Wacom tablets - what do you recommend?

[Keith Schoeler]

I’ve come to the recent conclusion that I need (yes, need!) a Wacom tablet. I'm getting fed up with using the mouse for masking and what not.

The Intuos line looks to be the choice for me. For those that use them, what size would you recommend? Is there another model I should think about?

Thanks.

[Daniel Buck]

The Intuos 3's are great, I use them at home and at work.

the 6x8 is a good size, especially if you are only running one monitor. When I'm running two monitors, I personally like to run a little bigger, the 9x12. 6x11 would probably work great for two monitors as well, though I have never used that particular size before. You can always map down the size of the sensitivity area, if you don't like moving your arm as far to get to the other side of the monitor in certain programs. The larger ones can be cumbersome if you don't have alot of space to put it on your desk. I actually got a larger one for home use, but ended up trading it (plus cash) with a co-worker for a smaller one, because it was just to big for my space at home.

I'd suggest the 6x8, it's a good all around size.

[Shane Parker]

I completely agree with Daniel. I have a 6x8 (in tandom w/20" widescreen LCD) and love it. I tried them out before purchasing and found that the larger ones are actually harder to use because you have to make such large movements with your hand/wrist/arm. However, if that's your style, it may not affect you.

I don't know how I got along without one though. I could never go back to using a mouse in PS.

[Erik Anderson]

6x8 Intous here. I had a 4x5 Graphire and just thought it was too small. I can't see going back to a mouse!

[John Swenson]

Tablets are essential gear.

I'm most comfortable with 6x8 & I will re-map larger tablets to fit that size.

IMHO: Large tablets look cool & seem like a good idea, but they're a hassle in a productive environment—way too much arm movement!

[Gerrit Vanderlinden]

I just picked up a graphire classic from Wacom a few days ago, and I have been playing with it every night.
It's the smallest one, the A5 size but I think it's ideal because I dont have to move my hand around a lot.

It took an hour or so to get used to it but don't think I could miss it.

[Mel Russell]

I just picked up a graphire classic from Wacom a few days ago, and I have been playing with it every night.
It's the smallest one,

I have this one too. Works great for me. Guess it could be bigger, but the size doesn't really affect me.

[Tiny Malone]

I like the Cintiq the best. I can litterally sit at my desk and lay it nearly flat on my desk or even hold it in my lap and "draw" directly on the screen. It cuts large scale post work by half. Not cheap but it gets me into bed earlier at night.

[Jim Kosinski]

Coming in here a little late but I agree with the 6x8. Seems just the right size. I did pick up a 4x5 at Circuit City for 121.00 (after rebate) for my laptop. This would be small for everyday use.

Cintiq, that's another level all together! Boy it would be nice.

[John Waugh]

I use an Intuos 2 6x8 in the office and a CTE 440 on the road with my lap top.
The CTE 440 blew a stylus and Wacom doesn't have a replacement, so save your packaging if you need to swap one out on warranty. The second one has worked with out a problem.
John

[Keith Schoeler]

Thanks for all the feedback. :)

Will be picking one up shortly.

[Alexius M Deters]

I have the Graphire 4x5 ... its a bit small but it does what I need it. Id go with the 6x8 if I were to buy another.

[Kenneth May]

Have been reading up on the Wacom 6x8....has anyone here recently switched to using?

+/-'s?

Think I am going to ask Santa for one this year!

[Ben Crabtree]

i have a 4x5 graphire
my brother has the a6 size intuos
I love my graphire, and wont seriously photoshop (ie more than captions, levels and colour balance) without one
after playing with my brothers intuos, it is easy to see where the money goes.
the stylus balances better, fells nicer to use for long periods of time, and the tablet itself is a lot more sensitive.
actually, sensitive isnt right, it feels more accurate.
i havent really used the tilt functionality in it either, but it is much nicer than the basic graphire which i own

look at it as writing a letter

would you rather use a block of soap (mouse) a cheap biro (graphire) or a fancy Waterman fountain pen (intuos)
i know what i would rather, but as i couldnt afford it at the time, i got the graphire
i might get a new one soon for my home mac, and take the graphire with me with my laptop