Pen-enabled mobile computers
Overview
If you're primarily interested in drawing or notetaking I think pen-enabled mobile computers are your best options.
The two real options in this space are:
Apple iPads + the Apple Pencil
Samsung Galaxy Tab S devices
Basics
Formally, these are not drawing tablets, but they can work just like one. And often I think they are your best choice for a standalone tablet. These include products such as Apple iPad Pros and Samsung Galaxy S series tablets.
Operating system: a mobile OS (iOS, ChromeOS)
Scenario: General purpose
Pen tech: varies. Apple Pencil, AES, EMR
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
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
Samsung Galaxy Tab S Series ($800 to $1200) higher performance options
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE ($350 to $520) excellent mid-budget option
There are two versions:
6GB RAM + 126GB storage ($450)
8GB RAM with 256GB of storage ($520)
Both will work, but I always recommend getting more RAM for drawing apps.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2022 version or 2024 version) ($240) is a good a low-cost option for beginners.
There is a 2020 version. Avoid it.
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
Devices from Huion and XP-Pen
Huion and XP-pen have also released android tablets in this category.
Huion Kamvas Slate 10 NOT RECOMMENDED
XP-Pen Magic Drawing Pad - I don't have any experience with it.
Resources
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