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How to Buy a Drawing Tablet

How to · Tech

How to Buy a Drawing Tablet

Get a pro-grade screen you won't need to replace in two years by timing your buy right.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $800 before anything else
Across the 0% window $44.44/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $800 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A high-end drawing tablet is an investment in your craft, so pick one that will hold up for years rather than upgrading every cycle. Look for a screen with great color accuracy and minimal lag so you aren't stuck buying a replacement when your skills improve.

Wait for holiday sales to target last year's flagship models. They usually offer identical performance to the newest version for a fraction of the price, and the hardware difference is rarely worth the premium.

That 18-month window is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance left when the time is up, the interest charges will kick in on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Set your budget

    Stick to your $800 limit. Don't add extra software subscriptions or fancy stands unless you have the cash on hand. Keep it simple to avoid overspending.

  2. 02

    Time the purchase

    Watch for Black Friday or holiday bundles. Retailers often throw in extra pens or cases during this time, which saves you money on essential accessories.

  3. 03

    Use your card

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you spread the $800 cost over 18 months at $44.44 per month without paying interest.

  4. 04

    Set an auto-pay

    Schedule a recurring payment for $45 each month. This ensures you pay off the tablet before the intro window on purchases expires.

  5. 05

    Protect the screen

    Buy a textured screen protector immediately. It mimics the feel of paper and saves the expensive display glass from scratches caused by the stylus.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I buy the newest model?

Usually no. Last year's model often has the same display tech and pen pressure sensitivity for much less money during the holidays.

Is the interest really zero?

It is 0% interest, but that doesn't mean the tablet is free. You still have to pay back the full $800 price tag.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% offer early. Stick to your schedule to keep the deal valid.

Do I need a separate computer?

Check if your tablet is a standalone device or if it needs to plug into a laptop. Standalone tablets are pricier, so budget accordingly.