Drawing tablets have become increasingly popular over the years, providing artists with a more natural way to create digital art than with a mouse or trackpad. With their pressure-sensitive stylus, drawing tablets offer a more intuitive way of working, and are particularly beneficial when it comes to tasks that require precision, such as 3D modeling.
Is a drawing tablet good for 3d modeling? In this article we will look at drawing tablets and their suitability for 3D modeling.
So, is a drawing tablet good for 3D modeling?
The short answer is yes. But to understand why, we need to look at the features that make a drawing tablet suitable for 3D modeling, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using one.
What features should you consider when choosing a drawing tablet for 3D modeling?
Firstly, let’s look at what features to consider when choosing a drawing tablet for 3D modeling. A graphics tablet for 3D modeling should ideally have an active drawing area larger than 15 inches, express keys for changing tools faster, and a camera capable of scanning real-life objects. However, not everyone needs these high-end features, and there are plenty of drawing tablets on the market that are more affordable and still do the job well.
One such example is the XP-Pen Star G640, which is a good tablet for 3D modeling. This lightweight tablet has a 6″ x 4″ display, is only 2mm thick, and has 8,192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity. At around $40, it offers excellent value for money and is compatible with Windows, Android, ChromeOS, and macOS.
Another consideration is the tablet’s responsiveness to pen strokes or other inputs, as a laggy device will not only be frustrating to use, but also result in inaccurate outputs.
But what are the advantages of using a drawing tablet for 3D modeling?
Firstly, a drawing tablet allows for greater control and precision than using a mouse or trackpad. The pressure-sensitive stylus allows for more natural and organic sculpting and texturing, which is particularly useful when creating complex 3D models.
In addition, a drawing tablet can help to reduce strain on the hands and wrists, as it allows for a more natural drawing position. This can be particularly important for 3D artists who spend long hours working on detailed models.
There are downsides, too
It’s also worth considering the disadvantages of using a drawing tablet for 3D modeling. For example, some 3D artists may find it difficult to adapt to the new way of working, particularly if they are used to using a mouse or trackpad. In addition, not all drawing tablets are created equal, and some may have limitations in terms of their size, sensitivity, or compatibility with certain software.
Wrapping up
A drawing tablet can be a great tool for 3D modeling, providing greater control, precision, and comfort than a mouse or trackpad. When choosing a drawing tablet, it’s important to consider factors such as size, sensitivity, and compatibility, as well as the specific needs of the individual artist.
