tablets. This is the best in terms of drawing experience - primarily because it support using the Pro Pen 2.

my notes on this tablet

XP-Pen Magic Drawing Pad

XP-Pen has released two versions of the drawing pad

  • XP-Pen Magic Drawing Pad (GEN1) - I don't have any experience with this tablet.

  • XP-Pen Magic Drawing Pad (GEN2) - I have this tablet and like it. my notes on this tablet

Huion Slate and XP-Pen

Huion and XP-pen have also released android tablets in this category.

Resources

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