How to Choose the Best Beginner Drawing Tablet: Complete Buyer’s Guid

Buying your first drawing tablet can feel confusing, especially with so many screenless, display, and standalone options available. The best beginner drawing tablet is not always the most expensive one; it depends on how you draw, where you use it, your current device, and your budget.

Choosing the best drawing tablets beginners depends on your budget, drawing style, and whether you want a screen. A screenless graphics tablet is affordable, a display tablet feels more natural, and a portable tablet with stylus support is ideal for drawing, notes, and everyday use. This guide explains the key features to compare before buying, including pen pressure, size, compatibility, portability, and price.

This guide explains the main tablet types, key features to compare, and how to choose a beginner-friendly model that suits your learning style.

What Is the Best Drawing Tablet Beginners?

For most beginners, the best choice is either:

• A screenless graphics tablet if you want an affordable drawing pad for beginners and already have a laptop or desktop.
• A display drawing tablet if you want to draw directly on a screen and prefer a more natural pen-on-paper feeling.
• A standalone tablet with stylus support if you want portability and also need a device for everyday use, browsing, note-taking, studying, or entertainment.

If you are just starting digital art, do not focus only on professional-level features. Instead, look for a tablet that is easy to set up, comfortable to draw on, compatible with your device, and suitable for the software you want to use.

A beginner should prioritise:

• Comfortable drawing size
• Good pen pressure
• Low input delay
• Easy driver setup
• Compatible software
• Reliable stylus
• Affordable price
• Portability if needed

The best graphics tablet for a beginner is the one that helps you practise consistently, not the one with the longest feature list.

What Is a Drawing Tablet?

A drawing tablet is a digital input device that lets you draw, sketch, paint, edit photos, or write by using a stylus pen. Instead of using a mouse, you use a pen to create lines, shapes, shading, and brush strokes.

There are three main types of drawing tablets:

1. Screenless graphics tablets
2. Display drawing tablets
3. Standalone tablets with stylus support

Each type suits a different kind of beginner.

1. Screenless Graphics Tablets

A screenless graphics tablet is a flat drawing pad that connects to a laptop or desktop computer. You draw on the pad, but you look at your computer screen to see the artwork.

This type is often called a graphics tablet, graphic tablet for drawing, drawing pad, or digital tablet drawing pad.

Best for:

• Beginners on a budget
• Students
• People with a laptop or desktop already
• Photo editing
• Illustration practice
• Digital note-taking
• Learning hand-eye coordination

Pros:

• Usually the most affordable drawing tablet option
• Lightweight and portable
• Good for beginners who want to learn digital art
• Often more durable than screen tablets
• Does not need charging if USB-powered
• Takes up less desk space

Cons:

• Takes time to get used to drawing while looking at a separate screen
• Less natural than drawing directly on a display
• Requires a laptop or PC
• Driver setup may be needed

A screenless beginner drawing pad is a smart starting point if you want to try digital art without spending too much money.

2. Display Drawing Tablets

A display tablet drawing device has a built-in screen. You connect it to your computer and draw directly on the display using a stylus. This feels more familiar because you can see your hand, pen, and artwork in the same place.

You may also see these described as tablet screen drawing devices, display drawing tablets, or drawing tablets with screens.

Best for:

• Beginners who want a natural drawing experience
• Digital painters
• Illustrators
• Animation students
• Designers
• Users who dislike screenless drawing pads

Pros:

• More natural pen-on-screen experience
• Easier for many beginners to understand
• Better for detailed line work
• Useful for illustration, comics, design, and animation
• Feels closer to traditional drawing

Cons:

• More expensive than screenless tablets
• Usually less portable
• May require HDMI, USB-C, or extra cables
• Needs desk space
• Screen quality varies by model

A display tablet for drawing is a good choice if you already know you want to continue digital art and prefer drawing directly on a screen.

3. Standalone Tablets with Stylus Support

A standalone tablet works without being connected to a laptop or desktop. This includes many Android tablets, Windows tablets, and other portable tablets with stylus support.

This option is useful if you want one device for drawing, studying, streaming, browsing, note-taking, and everyday use.

Best for:

• Students
• Beginners who want portability
• Casual sketching
• Note-taking
• Drawing while travelling
• People who do not want a full desktop setup

Pros:

• Portable and easy to carry
• Works without a separate computer
• Useful for everyday tasks
• Good for drawing, notes, and entertainment
• Touchscreen is easy for beginners

Cons:

• Stylus may be sold separately
• Drawing apps and performance vary
• Storage and RAM matter more
• Some tablets are better for notes than serious drawing
• Pen pressure support depends on the tablet and stylus
  
  

Which Type of Drawing Tablet Should a Beginner Choose?

Use this quick comparison:

BEGINNER NEED	BEST TABLE TYPE	WHY
Lowest cost	Screenless graphics tablet	Affordable and simple
Most natural drawing feel	Display drawing tablet	Draw directly on screen
Drawing and everyday use	Standalone tablet	Portable and versatile
Learning digital art seriously	Medium graphics tablet or display tablet	Better long-term comfort
Casual sketching	Android tablet or small graphics tablet	Easy and budget-friendly
Photo editing	Screenless graphics tablet	Precise control at low cost
Animation or illustration	Display tablet	Easier detail work
Travel and study	Portable tablet with stylus	Works anywhere

For most new artists, a budget graphics tablet is the safest entry point. But if you already dislike the idea of drawing while looking at a separate monitor, a display tablet drawing setup may be worth the extra cost.

How We Recommend Choosing a Beginner Drawing Tablet

Instead of buying the tablet with the highest-pressure levels or biggest screen, choose based on your actual use.

Before buying, ask yourself:

1. Do I already have a laptop or desktop?
2. Do I want to draw directly on a screen?
3. Will I use the tablet at a desk or while travelling?
4. Am I learning as a hobby, for school, or for professional work later?
5. What drawing software do I want to use?
6. Do I need the tablet for everyday use too?
7. What is my realistic budget?

The best drawing tablets beginners are not just about specs. A comfortable beginner drawing pad should fit your hand movement, desk space, software, and learning routine.

Key Features to Look for in a Beginner Drawing Tablet

1. Pen Pressure Sensitivity

Pen pressure controls how your lines respond when you press harder or softer. With pressure sensitivity, you can create thicker lines, lighter shading, darker strokes, and more natural brush effects.

Common pressure levels include:

• 2,048 levels
• 4,096 levels
• 8,192 levels
• 16,384 levels

For beginners, 4,096 or 8,192 pressure levels are usually more than enough. A higher number does not automatically make you a better artist. Brush control, software settings, and practice matter more.

A beginner should look for a pen that feels responsive and consistent, not just the highest-pressure number.

2. Active Drawing Area

The active area is the part of the tablet where you draw. On a screenless tablet, this is the pad surface. On a display tablet, this is the screen.

Small tablets are easier to carry and cheaper, but they can feel cramped. Medium tablets usually offer a better balance for beginners.

TABLE SIZE	BEST FOR
Small	Travel, notes, simple sketches, limited desk space
Medium	Best beginner choice for most users
Large	Professional work, detailed illustration, larger monitors

If you use a large monitor, a very small graphics tablet may feel too sensitive because small hand movements cover more screen space. A medium drawing pad is usually more comfortable for learning.

3. Display or No Display

Choosing best display tablet for beginner is one of the biggest decisions.

Choose a screenless graphics tablet if you want a cheaper, portable, and durable option.

Choose a display tablet if you want a more natural drawing experience and are willing to spend more.

Choose a standalone tablet if you want a device for both art and everyday use.

There is no single correct answer. The best drawing tablets beginners for drawing depends on how you prefer to work.

4. Stylus Comfort

The pen should feel comfortable in your hand. If it is too thin, too heavy, or slippery, long drawing sessions can become tiring.

Look for:

• Comfortable grip
• Battery-free stylus if possible
• Replaceable nibs
• Side buttons
• Tilt support if you want natural shading
• Low lag
• Good palm rejection on screen tablets

Beginners often focus on the tablet but forget the pen. The stylus is what you will use every day, so comfort matters.

5. Tilt Support

Tilt support lets the tablet detect the angle of the pen. This can make brushes behave more like pencils, markers, or shading tools.

Tilt is useful for:

• Sketching
• Shading
• Digital painting
• Pencil-style brushes
• Natural brush effects

It is not essential for every beginner, but it is a helpful feature if you want to draw more naturally.

6. Shortcut Keys

Many drawing tablets include shortcut buttons. These can be used for undo, zoom, brush size, eraser, hand tool, or switching tools.

Shortcut keys are helpful, but they are not essential. Some artists prefer using a keyboard. Others like having buttons directly on the tablet.

For beginners, 4 to 8 shortcut keys are usually enough.

7. Software Compatibility

Before buying a tablet, check that it works with your device and drawing software.

Popular drawing and creative apps include:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Clip Studio Paint
• Krita
• Corel Painter
• Autodesk SketchBook
• Affinity Designer
• Procreate on iPad
• Concepts
• ibisPaint
• MediBang Paint

A screenless or display graphics tablet usually needs a computer. A standalone tablet uses mobile or desktop apps depending on whether it runs Android, Windows, or another operating system.

8. Operating System Compatibility

Check whether the tablet works with:

• Windows
• macOS
• Android
• ChromeOS
• iPadOS

Not every tablet works with every system. Some graphics tablets support Android phones or tablets, but the drawing area may be limited. Some require drivers on Windows or macOS. Some standalone tablets need specific styluses.

If you want a Windows-based creative setup, explore best Windows tablets. If you prefer Android for sketching, browsing, and entertainment, compare beginner-friendly Android tablets.

9. Portability

If you travel, study, or move between rooms, a portable drawing tablet may be better than a large display tablet.

Portable options include:

• Small graphics tablets
• Medium USB-C graphics tablets
• Android tablets with stylus support
• Windows tablets with pen support
• Slim display tablets

For home desks, a larger tablet can be more comfortable. For students or commuters, portability may matter more.

10. Budget

A beginner does not need the most expensive professional drawing tablet. Start with a device that helps you practise regularly.

Budget ranges usually look like this:

BUDGET LEVEL	WHAT TO EXPECT
Entry-level	Basic screenless drawing pad
Budget-friendly	Better pen pressure, more active area, shortcut keys
Mid-range	Larger graphics tablet or smaller display tablet
Higher-end	Larger display, better colour, improved pen tech
Professional	Premium display, colour accuracy, advanced workflow features

A budget drawing tablet can be a great first step. Upgrade later when you know your style, software, and workflow.

Best Drawing Tablet Types by Beginner Profile

Best for Complete Beginners

A medium screenless graphics tablet is usually the best starting point. It is affordable, simple, and good enough for sketching, painting, photo editing, and learning digital art basics.

Look for:

• Medium active area
• 4,096 or 8,192 pressure levels
• Battery-free pen
• Windows and macOS support
• Shortcut keys
• USB-C connection
  
  

Best for: first-time digital artists, students, hobbyists, and budget buyers.

Avoid if: you strongly prefer drawing directly on a screen.

Best Drawing Tablets Beginners Who Want a Screen

A small or medium display tablet is better if you want your drawing experience to feel closer to paper.

Look for:

• Full HD or better screen
• Good colour coverage
• Laminated or low-parallax display if available
• Adjustable stand
• Comfortable stylus
• USB-C or HDMI connection
• Good driver support

Best for: illustrators, digital painters, comic artists, and users who dislike screenless tablets.

Avoid if: you need something very portable or low-cost.

Best for Students

Students often need a tablet that is useful beyond drawing. A portable tablet with stylus support may be better than a dedicated graphics tablet if you also need notes, web browsing, video calls, and reading.

Look for:

• Lightweight design
• Good battery life
• Stylus compatibility
• Note-taking apps
• Enough storage
• Split-screen support
• Keyboard compatibility if needed

Best for: school, college, university, note-taking, sketching, and everyday tasks.

For more general student-friendly options, browse tablet buying options.

Best for Budget Buyers

A budget drawing tablet should still have a reliable pen and a comfortable drawing area. Do not choose only by the lowest price.

Look for:

• Good user reviews
• Reliable brand support
• Replaceable pen nibs
• Compatible drivers
• Enough active area
• Stable USB connection

Best for: beginners testing digital art for the first time.

Avoid if: the product does not clearly list compatibility, pen pressure, or software support.

Best for Future Professionals

If you are studying design, animation, illustration, architecture, or digital media, you may want a tablet that gives you room to grow.

Look for:

• Medium or large active area
• Strong pen pressure
• Tilt support
• Customisable keys
• Better build quality
• Good software compatibility
• Display option if your work needs precise detail

You do not need a professional drawing tablet on day one, but choosing a slightly better model can save you from upgrading too soon.

Screenless Graphics Tablet vs Display Tablet Drawing: Which Is Better?

Both can create excellent artwork. The difference is how they feel.

Choose a screenless graphics tablet if:

• You want an affordable drawing tablet.
• You already have a laptop or desktop.
• You do not mind learning hand-eye coordination.
• You want something lightweight.
• You need a simple drawing pad for tablet-style input.
• You want a durable device for practice.

Choose a display tablet if:

• You want to draw directly on the screen.
• You prefer a more natural drawing experience.
• You work on detailed illustration.
• You are willing to spend more.
• You have enough desk space.
• You want better visual control while drawing.

A screenless tablet is usually better value. A display tablet is usually easier to understand at first.

Standalone Tablet vs Dedicated Drawing Tablet

A standalone tablet is not always the same as a dedicated drawing tablet.

A dedicated drawing tablet is mainly made for creative input. It usually connects to a computer and works with desktop software.

A standalone tablet is a complete device. It has its own screen, apps, battery, processor, storage, and operating system.

Choose a standalone tablet if:

• You want drawing and everyday use in one device.
• You travel often.
• You want to take notes.
• You want to sketch away from the desk.
• You do not want to connect to a laptop.

Choose a dedicated drawing tablet if:

• You want better value for art-specific features.
• You already have a computer.
• You use desktop creative software.
• You want a larger drawing setup.
• You care more about drawing performance than general tablet features.

For casual users, portable tablets can be a practical choice. For people focused on illustration, a dedicated graphics tablet or display tablet may offer better drawing control.

What Size Drawing Tablet Should Beginners Buy?

For most beginners, a medium tablet is the safest choice.

Small tablets are cheaper and easier to carry, but they can feel restrictive for drawing. Large tablets are more comfortable for broad strokes, but they cost more and need more desk space.

Small drawing tablets

Good for:

• Travel
• Note-taking
• Photo edits
• Small desks
• Basic sketching

Not ideal for:

• Large arm movements
• Detailed painting
• Big monitors

Medium drawing tablets

Good for:

• Most beginners
• Illustration
• Digital painting
• School projects
• General creative work

Not ideal for:

• Very limited desk space

Large drawing tablets

Good for:

• Professional artists
• Large monitors
• Detailed work
• Designers and illustrators

Not ideal for:

• Portability
• Small desks
• Tight budgets

If you are unsure, choose medium.

How Much Pen Pressure Do Beginners Really Need?

Many tablets advertise very high-pressure sensitivity, but beginners do not need to chase the highest number.

For a new artist, the difference between 4,096 and 8,192 pressure levels may be less important than:

• A stable driver
• A comfortable pen
• Good software settings
• A smooth tablet surface
• Low lag
• Proper brush setup

Pressure sensitivity matters because it helps your strokes feel expressive. But good line control comes from practice.

A beginner-friendly drawing tablet should respond smoothly when you press lightly or heavily. That matters more than the number on the box.

What About Colour Accuracy?

Colour accuracy matters more while choosing best drawing tablets beginners and standalone tablets than on screenless graphics tablets.

If you are buying a display tablet drawing device, check:

• Screen resolution
• Brightness
• Colour coverage
• Viewing angles
• Lamination
• Matte or glossy surface
• Parallax

Parallax is the small gap between the pen tip and the line on the screen. Lower parallax feels more natural.

For beginners, a good Full HD screen is often enough. If you plan to do professional illustration, design, or photo work, better colour accuracy becomes more important.

Top Picks Beginner Drawing Tablets at Laptop Outlet

Looking for an affordable drawing tablet to start digital art? Here are some beginner-friendly options from Laptop Outlet that are currently in stock and come with pen support for sketching, note-taking, and creative apps.

PRODUCT	BEST FOR	KEY DRAWING-FRIENDLY FEATURES	Product Link
Lenovo Idea Tab Pro 12.7” 3K, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage, with Pen	Best overall beginner drawing tablet	Pen bundled large 12.7” 3K IPS display 8GB RAM Android 14	View product
Lenovo Idea Tab Pro 12.7” 3K, 8GB RAM, 256GB Storage, with Pen	Best for extra storage	Pen bundled 12.7” 3K IPS display 8GB RAM 256GB storage	View product
Lenovo Tab M11 11”, 4GB RAM, 128GB Storage, with Pen	Best affordable beginner option	Pen included 11” WUXGA IPS display 128GB storage	View product
Lenovo Tab K11 11”, 4GB RAM, 128GB Storage, Folio Keyboard + Tab Pen	Best budget starter bundle	Includes Tab Pen and folio keyboard 11” WUXGA IPS display 128GB storage	View product

 

What Software Should Beginners Use?

Your tablet is only part of the setup. The software also matters.

Beginner-friendly software options include:

• Krita for free digital painting
• Autodesk SketchBook for simple sketching
• Clip Studio Paint for comics and illustration
• Adobe Photoshop for painting and editing
• Procreate for iPad drawing
• Concepts for sketching and design
• ibisPaint for mobile drawing

Before buying a tablet, check whether it works well with the software you want to use.

Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid

Many best drawing tablets beginners goes the wrong drawing tablet because they focus on the wrong features.

Avoid these mistakes:

• Buying the cheapest tablet without checking compatibility.
• Choosing a very small tablet for a large monitor.
• Buying a display tablet without checking cable requirements.
• Assuming every stylus supports pressure sensitivity.
• Forgetting that some tablets need drivers.
• Ignoring replacement nib availability.
• Choosing a tablet only because it says “professional”.
• Buying a standalone tablet without checking app support.
• Spending too much before knowing your drawing habits.
• Expecting the tablet to improve your art instantly.

A tablet is a tool. It can make digital art easier, but it does not replace practice.

Beginner Drawing Tablet Buying Checklist

Before you buy, check this list:

• Does it work with your laptop, desktop, or tablet?
• Does it support your operating system?
• Does the pen support pressure sensitivity?
• Is the active area large enough?
• Is the stylus comfortable?
• Are replacement nibs available?
• Does it need drivers?
• Does it work with your drawing software?
• Is it portable enough for your routine?
• Does it fit your budget?
• Is the brand known for reliable support?
• Does it include the cables you need?

This checklist can help you avoid buying a tablet that looks good online but does not fit your workflow.

How to Test a Drawing Tablet When You First Get It

Once your drawing tablet arrives, do a simple test before fully committing it.

Test 1: Line control

Open a drawing app and draw slow lines, fast lines, circles, and curves. Check whether the cursor follows the pen smoothly.

Test 2: Pressure sensitivity

Draw lines with light, medium, and heavy pressure. The line should change naturally if pressure sensitivity is working.

Test 3: Palm rejection

On display and standalone tablets, rest your hand on the screen while drawing. Check whether accidental touches appear.

Test 4: Comfort

Draw for 20 to 30 minutes. Notice whether your hand, wrist, shoulder, or neck feels uncomfortable.

Test 5: Shortcut setup

Try assigning undo, zoom, brush size, and eraser to shortcut keys. Good shortcuts make drawing faster.

Test 6: Software compatibility

Test the tablet in the app you actually plan to use, not just the default software.

If the tablet feels uncomfortable after short use, it may not be the right size or type for you.

Beginner Drawing Tablet Recommendations by Use Case

USE CASE	RECOMMENDED TABLE TYPE	WHY
First digital art tablet	Medium screenless graphics tablet	Best value for learning
Drawing directly on screen	Entry-level display tablet	More natural experience
Study and sketching	Standalone Android or Windows tablet	Useful for everyday tasks
Travel sketching	Portable tablet with stylus	Easy to carry
Photo editing	Screenless graphics tablet	Precise control
Animation learning	Display tablet	Easier frame-by-frame drawing
Budget setup	Small or medium graphics tablet	Low cost
Long-term creative study	Mid-range display or graphics tablet	More room to grow

 

Is a Budget Drawing Tablet Good Enough?

Yes, a budget drawing tablet can be good enough for beginners. Many new artists start with affordable graphics tablets and use them for sketching, painting, photo editing, and design practice.

A budget tablet is a good choice if:

• You are still learning.
• You are unsure whether digital art is for you.
• You already have a laptop.
• You want to practice without spending too much.
• You do not need a built-in screen.

However, avoid very cheap models with unclear specifications, poor driver support, or no replacement nibs. A low price is only good value if the tablet is reliable.

If you plan to use your drawing tablet for study, work, or creative projects, pairing it with the right laptop accessories can improve comfort, posture, and productivity.

When Should You Upgrade to a Professional Drawing Tablet?

You may be ready to upgrade when:

• You draw regularly.
• Your current tablet feels too small.
• You need better colour accuracy.
• You want to draw directly on the screen.
• You need better shortcut controls.
• You work on paid creative projects.
• Your software workflow has become more advanced.
• You feel limited by your current device.

A professional drawing tablet makes sense when you understand your workflow. Beginners should usually start simple, then upgrade once they know what they need.

Best Beginner Setup for Digital Drawing

A good beginner setup does not need to be expensive.

For a screenless tablet setup, you need:

• Graphics tablet
• Laptop or desktop
• Drawing software
• Comfortable desk space
• Optional keyboard shortcuts

For a display tablet setup, you need:

• Display drawing tablet
• Laptop or desktop
• Correct cables
• Drawing software
• Adjustable stand if not included

For a standalone tablet setup, you need:

• Tablet with stylus support
• Drawing app
• Enough storage
• Protective case
• Optional keyboard or stand

If you want a device that also works for streaming, study, browsing, and notes, compare tablets for everyday use and portable tablets.

Which Drawing Tablet Is Best for You?

Choose based on your situation:

• If you want the cheapest reliable option, choose a screenless graphics tablet.
• If you want the easiest drawing experience, choose a display tablet.
• If you want drawing plus everyday use, choose a standalone tablet.
• If you are a student, choose something portable and versatile.
• If you want to become a professional artist, choose a tablet with room to grow.
• If you only want to sketch casually, do not overspend.

The best drawing tablets beginners is not the one with the most advanced specs. It is the one that helps you draw more often, learn comfortably, and enjoy the process.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best beginner drawing tablet is about matching the device to your creative goals. A screenless graphics tablet is affordable and practical. A display tablet drawing for beginners setup feels more natural and is easier for many beginners. A standalone tablet gives you portability and everyday use in one device.

Before buying, think about your budget, drawing style, software, desk space, and whether you want to draw on a screen. Check pen pressure, active area, stylus comfort, compatibility, and portability.

If you are just starting, keep it simple. A good beginner drawing pad should make practice easier, not overwhelm you with features you do not need yet. Once your skills grow, you can upgrade to a larger, more advanced, or professional drawing tablet.

Common Questions Everyone Ask

What is a drawing tablet?

A drawing tablet is a device that lets you draw digitally using a stylus pen. Some drawing tablets connect to a computer, while others have built-in screens or work as standalone tablets.

What is the best drawing tablet beginners?

The best drawing tablet beginners is usually a medium screenless graphics tablet or an entry-level display tablet. Choose based on whether you want the most affordable option or the most natural drawing experience.

Is a graphics tablet good for beginners?

Yes, a graphics tablet is good for beginners because it is affordable, portable, and works well for learning digital drawing, painting, and photo editing.

Should beginners buy a display drawing tablet?

Beginners should buy a display drawing tablet if they want to draw directly on a screen and have the budget for it. It feels more natural but usually costs more than a screenless tablet.

What size drawing tablet is best for beginners?

A medium drawing tablet is best for most beginners. It gives enough space for comfortable drawing without being too large or expensive.

How much pen pressure do I need for drawing?

Most beginners will be fine with 4,096 or 8,192 pressure levels. Smooth response, pen comfort, and software compatibility are more important than chasing the highest number.

Can I use a normal tablet for drawing?

Yes, you can use a normal tablet for drawing if it supports a good stylus and drawing apps. Android and Windows tablets can be good for beginners who want drawing and everyday use in one device.

Is a budget drawing tablet worth it?

Yes, a budget drawing tablet is worth it if you are starting digital art and want to learn without spending too much. Make sure it has pressure sensitivity, compatible drivers, and a comfortable drawing area.

Do I need a laptop for a drawing tablet?

You need a laptop or desktop for most screenless graphics tablets and display tablets. You do not need a laptop if you choose a standalone tablet with stylus support.

What is better: drawing tablet or iPad-style tablet?

A drawing tablet is often better value for dedicated digital art if you already have a computer. A standalone tablet is better if you want portability and everyday use as well as drawing.