10 Best Standalone Drawing Tablets for Artists

Standalone drawing tablet can be a better choice for you if you are looking for a medium to explore your creative skills. There are many drawing tablets available on the internet, but they all require to be connected to a screen or computer.

So the best option is to get yourself a standalone drawing tablet, which doesn’t require connecting to a computer screen or a drawing pad. This is going to be an excellent option for those who are just starting their digital journey.

Now, You must be searching for some best standalone drawing tablets? I’m here to help you out.

I have curated a list of various standalone drawing tablets. I will share a list of the best and most popular standalone tablets for drawing available on the internet.

If you don’t know what standalone tablets are, let’s know about them.

What Is A Standalone Drawing Tablet?

There’s not much difference between a standalone drawing tablet and a regular drawing tablet, both the tablets have a touchscreen but the only difference is that the regular tablet will require a computer to be connected for functioning. Whereas a standalone drawing tablet can operate on its own, you don’t have to connect it to a screen. You can do your drawing work directly on the standalone tablet as it has the screen and the computer in it.

There’s a lot of reasons why standalone drawing tablets are better than regular drawing tablets like you can carry it anywhere, you can do your work while traveling. It will be compact and sometimes it can also save some money.

List of Best Standalone Drawing Tablets:-

1. Microsoft Surface Go 2 (Latest Model)

Microsoft Surface Go 2 is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and portable device in the best standalone drawing tablet. Its 10.5-inch PixelSense display, with a resolution of 1920 x 1280, provides crisp visuals and vibrant colors. I found the screen size compact yet sufficient for sketching, editing, and designing on the go. The touch responsiveness and clarity made drawing feel seamless and enjoyable.

What makes the Surface Go 2 particularly appealing is its Surface Pen compatibility. With 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, the pen delivers precise control, making shading, linework, and intricate detailing effortless. During my usage, the stylus felt natural, allowing for a smooth transition from traditional tools to digital workflows. Although the Surface Pen is sold separately, it’s a worthwhile addition for creatives.

It comes with Intel Pentium Gold or 8th Gen Intel Core m3 processor, paired with up to 8GB of RAM, the Surface Go 2 offers reliable performance for light to moderate creative tasks. I could run apps like Photoshop and SketchBook without significant lag, although multitasking with larger files did show limitations. Its Windows 10 in S Mode provides access to full desktop applications, a feature that elevates it over tablets restricted to mobile apps.

Surface Go 2’s 10-hour battery life allowed me to work on creative projects throughout the day without worrying about frequent recharging. Its lightweight build, at just 1.2 lbs, makes it highly portable, fitting effortlessly into a bag for on-the-go use. However, while the tablet is affordable, adding accessories like the Surface Pen and Type Cover keyboard can increase the overall cost.

Also, read our expert’s opinion on Surface Go 2.

 

2. Wacom Mobile Studio Pro – For Professionals

Wacom Mobile Studio Pro is a powerhouse device that offers professional-grade tools for creatives who need a standalone drawing tablet. Its 13.3-inch or 15.6-inch WQHD display, with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 (for the 13.3-inch model), delivers exceptional clarity and vibrant color accuracy. I found the screen perfect for intricate designs and color-sensitive work, offering an immersive canvas for digital art.

Equipped with the Wacom Pro Pen 2, featuring 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, the drawing experience is nothing short of exceptional. The pen responds seamlessly to every stroke, whether you’re working on delicate details or broad shading. During my testing, the etched glass surface provided a tactile feel that closely mimics drawing on paper, making long creative sessions more comfortable.

The tablet runs on Windows 10, providing access to full desktop applications like Photoshop, Illustrator, and CorelDRAW. Powered by Intel Core processors and configurable with up to 16GB of RAM, it handles demanding creative workflows effortlessly. I worked on multi-layered projects with ease, and its performance met the expectations of a professional-grade device. The SSD storage options ensure quick load times and ample space for large files.

Although the Wacom Mobile Studio Pro is portable, its weight and shorter battery life around 6 hours make it better suited for stationary use or short trips. The inclusion of multiple connectivity options, including USB-C and SD card slots, adds to its versatility, making it a comprehensive tool for professional creatives.

 

3. Huion KAMVAS Pro 12

Huion KAMVAS Pro 12 is a compact pen display tablet that excels in offering an affordable and portable solution for digital artists seeking the best standalone drawing tablets. Its 11.6-inch Full HD laminated screen, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals. The screen’s 120% sRGB color gamut ensures accurate and vibrant hues, which I found essential when working on color-sensitive projects.

The battery-free PW507 stylus offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality. During my use, the stylus felt responsive and natural, enabling smooth transitions from light sketches to bold strokes. The laminated screen eliminates parallax, making it easy to draw precisely where I intended, a feature I appreciated for fine detail work.

Despite its compact size, the KAMVAS Pro 12 doesn’t compromise on functionality. It features four customizable shortcut keys and a touch bar, which allowed me to set up frequently used commands, saving time and improving my workflow. It connects seamlessly to a PC or Mac via USB-C and HDMI, providing access to full desktop creative software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Clip Studio Paint.

While the tablet is lightweight and easy to carry, it requires connection to an external computer to function, which might limit its appeal to those looking for a fully standalone device. However, its portability and affordability make it an excellent choice for students, hobbyists, and entry-level professionals.

 

4. Apple iPad Pro 2020

Apple iPad Pro 2020 stands out as a top-tier device for creatives seeking the best standalone drawing tablets. Its Liquid Retina display, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, delivers stunning visuals with 120Hz ProMotion technology and True Tone for incredible color accuracy and smooth interactions. When using it, I was amazed by the clarity and responsiveness, which made drawing and editing an absolute pleasure.

The Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) takes the drawing experience to another level with its tilt and pressure sensitivity. The pencil is incredibly precise, allowing me to create intricate designs and seamless shading. Its magnetic attachment to the iPad for pairing and charging is both convenient and sleek, ensuring it’s always ready for use.

Powered by the A12Z Bionic chip, the iPad Pro 2020 offers desktop-level performance. It handled demanding apps like Procreate, Photoshop, and Affinity Designer effortlessly during my testing, even with complex projects involving multiple layers. The iPadOS enhances its standalone functionality, allowing multitasking with split-screen and access to a vast array of professional-grade apps.

The tablet’s battery life of up to 10 hours provided ample time for extended creative sessions without interruptions. With Face ID and USB-C connectivity, it adds both security and versatility for professional workflows. However, the premium price and the additional cost of accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard may deter budget-conscious buyers.

 

5. Microsoft Surface Book 2

Microsoft Surface Book 2 is an impressive 2-in-1 device that offers the power of a laptop with the flexibility of a tablet. Its detachable 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display, with resolutions of 3000 x 2000 and 3240 x 2160, delivers crystal-clear visuals and vibrant colors. The screen’s touch sensitivity is exceptional, making it a great canvas for digital art and illustration.

What sets the Surface Book 2 apart is its compatibility with the Surface Pen, which offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality. I found the pen to be responsive and precise, whether I was working on fine details or broad strokes. It felt intuitive and comfortable to use, allowing for natural transitions between different drawing techniques.

Performance is another highlight, with the Intel Core i5/i7 processors and up to 16GB of RAM ensuring smooth handling of creative applications like Photoshop, SketchBook, and Illustrator. While testing the device, I appreciated how well it handled multitasking and large projects, providing a seamless creative workflow. The Windows 10 OS offers access to full desktop software, which gives it an edge over many drawing tablets that rely on mobile apps.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 17 hours, allowing me to work uninterrupted on detailed projects. The versatility of switching between laptop, tablet, and studio modes adds significant value for artists who need flexibility. However, the device’s premium price, along with the additional cost of the Surface Pen, might deter some buyers.

 

6. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a versatile 2-in-1 device that shines as one of the best standalone drawing tablets. Its 12.3-inch PixelSense display, with a resolution of 2736 x 1824, offers sharp visuals and vivid colors, making it ideal for creative tasks. I found the screen’s responsiveness to be excellent, which allowed for a smooth and precise drawing experience.

Paired with the Surface Pen, the device delivers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. While sketching and shading, the pen responded effortlessly to even the subtlest movements. Its portability, combined with the pen’s performance, made it easy for me to transition between working at home and on the go.

Equipped by 10th Gen Intel Core processors and up to 16GB of RAM, the Surface Pro 7 handles resource-heavy creative software like Photoshop and Illustrator with ease. The device’s Windows 10 OS allows access to full desktop apps, which is a significant advantage over tablets restricted to mobile applications. During testing, I noticed minimal lag even with complex, multi-layered files.

The tablet’s lightweight build, at 1.7 lbs, is complemented by up to 10.5 hours of battery life, giving you freedom for longer creative sessions without frequent recharging. However, the additional cost of the Surface Pen and Type Cover keyboard might be a downside for those looking for an all-in-one package.

 

7. Microsoft Surface Pro X

Microsoft Surface Pro X is a modern and lightweight device. It is one of the popular windows tablet from Microsoft. Its 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen, with a resolution of 2880 x 1920, offers a spacious and vibrant canvas for digital art. The ultra-slim bezels make the display immersive, and I found it especially useful for intricate illustrations and editing tasks.

The Surface Slim Pen, designed specifically for the Pro X, provides 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support. Using it felt natural, and the minimal lag ensured precision for both sketching and detailed shading. The built-in magnetic storage and charging slot in the Type Cover are incredibly convenient, keeping the pen secure and ready for use at all times.

Powered by the Microsoft SQ1 or SQ2 processor and up to 16GB of RAM, the Surface Pro X offers smooth performance for creative software. While testing, I was impressed by how well it handled lighter creative tasks, although performance dipped slightly with more demanding, resource-intensive applications. Its Windows 11 OS ensures access to full desktop software, which enhances its versatility compared to many app-restricted tablets.

The device’s 7.3mm thin profile and 1.7 lbs weight make it one of the most portable options available. However, the battery life of up to 15 hours ensures you can work on the go without frequent interruptions. The absence of support for some legacy x64 applications might be a drawback for professionals relying on specific software.

 

8. Apple iPad Mini 6

Apple iPad Mini 6 brings a compact form factor with high-end performance, making it a top contender for the best standalone drawing tablets. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, with a resolution of 2266 x 1488, delivers exceptional clarity and color accuracy. The True Tone technology and P3 wide color gamut made every stroke on my screen vibrant and true to life, ensuring my artwork translated beautifully.

The Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is fully supported, and its magnetic attachment to the iPad for charging and pairing is a game-changer. I was impressed by how smoothly the Pencil responded, offering pressure and tilt sensitivity that made both sketching and detailed linework feel effortless. The compact size of the iPad Mini made it easy for me to use it comfortably anywhere, from my desk to outdoor settings.

Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, this tablet is incredibly fast, handling resource-intensive creative apps like Procreate and Photoshop with ease. I could seamlessly multitask while keeping my creative projects flowing. The lightweight build, coupled with a battery life of up to 10 hours, made it a reliable companion for a full day of creativity.

While the smaller screen size may not suit everyone, it’s ideal for artists who prioritize portability. The USB-C port simplifies connectivity, allowing quick file transfers and the option to connect external accessories. However, the high price tag for the device and the separate cost of the Apple Pencil might deter those on a budget.

 

9. Samsung Galaxy Tab S6

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 stands out as a highly capable device for creatives looking for an affordable standalone drawing tablet options. Its 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display, with a resolution of 2560 x 1600, provides vivid colors and deep contrast. I found the display to be exceptionally sharp, making it perfect for intricate artwork and detailed illustrations. The screen’s responsiveness made drawing and sketching an enjoyable experience.

It supports S Pen, with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivered smooth and precise strokes during my tests. The pen’s lightweight design and magnetic attachment to the tablet for charging were both practical and convenient. Whether I was working on line art or shading, the S Pen performed effortlessly, replicating the feel of traditional drawing tools.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy Tab S6 handles demanding creative apps like Clip Studio Paint and Photoshop with ease. During use, multitasking was seamless, allowing me to switch between drawing, browsing references, and editing without lag. Its Android OS provides access to a wide range of drawing apps, making it versatile for both professional and casual creatives.

With a battery life of up to 15 hours, the Tab S6 supports extended creative sessions without frequent recharging. The lightweight design, at 0.92 lbs, made it easy to carry and work on the go. However, the need to purchase the keyboard separately and the limited file organization options on Android may not appeal to everyone.

For more details you can read our review on Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 form our experts.

 

10. Apple iPad Air 10.5″

Apple iPad Air 10.5″ is a lightweight yet powerful device well suitable for drawing. Its 10.5-inch Retina display, with a resolution of 2224 x 1668, delivers bright, sharp visuals and accurate colors. It has also anti-reflective coating which will give you the best viewing experience. I found the screen perfect for creating digital art, thanks to its True Tone technology and excellent touch responsiveness.

The 1st Generation Apple Pencil pairs seamlessly with the iPad Air, offering pressure and tilt sensitivity for smooth and precise strokes. During my use, the Pencil made sketching and shading feel intuitive, and it handled intricate detailing with ease. Though the Apple Pencil isn’t magnetically attached, it’s easy to carry alongside the device for convenient use.

Under the hood, the A12 Bionic chip provides ample power for creative applications. I could run Procreate, Photoshop, and other drawing apps smoothly without lag. The device’s multitasking capabilities, such as split-screen mode, allowed me to keep reference images open while working on my projects. Its portability and 10-hour battery life made it ideal for use both at home and on the go.

One limitation is the lack of some advanced features, such as a laminated display, which occasionally caused a slight gap between the screen and the Pencil tip. Additionally, while the 64GB base storage is sufficient for casual use, artists working with large files may need the higher storage option. Despite these minor drawbacks, the iPad Air remains a versatile and reliable tool for digital creatives.

 

Wrapping Up