Confused illustration student wondering what size Wacom tablet to get?

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Question:

I need to buy a tablet because I am an illustration major!. I do a lot of traditional comic work, so I am looking to be able to color my inked work with Photoshop!. I am willing to spend what is necessary to get a good tablet, because they last long and I will probably be using one the rest of my life!. I was just wondering what size i should get!? I am thinking about 9 x 12!? or is that too big!? It's a big investment (at least for me) and I want to make sure I make the right choice!. also, any ideas where I can get a good deal on a new one would be great, otherwise I just might buy it with my loan money for school at my bookstore, but I'd rather buy it with my own if I can get a good enough deal!.

Thanks,
ZachWww@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

Hey Zach,

Tablets are huge for illustrators!. I am an Illustrator at Cal State, Fullerton and couldn't do without one!. Both the 6x8 and the 9x12 will work, i've used both!. Started with a 6x8 and moved up because I realized I could get more control!. Of course the 9x12 is larger and slightly more difficult to transport, but it will still fit easily in your backpack!. If you are going to be a pro, you could invest in the 9x12!. You'll use it everyday! what's the additional 200, you know!? For some good deals, check E-bay for slightly used or even new, I've heard people getting great deals there!. But also, check for REFURBISHED 9x12 tablets, you can sometimes find them for 150 or less!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

I really like my 6x8 graphire, but I'm an industrial designer so we draw a bit differently!. Whatever size you want to get should be determined by what is most comfortable for you to use- just borrow some from your classmates and see what you like!. Definitely get a Wacom, the cheaper brands have way less pressure sensitivity!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Kid, I hate Wacom tablets and usually only work with them on jobs I can/have to borrow them for, so should keep my mouth shut, BUT

ALWAYS, whenever you are buying art things, buy the BIGGEST you can!.

Sorry I shouted!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

look at what you have drawn by hand!. if the largest marks that you make in a single movement will fit onto the smallest tablet, then it will probably work for you!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

I am one of the few designers that don't insist on the bigger tablets being the best ones!.

I have been very happy with my 4 by 6 Wacom Pen Partner for about four years!. I have been an artist a LONG time, and I have enough fine motor control in my hand to work in the small space!. And remember, no matter what size tablet one uses, we ALL have to zoom in at some point to work on details!. To me, the only advatage of the larger pads is that some have features like on board function keys!. (F1, F3, F3, etc) and other keyboard functions!.

For a bargain, consider a DigiPro!. They often retail for less than $50!. Try Computer Geeks at geeks!.com!. I needed a tablet for my grandkid's system and they had a sale for TWO of them for $49!Www@QuestionHome@Com

The bigger on Wacom the better!.Www@QuestionHome@Com