7 Best Portable Drawing Tablets In 2023 | Buying Guide

If you are an artist, graphic designer, or someone who who is looking for a portable drawing tablet, then this guide is going to help you.

 Not only does it allow you to take your work with you wherever you go, but it also provides a comfortable and efficient way to create digital art.

I’ve been playing around with different tablet devices for over five years now, Tried and tested almost every tablet available in the market.

I have used all the popular drawing tablets, and that’s why I am very sure about my suggestions on the best portable drawing tablets.

 I know buying a portable drawing tablet required a lot of research and effort, With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best portable drawing tablet for your needs. In this article, we will explore the top-rated portable drawing tablets and their features to help you make an informed decision.

Before going to my list, let’s have answers to some basic questions.

What is a Portable Drawing Tablet?

A portable drawing tablet is a device that allows artists and designers to create digital art on the go. It typically consists of a touch-sensitive surface that can be used with a stylus or finger and connects to a computer or mobile device. 

Portable drawing tablets come in various sizes, ranging from small, compact models to larger ones that mimic the size of traditional sketchbooks.

Why Artists  choose a portable drawing tablet?

A portable drawing tablet offers many benefits over traditional art supplies, such as paper and pencils. 

Firstly, it provides a digital workspace that allows artists to make precise changes to their work without the need for erasing or starting over.

 Additionally, a portable drawing tablet allows artists to take their work with them wherever they go, making it easier to create and share their art.

A portable drawing tablet provides a range of tools and features that are not available with traditional art supplies, such as layers, filters, and a vast array of brushes.

Best Portable Drawing Tablets In 2023

I’m not promoting any particular but they are all worth the money. I’ll be mentioned each one of them in the order of most recommended to normal options.

1- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+: The Best Portable Drawing Tablet for Artists and Designers

In today’s fast-paced digital world, artists and designers need to be able to work on their creations on-the-go. That’s where portable drawing tablets come in handy. One of the best in the market is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+. 

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ is a high-end tablet that offers a unique combination of features that make it perfect for artists and designers. It has a large 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display, which provides excellent color accuracy and contrast. 

The tablet is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor, which ensures that it can handle even the most demanding design software. It also comes with an S Pen, which allows for precise drawing and sketching.

Display

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ has a 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2800 x 1752 pixels. The display is HDR10+ certified, which means that it offers excellent color accuracy and contrast. The tablet also has a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes the display feel smooth and responsive.

Performance

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor, which is one of the most powerful mobile processors available. It also comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the model you choose. This ensures that the tablet can handle even the most demanding design software without any lag or stuttering.

S Pen

The S Pen is one of the standout features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+. It has a pressure sensitivity of 4096 levels, which means that it can detect even the slightest changes in pressure. This allows for precise drawing and sketching. The S Pen also has a low latency, which means that there is virtually no delay between the pen stroke and the line appearing on the screen.

Design

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ has a sleek and stylish design. It is only 5.7mm thick and weighs only 575g, which makes it easy to carry around. The tablet also has a built-in kickstand, which allows you to prop it up at an angle for a more comfortable drawing experience.

Battery Life

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ has a large 10,090mAh battery, which provides up to 14 hours of video playback. This means that you can use the tablet for an entire day without having to worry about running out of battery.

Software

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ runs on Android 11, which is the latest version of the Android operating system. It also comes with Samsung’s One UI, which is a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate the tablet’s features and settings.

Accessories

There are several accessories available for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+, including the Book Cover Keyboard and the S Pen. The Book Cover Keyboard is a case that also functions as a keyboard, which makes it easy to type and work on the tablet. The S Pen is a stylus that allows for precise drawing and sketching.

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2- Gaomon PD 1161 – Best Portable Drawing Tablets

The Gaomon PD 1161 is a portable drawing tablet that boasts a large 11.6-inch display with a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. It has a sleek design and is lightweight, making it easy to carry around.

 The tablet comes with a battery-free pen, which is pressure-sensitive and has a tilt function, allowing you to create different brush strokes and effects. The pen also has two programmable buttons that you can customize to your liking.

Key Features and Benefits of Gaomon PD 1161

1. Large Display with High Resolution

The Gaomon PD 1161 has a large 11.6-inch display with a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. This means you can see your artwork in great detail, and there is enough space to work on multiple layers and projects simultaneously. The display is also laminated, which reduces the parallax effect and provides a more natural drawing experience.

2. Portable and Lightweight Design

One of the standout features of the Gaomon PD 1161 is its portability. It weighs only 1.5 pounds, making it easy to carry around wherever you go. It also comes with a protective case that doubles as a stand, allowing you to adjust the viewing angle according to your preference.

3. Battery-free Pen with Tilt Function

The Gaomon PD 1161 comes with a battery-free pen that is pressure-sensitive and has a tilt function. This allows you to create different brush strokes and effects by varying the pressure and angle of the pen. The pen also has two programmable buttons that you can customize to your liking, allowing you to work more efficiently.

4. Compatibility with Popular Software

The Gaomon PD 1161 is compatible with a wide range of software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Lightroom, Corel Painter, and Clip Studio Paint, among others. This makes it easy to integrate into your existing workflow and start creating right away.

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3- Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite

As a creative artist, having the right tools is essential to bring your ideas to life. In today’s digital age, a drawing tablet is a must-have tool for any artist. Among the many drawing tablets available in the market, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite stands out as one of the best portable drawing tablets. Its advanced features and sleek design make it an ideal choice for artists who prefer working on the go.

Further we will explore the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite best portable drawing tablet, its features, and how it can enhance your digital art experience. We will also answer some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite Best Portable Drawing Tablet: Overview

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite is a lightweight and compact tablet that packs a punch in terms of features and performance. It boasts a 10.4-inch display with a resolution of 2000 x 1200 pixels, which provides an immersive and vibrant viewing experience. The tablet also features a sleek and modern design with a slim profile that makes it easy to carry around.

Features of Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite Best Portable Drawing Tablet

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite best portable drawing tablet comes packed with features that are perfect for artists. Some of its key features include:

S Pen:

 The tablet comes with an S Pen that is designed for precision and accuracy. The S Pen is pressure-sensitive, which means that it can detect the amount of pressure applied, allowing for a more natural drawing experience. It also has a built-in eraser, making it easy to correct mistakes.

Battery Life: 

The tablet has a battery life of up to 12 hours, which is perfect for artists who work on the go. It also features fast charging, allowing you to quickly charge the tablet when needed.

Storage: 

The tablet comes with 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB with a microSD card. This means that you can store all your digital artwork without worrying about running out of space.

Display:

 The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite has a 10.4-inch display with a resolution of 2000 x 1200 pixels. The display is bright and vibrant, making it easy to see your artwork in detail.

Dual Speakers: 

The tablet features dual speakers that are tuned by AKG for an immersive audio experience. This is perfect for artists who like to listen to music while working on their art.

Performance of Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite Best Portable Drawing Tablet

In terms of performance, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite best portable drawing tablet does not disappoint. It is powered by an Exynos 9611 octa-core processor, which provides smooth and fast performance. The tablet also has 4GB of RAM, which allows for seamless multitasking.

The S Pen is also incredibly responsive, making it easy to create precise and accurate strokes. The tablet also features palm rejection technology, which means that the tablet will not register accidental touches while you are drawing.

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4- Microsoft Surface Pro 7

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a powerful and versatile device that has been gaining popularity as a portable drawing tablet. While it was not specifically designed for artists, its features and performance make it a strong contender for the title of the best portable drawing tablet.

In terms of display, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 features a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. The display is bright and vibrant, making it easy to see your artwork in detail. The device also features a sleek and modern design with a slim profile that makes it easy to carry around.

One of the standout features of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is its compatibility with the Surface Pen. The Surface Pen is a pressure-sensitive stylus that is designed for precision and accuracy. It is incredibly responsive and provides a natural drawing experience, with the ability to detect over 4,000 levels of pressure sensitivity. The Surface Pen also has a built-in eraser, making it easy to correct mistakes.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is powered by a 10th generation Intel Core processor, which provides fast and efficient performance. The device also features up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage, which is perfect for storing all your digital artwork.

Another advantage of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is its versatility. The device can be used as a laptop or a tablet, depending on your needs. This means that you can easily switch between drawing and other tasks, such as browsing the web or editing photos.

In terms of battery life, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 can last up to 10.5 hours on a single charge. While this may not be as long as some other portable drawing tablets, it is still sufficient for most artists.

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a strong contender for the title of the best portable drawing tablet. Its features and performance make it a versatile device that can be used for a variety of tasks, including digital art. While it may not have been designed specifically for artists, it is clear that it is a device that can meet the needs of many creative professionals.

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5. Apple iPad Pro (2020)

Are you looking for a portable drawing tablet that offers high-performance and versatility? Look no further than the Apple iPad Pro. This tablet has taken the world by storm with its excellent display, powerful hardware, and innovative software that make it an ideal choice for artists and designers.

As a digital artist, having the right tools is essential to creating stunning artwork. And for many artists, a portable drawing tablet is a must-have. There are plenty of options out there, but one that consistently stands out is the Apple iPad Pro.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Apple iPad Pro and why it’s considered one of the best portable drawing tablets on the market. We’ll explore its features, capabilities, and what sets it apart from other devices. So whether you’re a professional artist or a hobbyist, read on to see why the Apple iPad Pro is the perfect choice for all your digital art needs.

 Why Choose the Apple iPad Pro for Digital Art?

There are a few key reasons why the Apple iPad Pro is the go-to choice for digital artists:

1.Superior Display:

The iPad Pro boasts an impressive Liquid Retina XDR display that’s perfect for showcasing your artwork. With a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, your creations will come to life with stunning clarity and detail. And with ProMotion technology, the display offers an incredibly smooth and responsive experience, making it feel like you’re drawing on paper.

2.Powerful Performance:

The iPad Pro’s A14 Bionic chip and Neural Engine deliver lightning-fast performance and incredible power. You’ll be able to run multiple apps at once, seamlessly switch between them, and even use the Apple Pencil to draw while listening to music or watching a video.

3.Apple Pencil:

Speaking of the Apple Pencil, it’s one of the best styluses on the market. With precise pressure and tilt sensors, it feels incredibly natural to draw with, and it even charges wirelessly while magnetically attached to the iPad Pro. Plus, with the new Apple Pencil 2, you can double-tap to switch tools or erase, making your workflow even smoother.

4.Portability:

At just 1.04 pounds, the iPad Pro is incredibly lightweight and easy to take with you wherever you go. And with up to 10 hours of battery life, you can work on your art for hours without needing to recharge.

5.Multitasking:

The iPad Pro’s multitasking capabilities are a game-changer for digital artists. You can use Split View to work on two apps at once, such as drawing in Procreate while referencing a photo in Photos. And with Slide Over, you can quickly access frequently used apps without interrupting your workflow.

6.Versatility:

While the iPad Pro is an excellent drawing tablet, it’s also much more than that. You can use it for everything from browsing the web to streaming movies to creating spreadsheets. And with the new Magic Keyboard, you can even use it as a laptop replacement.

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6. XP-Pen Artist 15.6 : OverAll Best large drawing pad

In today’s digital age, technology has made it easier for artists and creatives to express themselves. And with the rise of portable drawing tablets, artists can now take their work with them wherever they go.

As an artist, having a portable drawing tablet that you can carry with you everywhere you go is essential. The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is a cheap drawing tablet with pen perfect choice for artists looking for a high-quality, portable, and affordable drawing tablet. Among the top contenders in this category is the XP-Pen Artist 15.6, a portable drawing tablet that has been making waves in the market.

Features of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6:

The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 has a lot to offer, and it’s no wonder why it’s considered the best portable drawing tablet. Here are some of its key features:

Performance:

The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 has an impressive 1920×1080 HD display with 178-degree viewing angles, which means you can see your work clearly from any angle. The screen is also anti-glare and features a 266 PPS report rate, allowing for smooth and accurate lines. With 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 allows for precise control over your brush strokes.

Design:

The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 has a sleek and slim design, making it easy to carry around with you. It comes with a stand that can be adjusted to three different angles, allowing you to find the most comfortable drawing position. The tablet also features six customizable express keys and a touch bar that can be programmed to perform different functions, making your workflow more efficient.

Compatibility:

The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. It also works with popular software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Corel Painter. Additionally, the tablet supports both USB and HDMI connections, making it easy to connect to your computer or other devices.

Benefits of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6:

Portability:

One of the most significant benefits of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is its portability. Weighing in at only 3.3 pounds and with a thickness of only 11mm, this tablet can easily fit into a backpack or purse. You can take your work with you wherever you go, whether you’re on a plane, train, or in a coffee shop.

Affordable Price:

Compared to other portable drawing tablets on the market, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is relatively affordable, making it an excellent option for artists who are just starting or those who don’t want to break the bank. Despite its affordable price, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 still packs .

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7. Wacom Cintiq 22 | Best Portable Art Tablet

To make this famous digital art brand more affordable, the Wacom Cintiq 22 is the latest model in the company’s Cintiq series.

As a digital artist, you need a portable drawing tablet that delivers excellent performance and quality. Look no further than the Wacom Cintiq 22, which offers an impressive display, responsive stylus, and intuitive design. Read on to find out why the Wacom Cintiq 22 is the best portable drawing tablet for creatives.

When it comes to portable drawing tablets, the Wacom Cintiq 22 is among the most popular choices for artists and designers. The Wacom brand is synonymous with quality and innovation, and the Cintiq 22 is no exception. In this article, we will discuss the features that make the Wacom Cintiq 22 the best portable drawing tablet for creatives.

Features of the Wacom Cintiq 22:

The Wacom Cintiq 22 is packed with features that make it stand out as the best portable drawing tablet on the market. Here are some of its key features:

Display:

The Wacom Cintiq 22 boasts a 21.5-inch HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, which delivers crisp and clear visuals. The screen also offers a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees, making it easy to share your work with others. Additionally, the display features anti-glare and anti-smudge technology, which means you won’t have to worry about distracting reflections or fingerprints.

Stylus:

The Wacom Cintiq 22 comes with a responsive and accurate stylus that delivers a natural drawing experience. The stylus has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing you to create precise and detailed artwork. Additionally, the stylus is battery-free, which means you won’t have to worry about replacing or charging it.

Design:

The Wacom Cintiq 22 has a sleek and minimalist design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The tablet features a built-in stand that can be adjusted to different angles, allowing you to find the most comfortable drawing position. The tablet also has four customizable express keys that can be programmed to perform different functions, making your workflow more efficient.

Benefits of the Wacom Cintiq 22:

High-Quality Display:

One of the most significant benefits of the Wacom Cintiq 22 is its high-quality display. The 21.5-inch HD screen provides ample space for you to create and edit your artwork, and the wide viewing angle ensures that you can share your work with others without compromising on quality.

Responsive Stylus:

The Wacom Cintiq 22’s stylus is incredibly responsive and accurate, which means you can create artwork with ease and precision. The stylus has 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing you to create subtle variations in line weight and texture.

Intuitive Design:

The Wacom Cintiq 22 has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for beginners. The tablet’s built-in stand can be adjusted to various angles, allowing you to find the perfect drawing position for maximum comfort. Additionally, the tablet has four customizable express keys that can be programmed to perform different functions, such as undo, redo, or brush size, making your workflow more efficient.

Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Portable Drawing Tablet

When choosing a portable drawing tablet, there are several features to consider. These include:

1. Size and Weight

The size and weight of a portable drawing tablet can vary significantly. Smaller models are more compact and easier to carry around, but larger models offer a more comfortable drawing experience. Consider how and where you plan to use the tablet when choosing the size and weight.

2. Display

Some portable drawing tablets come with built-in displays, while others require an external monitor or computer to view the art. A built-in display is more convenient, but it can add to the cost of the tablet. Additionally, consider the resolution and color accuracy of the display when choosing a tablet.

3. Stylus

The stylus is the primary tool used for drawing on a portable tablet. Consider the size, shape, and weight of the stylus, as well as any additional features, such as pressure sensitivity or tilt control.

4. Battery Life

Battery life is an essential consideration for any portable device. Look for a tablet with a long battery life that can last several hours of continuous use.

5. Connectivity

Consider how the tablet connects to your computer or mobile device. Some tablets require a USB cable, while others use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Additionally, consider whether the tablet is compatible with your operating system.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a portable drawing tablet without a computer?

Yes, some portable drawing tablets come with built-in processors and storage, allowing you to work independently without a computer.

2. What is the difference between a portable drawing tablet and a regular tablet?

A portable drawing tablet is designed specifically for digital artists and comes with features such as pressure sensitivity, customizable buttons, and stylus compatibility, which are not available on regular tablets.

3. Which is better, a portable drawing tablet or a traditional drawing tablet?

Both types of tablets have their advantages and disadvantages. Portable drawing tablets offer convenience and versatility, while traditional drawing tablets offer better accuracy and precision.

Conclusion

Choosing the best portable drawing tablet for your needs can be challenging, but with our guide, you can make an informed decision. Consider the factors that are important to you, such as size, pressure sensitivity, and price, and choose a tablet that fits your requirements.

From our top picks, the Wacom Cintiq 22: Creative Pen Display is the best portable drawing tablet for artists on-the-go who need a large screen size and high pressure sensitivity. The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is another excellent option for those who want customizable buttons and dial.

No matter which tablet you choose, remember that a portable drawing tablet is a valuable tool for unleashing your creativity on-the-go.