Top Digital Boards
Professional recommendations from a Cheshire-based illustrator
🎨 Introduction
As a professional illustrator based in Cheshire, I create custom illustrations for books, branding, and digital media. Over the years, I've tested and researched various digital art tools to help fellow artists make informed decisions.
This guide covers the top-rated options for top digital boards. Each product has been selected based on detailed research — examining verified customer reviews, technical specifications, pressure sensitivity, screen quality, and value for money. The recommendations reflect what I'd look for when advising clients and students on digital art equipment.
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⏳ In a Rush? Our Top Picks
Based on detailed research and customer feedback, here are our award winners:
🏆 Recommended Products
1. Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 Graphics Tablet With Ergotron LX Monitor Arm (4k Resolution, HDR Gamma support, Pantone Validated, 99% Adobe RGB, new Wacom Pro Pen 3 pressure-sensitive pen, multi-touch)
The Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 is designed for professional illustrators and digital artists who require precision and high-quality visuals in their work. It's particularly suited for detailed tasks such as book illustrations, branding projects, and digital media creation where colour accuracy and fine detail are paramount. The 4k resolution and Pantone validation make it ideal for those working in environments where print colour matching is critical.
✅ Pros
- Exceptional 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- 4k resolution with 99% Adobe RGB coverage
- Pantone Validated for accurate colour matching
- Flexible positioning with Ergotron LX Monitor Arm
❌ Cons
- High price point
- Limited portability due to size and weight
- No built-in express keys
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
With 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, the new Wacom Pro Pen 3 offers exceptional control and nuance, allowing for delicate strokes and varied line weights. The large 27-inch active area provides ample space for broad strokes and intricate details alike. Customer feedback highlights the pen's accuracy and the screen's vibrant colour reproduction, thanks to its 99% Adobe RGB coverage and HDR Gamma support. The 4k resolution ensures clarity and sharpness, essential for high-resolution artwork.
🎨 Design
The Cintiq Pro 27 features a sturdy build with premium materials that convey durability. Its design includes the Ergotron LX Monitor Arm, which offers flexibility in positioning, enhancing ergonomics for long hours of work. However, at 9 kg, portability is limited, making it better suited for a dedicated studio setup. The tablet's sleek, modern aesthetic is appealing, though its size may dominate smaller workspaces.
🔌 Compatibility
Driver support for the Cintiq Pro 27 is comprehensive, with compatibility across major software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. It supports multi-touch gestures, which can streamline workflow. However, the lack of express keys on the tablet itself means reliance on on-screen controls or an external keypad. Connectivity options include USB-C and HDMI, catering to most modern systems.
💰 Value
At £3,432.16, the Cintiq Pro 27 is a significant investment. Its features are best suited for professionals who need top-tier performance and accuracy. For those who don't require such high specifications, more affordable alternatives exist. However, for serious illustrators and designers, the investment could be justified by the superior quality and precision it offers.
🎯 Verdict
The Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 is a powerhouse for professional illustrators needing precision and colour accuracy, though its price and size may not suit everyone.
2. HUION Kamvas Pro 24 Graphics Drawing Tablet Monitor, 4K UHD 23.8 Inch Pen Display with 8192 Levels Battery-free Stylus, Mini KeyDial and 140% sRGB Compatible with Windows & Mac & Android & Linux
The HUION Kamvas Pro 24 is tailored for professional illustrators engaged in detailed work, such as book illustrations, branding projects, and digital media creations. With its 4K UHD resolution and expansive 23.8-inch display, it caters to artists who require precision and a large working area. This tablet is particularly suited for complex compositions and intricate designs where clarity and colour accuracy are paramount.
✅ Pros
- 4K UHD resolution for detailed work
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity
- 140% sRGB colour gamut
- Mini KeyDial for custom shortcuts
❌ Cons
- Slight parallax issues reported
- Occasional driver issues on Mac
- Large size limits portability
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The Kamvas Pro 24 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced control and fine detail in illustrations. The 23.8-inch screen with 4K UHD resolution offers a crisp and clear display, and the 140% sRGB colour gamut ensures vibrant and accurate colours. Customer reviews often highlight the pen's accuracy and responsiveness, though some have noted slight parallax issues. The active area provides ample space for large-scale artworks, making it ideal for illustrators who need room to manoeuvre.
🎨 Design
Constructed with premium materials, the Kamvas Pro 24 is noted for its solid build quality. The ergonomic design includes an adjustable stand, accommodating various working angles to reduce strain during long sessions. However, its size and weight make it less portable, best suited for a fixed workspace. Aesthetically, it has a professional and sleek appearance, though its considerable size demands a spacious desk.
🔌 Compatibility
The Kamvas Pro 24 is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux systems, offering broad versatility. It supports major software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. The inclusion of the Mini KeyDial provides convenient access to custom shortcuts, enhancing workflow efficiency. Connectivity is robust, featuring USB-C and HDMI options, though some users report occasional driver issues, particularly on Mac systems.
💰 Value
Priced at £1,099.00, the Kamvas Pro 24 offers features that justify its cost for professionals requiring high resolution and precise control. It is an excellent investment for serious illustrators and designers. However, beginners or those with less demanding needs might find more budget-friendly options more suitable.
🎯 Verdict
For professional illustrators seeking precision and a large, vibrant workspace, the Kamvas Pro 24 is a compelling choice, though it may be overkill for casual users.
3. XPPen Artist Pro 24 (Gen 2) Drawing Tablet with World-first 165Hz Refresh Rate, 23.8" 2.5K QHD Full-laminated Screen, Professional Graphics Pen Display with Dual Styli for Windows PC, Mac, Linux
The XPPen Artist Pro 24 (Gen 2) is designed for professional illustrators and digital artists who require a large, high-quality display for detailed work. Its 23.8-inch screen and high refresh rate make it suitable for intricate book illustrations, branding projects, and digital media creation. Artists who frequently work on large canvases or need precise control over their brush strokes will find this tablet particularly beneficial. The device is best suited for studio use rather than on-the-go sketching due to its size.
✅ Pros
- High 165Hz refresh rate for smooth drawing
- 8192 pressure sensitivity levels for detailed work
- Large 23.8-inch active area for extensive projects
- Compatibility with major operating systems and software
❌ Cons
- Limited portability due to size
- Occasional driver issues reported
- High price point not ideal for beginners
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The performance of the XPPen Artist Pro 24 is highlighted by its 8192 pressure sensitivity levels, providing nuanced control over line thickness and opacity. The 2.5K QHD full-laminated screen reduces parallax, offering accuracy in pen movements. The 165Hz refresh rate is a unique feature, reducing lag and making the drawing experience smoother. Customers praise the pen accuracy and minimal latency, which is crucial for detailed work. The active area of 23.8 inches offers ample space for complex compositions.
🎨 Design
Constructed with durable materials, the XPPen Artist Pro 24 is built to withstand frequent use. Its ergonomic design includes a stand that is adjustable, allowing for comfortable drawing angles. However, at this size, portability is limited, making it more suitable for a permanent desk setup. The aesthetics are modern and sleek, appealing to those who appreciate a professional look in their creative workspace. Despite its size, the tablet's design ensures that it remains a stylish addition to any studio.
🔌 Compatibility
The XPPen Artist Pro 24 supports Windows, Mac, and Linux, offering flexibility across platforms. It is compatible with major software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint, ensuring seamless integration into existing workflows. The tablet includes express keys that can be customised for frequently used shortcuts, enhancing productivity. Connectivity options include USB-C, making it straightforward to connect to most computers. However, some users report occasional driver issues, which might require troubleshooting.
💰 Value
At £899.99, the XPPen Artist Pro 24 offers a blend of advanced features that justify its price for professionals who need a large, high-quality display. Its high refresh rate and accurate pen performance make it a worthy investment for serious illustrators. However, hobbyists or those new to digital art might consider more affordable options. Those prioritising portability should look elsewhere, as the tablet is best suited for a fixed studio environment.
🎯 Verdict
The XPPen Artist Pro 24 is an excellent choice for professional illustrators seeking a large and responsive drawing surface, though it may not be ideal for those needing a portable solution.
4. Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 Creative Pen Display (4K Graphic Drawing Monitor with 8192 Pen Print and 99% Adobe RGB (DTH271K0A), Black
The Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 is designed for professional illustrators and digital artists who demand precision and high-quality visuals. It's particularly suited for those working in fields like book illustration, branding, and digital media where colour accuracy and fine detail are paramount. With its large display and advanced pen technology, it's ideal for artists who require a substantial workspace and high resolution for intricate projects.
✅ Pros
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise control.
- 4K resolution with 99% Adobe RGB for accurate colour representation.
- Large active area for detailed and expansive work.
- Sturdy build quality with adjustable ergonomic options.
❌ Cons
- High price point may not suit all budgets.
- Large size limits portability for on-the-go use.
- Occasional driver setup issues reported by users.
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise control over brush strokes. The active area is expansive, making it accommodating for sweeping gestures and detailed work. Customer reviews highlight the 4K resolution and 99% Adobe RGB coverage, which ensure vibrant and accurate colour representation. Pen accuracy is noted to be highly reliable, providing a natural drawing experience akin to traditional media.
🎨 Design
Constructed with high-quality materials, the Cintiq Pro 27 is both sturdy and aesthetically appealing. The design is modern and sleek, though its large size and weight may limit portability. Ergonomics have been considered, with users appreciating the adjustable stand options, which enable comfortable working angles. However, the device's size makes it more suited to a permanent desk setup rather than portable use.
🔌 Compatibility
The Cintiq Pro 27 offers broad compatibility, supporting major software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. The drivers are generally reliable, although some users report occasional setup issues. Connectivity options are robust, including USB-C and HDMI, but the lack of built-in express keys might require additional investment in a remote or external device for shortcut keys.
💰 Value
At £3,334.41, the Cintiq Pro 27 is a significant investment. Its features justify the price for professionals who prioritise top-tier performance and colour accuracy. However, hobbyists or those new to digital illustration might find more cost-effective alternatives. For those who need a portable solution, other products might be more suitable given this model's size and weight.
🎯 Verdict
For professional illustrators seeking top-tier performance and colour accuracy, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 is a compelling choice, though its size and price may not suit everyone.
5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 – Professional Drawing Tablet with Screen, Stylus Pen Battery-free & Pressure-sensitive, Compatible with Windows & Mac, 4K Resolution, Perfect Tablet for Drawing & Graphics Design
The Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 is aimed at professional illustrators and digital artists who require precision and reliability in their work. It's particularly suited for detailed illustration tasks such as book covers, branding projects, and high-resolution digital media. Given its 4K resolution and advanced pen technology, it's ideal for artists who need high levels of detail and colour accuracy in their creations. However, this premium device is best suited for those who have a dedicated workspace, as its dimensions and price point may not appeal to casual users.
✅ Pros
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise control
- 4K resolution providing sharp and vibrant visuals
- Extensive connectivity options including USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort
- Compatible with major illustration software
❌ Cons
- High price point may be prohibitive for non-professionals
- Occasional driver issues reported by users
- Large size limits portability and requires ample desk space
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The Cintiq Pro 27 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, offering artists a highly responsive drawing experience. The active area is substantial, measuring 23.5 x 13.2 inches, which accommodates sweeping strokes and intricate details alike. Customer reviews highlight the pen's accuracy, with minimal lag and tilt recognition enhancing the drawing experience. The 4K screen is praised for its sharpness and vibrant colour reproduction, crucial for tasks requiring precise colour matching and fine detail work.
🎨 Design
Constructed with high-quality materials, the Cintiq Pro 27 is both robust and aesthetically pleasing. Its large size and weight make it more suitable for a fixed workspace rather than portable use. Ergonomically, it supports a range of positions, although some users note the absence of a stand as a drawback. The sleek design and narrow bezels give it a modern look, although its substantial footprint demands ample desk space.
🔌 Compatibility
The Cintiq Pro 27 is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, with driver support for major software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. It offers comprehensive connectivity options, including USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort. However, some users report occasional driver issues, which can disrupt workflow. The lack of built-in express keys means reliance on keyboard shortcuts or an external remote, which could be a consideration for those accustomed to integrated shortcuts.
💰 Value
Priced at £3,249.99, the Cintiq Pro 27 represents a significant investment. Its features justify this for professionals who prioritise top-tier performance and reliability in their equipment. However, hobbyists or those new to digital illustration might find the cost prohibitive without a clear need for its advanced capabilities. For those where budget is a constraint, other models may provide sufficient functionality at a lower price.
🎯 Verdict
For professional illustrators with specific demands for precision and screen quality, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 offers an impressive albeit costly solution.
6. XP-PEN Artist 22R Pro 21.5 Inch Professional Screen Tablet Drawing Monitor with USB-C Interface - Ideal Tool for Digital Art
The XP-PEN Artist 22R Pro is well-suited for professional illustrators and digital artists who require a large workspace for detailed projects such as book illustrations, branding designs, and digital media artwork. Its 21.5-inch screen offers ample room for intricate work, making it ideal for those who need precision and comfort during long drawing sessions. The tablet's features are tailored for artists who work extensively with digital painting and illustration software, providing a practical tool for those looking to expand their creative capabilities.
✅ Pros
- Large 21.5-inch display for expansive workspace.
- 8192 pressure levels for precise control.
- 20 customisable express keys for improved efficiency.
- USB-C interface for modern connectivity.
❌ Cons
- Screen glare in bright environments can be distracting.
- Not easily portable due to size and weight.
- Some users experience occasional driver setup issues.
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The Artist 22R Pro boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which suggests a high degree of control over line thickness and opacity, crucial for nuanced artwork. The active area of 476.64 x 268.11mm offers plenty of space for freehand drawing. Customers appreciate the pen's accuracy, reporting minimal lag and good tilt recognition, enhancing realistic drawing experiences. The screen quality is noted for its 1080p resolution, though some users mention reflections and glare in bright environments, which could affect visibility during detailed work.
🎨 Design
Constructed with durable materials, the XP-PEN Artist 22R Pro is designed to withstand regular use. Its adjustable stand allows for ergonomic positioning, reducing strain during prolonged sessions. While not the most portable option due to its size and weight, it is aesthetically pleasing with a sleek design. Customer reviews highlight the solid build and professional appearance, though some mention that the device could be cumbersome if frequent relocation is necessary.
🔌 Compatibility
The tablet offers robust compatibility with major software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint, ensuring it integrates well with most digital workflows. Driver support is generally reliable, though some users report occasional setup hiccups. The inclusion of 20 customisable express keys and a handy dial provides quick access to shortcuts, optimising workflow efficiency. Connectivity is enhanced by the USB-C interface, allowing for a streamlined connection to modern computers.
💰 Value
At £599.99, the XP-PEN Artist 22R Pro provides a substantial feature set for its price, making it a viable option for serious illustrators looking for a professional-grade tool. Those who need a large display and customisable controls will find it a worthwhile investment. However, hobbyists or beginners might find a more affordable alternative sufficient for their needs. Professionals who require higher resolution or portability might need to look elsewhere.
🎯 Verdict
For illustrators seeking a large, feature-rich drawing tablet, the XP-PEN Artist 22R Pro offers excellent value, though its size may limit portability.
7. XP-PEN Artist24 Pro 23.8" Gracphic Tablet Pen Display 2K QHD Drawing Monitor with 2 Red Dials, 20 Shortcut Keys, 8192 Levels Battery-free Stylus Supports Tilt Function
The XP-PEN Artist24 Pro is well-suited for professional illustrators and digital artists who require a large workspace for detailed projects such as book illustrations, branding, and digital media. With its expansive 23.8-inch display and 2K QHD resolution, it caters to those who need precision and clarity in their work. This tablet is ideal for artists looking to transition from traditional to digital, offering a comprehensive set of features to support intricate design tasks.
✅ Pros
- Large 23.8-inch display with 2K QHD resolution
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support
- 20 customisable shortcut keys and two red dials
- Compatible with major software like Photoshop and Illustrator
❌ Cons
- Potential screen glare in well-lit environments
- Occasional driver issues reported by users
- Less portable due to its size
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The XP-PEN Artist24 Pro boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing nuanced control over brush strokes and line weights. The active area spans 23.8 inches, offering ample space for detailed work. Customer reviews highlight the pen's accuracy, enhanced by its tilt function support, which allows for natural shading techniques. The 2K QHD screen delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colours, though some users note glare issues in brightly lit environments.
🎨 Design
Constructed with durable materials, the XP-PEN Artist24 Pro is designed to withstand regular use. Its ergonomic design includes adjustable stands, allowing artists to work comfortably for extended periods. Despite its size, it remains relatively portable for a studio setting. The aesthetic appeal is modern and professional, with two red dials and 20 shortcut keys that provide customisation options to streamline workflow.
🔌 Compatibility
Driver support for the XP-PEN Artist24 Pro is robust, with compatibility across major software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint. The 20 express keys and two red dials can be customised to suit individual workflow preferences. Connectivity options include USB-C and HDMI, ensuring seamless integration with most computer setups. However, some users have reported occasional driver issues that require manual updates.
💰 Value
Priced at £535.49, the XP-PEN Artist24 Pro offers a compelling set of features for its cost, particularly for professional artists seeking a large, high-resolution display. While it presents excellent value for those needing a dedicated drawing monitor, beginners or casual hobbyists might consider more affordable options. The investment is justified for those who prioritise screen quality and customisation in their digital art tools.
🎯 Verdict
The XP-PEN Artist24 Pro offers professional illustrators a large, high-quality canvas with excellent customisation, though it may be less suited for those with limited space or who prefer portability.
8. HUION Kamvas Pro 16 2.5K QHD Graphics Drawing Tablet with Screen, 145% sRGB and Full Lamination Pen Display with Battery-Free Pen, Compatible with Windows, Mac & Android
The HUION Kamvas Pro 16 2.5K QHD is ideal for professional illustrators and digital artists focusing on detailed work like book illustrations, branding materials, and digital media. Its 2.5K resolution and high colour accuracy make it suitable for projects requiring precise colour representation and fine detail. This tablet is well-suited for artists who need a portable, high-quality display to work on location or in a studio setting, offering a balance between performance and portability.
✅ Pros
- High 2.5K resolution for detailed work
- 145% sRGB coverage for accurate colour representation
- 8192 pressure sensitivity levels for nuanced control
- Portable design suitable for on-the-go work
❌ Cons
- Occasional calibration issues reported
- Limited stand angle adjustment
- Driver installation can be cumbersome on Mac
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The Kamvas Pro 16 boasts 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing nuanced control over brush strokes, which is crucial for detailed illustration work. The active area of 15.6 inches offers ample space for drawing, and the screen's 145% sRGB coverage ensures vibrant and accurate colours. Customers highlight the full lamination, which reduces parallax and improves pen accuracy, although some mention occasional calibration issues. The 2.5K QHD resolution enhances detail visibility, beneficial for intricate designs.
🎨 Design
Constructed with a sleek, modern design, the Kamvas Pro 16 is praised for its aesthetic appeal and durable build. The tablet's compact size and lightweight nature (approximately 1.35 kg) make it portable, suitable for illustrators who work on the go. The ergonomic design includes a stand that offers multiple angles, although some users find the stand's range limited. The overall build quality is reported to be sturdy, with a premium feel.
🔌 Compatibility
The Kamvas Pro 16 is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android systems, ensuring versatility across different setups. It supports major software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint, essential for professional work. The tablet includes six customisable express keys, aiding workflow optimisation. Connectivity is straightforward with USB-C, but some users report driver installation can be cumbersome, particularly on Mac systems, requiring manual adjustments.
💰 Value
Priced at £409.00, the Kamvas Pro 16 offers considerable value for its features, especially for professionals requiring high-resolution and accurate colour reproduction. Illustrators who need a portable yet powerful drawing solution will find this tablet a worthy investment. However, those prioritising extensive express keys or advanced customisation might consider other options. Beginners or hobbyists may find the price steep for their needs.
🎯 Verdict
The HUION Kamvas Pro 16 2.5K QHD is a solid choice for professional illustrators needing portability and high-quality visuals, despite minor setup hurdles.
9. HUION Kamvas Pro 13 (2.5K) Graphic Tablet with Screen 145 Percent sRGB 2560 x 1600 QHD+ Pen Display Anti-Glare Glass and Full Laminated Drawing 7 Short Keys Battery-free Digital Pen, Clear,Blue
The HUION Kamvas Pro 13 (2.5K) is well-suited for digital illustrators and artists working on detailed projects such as book illustrations, branding designs, and digital media. Its high-resolution screen and colour accuracy make it ideal for professionals who require precision and vivid colour representation. This tablet is particularly practical for those who need a portable yet powerful tool for on-the-go creativity, offering a balance between size and functionality.
✅ Pros
- High-resolution 2560 x 1600 QHD+ display for detailed work
- 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise control
- Anti-glare glass reduces reflections, improving visibility
- Full lamination minimises parallax for accurate drawing
❌ Cons
- Driver installation can be problematic for some users
- Slightly heavier than expected for extended handheld use
- Limited to USB-C connectivity, potentially requiring adapters
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
With 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, the Kamvas Pro 13 (2.5K) provides a highly responsive drawing experience, allowing for nuanced control over line weight and opacity. The active area measures at a comfortable size for detailed work, and the 2560 x 1600 QHD+ resolution ensures crisp visuals. Customers highlight the pen's accuracy and the anti-glare glass, which minimises reflections while maintaining clarity. The full lamination of the display reduces parallax, ensuring that the pen tip aligns with the cursor.
🎨 Design
The tablet's build quality is noted for its robustness, featuring anti-glare glass and a sleek design in a clear blue finish. Its compact size enhances portability, making it suitable for artists who travel or work in various locations. The inclusion of 7 programmable shortcut keys allows for customisation, improving workflow efficiency. However, some users mention that the tablet's weight might be slightly heavier than expected for prolonged handheld use.
🔌 Compatibility
The Kamvas Pro 13 (2.5K) supports major design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint, thanks to its comprehensive driver support. Connectivity is ensured through USB-C, which is convenient for modern setups. The 7 shortcut keys can be customised to streamline tasks, though some users have reported occasional driver installation issues, which can be a hurdle for less tech-savvy individuals.
💰 Value
Priced at £359.00, the Kamvas Pro 13 (2.5K) offers a compelling feature set for its cost. It is a viable option for professional illustrators who require high resolution and colour accuracy without investing in more expensive alternatives. However, hobbyists or those new to digital art might find more affordable options sufficient for their needs. Professionals who demand top-tier performance may need to consider higher-end models.
🎯 Verdict
For illustrators seeking a balance of performance and portability, the HUION Kamvas Pro 13 (2.5K) offers excellent value and functionality at its price point.
10. GAOMON PD1220 11.6’’ Pen Display (Charcoal Grey) 86% NTSC Full Laminated Graphics Drawing Tablet with Tilt Support 8192 Levels Passive Stylus, Compatible with Windows & Mac &Android
The GAOMON PD1220 11.6’’ Pen Display is aimed at budding illustrators and hobbyists who need a compact and affordable drawing solution. It's particularly suited for those working on digital illustrations, concept sketches, and basic graphic design. With its compact size, it's ideal for artists who require a portable setup, such as students or freelancers who often work in varied locations. However, for professional illustrators requiring large canvases or advanced colour accuracy, this may not be the ideal primary device.
✅ Pros
- 8192 pressure levels for detailed work
- Compact size ideal for portability
- Full laminated screen reduces parallax
- Supports Windows, Mac, and Android
❌ Cons
- Limited colour accuracy for professional print work
- No built-in express keys for quick access
- Occasional driver issues on MacOS
👁️ Quick Review Summary
⚡ Performance
The GAOMON PD1220 offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is impressive at this price point, allowing for nuanced strokes and detailed work. The 11.6’’ display with 86% NTSC colour gamut provides decent colour representation, though some reviews note that colour accuracy could be better for professional print work. The full laminated display reduces parallax, improving pen accuracy. However, the active area size may feel limiting for those accustomed to larger tablets.
🎨 Design
Customer feedback highlights the PD1220's lightweight and slim design, making it highly portable. The build, made primarily of plastic, seems sturdy enough for regular use. Its ergonomic design with a slight incline helps reduce wrist strain over longer sessions. Aesthetically, the charcoal grey finish gives it a modern look. Despite its compactness, the device lacks a built-in stand, which might be a drawback for prolonged use without an additional accessory.
🔌 Compatibility
The GAOMON PD1220 is compatible with Windows, Mac, and even Android, providing flexibility across platforms. It supports major software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint, though some users have reported occasional driver issues, particularly on MacOS. The device lacks express keys, which could be a limitation for those who rely on custom shortcuts for efficiency. Connectivity is facilitated through USB-C, ensuring a straightforward setup.
💰 Value
At £219.58, the GAOMON PD1220 offers good value for hobbyists or students needing a budget-friendly entry into digital illustration. Its features justify the price for those who prioritise portability and basic functionality over advanced features. However, professional illustrators or those requiring a larger working area might want to invest in a more advanced model. Overall, it's a sensible choice for beginners or those needing a secondary, portable device.
🎯 Verdict
For budding digital artists or those needing a portable secondary device, the GAOMON PD1220 offers a solid balance of features and price, but professionals may find it lacking in advanced capabilities.
📖 Buying Guide
When choosing a drawing tablet or pen display, consider these key factors:
- Screen Quality: Full HD (1920x1080) minimum for professional work. Look for 90%+ sRGB colour gamut. Full lamination reduces parallax for better accuracy.
- Pressure Sensitivity: Look for 8192 levels for professional work. 4096 levels work well for beginners. Higher sensitivity allows for more nuanced brush strokes and line variation.
- Screen Size: 13-16" portable for travel, 22-24" ideal for studio work. Larger screens reduce eye strain and allow for detailed illustration work.
- Connectivity: USB-C offers single-cable solution. HDMI + USB more universal. Check if your computer supports the required connections.
- Stand & Ergonomics: Adjustable stand (15-90°) prevents neck strain. Anti-glare coating reduces eye fatigue during long sessions.
- Software Compatibility: Ensure driver support for your OS (Windows, Mac, Linux). Check compatibility with your preferred software (Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, etc).
About the Reviewer
Every Big Red Illustration review is written by illustrator and agent Jamie Conner, drawing on over 30 years of combined professional experience in traditional art, digital tools, and the wider creative industry.
Here's what he has to say…
I'm Jamie Conner, a UK-based illustrator and illustrator agent with a background in character-focused and expressive artwork. My training began at Newcastle-under-Lyme College and continued at Nottingham Trent University, where I developed a strong foundation in illustration.
I now split my time between creating my own work and representing artists, supporting them with commissions, opportunities, and navigating the wider creative industry. I also review digital and traditional art products, offering clear, practical insights to help artists choose tools that suit their workflow.
Whether I'm illustrating, advising artists, or reviewing products, my work is driven by a genuine commitment to the craft of illustration and to the wider creative community.