12 Best Portable Drawing Tablets – Buyer’s Guide

In today’s creative world, portability and functionality are key, especially for artists and designers on the go. Portable drawing tablets have revolutionized the way digital art is created, offering the power of professional tools in compact, lightweight designs. Whether you’re sketching, illustrating, or editing, these tablets combine precision and portability, making them essential for creatives who need to bring their ideas to life anytime, anywhere.

Unlike traditional drawing tablets, portable options often include built-in displays, rechargeable styluses, and standalone capabilities, eliminating the need for a constant connection to a computer. With features like pressure-sensitive pens, color-accurate screens, and long-lasting batteries, these tablets are designed to deliver professional-grade performance without being tethered to a desk.

In this guide, I’ve curated the best portable drawing tablets, catering to professionals, hobbyists, and students alike. From sleek, all-in-one devices to versatile hybrids, these tablets provide the perfect balance of power, portability, and precision. Let’s explore the top options that allow you to create wherever inspiration strikes, without compromising on quality or performance.

What is a Portable Drawing Tablet?

Any tablet device which does not require a PC/Computer to be connected to work is considered a portable drawing tablet. These tablet devices are easy to carry around, and you can use them on the go; they are small in size, mobile, and independent tablet devices.

Tablet devices used by graphic artists for illustrations are designed mainly depending upon their hardware and software requirements. These devices need to be connected to a computer for work.

Whereas the concept of portable drawing tablets gives users the freedom to carry the device and work on the go. You can do almost everything on the device. They are considered well-equipped with the features you require.

Best Portable Drawing Tablets:-

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ is a powerhouse that stands out in the category of best portable drawing tablets, offering an exceptional combination of performance, portability, and creativity-enhancing features. Its 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display, with a resolution of 2800 x 1752, provides an unparalleled drawing experience. I found the colors to be incredibly vibrant, and the 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth responsiveness, which is crucial for precise sketching and editing.

The S Pen, included with the tablet, is a game-changer for digital artists. With 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and near-zero latency, it feels as close to traditional pen-and-paper drawing as you can get. The stylus is perfect for detailed artwork, shading, and line work, making it an excellent tool for both beginners and professionals. The magnetic attachment for the S Pen adds convenience, ensuring it’s always within reach and charged.

Under the hood, the tablet is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor and up to 8GB of RAM, making it capable of handling demanding creative apps like Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Procreate. During my testing, multitasking was seamless, and even while switching between apps, there was no noticeable lag. The One UI software enhances productivity with features like split-screen mode, which is ideal for referencing images or tutorials while drawing.

Weighing just 575g, the Galaxy Tab S7+ is impressively portable for its size, making it easy to carry around for on-the-go creativity. Its long-lasting battery life, up to 14 hours, allowed me to work through an entire day without worrying about recharging. Additionally, the expandable storage of up to 1TB via microSD ensures ample space for storing high-resolution artworks, making it a practical option for artists with large file requirements.

 

2. GAOMON PD 1161

Gaomon PD 1161 is an entry-level pen display tablet that excels in portability and precision, making it a strong contender among the best portable drawing tablets. Its 11.6-inch Full HD IPS display, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, provides sharp and vibrant visuals. While the compact size limits the drawing area compared to larger tablets, I found it perfect for artists who need a lightweight, portable solution for sketching, illustrating, and photo editing on the go.

The tablet comes with the 8192 pressure-sensitive ArtPaint AP50 stylus, offering responsive and precise control. During my experience, the stylus performed well for detailed tasks such as line work, shading, and layering. The ±60° tilt support adds a natural feel to the drawing process, enabling smooth transitions and realistic strokes, which is especially useful in applications like Photoshop or Clip Studio Paint.

One of the highlights of the Gaomon PD 1161 is its 8 customizable shortcut keys, which allow for a personalized workflow. I found these keys helpful for quick access to commonly used functions, such as zoom, undo, or brush adjustments, saving time and improving productivity. However, as the device lacks standalone functionality, it must be connected to a PC or Mac via USB to function, which could be a limitation for some users seeking complete portability.

The weight of PD 1161 is 866g, light enough to carry between workspaces, and its compact design makes it easy to set up in tight spaces. While it doesn’t feature advanced color calibration out of the box, the display offers decent color accuracy suitable for beginner and intermediate artists. The tablet’s affordability is a major advantage, making it an accessible option for those starting their journey into digital art or needing a budget-friendly secondary device.

 

3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 lite

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is a versatile and budget-friendly tablet. Its 10.4-inch TFT display, with a resolution of 2000 x 1200, offers sharp visuals and vibrant colors. While the display isn’t AMOLED like its premium counterparts, I found it more than adequate for sketching, note-taking, and casual art projects. The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for artists on the go.

A key highlight of the Tab S6 Lite is the inclusion of the S Pen, which doesn’t require charging and offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. During my tests, the S Pen felt responsive and smooth, making it easy to execute detailed line work and shading. It attaches magnetically to the side of the tablet for convenient storage, ensuring it’s always within reach when inspiration strikes.

It is very lightweight just 467g, makes it highly portable, perfect for slipping into a bag and carrying anywhere. Its 7,040mAh battery impressed me with its long-lasting performance, easily supporting a full day of drawing or multitasking. The tablet runs on Android 10, ensuring compatibility with popular drawing apps like Autodesk SketchBook, Infinite Painter, and Clip Studio Paint, enhancing its utility for creatives.

The Exynos 9611 processor, combined with 4GB of RAM, delivers reliable performance for light to moderate multitasking. While the hardware isn’t built for resource-intensive apps or large-scale projects, it performs well for most creative tasks. The 64GB or 128GB internal storage can be expanded via microSD, offering ample room for storing sketches and art files.

Here is more detailed review of Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite.

 

4. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is an exceptional 2-in-1 device that fits comfortably into the category of best portable drawing tablets, blending power with flexibility. Equipped with a 12.3-inch PixelSense display, its resolution of 2736 x 1824 ensures crisp, clear visuals, making it perfect for drawing and editing. The screen’s color accuracy and responsiveness stood out, particularly when working on detailed sketches or vibrant illustrations.

What makes the Surface Pro 7 shine is its compatibility with the Surface Pen, which offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. My experience with the stylus was seamless, as it delivered precision and control, especially for intricate line work and shading. The stylus, coupled with the tablet’s lightweight design and adjustable kickstand, allows for a natural drawing experience in multiple working angles.

Powered by 10th Gen Intel Core processors and available with up to 16GB of RAM, the Surface Pro 7 handles creative applications like Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint effortlessly. During my use, I noticed that multitasking was smooth, even when switching between drawing apps and reference material. Running on Windows 10 or 11, the tablet offers access to full desktop software, giving professionals the flexibility to use advanced tools on the go.

This tablet’s lightweight design is complemented by a battery life of up to 10.5 hours, which supports extended creative sessions without frequent charging. Available storage options range from 128GB to 1TB SSD, ensuring ample space for large design files and creative projects. However, the additional cost of accessories such as the Surface Pen and Type Cover keyboard may be a consideration for some.

 

5. Samsung Galaxy Book Flex 

Samsung Galaxy Book Flex combines premium design with advanced functionality. Its 13.3-inch QLED touchscreen with 1920 x 1080 resolution delivers stunning visuals. The colors are bright and accurate, which I found especially helpful when working on illustrations and photo edits. The clarity of the QLED display ensures every detail is visible, even in complex designs.

What sets this tablet apart is its included S Pen, which offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. Using the pen felt smooth and natural, whether I was sketching rough ideas or refining intricate details. The S Pen also features Bluetooth functionality, allowing for remote control features like presentations or app navigation, which added a layer of convenience to my workflow.

Powered by 10th Gen Intel Core processors and configurable with 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy Flex ensures smooth performance for creative applications. I experienced no lag while running multiple drawing apps or switching between tasks. Additionally, the 360-degree hinge allows the device to switch seamlessly between laptop and tablet modes, making it adaptable for both drawing and general productivity.

Its lightweight build and long battery life up to 20 hours make it incredibly portable. I carried it easily between meetings and creative sessions without worrying about frequent charging. However, its premium pricing and limited port selection might be a concern for some users. No Doubt, It is one of the best portable drawing tablets available in the market.

 

6. Apple iPad Pro

Apple iPad Pro 2021 is an outstanding choice for creatives, combining power and portability in one sleek device. Its 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display provides unparalleled color accuracy and brightness, making it ideal for detailed illustrations and vibrant artwork. When I used it for drawing, the display’s sharpness and smoothness enhanced my experience, especially with intricate designs.

It comes with M1 chip and trust me it is a game-changer for performance-intensive tasks, allowing me to run multiple creative apps simultaneously without any lag. Even with resource-heavy software like Procreate or Photoshop, the iPad Pro handled everything smoothly, making it feel like a true workstation. Pairing it with the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) elevated the experience further. The Pencil is incredibly responsive, and its tilt and pressure sensitivity made shading and linework feel effortless.

Weighing less than 1.5 lbs, the iPad Pro is incredibly portable and easy to carry for on-the-go creatives. Its Thunderbolt port supports fast data transfer and connectivity with external devices like monitors, giving it even more versatility for professional work. Additionally, the Face ID feature adds a layer of convenience and security, allowing me to access my tablet quickly and securely during work sessions.

The battery life of up to 10 hours easily supported a full day of sketching and multitasking. Storage options range from 128GB to a whopping 2TB, offering plenty of room for large creative projects and files. However, the premium price tag and the additional cost of the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard might be factors to consider for budget-conscious users. If you want an IOS device for drawing purpose then definitely go for this.

 

7. XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro

XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro elevates the drawing experience with enhanced features, making it a top choice for creatives seeking the best portable drawing tablets. Its 15.6-inch Full HD display, with a 120% sRGB color gamut, delivers vibrant and accurate colors. I found this particularly useful for detailed artwork, where color precision matters, whether working on illustrations, photo editing, or digital painting. The laminated screen design eliminates parallax, ensuring that every stroke appears exactly where intended.

The battery-free stylus is equipped with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality. During my use, the pen felt smooth and natural, handling everything from fine line work to heavy shading with ease. What sets the Artist 15.6 Pro apart is the red dial alongside its 8 customizable shortcut keys, which I found intuitive and efficient for quick adjustments like zooming, scrolling, and brush size changes.

This tablet connects seamlessly to your computer via USB-C and HDMI, offering compatibility with Windows and Mac systems, and supporting major creative software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and CorelDRAW. It’s easy to set up, and the tablet’s thin, lightweight design makes it portable enough for flexible workspace arrangements. However, like other screen tablets, it requires an external computer to operate.

While the adjustable stand included with the device improves ergonomic comfort, I noticed that extended use could benefit from an anti-fatigue mat or armrest for additional support. With its reasonable price point and feature set, the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro is an excellent choice for hobbyists and professionals alike who prioritize performance without overspending.

For more detail, read our detailed review on XP-Pen 15.6 Pro.

 

8. Wacom Cintiq 22

Wacom Cintiq 22 is a large, high-performance pen display that stands out as one of the best portable drawing tablets for serious creatives. Its 21.5-inch Full HD display, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, offers a spacious and immersive canvas for digital artists. The screen has an anti-glare surface and excellent color accuracy, making it a pleasure to work on detailed illustrations, designs, or edits in Photoshop.

Wacom Pro Pen 2 which is included in the box is a game-changer, offering 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt recognition, and virtually no lag. Using this pen felt incredibly natural, and it responded effortlessly to every stroke, whether I was working on intricate details or broader shading. The accuracy of the pen and the laminated screen design ensure there’s minimal parallax, which significantly enhances the drawing experience.

While its size makes it better suited for a dedicated workstation, the Cintiq 22 is still relatively lightweight and easy to transport between workspaces. Its adjustable stand allows for ergonomic positioning, giving me the flexibility to draw at angles that suit my workflow. Although it requires a connection to a PC or Mac via USB and HDMI, I found the setup straightforward and compatible with all major creative software.

For professionals who value a large workspace and responsive tools, the Cintiq 22 delivers unmatched reliability. However, the lack of standalone functionality and the larger size might not make it ideal for frequent travel. Despite this, the device’s exceptional drawing capabilities and durable build make it a favorite among artists. Cintiq is also available in the 24″ variant for professionals who need this size screen.

 

9. Microsoft Surface Book 2

Microsoft Surface Book 2 combines the power of a laptop with the flexibility of a tablet. Its 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display, with up to 3240 x 2160 resolution, delivers sharp visuals and accurate colors, which I found excellent for detailed drawing and design tasks. Detaching the screen to use it as a tablet felt seamless, giving me the freedom to draw naturally with the Surface Pen.

This tablet comes with Surface Pen, and has 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, worked flawlessly for creating intricate designs and precise sketches. I enjoyed the natural feel of the pen, particularly its tilt functionality, which allowed for smooth shading and detailed line work. The PixelSense display’s touch responsiveness further enhanced the drawing experience, making interactions fluid and precise.

Under the hood, the Surface Book 2 is powered by 8th Gen Intel Core processors and offers up to 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance even with demanding creative software like Photoshop and Illustrator. During my testing, the device handled multitasking and large projects with ease, making it a reliable tool for professionals who need both power and portability. The device also boasts impressive battery life, lasting up to 17 hours, which ensured uninterrupted creative sessions.

The tablet’s lightweight design adds to its portability, but its larger size when attached to the keyboard dock makes it more suitable for workspaces than casual travel. The detachable keyboard and dynamic fulcrum hinge provide flexibility for different modes, allowing me to switch between laptop, tablet, and studio setups effortlessly. Go for it if you want a windows laptop for drawing because it is one of the best windows portable drawing tablets.

 

10. Wacom Mobile Studio Pro 13″

Wacom Mobile Studio Pro 13 is a premium device designed for professional artists and designers, offering a complete workstation experience in a portable form. Its 13.3-inch WQHD display, with a resolution of 2560 x 1440, delivers stunning clarity and vibrant colors. When working on intricate illustrations or photo edits, I found the screen’s 82% Adobe RGB color accuracy to be invaluable for achieving precise, professional-grade results.

The Pro Pen 2, with its 8,192 pressure levels and tilt sensitivity, provides an exceptional drawing experience. It responded fluidly to every stroke, from delicate line work to bold shading, giving me full control over my creative projects. The etched glass screen mimics the texture of paper, making drawing feel natural and comfortable, even during extended sessions.

One of the standout features of the Mobile Studio Pro 13 is its Intel Core processor and up to 16GB of RAM, which power through demanding creative software like Photoshop and Illustrator. Unlike many tablets, this device runs on Windows 10, enabling access to full desktop applications without compromise. I appreciated how seamlessly it handled large, multi-layered files and resource-intensive tasks.

Though portable, the tablet’s weight and battery life of 6-8 hours make it better suited for desk setups or short sessions on the go. The included ports, including USB-C and SD card slots, ensure compatibility with a range of devices, making it versatile for professionals. However, its premium price point might be a consideration for those on a budget.

Overall, Wacom MobileStudio Pro 13 is a powerful and professional-grade drawing tablet that caters to serious creatives. Its vibrant display, responsive pen, and ability to run full desktop applications make it a standout in the best portable drawing tablets category. While its weight and price might deter some users, its performance and precision are well worth the investment for those who demand the best tools for their art.

 

11. GAOMON PD1220

GAOMON PD1220 is a lightweight and budget-friendly pen display that offers a great entry point into the world of digital art. Its 11.6-inch Full HD IPS display, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, delivers crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The screen supports 86% NTSC color gamut, which I found sufficient for beginners and intermediate artists who want accurate colors without a hefty price tag. The compact size makes it ideal for artists seeking portability without compromising functionality.

The tablet comes with the GAOMON AP50 stylus, offering 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality. My experience with the stylus was smooth and precise, allowing me to sketch fine details and shade naturally. The anti-glare screen further enhances the experience by reducing reflections, ensuring a comfortable working environment even under bright lighting.

Equipped with 8 customizable shortcut keys, the PD1220 allows users to tailor the device to their workflow. These shortcuts helped me save time while working on Photoshop and other creative software by giving quick access to frequently used tools. The tablet is compatible with both Windows and macOS, and the USB-C connectivity ensures fast and stable performance during use.

One of the key highlights of the GAOMON PD1220 is its lightweight build just 1.9 lbs, making it easy to carry for on-the-go creativity. However, as with most display tablets, it requires connection to an external device to operate, limiting its use as a fully portable solution. While its affordability is a strong selling point, the screen size may feel a bit restrictive for advanced projects that require a larger workspace.

 

12. Microsoft Surface Pro 2

Microsoft Surface Pro 2 remains a solid choice for artists and designers looking for a portable drawing tablet that offers versatility and performance. Featuring a 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, this tablet provides a clear and sharp canvas for digital art. While it doesn’t feature the advanced displays of more modern devices, its screen still delivers reliable quality for sketching, designing, and editing tasks.

The Surface Pen, included with the device, offers 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing accurate control for linework and shading. I found the pen responsive and comfortable to use, making it suitable for beginners and professionals alike. The tablet’s compact design allows it to function as both a standalone device and a connected drawing tool for extended workstations.

Powered by Intel Core i5 processors and up to 8GB of RAM, the Surface Pro 2 handles creative applications like Photoshop and SketchBook with ease. During my use, the device performed well for basic and intermediate projects, although it showed limitations with heavier multitasking. Running on Windows 8.1 Pro (upgradeable to Windows 10), the device supports full desktop software, giving it an edge over many portable tablets with limited app support.

At 2 lbs, the Surface Pro 2 is lightweight enough for portability while maintaining a sturdy build. With a battery life of up to 7 hours, it is reliable for shorter drawing sessions on the go. However, the older hardware and limited stylus features compared to modern tablets might feel restrictive for advanced users. It’s a budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable, no-frills drawing experience.

 

I have also listed this in my various blog posts related to graphic tablets and drawing tablets with the screen.

 

Wrapping Up