Introduction
Wacom is a well-known brand in the world of graphics tablets. They have been providing artists and designers with high-quality tools for many years. Today, we will be reviewing the Wacom One Pen Tablets, specifically focusing on their entry-level features and price competitiveness.
Wacom One Pen Tablets: A Budget-Friendly Option for Creative Professionals
Wacom has recently introduced new additions to their Wacom One line, namely the medium and small-sized pen tablets. These tablets come at a budget-friendly price, making them an attractive option for creative professionals. In this review, we will take a closer look at these pen tablets and explore their features and functionality.
What are Wacom One Pen Tablets and How Do They Work?
Wacom One pen tablets, also known as drawing or graphics tablets, are essentially small slates that are placed on a desk in front of or beside your computer. These tablets come with a pen and a cord that connects them to your computer. By using the pen on the tablet’s surface, you can see your drawings appearing on the screen in front of you.
For those unfamiliar with this technology, one might wonder why not simply draw directly on the screen. The answer is that using a drawing tablet like the Wacom One requires some time to get used to. It involves a certain level of eye-hand coordination that needs to be developed. As someone who does not regularly use such devices, it typically takes me around 20-30 minutes to adjust and feel comfortable with the tablet during the review process.
Size and Functionality
The main difference between the medium and small-sized Wacom One pen tablets is their physical dimensions. Both models, however, offer the same features and functionality. Whether you choose the medium or small tablet, you can expect seamless performance and reliable results.
Pen Precision and Sensitivity
One of the key advantages of the Wacom One pen tablets is the precision and sensitivity of the pen itself. With advanced technology, these tablets can accurately capture the pressure and tilt of your strokes, allowing for greater control and precision in your artwork. Whether you are sketching, drawing, or editing, the Wacom One pen tablets enable you to achieve the desired level of detail and finesse.
Compatibility
The Wacom One pen tablets are designed to be compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of creative professionals, regardless of their preferred platform. Additionally, the tablets are compatible with popular drawing and editing software, further enhancing their usability and functionality.
Overview
Wacom, a renowned brand in the world of graphic design and digital art, offers a range of products to cater to the various needs of artists and designers. Among their product lineup, the Wacom One Pen Tablet stands out as an affordable entry-level option for those beginning their journey in the digital art realm. In this review, we will explore the features and capabilities of the Wacom One Pen Tablet and discuss its differences from the higher-end models in Wacom’s product range.
Affordability and Value
One of the primary reasons to consider the Wacom One Pen Tablet is its attractive price point. Compared to pen tablets with screens, the Wacom One offers a significantly cheaper alternative. If you are on a budget or just starting out, investing in a tablet without a screen can be a wise choice. With the Wacom One, you can save a hundred to two hundred dollars, making it an excellent option for beginners.
Differences from the Pro Line
Wacom also offers the Intuos Pro Line, which caters to professionals and enthusiasts looking for advanced features. The main differences between the Wacom One and the Pro Line lie in two key areas. Firstly, the Pro Line boasts additional shortcut buttons along the side, allowing users to program shortcuts for functions such as undoing actions or adjusting brush sizes. These buttons can significantly enhance productivity and streamline the creative process.
The second major difference lies in the pens used by the two product lines. While the Wacom One Pen is of high quality and performs admirably, the Pro Line utilizes Wacom’s Pro Pen 2. This advanced pen technology offers even more precision and responsiveness, elevating the overall drawing experience. However, it is important to note that the pen included with the Wacom One is still excellent and shares similarities with the pens found in Samsung tablets.
Bluetooth enabled and wireless
When I first received the Wacom One Pen Tablets and installed everything, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that these tablets are Bluetooth enabled. This means that once the tablet is charged using the USB type C cable, it can be used completely wirelessly. This feature is incredibly convenient and allows for greater flexibility in how the tablet can be used. The battery life also seems to be long-lasting, and if it does run out, it can easily be recharged by plugging it in with the cable.
A wide range of aftermarket pens
One of the great things about the Wacom One Pen Tablets is that they can be used with a variety of pens, not just the one that comes with the tablet. In fact, there is a whole universe of aftermarket pens available that work perfectly fine on this tablet. This opens up a world of possibilities for artists and creative professionals, as they can choose a pen that best suits their needs and preferences. Whether it’s a pen with a finer tip, a brush-like tip, or any other variation, there are plenty of options to explore.
Availability and purchase options
At the time of recording this review, the Wacom One Pen Tablets are only available for purchase directly from Wacom’s website. However, it is expected that within a few weeks, they will be available on other popular online retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon. Currently, the tablets are available for pre-order on B&H Photo. This wider availability will make it much easier for customers to get their hands on these tablets and experience their numerous benefits.
Purchasing individual parts
One interesting aspect of the Wacom One Pen Tablets is that Wacom is also selling many of the tablet’s parts separately. This means that if a specific part needs to be replaced or upgraded, customers don’t have to purchase an entirely new tablet. Instead, they can simply buy the individual part they need. This is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, as it reduces electronic waste.
Review: Wacom One Pen Tablets
So, I just purchased the Wacom One Pen Tablets, but to my disappointment, they did not come with any cords or a pen. It was necessary for me to buy the cords and the pen separately to use with the tablet. If you plan to buy this tablet from Wacom, make sure to pick up the necessary accessories, including a pen and cord. Now, let’s dive into the drawing test and see how this tablet performs.
Testing the Tablet
Before I begin, I would like to give a shoutout to today’s sponsor, Squarespace. If you want to see an example of a cool Squarespace site in action, you should check out bradsartschool.com. This website, built entirely on Squarespace, showcases my portfolio, online courses, and buyer’s guide where I rank my favorite drawing tech with the fluid engine. Squarespace offers a next-generation website design system that makes it incredibly easy for anyone to unlock their creative potential.
Designing Your Website with Squarespace
Speaking of Squarespace, their custom templates are a fantastic starting point for designing your website. They have a variety of categories for you to browse through and choose the template that best suits your content and unique needs. Squarespace allows you to customize every detail and reimagine your website using their drag and drop technology, whether you’re on a mobile device or desktop.
By utilizing Squarespace’s asset library, you can manage all your files from one central hub and use them across the entire Squarespace platform. This feature streamlines your workflow and ensures consistency in your branding across different sections of your website. With Squarespace, you can make your ideas, brand, and business stand out online on any device.
Size and Mapping
When it comes to drawing with Wacom One Pen Tablets, size does matter. These tablets come in two different sizes: small and medium. The tablet itself is covered in a grid of dots, and each dot represents the drawing area on your screen. The dots in the upper left corner of the tablet correspond to the upper left corner of your screen, while the dots in the lower right corner correspond to the lower right corner of your screen.
Choosing the Right Size
While the small tablet may seem tempting due to its portable nature, it is important to consider the space available for drawing. Drawing on a larger tablet, such as the medium size, provides a more comfortable experience for most users. The medium-sized tablet, in particular, offers significantly more drawing space compared to the small one. In fact, the medium size is almost twice as large as the small one. For those who are serious about their art, investing in a medium-sized tablet is highly recommended.
Comparing to Other Manufacturers
When it comes to tablet size, Wacom’s offerings are on the larger end of the spectrum. Some other manufacturers produce even smaller tablets, which can make drawing quite challenging. While the small Wacom One tablet is sufficient for basic drawing needs, it may not be enough for those who want a more immersive drawing experience. If budget allows, it is highly advised to go for the medium size for a more enjoyable and spacious workspace.
Pen Performance
In terms of pen performance, the Wacom One Pen Tablets deliver a satisfying experience. The lines drawn with the pen are smooth and precise, even when drawing slow angled lines. However, it is important to note that the pen does not perform as well as Wacom’s Pro pen 2 in a couple of areas.
Initial Activation Rate
One aspect where the Wacom One Pen Tablets fall slightly behind is the initial activation rate. If you are a super light sketcher who applies minimal pressure while drawing, you may notice that the line occasionally cuts out. This can be a bit disruptive to the drawing process.
Pen Pressure
Another difference between the Wacom One Pen Tablets and the Pro pen 2 is the level of pen pressure. The Pro pen 2 offers a higher range of pen pressure, allowing for more sensitive and nuanced strokes. However, for the average user, the pen pressure on the Wacom One is solid and gets the job done effectively.
Design and Comfort
The Wacom One Pen Tablet itself is lightweight and made entirely of plastic. Unlike the Pro pen 2, it lacks a rubbery grip that provides a more comfortable feel. Nonetheless, the design is sleek and functional. It features two customizable buttons along the side, which can be programmed for specific functions. The buttons have a less clicky feel, which can be seen as an advantage. This reduces the likelihood of accidentally pressing the buttons while drawing, resulting in a smoother and uninterrupted creative process.
Pressure Sensitivity and Performance
The Wacom One pen tablet offers adequate pressure sensitivity and performance, but it may have some imperfections. When drawing at a very fast pace, the pressure may not accurately register, resulting in shoestringing on lines. However, this can be resolved by slowing down a bit. These nitpicks are more apparent to experienced users, whereas newcomers may not notice them.
Overall Assessment
In general, the Wacom One pen tablets are considered quite good. While the Wacom One 12-inch drawing tablet received some negative feedback for its high price and removal of features compared to its predecessor, the current models offer a more favorable price point. Although they may not be as affordable as some competitors, they still provide decent value for the price.
Positive Aspects of Wacom
Despite the aforementioned shortcomings, Wacom has managed to impress in certain areas. The company excels in offering a range of features and functionality for their devices. Wacom products have always been known for their quality and reliability, and the Wacom One pen tablets are no exception. While they may not be the most budget-friendly option, they make up for it in terms of durability and performance.
The Wacom One Pen Tablets: A Budget-Friendly Option
Wireless Functionality
The most surprising feature of the Wacom One Pen Tablets is their built-in Bluetooth capability. Normally, wireless tablets come at a higher price, but Wacom has managed to offer this convenience without breaking the bank. This means that you can work on your projects without the restriction of cords, giving you greater freedom and flexibility in your creative process.
Price Competitiveness
The Wacom One Pen Tablets are an excellent value for money. Unlike other tablets in this price range, you do not have to buy any additional accessories separately, such as cords or pens. This makes them cost-competitive, especially when compared to the total cost of purchasing a smaller tablet with necessary accessories separately. While they may lack some features like shortcut keys, these may not be essential for everyone, especially when working with a small tablet that does not hinder your view of the keyboard.
Quality and Brand Reputation
One thing that sets the Wacom One Pen Tablets apart is the quality they offer. The Wacom brand name is highly regarded in the industry, and many artists and designers specifically seek out their products. While other brands may offer similar functionality at a slightly lower price, the trust and reliability associated with Wacom make it a worthwhile investment for many professionals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Wacom One pen tablets offer a cost-effective solution for creative professionals seeking to enhance their digital artwork. Despite the initial learning curve, these tablets provide precise pen control and are compatible with various operating systems and software. Whether you opt for the medium or small size, the Wacom One pen tablets are sure to deliver reliable performance and assist you in unleashing your creativity.
In conclusion, the Wacom One Pen Tablet is an affordable and reliable option for those venturing into digital art. While lacking some of the advanced features found in the Pro Line, the Wacom One offers excellent value for its price. With its quality pen and seamless compatibility with popular software, this entry-level tablet is an ideal choice for beginners. Whether you aspire to become a professional artist or simply want to explore your creative side, the Wacom One Pen Tablet is a worthy investment.
In conclusion, the Wacom One Pen Tablets are an excellent choice for anyone in need of a high-quality pen tablet for creative work. The Bluetooth enabled and wireless feature adds convenience and freedom to the user’s creative process. The ability to use a wide range of aftermarket pens expands the tablet’s versatility, catering to different artistic preferences. The expected wider availability of the tablets on popular online retailers will make it more accessible to customers. Additionally, the option to purchase individual parts separately provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution. Overall, the Wacom One Pen Tablets are a smart investment for artists and professionals alike.
In conclusion, the Wacom One Pen Tablets are a great tool for digital artists and designers. However, it is important to note that the necessary accessories a pen and cord do not come included with the tablet, and they need to be purchased separately. Despite this setback, the tablet performs excellently in drawing tests and offers a seamless creative experience.
Remember, if you are considering creating your own website, Squarespace is a fantastic platform to showcase your work. Their customizable templates, drag and drop technology, and asset library make it a breeze to design a website that reflects your unique style. So, why wait? Head over to squarespace.com and unlock your creativity today!
In conclusion, choosing the right size of Wacom One Pen Tablet is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable drawing experience. While the small tablet can serve its purpose for basic needs, the medium-sized tablet offers significantly more space and is recommended for those who are serious about their art. So, if you are ready to embark on your artistic journey, consider investing in a Wacom One Pen Tablet and unleash your creativity on a larger canvas.
Overall, the Wacom One Pen Tablets offer reliable pen performance and a comfortable design for most users. While it may not match the capabilities of the high-end Pro pen 2, it still provides satisfactory results for digital drawing and sketching. Whether you are a professional artist or an aspiring hobbyist, the Wacom One Pen Tablets are worth considering for their affordability and functionality.
In conclusion, the Wacom One pen tablets are a solid choice for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality pen tablet. While they may have a few flaws, such as occasional pressure sensitivity issues, they still deliver an excellent overall performance. Whether you are an experienced artist or just starting out, Wacom One pen tablets provide a reliable and versatile option for your creative endeavors.
The Wacom One Pen Tablets are a great option for those on a budget who still want to benefit from the Wacom brand name and quality. While there are cheaper alternatives available from other brands, the overall package offered by Wacom, including the wireless functionality and reliability, make it a compelling choice for many artists and designers.
What are your thoughts?
What do you think about the Wacom One Pen Tablets? Are you inclined towards the Wacom brand name, or do you prefer the cost savings offered by other brands? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
