Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

Hi
I´m considering to buy a cheap graphic tablet to get some experience. In
case it´s something that fits my work style I´d upgrade to a bigger one
after about a year anyway. Therefore I don´t want to invest too much
money for the first one. It would mainly be used for smaller editing
like adding dirt to the textures for my 3D projects and for smaller
retouching work (nothing too fancy). That´s why I want to keep the price
below 100 Euros for now (keep in mind it´s only to decide whether it
suits my work habits). Right now I´m eyeing these two possible candidates:
-Wacom Volito 2 (127,6 x 92,8 mm active surface) for 37,- €
-Wacom Graphire 4 Classic (127,6 x 92,8 mm active surface) for 73,50€
Does anyone have any opinions? Maybe even suggestions for an alternative
beginner tablet?
Thanks in advance for your replies.
Michael

Lennier1

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

t I
ch
Another option would be to buy a 'good one' brand new, being very
careful to be nice with the packaging when you open it, and keep all
the bibs and bobs.
If you like it, which you likely will, then you keep it. If you do not,
then you sell it, and likely recoup 80% of what you paid.
Do the math: the money spent on a mediocre tablet on which you've
already prepared yourself to cut your losses, or the difference between
retail and resale value on a good piece of gear, whose value will
become apparent very quickly.
I myself bought an Intuos3 6x9 recently, as my first foray into the
field. I bought it used. Even if I decide I won't use it for a long
time, I'll keep it because I know it's good quality gear.
By my reasoning, buying something that you know ahead of time to be
mediocre is pointless. If it's not known to be 'good' equipment, then
there has to be a reason for that. The shortcomings will make
themselves very clear very quickly, and I expect you will feel
frustrated.
Really. Don't waste your money on mediocrity.
BD.


BD

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

That's interesting because I have read (in these threads) that the Intuos(1) mouse is
the best design over all, five programmable buttons and a side thumb wheel for
scrolling. I am thinking about buying it. Or, want to sell me yours? Quasi cash
through Paypal?
--
}<)))*> Giant_Alex
cravdraa_at-yahoo_dot-com
not my site: http://www.e-sword.net/


AAvK

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

In article <8l7ltxmzw9p.jgy67z9dadn8$.dlg@40tude.net>, lennier1@arcor.de says
....
This is how I use the Wacoms - mouse (MS wheel, in my cases) for Windows
stuff, and Wacom stylii for all PS, Painter and similar. I do find that when
working with Paths in Illustrator, and sometimes in PS, I grab the mouse,
rather than the stylus. This is "personal choice," and one may find that the
stylus is better for ALL functions. As an aside, I have never really liked the
mouse with earlier Wacoms, and have never even unpacked mine for the Intuos II
tablet. It may have gotten better, but I am a creature of habit.
Hunt


Noone@hunt.com (Hunt)

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

Thank you. A4 would probably be the way to go. Also because this would make
it easier to trace any printed templates. But first I´ll have to decide
whether it suits me or not. The big investment would come afterwards,
depending on the experiences.


Lennier1

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

Thank you. I´d probably use the mouse most of the time but it simply seems
easier to use the pen while I´m working with 2D software and 3D software at
the same time.


Lennier1

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

In article <1151798021.915464.117780@m79g2000cwm.googlegroups.com>,
Many graphics tablets come with a cordless mouse. But it's like
switching from a mechanical mouse to optical - once you start using one,
you'll never go back.
I'd suggest buying an A4 sized tablet. The B5 ones are a bit too small
and the B4 tablets take up too much space.


Stewy

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

"Is it also possible to use them with other programs so I don=B4t have
to switch back to the mouse for everything?"
I have never used any 3D software, but I think it should work OK with
any software. At least I haven=B4t had any problems with it (I use it as
a substitute for the mouse when I am working with it, and I know that
there are some users who always substitute the mouse with the pen.)
I also like the fact that the pen doesn=B4t need any batteries.


Kielipuoli

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

Thanks for your reply. I want to try working with a tablet before I decide
whether to invest in a bigger one for long-time use or not. As for genius:
I´ve had my fair share of experience with them (rude hotline personnel
giving useless advice, a faulty USB hub and last but not least an optical
mouse that stopped working (oh wonder) just one month after the warranty
ran out). No thanks, I´d rather buy no-name stuff from the flea market than
give that company another cent of my money. Sorry about the rant but that
company is a moot point for me.
What I want to do is to test working with a graphics tablet. If it isn´t I
don´t want to lose too much money. If it is, I´m willing to invest much
more money in a long-time solution.
Michael


Lennier1

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

On Fri, 30 Jun 2006 23:02:49 +0200, lennier1 <lennier1@arcor.de>
wrote:
You are not saving money but wasting money, Michael.
Alex gave you an in depth description on the differences.
How can you be saving money if you intend to buy twice?
Go check http://www.geniusnet.com.tw/ (Alex also gave it to you)
and think about buying a Genius 6X8. I bought one, and I do not
know Wacom, (could not find it in Durban, SA) but comparing to what
I read about Wacom, I think I done just as good as buying the popular
Wacom brand.
Batteries? Yes it do use batteries in the pen and mouse, (included:-)!
but it is long lasting. And I do not use the wireless mouse, but my
original because I want more freedom when using the mouse, then using
it only in line with the monitor and on the tablet.
Indeed, if the tablet would be replaced within a year or so, why don't
do what I suggest; and maybe you will be saving money by keeping it.
Dave


Dave

Re: Need opinions on cheap beginner graphic tablets

Hunt,
Thank you for this advice. This would be perfect. If everything went well
the tablet would be replaced with a higher-grade version within a year
anyway. One way or the other, you´ve already helped me to save some money
and for that I´m grateful.
Michael


Lennier1

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