Quick notes
- Two popular contenders in the small tablet category are the Wacom Intuos Small and the Wacom One by Wacom Small.
- Compared to the Wacom One by Wacom, the Intuos Small offers fewer features, such as a limited number of ExpressKeys and the lack of a built-in stand.
- The Wacom One by Wacom comes with a more advanced pen that features two side buttons and a textured grip for enhanced control and comfort.
Choosing the right drawing tablet can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the small tablet category are the Wacom Intuos Small and the Wacom One by Wacom Small. Both tablets offer a compact and portable design, making them ideal for budding artists, graphic designers, and anyone looking to elevate their digital art creation. But which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive guide delves into the key features, pros, and cons of both tablets, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
The Wacom Intuos Small: A Classic Choice for Digital Artists
The Wacom Intuos Small is a veteran in the digital art scene, known for its reliable performance and affordability. It’s a solid choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for a user-friendly tablet that delivers a natural drawing experience.
Key Features:
- Pressure-sensitive pen: The Intuos Small comes with a pressure-sensitive pen that mimics the feel of traditional drawing tools, allowing for precise and expressive strokes.
- Active Area: The tablet features a 6.3″ x 4″ active area, providing ample space for drawing and sketching.
- Four ExpressKeys: The Intuos Small includes four customizable ExpressKeys that allow you to quickly access your favorite shortcuts and commands.
- Wireless Connectivity: The tablet supports both wired and wireless connectivity, giving you the flexibility to work on the go.
- Compatibility: The Intuos Small is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Pros:
- Affordable Price: The Intuos Small is one of the most affordable drawing tablets on the market, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
- User-Friendly Design: The tablet’s simple and intuitive design makes it easy to set up and use, even for first-time users.
- Reliable Performance: The Intuos Small is known for its reliable performance, delivering smooth and accurate strokes.
- Wireless Connectivity: The ability to work wirelessly adds to the tablet’s portability and convenience.
Cons:
- Limited Features: Compared to the Wacom One by Wacom, the Intuos Small offers fewer features, such as a limited number of ExpressKeys and the lack of a built-in stand.
- Basic Pen: The pen included with the Intuos Small is a basic model with a limited number of buttons.
The Wacom One by Wacom Small: A Modern Take on Digital Art
The Wacom One by Wacom Small is a newer model that boasts a sleek design and advanced features. It’s a great choice for artists who are looking for a more immersive and professional drawing experience.
Key Features:
- Larger Active Area: The Wacom One by Wacom Small features a larger 7.9″ x 4.4″ active area, providing more space for creativity and detail.
- Improved Pen: The Wacom One by Wacom comes with a more advanced pen that features two side buttons and a textured grip for enhanced control and comfort.
- Built-in Stand: The tablet includes a built-in stand that allows you to adjust the angle of the screen for a more comfortable drawing experience.
- USB-C Connectivity: The Wacom One by Wacom supports USB-C connectivity, making it compatible with a wider range of devices.
Pros:
- Larger Active Area: The larger active area provides more space for drawing and sketching, making it easier to work with intricate details.
- Improved Pen: The advanced pen offers enhanced control and comfort, making it a joy to use.
- Built-in Stand: The stand provides a more ergonomic drawing experience, reducing strain on your wrist and hands.
- USB-C Connectivity: The USB-C connectivity makes it compatible with a wider range of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Cons:
- Higher Price: The Wacom One by Wacom Small is more expensive than the Intuos Small, making it a less budget-friendly option.
- No Wireless Connectivity: The Wacom One by Wacom Small does not support wireless connectivity.
Wacom Intuos Small vs Wacom One by Wacom Small: A Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Wacom Intuos Small | Wacom One by Wacom Small |
| — | — | — |
| Active Area | 6.3″ x 4″ | 7.9″ x 4.4″ |
| Pen | Basic pen with one button | Advanced pen with two side buttons |
| ExpressKeys | 4 | None |
| Built-in Stand | No | Yes |
| Wireless Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Compatibility | Windows and macOS | Windows and macOS |
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tablet for You
Choosing between the Wacom Intuos Small and Wacom One by Wacom Small ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you are:
- A beginner or hobbyist on a budget: The Wacom Intuos Small is a great choice. It offers a user-friendly experience, reliable performance, and wireless connectivity at an affordable price.
- Looking for a larger active area and improved pen: The Wacom One by Wacom Small is the better option. It provides more space for creativity, a more advanced pen, and a built-in stand for a more comfortable drawing experience.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Features
Both the Wacom Intuos Small and Wacom One by Wacom Small offer a range of additional features that can enhance your digital art experience.
- Software Compatibility: Both tablets are compatible with a wide range of popular drawing software, including Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk Sketchbook.
- Customizable Features: You can customize the ExpressKeys on the Intuos Small to access your favorite shortcuts and commands. You can also customize the pen pressure sensitivity and other settings to suit your drawing style.
- Wacom Drivers: Both tablets come with Wacom drivers that provide access to additional features, such as pen calibration and screen calibration.
The Future of Digital Art: A Glimpse into the Horizon
The digital art landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and tools emerging all the time. Both Wacom Intuos Small and Wacom One by Wacom Small are excellent entry points into the world of digital art, providing a solid foundation for your creative journey. As you progress in your artistic endeavors, you may consider exploring more advanced tablets with features such as:
- Higher Resolution: Tablets with higher resolution offer greater detail and accuracy, making them ideal for professional artists and illustrators.
- Multi-Touch Support: Tablets with multi-touch support allow you to interact with your artwork using gestures, providing a more intuitive and natural experience.
- Enhanced Pen Technology: Advanced pens with more pressure sensitivity levels, customizable buttons, and tilt support can further enhance your creative control and expression.
Beyond the Drawing Tablet: A Complete Digital Art Setup
While a drawing tablet is essential for digital art creation, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. To create a complete digital art setup, you’ll also need:
- A powerful computer: A computer with a strong processor, ample RAM, and a dedicated graphics card can handle demanding art software and large files.
- Drawing software: There are numerous drawing software options available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Choose one that suits your needs and budget.
- A monitor: A high-resolution monitor with good color accuracy is essential for viewing your artwork accurately and working comfortably.
A New Beginning: Your Artistic Journey Awaits
Whether you choose the Wacom Intuos Small or Wacom One by Wacom Small, you’re taking the first step on an exciting journey into the world of digital art. Embrace the possibilities, experiment with different techniques, and let your creativity soar.
Final Thoughts: Your Artistic Potential Unleashed
The Wacom Intuos Small and Wacom One by Wacom Small are both excellent drawing tablets that offer a smooth and intuitive drawing experience. The choice ultimately comes down to your budget, desired features, and personal preferences.
Embrace the power of digital art and unleash your creative potential with the perfect drawing tablet for you.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I use the Wacom Intuos Small or Wacom One by Wacom Small with my smartphone?
While both tablets are compatible with Windows and macOS, they are not currently compatible with smartphones. However, there are other Wacom tablets designed specifically for mobile devices.
2. What is the difference between the Wacom Intuos Small and the Wacom Intuos Pro Small?
The Wacom Intuos Pro Small is a more advanced tablet with a higher resolution, a more sensitive pen, and additional features such as a customizable touch ring and a pen stand. It’s designed for professional artists and illustrators who need the highest level of precision and control.
3. Can I use the Wacom Intuos Small or Wacom One by Wacom Small with a Chromebook?
Both tablets should be compatible with Chromebooks that support USB input. However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s website for specific compatibility information.
4. What is the warranty on the Wacom Intuos Small and Wacom One by Wacom Small?
Both tablets come with a one-year limited warranty. You can find more information about the warranty on the Wacom website.
5. What are some tips for setting up my new drawing tablet?
- Install the Wacom drivers: The drivers are essential for your tablet to work properly.
- Calibrate your pen: This will ensure that your pen strokes are accurately translated onto the screen.
- Customize your tablet settings: Adjust the pressure sensitivity, ExpressKeys, and other settings to suit your preferences.
- Experiment with different drawing software: Try out different software options to find one that you enjoy using.