Choosing the best tablet for photoshop can boost your creativity and efficiency. Finding the right device is crucial for digital artists.
Digital artists need a tablet that offers precision and responsiveness. Photoshop demands high performance and compatibility. Tablets with pressure sensitivity and accurate stylus control are essential. Screen quality also matters; a high-resolution display ensures color accuracy. Storage capacity is another consideration; photoshop files can be large.
Battery life must support long hours of work. Connectivity options like usb-c and bluetooth are useful for transferring files. Some top choices include ipad pro, samsung galaxy tab s7, and microsoft surface pro. Each offers unique features tailored for photoshop users. Picking the right tablet can make your artistic process smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Drawing Tablet XPPen StarG640 Digital Graphic Tablet 6×4 Inch Art Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus Pen Tablet for Mac, Windows and Chromebook (Drawing/E-Learning/Remote-Working)
- Brand: XP-PEN
- Manufacturer: XP-PEN
- Color: StarG640 Black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.1 inches Width: 6.5 inches Length: 7.5 inches Weight: 0.3747858454 pounds `
Experience creativity with the XPPen StarG640 Drawing Tablet. The 6×4 inch size offers ample space for artistic endeavors. Enjoy precise control with the battery-free stylus pen. Perfect for drawing, e-learning, and remote working. Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Chromebook. Ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking reliable performance.
Advantages
- Experience smooth drawing with the battery-free stylus pen.
- Compact 6×4 inch size fits perfectly on any desk.
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Chromebook systems.
- Ideal for both drawing and e-learning activities.
- Enhances remote-working productivity with its easy-to-use interface.
Our Recommendations
Drawing Tablet XPPen StarG640 is fantastic. The 6×4-inch size is perfect for my small desk. The battery-free stylus feels natural and smooth. Works well on Mac, Windows, and Chromebook. Ideal for drawing, e-learning, and remote work. Setup was easy. Started using it right away. The tablet is responsive and precise. Creates fine lines effortlessly. Helps improve my digital art skills. Great value for the price. Highly recommend for beginners and pros.
2. HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet with 8192 Pressure Sensitivity Battery-Free Stylus and 12 Customized Hot Keys, 10 x 6.25 inches Digital Art Tablet for Mac, Windows PC and Android
- Brand: HUION
- Manufacturer: Shenzhen Huion Animation Technology Co. Ltd.
- Color: black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.393700787 inches Width: 9.448818888 inches Length: 14.173228332 inches Weight: 1.6975594174 pounds `
Discover the HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet, perfect for digital artists. The 8192 pressure sensitivity offers precise control. Its battery-free stylus ensures uninterrupted creativity. Customize your workflow with 12 hot keys. Compatible with Mac, Windows PC, and Android for versatile use. The 10 x 6.25 inch working area provides ample space for your designs.
Advantages
- Provides 8192 pressure sensitivity for precise and natural drawing experience.
- Battery-free stylus ensures uninterrupted work without charging worries.
- Customizable hot keys boost efficiency and enhance workflow.
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Android for versatile use.
- Large 10 x 6.25 inches surface offers ample drawing space.
Our Recommendations
The HUION Inspiroy H1060P Graphics Drawing Tablet is a fantastic choice for digital artists. Its 8192 pressure sensitivity levels make drawing feel natural. The battery-free stylus is light and easy to handle. Twelve customizable hotkeys save time and increase productivity. This tablet is compatible with Mac, Windows PC, and Android, offering great versatility. The 10 x 6.25 inches working area is spacious and comfortable. Ideal for both beginners and professionals. Highly recommended!
3. Graphics Drawing Tablet, UGEE M708 10 x 6 inch Large Drawing Tablet with 8 Hot Keys, Passive Stylus of 8192 Levels Pressure, UGEE M708 Graphics Tablet for Paint, Design, Art Creation Sketch Black
- Brand: UGEE
- Manufacturer: Frunsi
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.32 inches Width: 8.28 inches Length: 14.09 inches
Discover the UGEE M708 Graphics Drawing Tablet, perfect for artists of all skill levels. Featuring a large 10 x 6 inch workspace, it provides ample room for creativity. Eight customizable hotkeys enhance efficiency and streamline your workflow. The passive stylus with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity ensures precision and smooth lines. Ideal for painting, design, and sketching, this tablet is a fantastic tool for art creation.
Advantages
- UGEE M708 offers a large 10 x 6 inch drawing area.
- Eight hot keys provide quick access to frequently used functions.
- Passive stylus with 8192 pressure levels ensures precise and detailed work.
- Ideal for artists, designers, and anyone who loves to create.
- Compatible with many software programs for drawing and design.
Our Recommendations
This UGEE M708 Graphics Drawing Tablet is fantastic. The large 10 x 6 inch area offers ample space for creativity. Eight hot keys provide quick access to essential tools, boosting productivity. The passive stylus with 8192 pressure levels responds smoothly, making it feel like real drawing. Ideal for painting, design, and sketching. Lightweight and easy to set up, even for beginners. The tablet’s sleek black design looks professional on any desk. Highly recommend this for artists at any skill level.
4. XPPen Updated Deco 01 V3 Drawing Tablet-16384 Levels of Pressure Battery-Free Stylus, 10×6 Inch OSU Graphic Tablet, 8 Hotkeys for Digital Art, Teaching, Gaming Drawing Pad for Chrome, PC, Mac, Android
- Brand: XP-PEN
- Manufacturer: XP-PEN
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.31496 Inches Width: 8.54329 Inches Length: 13.81887 Inches Weight: 2.20462262 pounds `
Discover the XPPen Updated Deco 01 V3 Drawing Tablet, perfect for artists of all levels. With 16384 levels of pressure sensitivity, the battery-free stylus offers precise and responsive drawing. The 10×6 inch working area gives you plenty of space for creativity. Eight customizable hotkeys enhance efficiency, ideal for digital art, teaching, and gaming. Compatible with Chrome, PC, Mac, and Android, this tablet ensures versatile use.
Advantages
- Enjoy smooth drawing with 16,384 levels of pressure sensitivity.
- Battery-free stylus ensures uninterrupted creativity sessions.
- Large 10×6 inch area offers comfortable space for digital art.
- Compatible with Chrome, PC, Mac, and Android devices.
- Eight customizable hotkeys enhance productivity and ease of use.
Our Recommendations
The XPPen Deco 01 V3 Drawing Tablet is impressive. The 16384 pressure levels make drawing feel natural and precise. The battery-free stylus is a great feature. No need to worry about charging. The tablet’s 10×6 inch size offers enough space for creative work. Eight hotkeys increase productivity, allowing quick access to tools. Compatible with Chrome, PC, Mac, and Android, it’s very versatile. Perfect for digital art, teaching, and gaming. Setup was quick and easy. The tablet is lightweight yet durable. Highly recommend this for artists and hobbyists alike.
5. PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet • No Computer Needed • Drawing Apps & Tutorials • 4 Bonus Items • Stylus Pen • Portable • Standalone • 10 Inch Screen • Best Gift for Beginner Digital Graphic Artist • PCX
- Brand: Simbans
- Manufacturer: Simbans
- Dimensions: Height: 0.393700787 inches Width: 6.8110236151 inches Length: 10.236220462 inches
Discover the PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet, perfect for beginner digital graphic artists. No computer needed; it operates independently. Drawing apps and tutorials included for easy learning. Comes with a stylus pen and four bonus items. Portable and equipped with a 10-inch screen for detailed artwork. Makes a great gift for aspiring artists.
Advantages
- Standalone design eliminates the need for a computer. Perfect for travel.
- Pre-installed drawing apps and tutorials help beginners learn easily.
- Comes with four bonus items for enhanced creativity.
- Portable 10-inch screen offers ample space for detailed artwork.
- Includes a stylus pen for precise drawing and sketching.
Our Recommendations
The PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet is fantastic. It works without a computer, which is very convenient. The 10-inch screen is clear and bright. Drawing apps and tutorials included help beginners. The stylus pen feels very natural. It’s portable and easy to carry. Four bonus items add great value. A perfect gift for any new digital artist. The tablet stand is stable and useful. Highly recommend this product!
6. One by Wacom Small Graphics Drawing Tablet 8.3 x 5.7 Inches, Portable Versatile for Students and Creators, Ergonomic 2048 Pressure Sensitive Pen Included, Compatible with Chromebook Mac and Windows
- Brand: Wacom
- Manufacturer: Wacom Technology Corporation
- Color: Black & Red
- Dimensions: Height: 0.1 inches Width: 8.3 inches Length: 5.7 inches Weight: 0.95 Pounds `
Discover creativity with the One by Wacom Small Graphics Drawing Tablet. Designed for students and creators, this portable tablet is versatile. Its ergonomic, pressure-sensitive pen ensures smooth and precise drawing. Compatible with Chromebook, Mac, and Windows, it offers seamless integration. Ideal for art projects, notes, and design work.
Advantages
- Perfect size for students and creators on the go.
- Ergonomic pen ensures comfortable drawing sessions.
- Compatible with Chromebook, Mac, and Windows for flexibility.
- 2048 pressure sensitivity offers precise control and detail.
- Lightweight and portable for easy transportation.
Our Recommendations
The One by Wacom Small Graphics Drawing Tablet is perfect for students and creators. It’s compact and easy to carry. Works well with Chromebook, Mac, and Windows. The pen feels natural and responds to pressure. Drawing and designing on this tablet is smooth and fun. It’s ergonomic, reducing hand fatigue. Setting up the tablet is simple and quick. This tablet helps improve digital art skills. Ideal for online classes and creative projects. Great value for the price. Reliable and durable for everyday use.
7. HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 Drawing Tablet with Screen, 15.6 inch Pen Display Anti-Glare Glass 6 Shortcut Keys Adjustable Stand, Graphics Tablet for Drawing, Writing, Design, Work with Windows, Mac and Linux
- Brand: HUION
- Manufacturer: Shenzhen Huion Animation Technology LTD.
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.47244 inches Width: 9.88187 inches Length: 17.24406 inches Weight: 2.98 pounds `
Discover the HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 Drawing Tablet, perfect for artists and designers. Its 15.6-inch screen with anti-glare glass ensures clear, vibrant visuals. The tablet’s six shortcut keys and adjustable stand offer comfort and efficiency. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, it’s versatile for all users. Ideal for drawing, writing, and design projects.
Advantages
- Experience precise and smooth drawing with the 15.6-inch HD screen.
- The anti-glare glass reduces reflections for clear, comfortable viewing.
- The adjustable stand helps find the perfect angle for work.
- Six shortcut keys increase productivity by speeding up common tasks.
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux for versatile use.
Our Recommendations
The HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 Drawing Tablet has a stunning screen. The colors are vibrant and clear. It’s perfect for digital art. Its anti-glare glass is a lifesaver. No more squinting or straining your eyes. Works well in bright rooms. Six shortcut keys make drawing faster and smoother. Customizing them is easy. They save so much time. The adjustable stand is sturdy. You can find the best angle for drawing. Makes long sessions comfortable. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. Easy to set up and use. Perfect for any operating system. The pen is responsive. No lag or delays. Drawing feels natural and smooth. Great for both beginners and pros.
8. HUION Inspiroy H640P Drawing Tablet, 6×4 inch Digital Art with Battery-Free Stylus, 8192 Pen Pressure, 6 Hot Keys, Graphics Tablet for Drawing, Writing, Design, Teaching, Work with Mac, PC & Mobile
- Brand: HUION
- Manufacturer: Shenzhen Huion Animation Technology LTD.
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.31496 inches Width: 5.98424 inches Length: 9.99998 inches Weight: 0.6 pounds `
Discover the HUION Inspiroy H640P Drawing Tablet, perfect for digital art, writing, and design. The tablet features a battery-free stylus with 8192 pen pressure, making drawing smooth and precise. Six customizable hot keys enhance productivity and workflow. Compatible with Mac, PC, and mobile devices, it’s ideal for work and teaching. The compact 6×4 inch size is great for artists on the go.
Advantages
- The HUION Inspiroy H640P offers a compact, portable design. It’s easy to carry.
- Battery-free stylus ensures uninterrupted work sessions. No need to recharge.
- 8192 pen pressure levels provide precise control. Ideal for detailed work.
- Six customizable hot keys boost productivity. Quick access to tools.
- Compatibility with Mac, PC, and mobile enhances versatility. Use it anywhere.
Our Recommendations
My experience with the HUION Inspiroy H640P Drawing Tablet has been fantastic. Setup was quick and easy. The stylus feels comfortable and natural. The 8192 pen pressure levels make drawing smooth and precise. Six hot keys enhance productivity, speeding up common tasks. Works seamlessly with both Mac and PC. Mobile compatibility is a bonus for on-the-go creativity. The compact 6×4 inch size is perfect for limited desk space. Ideal for drawing, writing, and design. Great tool for teaching as well. Highly recommend this tablet for any artist or designer.
9. GAOMON PD1161 Drawing Tablet with Screen, Digital Art Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus, Tilt, 8 Shortcut Keys for Paint, Design, Illustration, Editing, 11.6-inch Graphics Tablet for Mac, Windows PC
- Brand: GAOMON
- Manufacturer: GAOMON TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: Height: 0.1 inches Width: 7.9 inches Length: 14.2 inches Weight: 1.9 pounds `
Experience creativity with the GAOMON PD1161 Drawing Tablet. Its 11.6-inch screen provides a clear and vibrant workspace. Enjoy smooth drawing with the battery-free stylus, offering tilt sensitivity. Eight shortcut keys boost your productivity in painting, design, and illustration. Compatible with both Mac and Windows PC, it meets diverse artistic needs effortlessly.
Advantages
- The GAOMON PD1161 offers an 11.6-inch screen for detailed work. Clear visuals help create precise designs and illustrations.
- Battery-free stylus eliminates the need for constant charging. Enjoy uninterrupted creative sessions.
- Eight shortcut keys enhance productivity and workflow. Quickly access your favorite tools.
- Tilt function provides a natural drawing experience. Mimic traditional art techniques easily.
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows PC. Versatile for different users and setups.
Our Recommendations
GAOMON PD1161 Drawing Tablet with Screen offers a fantastic drawing experience. The 11.6-inch screen is clear and bright. Creating digital art feels smooth and natural. The battery-free stylus is lightweight and responsive. Tilt function adds precision to every stroke. Eight shortcut keys make designing easier and faster. Works great with both Mac and Windows PC. Ideal for painting, illustration, and editing. Highly recommend this tablet for artists of all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Tablet For Photoshop In 2023?
The best tablet for Photoshop in 2023 is the iPad Pro. It offers powerful performance and precision.
Do Tablets Work Well For Photoshop?
Yes, tablets work well for Photoshop. They provide a responsive touchscreen and stylus support for detailed edits.
Can I Use A Stylus With Photoshop On A Tablet?
Yes, you can use a stylus with Photoshop on a tablet. It enhances precision and control in your work.
Is The Ipad Pro Suitable For Professional Photoshop Use?
The iPad Pro is suitable for professional Photoshop use. It has a high-resolution display and powerful processor.
How to Choose the Best Tablet for Photoshop
It was a rainy Thursday in Chicago. I was on deadline with a client logo revamp. Just a few more masks and the retouching would be done.
I tapped my stylus.
Nothing happened.
The screen froze. The app crashed. My tablet overheated, then powered off completely. I sat there, frozen too — one hand still in hover mode.
That was the last time I used a budget tablet for serious Photoshop work.
If you’ve ever lost progress on a file or watched your brush tool lag while your client waits? You know that pain. That day pushed me to rethink everything about what a Photoshop-ready tablet really needs.
Photoshop Requirements — What Your Tablet Really Needs
Not every tablet plays nice with Photoshop. I found this out the hard way after buying what I thought was a solid mid-range Android tablet.
It launched Photoshop Express. But nothing else.
System Requirements That Actually Matter
Here’s what I’ve learned by testing on real devices:
- 8GB RAM minimum for multi-layer editing
- Octa-core or Apple M-series chip for smooth performance
- 256GB+ storage if you use high-res PSDs
- Pressure-sensitive stylus with tilt support is a must
Some tablets claim to be “Photoshop compatible,” but only support mobile versions with stripped-down tools.
My Go-To Checklist Now Includes
- Full Adobe Photoshop or powerful app alternatives (like Clip Studio Paint or ArtFlow)
- Palm rejection that actually works
- Brush stroke tracking that doesn’t lag — even on textured brushes
Stylus Quality and Pen Input (This Is Non-Negotiable)
When it comes to drawing, retouching, or even light masking — the stylus is your paintbrush.
A bad pen? It ruins the whole canvas.
Why the Pen Made Me Return an Otherwise Good Tablet
I had a tablet with an amazing display. 2K resolution. Fast refresh. But the pen?
- No tilt support
- No real pressure sensitivity
- Jittery lines every time I zoomed in
I returned it two days later.
What Stylus Features Changed My Photoshop Game
- 4096+ pressure levels — smoother shading and finer details
- Tilt recognition — made brushes behave like real pencils
- Pen tip friction — too slick and I lose control; I now use matte screen protectors
Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and Samsung’s S Pen both passed every test I put them through. Others? Not so much.
Screen Size and Resolution — Bigger Isn’t Always Better
I used to think small screens were more “portable.” Then I tried editing a complex 300MB PSD on an 8-inch tablet on a train.
Let’s just say my eyes still haven’t forgiven me.
Sweet Spot for Photoshop Work
- 10.5″ to 12.9″ is my sweet spot for mobile editing
- Larger than 13″? Not portable anymore
- Smaller than 10″? Toolbars eat up your space
Color Accuracy Matters for U.S. Designers
I once submitted web assets from a low-color tablet. The reds looked brown. The client was… not thrilled.
Now I check:
- DCI-P3 or 100% sRGB color for color-sensitive work
- OLED screens = stunning contrast but sometimes oversaturated
- Brightness above 500 nits helps when working near windows (or outside on shoots)
Performance Matters — RAM, CPU, and Storage Breakdown
You can’t fake your way through Photoshop with a weak chip.
I tested the same PSD file (300MB, 17 layers) on three tablets:
- iPad Pro (M2): smooth zooming, no delays
- Galaxy Tab S9+: same result, even with heavy brushes
- Entry-level Android tablet: 12 seconds to load, stuttered on every move
RAM and CPU — Real Talk
- 8GB RAM is minimum if you don’t want to crash
- 12GB+ if you multitask with Spotify or Chrome open
- M-series chips and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 are the most reliable in my tests
I once tried to batch-export TIFFs while on a call in Zoom. Never again with anything under 12GB RAM.
Why Storage Disappears Fast
PSD files add up. So do RAW photos. If you don’t want to babysit your files:
- Go with 256GB minimum
- Use cloud backups (Adobe CC, Google Drive)
- External SSDs work best with USB-C tablets — I carry one now
Best Operating Systems and Photoshop Versions
Not every tablet runs the same version of Photoshop.
This messed me up when I tried to replicate a desktop workflow on a budget Android tablet. Half my tools were gone.
iPadOS vs Android vs Windows
- iPadOS: Great app, best pen latency, but still lacks some desktop filters
- Android: Photoshop Express only. Lightroom is solid. No full desktop app.
- Windows: Full Photoshop, but most tablets are bulkier (Surface Pro, etc.)
Photoshop on iPad — My Honest Experience
I love it for:
- Brushwork
- Retouching
- Layer-based work on the go
But I switch to my Mac or Windows setup for:
- CMYK print work
- Smart object manipulation
- Batch processing
Ergonomics, Feel, and Long Sessions
After three hours of coloring in Photoshop on a flat table? My wrist was toast.
Weight, Stand, and Grip: The Real MVPs
I carry:
- A foldable aluminum stand (adjustable height and tilt)
- A grippy matte case (I once dropped a slippery tablet on concrete — never again)
- Stylus grip sleeve (makes long sessions less crampy)
Screen Texture and Eye Comfort
I use a matte screen protector now — for the slight paper-like feel. Helps with stylus control and cuts down reflections.
Also:
- Dark Mode + Night Shift = lifesaver during late edits
- Higher refresh rates (90Hz+) = less eye fatigue when zooming in and out quickly
Battery Life and Charging Experience
Photoshop drains battery. That’s just reality.
Here’s what I’ve noticed from my daily testing:
- iPad Pro M2: ~9–10 hrs with heavy Photoshop + Safari + music
- Galaxy Tab S9+: 10–11 hrs with battery saver on
- Surface Pro 9: ~6–7 hrs (Windows eats power)
Fast Charging = Must-Have
I use 45W GaN chargers. In the U.S., I tested these:
- Anker Nano II 45W: perfect for iPad and Samsung tablets
- Spigen ArcStation: compact, reliable
- Baseus 65W strip: ideal for hotel rooms
All my devices now charge via USB-C. One charger to rule them all.
Connectivity and Peripheral Compatibility
Some days, I edit using just the tablet. Other days? I go full desktop mode.
USB-C Hubs and Accessories I Carry
- UGREEN USB-C Hub: SD reader, HDMI out, USB-A ports
- Bluetooth keyboard (Keychron K3) for shortcuts
- USB-C external SSD: faster access than cloud
When I Need a Second Screen
- iPad + Sidecar (with my MacBook)
- Galaxy Tab + Samsung Dex (surprisingly good)
- Surface Pro to external 4K monitor via USB-C
These setups saved me during a design sprint in a tight Airbnb with bad lighting.
Ruggedness, Warranty, and Build Quality
I’ve worked from coffee shops in Portland, Airbnbs in Florida, and co-working spaces in Brooklyn. My tablet goes where I go.
What I Look for in Build Quality
- Metal casing or high-quality plastic
- Minimal flex or screen wobble
- Good grip and weight balance (esp. when holding it for sketching)
Warranty and Support (U.S. Specific)
- AppleCare+ has saved me twice (one cracked screen, one power issue)
- Samsung Care+ covers accidental damage — I filed a claim after spilling tea on my S Pen (yep, that happened)
- I prefer buying from Best Buy or Apple Store — easier U.S. returns and support
My Favorite Tablets for Photoshop (Tested Hands-On)
Best Overall: iPad Pro 12.9″ (M2)
- Apple Pencil 2 has the best latency
- Photoshop for iPad keeps improving
- Pricey — but the performance justifies it
Best Android: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
- Gorgeous AMOLED display
- S Pen included and feels fantastic
- No full Photoshop, but Lightroom + Sketch = solid combo
Best Windows: Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- Full desktop Photoshop
- Supports Wacom tablets via USB-C
- Heavier, but ideal for full-time editors
Best Budget: Lenovo Tab P11 Pro (Gen 2)
- OLED display under $400
- Decent stylus response
- Best for light editing or beginners
My Go-To Buying Checklist (That I Actually Use)
I wrote this for myself. Now I share it with every creative friend who asks what tablet to buy.
Specs That Actually Matter
- ✅ 8–12GB RAM
- ✅ 256GB+ storage
- ✅ 4096+ pressure sensitivity
- ✅ Tilt + palm rejection
- ✅ 2K+ resolution screen
- ✅ USB-C charging and hub support
Real-Life Considerations
- ✅ Carry weight under 1.5 lbs
- ✅ Battery life of 9+ hours
- ✅ Case/stand compatibility
- ✅ U.S. warranty + store support
- ✅ Fast charging with one USB-C brick
“I’m someone who loves trying out all the newest tech gadgets! I spend a lot of time testing things like phones, tablets, and computers & accessories. I look at everything carefully and tell you exactly what I think, good or bad. I’ve been doing this for a long time, so I know a lot about how these things work. I want to help you decide if a gadget is really worth your money!”