Graphics tablets like the Wacom have been big news for the past few years, but they have certain limitations. These must be attached to a separate screen, such as a laptop or larger computer. Many designers prefer to start their creative process on paper, with a traditional sketchbook and pen or pencil. This is where touchpad screens come in. Whether you have an iPad or an Android device, you’ll find no shortage of new models and apps that allow you to try your hand at digital painting and sketching. The following are a few categories to consider when you’re looking for the best design tool for your personal needs.
Tablet Features
Graphics tablets vary in size, sensitivity, and built-in features. You’ll want to look for models that support macro keys, so that you can create hyperlinks to programs that you use frequently on the computer. Regular tablets like the iPad or Touchpad cannot sense pressure like graphics tablets can, nor can they really replicate ballpoint precision. However, this is changing rapidly as designers attempt to tap into the design market, so you can expect these features to be added into new models in the year to come.
Styluses
One of the primary accessories that you’ll need to purchase to go with your graphics or touchscreen tablet is a stylus. These are meant to mimic real heavyweight ballpoint pens, so that you can take them on the go and sketch your ideas without being tied down to a computer. Most of these come with a rubber tip, but you may also find options made out of foam, plastic, metal, or special high-tech fabrics. Rubber tips seem to be preferred for those interested in both sketching and text functions. These also come in an array of weight options. The Hard Candy stylus weighs in at a hefty 4.2 ounces, while the feather-light Pogo is only 0.6 ounces. If you’ll be using your tablet for different types of design projects, you may want to choose an array of stylus options.
Drawing Apps
This area is where there has been a flurry of creativity in the past few years. You can now find numerous high-end drawing apps to choose from, providing the ability to create both 2-dimensional sketches and 3D models. Some of these apps use a sophisticated toolbox and various templates to choose from, like Freeform. Sketchbook Pro is another top drawing app. It includes the capability of creating intricate drawings and full-colour paintings, which feels remarkably like painting on regular paper.
Designers who like to combine drawings with text may be interested in the Penultimate app, which allows you to add annotations, notes, and word design as part of your sketches. Adobe also produces several high-end drawing and design apps. Adobe Ideas is useful because it offers superior editing capabilities as well as a full-screen view. The Adobe Touch apps are designed specifically for use on touchscreen tablets, allowing you to use either a stylus or your fingers. Files can be synched to Creative Cloud for an easy storage solution, making this an easy app to integrate with the rest of your electronic devices.
These are just a few of the latest design options for designers who wish to use their tablets on the go. Expect to see more inventive tablet features and greater responsiveness as the tablet continues to grow in popularity.
