Super impressed that you highlighted a product that wasn't the most expensive. That's probably one of my biggest pet peeves with product shout outs, and you were amazing for showing what an affordable product can do. Definitely appreciate that!
My pleasure! I generally don't promote products for promotion purposes. I prefer to talk about things I like that I've bought and I don't seek anything from the businesses
I am new to learning photoshop and was talking to a friend about getting a tablet to help but didn't want to spend a fortune, especially when just learning. So THANK YOU!
I haven't wanted to travel with the larger and speedy brand name tablet I use with my desktop; this is such a great option for my MacBook. I'll be ordering this today. Thank you Blake.
Been using Photoshop for decades. But I have never used a tablet, at all. I do lots of masking for product photos. I am very interested in the simple solution you highlight in this video. Thanks so much.
You rock man.. Thanks a ton, i was searching for the best tablet for photoshop for dodging and burning and masking all the recommendations were very expensive. some of the tablets costed more than my smartphone this one is a GEM kudos to you
Thank you! Describing your simple needs and that you don't want the extra buttons and functions is exactly how I use a pen and tablet as a retoucher. I was looking at this exact tablet on Amazon and wanted some review before I bought it. One Click Buy is done!
Thanks for the info. I too own a Wacom Bamboo and it sits in my desk drawer where it's been living for years. Every so often I drag it out, install the drivers and after a few frustrating days of attempts to make it do simple things, eventually give up, uninstall it and put it back in the drawer. I agree with you that simple is better and I do a lot of dodging & burning so I'm gonna give this little guy a try.
Hey, David, I'm wondering what model number you Bamboo is. I've been playing with a few different used Wacoms I've been buying and hoarding for super cheap. I have noticed some weird quirks between different models and the different driver versions they need to work. Funny thing is i found the right combination of older Bamboo + old drivers to work better than newer Bamboo and Intuos models (that are still older than current generation).
@@LimitedSpectrum It's the CTH-470. The drivers were newer ones I found on the Intuos site but I don't recall the version #. I guess my problem had a lot to do with the problem Blake mentioned in his video - too many controls that, at least for me, got in the way of a smooth user experience.
Checking back in after using the tablet for a while. It's changed the way I do everything in post-processing. Dodging & burning of small areas to bring out (or hide) details is so easy now - just use light pressure and paint over what you want to enhance. I use it on the masks that come with smart objects too in order to control the amount of sharpening, for example. Some areas look better unsharpened or at least sharpened less than other areas. I use only the pen and tablet. I disabled the other controls because I don't want or need them. Best $30 I've spent on photography all year!
Its true ...needed to watch this before buying a new tablet. Thanks. Saved me $$$. Pro photographer having used various tablets.Last one written off over the driver issue. Unbelievable. Decided I could not deal with the brand again so trying a XP-PEN G640.
This was super helpful. I have spent a fair amount of time trying to make a decision on which tablet to get. Love that you addressed what you use it for and then your choice and why. Thanks
I have been a pro photographer for over 40 years. I've always hesitated using a tablet due to nerve damage in my left (dominant) hand. I'm pretty proficient at PS and have had great results with the mouse... knowing full well that I wasn't getting everything I could by not using a tablet. Well, now I'm retired to Central America and practicing my passion as a hobby ;-) Time to give this a shot! I've inherited a UGEE 708 tablet as a gift from a fellow friend/photog and I'm just now hitting the ground. THIS was a great start... looking forward to watching others! Thanks!! Jack (Juan Carlos)
@@f64Academy You should put your payment details up there. I would happily donate a few quid if someone was saving me £100s with their advice! Just did my first collage with the tablet and I'm very happy with the results! thank you!
@@f64Academy Ok I have it, is it normal that without the stylus touching the tablet it moves the cursor ? I would have thought it was only when pressure was applied, but even 1 inch above the tablet and it seems to be able to follow the movement of the stylus.
I have the Wacom Intuos Pro Medium for a short while now, and I do seem to have driver’s problems. In term of buttons, I enjoy the wheel with which I increase or decrease the size on my brushes, but I hardly use anything else. So I will keep your recommandation in mind...
I recently bought same Wacom as well, main reason was the wheel which I though I would use a lot but that's not been really the case. Also seem to experience some driver issues, sometimes all pen related stuff are extremely laggy etc.
An other problem I notice sometimes with the wheel, is that when I turn it one way or another with my finger, the brush size goes irremediably to the maximum (5000px) or minimum (1px). I can’t figure why it does that. I usually need to restart my PC for it to work properly. Irritating stuff.
Well done, fam. I restarted photography on the cheap. No PS (Affinity Photo), no Wacom (XP Pen), no "Big 2" camera, (iPhone). You totally convinced me on XP Pens. Respect. "F Stop Fitzgerald"
This is exactly the video I needed. I’ve been torn about what tablet to get for Affinity Photo. The ones with buttons and scroll wheels seem great, but you convinced me I don’t need them and to go simple.
At one time I used a Wacom tablet. As a non-artist; I found the plethora of buttons, etc a pain in the rear. So I finally got rid of it. This simple tablet however. May just be what I've been looking for in a tablet. It's refreshing to find someone looking for usable products that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Thanks.
I think you'll love this one. I'm not a fan of Wacom drivers, they never worked for me. I've been using this same one since this video and never once had an issue. It's a solid buy!
Thank you for this! I have just gotten into photoshop and really love dodging and burning for my beauty photography and this is just the best video to get decided on my future purchase: a tablet🥰
I was just about to buy a multi-function and a more expensive tablet for Photoshop work. Glad I researched some reviews and came across your video. Many thanks! I shall follow your example.
Because of your D&B video where you mentioned the XP-Pen tablet, I bought one and have been using it every since. Thank you. Very much enjoy your videos.... =)
I have been doing competitive photoshop as a hobby for over 10 years. The tablet you are reviewing reminds me of one I used to swear by. It was a Pen Pad by VisTablet. Did nothing but draw. Coolest tablet ever! It too had a brain header but the drawing surface was a 1/16" rubber pad that you could literally roll up. I do totally agree with you in that a pen and tablet should do no more that draw, not navigate Mac OS!
After using for a month I feel lucky not to invest much in a pen tablet more than this. Photography is my hobby and for that this one more than sufficient. Thank you !!
Good video and thanks for the lower priced tablet. But can it be used for all photoshop functions...selecting, erasing, layers etc. Also how to you 'click" to select a function like how you would "click' with a mouse...thank you
Ordered two of them, the one as shown and the smaller one because I wanted a small one too! I agree that most tablets try to do too many things, I don't need or use all the buttons that were on my Wacoms. These look perfect!
Great advice Blake, got myself a G430S (slightly smaller) combined with your Brilliant Blender Brushes makes dodging, burning, layers and masks with TK7 a winning combo!!!
Thinking about getting my first tablet and your video really helped decided which one to start out with. I would have most likely ended up spending lots of money and got a lot of frustration. Thanks for the tip & advice!
I've came to your video because I researched tablets on youtube, wanting to buy a tablet. I planned to buy a Wacom Intuos, but now, I think I will get an Xp-Pen Deco01, saving some money. Thanks!
I was about to put quite expensive wacom tablet into my amazon basket. Now I think I will get this one to try, and then if I'm missing something I would look around. Price is unbelivable.
@@f64Academy Turns out there are at least 3 versions of this tablet, some worse some better. Would get it tomorrow. Hope will get proper one :D. Maybe even buy one for my mom, since now she's 100% analogue artist, but with table she can easily turn digital :D.
@@f64Academy I know, but seems there are 3 revisions of this tablet. And one of them has different pen. Which is reported to be kinda lame. But I think lately they reverted to the original one, so maybe I'm lucky and get the better one.
Thank you so much for the great advice. I wasted 2 days reviewing tablets before I came across your video. Gonna take your advice and just go with a basic one that does the job.
@@f64Academy that's phenomenal. I was gonna buy the wacom one - the cheapest basic one. Had no idea about the xp pen until I saw your video. Thank you for the video and info.
Great Video man!!! Was looking for a tablet as i am just dipping my toe into PS and realised i needed a tablet. And was on my way to buy a Wacom or upgrade my iPad to a Pro. You just saved me a lot of money. The G640 will arrive in 3 days. Thanks once again!!!
@@f64Academy yooo my pen tablet came in today and I have been using it for the last 5 hours straight and it is absolutely fantastic. Thank you once again for the great advice and for saving me a lot of cash!!! I feel like you should actually be getting some kind of reward for this from Xp ;) cheers man!!!
You have me convinced... and I am now at the level of processing where this will make a difference. Thank you. However, for logistical reasons, I would like a tablet that does not need to be connected with a cord. Can you recommend one of these? Many thanks for all you do to help us learn and do better with our photography!
Hey Blake, following your advice, I've just taken delivery of my brand spanking new XP-Pen Star G640! This thing works flawlessly and seems much more 'accurate' and sensitive than my old Wacom. Cheers again for the tip :-)
I ordered the XPen G640 and yes it was 29.99. It arrived the next day, jammed into my mailbox. After prying it out of the mailbox and with a bit of trepidation when I opened the box. It was fine, or looked so. So here I go and install this crazy cheap product recommended by some guy on the web. Well, from box to 100% operational, it took literally 8 minutes. Plugged it in, downloaded the driver and voila! Set the pressure to my liking and started playing. Far too easy. Admittedly I will be learning how to excel at using the pen, but already I can see the difference. The immersion you spoke of getting totally involved with painting my photos is amazing! Thanks again for the recommendation. Now back to y photo editing/ enhancing/painting...etc.
Great info. I use a Wacom which I haven’t had any problems with, but the sucker is way to big and impossible to arrange right next to my mouse pad. This looks like the perfect solution. Thanks Blake, your channel always has such useful suggestions.
I just came across your channel. I really like it and I subscribed. This is my third video in a row that I'm watching. You got some great stuff! Anyways, I bought a pen tablet about 6 months ago from XP pen. I bought The Deco 3 with the wheel and 6 buttons. I don't use the buttons per se but me being left-handed I like the fact that I have the wheel for zooming in and out and that's all I use it for pretty much. But I actually just started using it about 2 days ago so I decided to watch your video and see what you had to say about these things. I must say though I can see a huge difference in my dodging and burning and wished that I had set this up sooner.
Thank you. I was not aware of this product, and have a Wacom tablet. Im also only use it for D/B and masking. I`m gonna get one.also the size is great.
Thanks for sharing this information. I will use it, mostly, for masking (it's sooo hard doing it with a mouse). So, it looks perfect for my needs and wallet. But, I got to ask: is this STILL the best choice for the year 2021? Anyway, thanks for the video and I'm your new subscriber :)
Blake, I hope I'm not bothering you... Can I use the xp pen g640, for instance, with the lasso and/or quick selection tool to mask part of the image (like I do with the mouse), or is the use limited only to the brush tool? I thank you in advance for the reply.
@@f64Academy Yeesssss!!! I'm going to receive mine today (uhu!). Can't hardly wait to start using it. Thank you a lot for your support, Blake! You're a very nice person :)
I recently picked up this tablet. Have you ever considered doing a video on how to setup and use the tablet as it would be great to see what works best for you.
It always changes. That's why its hard to make one that is evergreen. Between drivers, applications, and Windows updates, it is difficult to do a setup tutorial. But my basic concept, I have it so it only works on one of my monitors (not both) and I don't do much beyond that.
So happy with the Star 03 V2 Pen Tablet by XP-Pen. Thank you for making this video! Now I need help seeing what can be done with a tablet in photoshop.
I just knew that you were going to say this! I had been using exactly the same model and thought that I needed a 'better' pad. I bought a Wacom pad, complete with Bluetooth and I've been struggling to like it. After watching this video I'm going back to my cheapo G640 pad. Anyone want to buy a slightly used Wacom pad?
Thank you so much for this video. I was about to get a tablet just to do the same thing. I am using Affinity Photo and Affinity designer. I hope it works for those programs as I do not have photoshop. Thank you for saving me $$$
Thank you. I have a large wired tablet that I never use mainly due to desk space. I like the smallness of this one, but. Is there an update to this recommendation? I see this tablet is still available but Amazon says there is an update available at the same price or $15 more for wireless. Wireless Drawing Tablet XPPen Deco mini7W Graphic Tablet Pen Tablet with 8192 Levels Pressure, 7 x 4 inch Artist Tablet. It is a little bigger but it has 8 customizable buttons. As a leftie I like the idea of wireless so I can turn it without the cord coming out the bottom. Thoughts?
I am currently using a iPad pro, I love how I can use the apple pencil as described in your video and the fact I personally find it easier to hold than a laptop. However I am hating not being able to use the desktop version of Photoshop, I feel like there are so many options I am missing out on compared to the full version. I see your using the full desktop version of PS whilst still being able to use a pen/stylus. How did you get the full version to work on a tablet? Thank you
Hey, great video thank you! Was wondering if this tablet works with all photoshop tools for general photoshopping and cutting out layers etc, not just brush and burn tools for photo editing? Hope that makes sense. Thanks!
XP-PEN StarG640 6x4 Inch Ultrathin Tablet Drawing Tablet Digital Graphics Tablet with 8192 Levels Battery-Free Stylus Compatible with Chromebook-Rev B (for Drawing and E-Learning/Online Classes) www.amazon.com/dp/B078YR2MTF/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_9TK8FZF45G99MF2SRNKG
Hi Blake, Brand new Photoshop user here and enjoyed your thorough review. Never having used a drawing pad before, what are your thoughts on the larger pads like the XP Pen 8X5 Star05 wireless or even the 10x 6.5 XP Pen Deco 01 V2? Thank You!
I'm not entirely sure. I use the small oner because I like how small it is on my desk. It's the perfect size for use with my setup and therefore have had no desire to go bigger.
Where was this a few months ago when my Wacom died? 😉 I actually replace my Wacom with a Huion. The first they sent me didn’t work. But the next one has been working great. So far no issues and only $60 compared with $250 for the comparable Wacom
yes, you are right, often, before we buy an item, we think in this way "expensive = professional", it's not every time correct. I bought a Pen Tablet of $ 300 and I discover that what I use it is exactly the same future of a Pent Tablet of $ 30
Super impressed that you highlighted a product that wasn't the most expensive. That's probably one of my biggest pet peeves with product shout outs, and you were amazing for showing what an affordable product can do. Definitely appreciate that!
My pleasure! I generally don't promote products for promotion purposes. I prefer to talk about things I like that I've bought and I don't seek anything from the businesses
I am new to learning photoshop and was talking to a friend about getting a tablet to help but didn't want to spend a fortune, especially when just learning. So THANK YOU!
This tablet will carry you for a loooooong time. It's great, I still use it.
Wow... 100% totally agree with you Blake. We don’t need fancy stuff to create good image
Yep, sometimes the best things are the cheapest. This one is a perfect example.
Great video and juat ordered the XP-PEN Star G640 😃
I haven't wanted to travel with the larger and speedy brand name tablet I use with my desktop; this is such a great option for my MacBook. I'll be ordering this today. Thank you Blake.
Sure thing! I still use it as my primary tablet today 😁
Been using Photoshop for decades. But I have never used a tablet, at all. I do lots of masking for product photos. I am very interested in the simple solution you highlight in this video. Thanks so much.
You rock man.. Thanks a ton, i was searching for the best tablet for photoshop for dodging and burning and masking all the recommendations were very expensive. some of the tablets costed more than my smartphone this one is a GEM kudos to you
My pleasure! It is a great little piece of gear for a fraction of the price of many others.
Thank you! Describing your simple needs and that you don't want the extra buttons and functions is exactly how I use a pen and tablet as a retoucher. I was looking at this exact tablet on Amazon and wanted some review before I bought it. One Click Buy is done!
I might as well buy two they are so inexpensive.
I have one for travel and one for home use.
@@f64Academy I have one now. Does yours have some slip in the nib?
Thanks for the info. I too own a Wacom Bamboo and it sits in my desk drawer where it's been living for years. Every so often I drag it out, install the drivers and after a few frustrating days of attempts to make it do simple things, eventually give up, uninstall it and put it back in the drawer. I agree with you that simple is better and I do a lot of dodging & burning so I'm gonna give this little guy a try.
I think you will like it, I've been using it for 6 months with 0 issues!
Hey, David, I'm wondering what model number you Bamboo is. I've been playing with a few different used Wacoms I've been buying and hoarding for super cheap. I have noticed some weird quirks between different models and the different driver versions they need to work. Funny thing is i found the right combination of older Bamboo + old drivers to work better than newer Bamboo and Intuos models (that are still older than current generation).
@@LimitedSpectrum It's the CTH-470. The drivers were newer ones I found on the Intuos site but I don't recall the version #. I guess my problem had a lot to do with the problem Blake mentioned in his video - too many controls that, at least for me, got in the way of a smooth user experience.
Checking back in after using the tablet for a while. It's changed the way I do everything in post-processing. Dodging & burning of small areas to bring out (or hide) details is so easy now - just use light pressure and paint over what you want to enhance. I use it on the masks that come with smart objects too in order to control the amount of sharpening, for example. Some areas look better unsharpened or at least sharpened less than other areas. I use only the pen and tablet. I disabled the other controls because I don't want or need them.
Best $30 I've spent on photography all year!
Its true ...needed to watch this before buying a new tablet. Thanks. Saved me $$$. Pro photographer having used various tablets.Last one written off over the driver issue. Unbelievable. Decided I could not deal with the brand again so trying a XP-PEN G640.
I know the feeling! I'm still rocking this tablet! It's awesome. Always works, all the time!
That was very obvious, honest, and useful ;
Thanks brother.
Love you from 🇮🇶 Iraq.
Glad you liked it!
Just ordered it...my first tablet ! Thanks for the review.
Nice! You'll love it after you get used to it.
I was given a Wacom large tablet and I enjoy the buttons on the side as they help me in my photo workflow!
Sweet!
Could you still do professional digital paintings with this? What problems could I have?
You could. I don't think you'd have any problems. That would depend on your software I think.
@@f64Academy I'm using photoshop
You should be fine I'd think. It does what it needs to do for it.
thanks so much for posting this! have been down the rabbit hole trying to pick a product
Glad this helped. I'm still using this as my primary tablet!
@@f64Academy absolutely LOVE it - definitely think you've got the right idea about less drivers - thanks again
This was super helpful. I have spent a fair amount of time trying to make a decision on which tablet to get. Love that you addressed what you use it for and then your choice and why. Thanks
Glad it was helpful! I am still (3 years later) using the exact same tablet :)
Just got one for Christmas (yes, we celebrate early!) So much smoother than my Wacom Intuous Pro. Thanks for the tip.
Woot! You will not be disappointed.
I have been a pro photographer for over 40 years. I've always hesitated using a tablet due to nerve damage in my left (dominant) hand. I'm pretty proficient at PS and have had great results with the mouse... knowing full well that I wasn't getting everything I could by not using a tablet.
Well, now I'm retired to Central America and practicing my passion as a hobby ;-) Time to give this a shot!
I've inherited a UGEE 708 tablet as a gift from a fellow friend/photog and I'm just now hitting the ground.
THIS was a great start... looking forward to watching others!
Thanks!!
Jack (Juan Carlos)
Awesome! you won't regret your pen and tablet, I can promise you that ;) Best investment for post production.
I'm so grateful I saw this video before spending £400 on a Wacom tablet. Thanks for the no nonsense and very helpful review!
Glad it was helpful! My sincere pleasure, I will gladly take 50% of the difference you saved, you can PayPal or Venmo me :) Just kidding. Enjoy it!
@@f64Academy You should put your payment details up there. I would happily donate a few quid if someone was saving me £100s with their advice! Just did my first collage with the tablet and I'm very happy with the results! thank you!
Just ordered it...my first tablet ! Thanks, you no doubt saved me a good chunk of change.
:) You will love it.
@@f64Academy Ok I have it, is it normal that without the stylus touching the tablet it moves the cursor ? I would have thought it was only when pressure was applied, but even 1 inch above the tablet and it seems to be able to follow the movement of the stylus.
@@GPYCROFT That's normal with most pens.
I have the Wacom Intuos Pro Medium for a short while now, and I do seem to have driver’s problems. In term of buttons, I enjoy the wheel with which I increase or decrease the size on my brushes, but I hardly use anything else. So I will keep your recommandation in mind...
I recently bought same Wacom as well, main reason was the wheel which I though I would use a lot but that's not been really the case. Also seem to experience some driver issues, sometimes all pen related stuff are extremely laggy etc.
An other problem I notice sometimes with the wheel, is that when I turn it one way or another with my finger, the brush size goes irremediably to the maximum (5000px) or minimum (1px). I can’t figure why it does that. I usually need to restart my PC for it to work properly. Irritating stuff.
William Lesourd - Photographer yeah I'm seeing that one too :(
Well done, fam. I restarted photography on the cheap. No PS (Affinity Photo), no Wacom (XP Pen), no "Big 2" camera, (iPhone). You totally convinced me on XP Pens. Respect.
"F Stop Fitzgerald"
It's a great lil pen and tablet
@@f64Academy Dig it. I may have to pick up a few more at these prices.
This is exactly the video I needed. I’ve been torn about what tablet to get for Affinity Photo. The ones with buttons and scroll wheels seem great, but you convinced me I don’t need them and to go simple.
At one time I used a Wacom tablet. As a non-artist; I found the plethora of buttons, etc a pain in the rear. So I finally got rid of it.
This simple tablet however. May just be what I've been looking for in a tablet. It's refreshing to find someone looking for usable products that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Thanks.
I think you'll love this one. I'm not a fan of Wacom drivers, they never worked for me. I've been using this same one since this video and never once had an issue. It's a solid buy!
@@f64Academy That's good to hear as i just ordered one. Thanks again.
Thank you for this! I have just gotten into photoshop and really love dodging and burning for my beauty photography and this is just the best video to get decided on my future purchase: a tablet🥰
Awesome! You can't go wrong with this tablet for those applications.
I was just about to buy a multi-function and a more expensive tablet for Photoshop work. Glad I researched some reviews and came across your video. Many thanks!
I shall follow your example.
I think you will be pleased with it. I am still using this one to date and I use it every day!
Because of your D&B video where you mentioned the XP-Pen tablet, I bought one and have been using it every since. Thank you. Very much enjoy your videos.... =)
Awesome! Great little device. Glad you agree!
This was great im just getting into video and photo editing and this was a great way to know how the tablet can help while I edit photos!
So glad you found it helpful
I have been doing competitive photoshop as a hobby for over 10 years. The tablet you are reviewing reminds me of one I used to swear by. It was a Pen Pad by VisTablet. Did nothing but draw. Coolest tablet ever! It too had a brain header but the drawing surface was a 1/16" rubber pad that you could literally roll up. I do totally agree with you in that a pen and tablet should do no more that draw, not navigate Mac OS!
Yes! Thank you! Glad we see eye to eye 😁
Enjoyed this video, however, I see that it was uploaded 3 years ago. Is this still your go-to tablet, or do you have a new recommendation?
Yep! Same tablet 3 years later 😁
@@f64Academy Awesome!👍 Thanks for your response! It's already in my Amazon cart and I can't wait to give it a try!
just have placed the order in Amazon. Would be my first tablet for image retouching in Photoshop. Thank you for the wonderful video !!
My pleasure! You will love it!
After using for a month I feel lucky not to invest much in a pen tablet more than this. Photography is my hobby and for that this one more than sufficient. Thank you !!
thanks for this! does all I need and it was just plug and play on mac. so much to be said for simple and effective design
Good video and thanks for the lower priced tablet. But can it be used for all photoshop functions...selecting, erasing, layers etc. Also how to you 'click" to select a function like how you would "click' with a mouse...thank you
There are buttons on the pen but I don't use them. You can set them up to do as you like.
Ordered two of them, the one as shown and the smaller one because I wanted a small one too! I agree that most tablets try to do too many things, I don't need or use all the buttons that were on my Wacoms. These look perfect!
Can't go wrong with two! One for travel one for home use.
absolutely correct informations, Thanks a Lot
Thanks!
Great advice Blake, got myself a G430S (slightly smaller) combined with your Brilliant Blender Brushes makes dodging, burning, layers and masks with TK7 a winning combo!!!
Awesome! Even better with my ZSE6 haha😁 but I am biased!
thanks dude! I just bought that tablet. Love it, simple, clean and light
Woot! You'll love it!
Your review and this simple tablet is just what I've been looking for. My old Huion Tablet is playing up. Thank you very much.
been looking for quality tablet but affordable one, thanks for sharing this to us. great tip!
Thanks, this one is great!
Thinking about getting my first tablet and your video really helped decided which one to start out with. I would have most likely ended up spending lots of money and got a lot of frustration. Thanks for the tip & advice!
This is a great tablet that will help you get started and lost for years to come!
Really appreciated your review. I like simple tools photoshop is complicated enough. This was a great review!.. Thanks for taking the time to post it
I've came to your video because I researched tablets on youtube, wanting to buy a tablet. I planned to buy a Wacom Intuos, but now, I think I will get an Xp-Pen Deco01, saving some money. Thanks!
I did buy that one too, this one is still my favorite. Actually I stole the pen from the art deco and use it on the star tablet.
I was about to put quite expensive wacom tablet into my amazon basket. Now I think I will get this one to try, and then if I'm missing something I would look around. Price is unbelivable.
4 years and I'm still using it! ;)
@@f64Academy Turns out there are at least 3 versions of this tablet, some worse some better. Would get it tomorrow. Hope will get proper one :D.
Maybe even buy one for my mom, since now she's 100% analogue artist, but with table she can easily turn digital :D.
@@JoATTech xp pen star g640, this is the exact one I purchased.
a.co/d/8svUQjO
@@f64Academy I know, but seems there are 3 revisions of this tablet. And one of them has different pen. Which is reported to be kinda lame. But I think lately they reverted to the original one, so maybe I'm lucky and get the better one.
I'm sold - buying one right now. Thanks..
Awesome! Great tablet long after making this review I can still say so.
Thank you so much for the great advice. I wasted 2 days reviewing tablets before I came across your video. Gonna take your advice and just go with a basic one that does the job.
It's a great tablet, 3 years and I'm still using it as my daily tablet with zero issues!
@@f64Academy that's phenomenal. I was gonna buy the wacom one - the cheapest basic one. Had no idea about the xp pen until I saw your video. Thank you for the video and info.
Great Video man!!! Was looking for a tablet as i am just dipping my toe into PS and realised i needed a tablet. And was on my way to buy a Wacom or upgrade my iPad to a Pro. You just saved me a lot of money. The G640 will arrive in 3 days. Thanks once again!!!
Awesome! I'm still using this trusty tablet to date. I love it! I use it everyday and it still works like a charm!
@@f64Academy yooo my pen tablet came in today and I have been using it for the last 5 hours straight and it is absolutely fantastic. Thank you once again for the great advice and for saving me a lot of cash!!! I feel like you should actually be getting some kind of reward for this from Xp ;) cheers man!!!
You have me convinced... and I am now at the level of processing where this will make a difference. Thank you. However, for logistical reasons, I would like a tablet that does not need to be connected with a cord. Can you recommend one of these? Many thanks for all you do to help us learn and do better with our photography!
This one is awesome. It's the only one I use. So I'm not familiar with anything cordless, sorry 😔
Thank you.
Hey Blake, following your advice, I've just taken delivery of my brand spanking new XP-Pen Star G640! This thing works flawlessly and seems much more 'accurate' and sensitive than my old Wacom. Cheers again for the tip :-)
Definitely! I really like that you can tweak the sensitivity on a curve, perfect for us who may press too hard too fast, lol.
Have u got an updated one thinking about getting in to it
Nope, still using this tablet 😉 no need to update
@@f64Academy thanks been trying to get one for a long time mite have to buy from the states or uk as im from new zealand any other recommendations
I ordered the XPen G640 and yes it was 29.99. It arrived the next day, jammed into my mailbox. After prying it out of the mailbox and with a bit of trepidation when I opened the box. It was fine, or looked so. So here I go and install this crazy cheap product recommended by some guy on the web.
Well, from box to 100% operational, it took literally 8 minutes. Plugged it in, downloaded the driver and voila! Set the pressure to my liking and started playing. Far too easy. Admittedly I will be learning how to excel at using the pen, but already I can see the difference. The immersion you spoke of getting totally involved with painting my photos is amazing!
Thanks again for the recommendation. Now back to y photo editing/ enhancing/painting...etc.
Woohoo! Glad you like it 😁 such a small investment for a great tool.
Great info. I use a Wacom which I haven’t had any problems with, but the sucker is way to big and impossible to arrange right next to my mouse pad. This looks like the perfect solution.
Thanks Blake, your channel always has such useful suggestions.
Agreed! It is very small and unobtrusive. Perfect for desk space conservation!
I am sold. Ordering now. Thanks!
I just came across your channel. I really like it and I subscribed. This is my third video in a row that I'm watching. You got some great stuff! Anyways, I bought a pen tablet about 6 months ago from XP pen. I bought The Deco 3 with the wheel and 6 buttons. I don't use the buttons per se but me being left-handed I like the fact that I have the wheel for zooming in and out and that's all I use it for pretty much. But I actually just started using it about 2 days ago so I decided to watch your video and see what you had to say about these things. I must say though I can see a huge difference in my dodging and burning and wished that I had set this up sooner.
Thank you. This is EXACTLY the video I was looking for! I ordered my XP G640 this evening.
How is it
@nnaemekauzoamaka6476 4 yrs later I still have the tablet and it works great! Only wish there was a way to scroll with it.
@@brianballoonphotography found I can scroll with it by setting up one of the buttons as a space bar, so I'm happy!
6:43 my ex also had good pressure sensitivity.
Yea, mine also. The harder I pushed the more glass ware would be flying past my head....
@@chrismartindale2139 lol
Blake, i have that tablet just wondering is there a way to set it up or just go with the flow thanks for your videos always great to watch
Pretty much plug and play. There are buttons next to flow and opacity that will tell ps you want pressure sensitivity on. That's about it.
@@f64Academy thanks Blake
that helps
THANK YOU
And you can use the pen as a mouse... and as a left hander I find that so much better than most mice which almost inevitably don't quite fit my hand.
Thank you. I was not aware of this product, and have a Wacom tablet. Im also only use it for D/B and masking. I`m gonna get one.also the size is great.
Thank you
You're welcome
You just saved my butt from getting a $$$ tablet. This is my first video of yours but will not be the last!
Woot! Glad I could help!
Thanks for sharing this information. I will use it, mostly, for masking (it's sooo hard doing it with a mouse). So, it looks perfect for my needs and wallet. But, I got to ask: is this STILL the best choice for the year 2021? Anyway, thanks for the video and I'm your new subscriber :)
Yep, as I've mentioned in many comments I'm still using it today. It's been my daily use tablet for as long as I can remember.
@@f64Academy thank you for your kind and fast reply! You've saved me time with research and money. How could I ask for more? Best wishes to you :)
Blake, I hope I'm not bothering you... Can I use the xp pen g640, for instance, with the lasso and/or quick selection tool to mask part of the image (like I do with the mouse), or is the use limited only to the brush tool? I thank you in advance for the reply.
Anything the mouse can do the pen can do
@@f64Academy Yeesssss!!! I'm going to receive mine today (uhu!). Can't hardly wait to start using it. Thank you a lot for your support, Blake! You're a very nice person :)
Thank you. Very useful information and very clear, precise presentation.
My pleasure!
Been using a brand name tablet for a while, as Blake mentioned, problems occasionally prop up. Going to order one of these, thanks for the tip.
Thanks - awesome - just bought one!
Woot!
Great advice, Blake. This will be much easier to pack when I'm traveling!
Most definitely! Its a great travel tablet.
Thanks dude
My pleasure!
saved some money watching this. thanks.
THANKS - GREAT HELP !!!
I recently picked up this tablet. Have you ever considered doing a video on how to setup and use the tablet as it would be great to see what works best for you.
It always changes. That's why its hard to make one that is evergreen. Between drivers, applications, and Windows updates, it is difficult to do a setup tutorial. But my basic concept, I have it so it only works on one of my monitors (not both) and I don't do much beyond that.
PLS can u make a video on how to setup and use the G640 in Photoshop
Great video, one question....
Can this tablet also be used using the Selection Tool?
Thanks.
Sure thing, anything that uses a mouse and click
thanks for this video, u really changed my look at the tablet as a beginner
Excellent, what a great tip, many thanks.
My pleasure!
So happy with the Star 03 V2 Pen Tablet by XP-Pen. Thank you for making this video! Now I need help seeing what can be done with a tablet in photoshop.
@Lu- Eslava I love the tablet, I barely use my mouse in photo shop now!
@Lu- Eslava awesome!
THANK you
Great information
I just knew that you were going to say this! I had been using exactly the same model and thought that I needed a 'better' pad. I bought a Wacom pad, complete with Bluetooth and I've been struggling to like it. After watching this video I'm going back to my cheapo G640 pad. Anyone want to buy a slightly used Wacom pad?
Wacom tablets make GREAT cutting boards I've found ;)
Just ordered this tablet. I will let you know how this works. Thanks for the tip.
Let me know, for sure!
How are you finding it?
Josh W I am still using it with great results. There is a bit of a learning curve but I highly recommend it.
Thank you so much for this video. I was about to get a tablet just to do the same thing. I am using Affinity Photo and Affinity designer. I hope it works for those programs as I do not have photoshop. Thank you for saving me $$$
Awesome! I don't use affinity, but I'd imagine it works.
Thanks a lot for this video! Just ordered the tablet :-).
So is it still good to use if you're wanting to design, edit etc in Photoshop or is it just good for dodging and masking?
I only use it for masking and db, but others use these devices for design work too.
Thank you. I have a large wired tablet that I never use mainly due to desk space. I like the smallness of this one, but. Is there an update to this recommendation? I see this tablet is still available but Amazon says there is an update available at the same price or $15 more for wireless. Wireless Drawing Tablet XPPen Deco mini7W Graphic Tablet Pen Tablet with 8192 Levels Pressure, 7 x 4 inch Artist Tablet. It is a little bigger but it has 8 customizable buttons. As a leftie I like the idea of wireless so I can turn it without the cord coming out the bottom. Thoughts?
Your the best Was just ready to buy the Wacom.It is rated so high , Just saved me money and frustration.
Thank you, best advice i can found in TH-cam.
Woot! Thanks for stopping by!
I am currently using a iPad pro, I love how I can use the apple pencil as described in your video and the fact I personally find it easier to hold than a laptop.
However I am hating not being able to use the desktop version of Photoshop, I feel like there are so many options I am missing out on compared to the full version.
I see your using the full desktop version of PS whilst still being able to use a pen/stylus. How did you get the full version to work on a tablet?
Thank you
I'm not using a tablet like an iPad, this is also called a tablet, a drawing tablet.
Hey, great video thank you! Was wondering if this tablet works with all photoshop tools for general photoshopping and cutting out layers etc, not just brush and burn tools for photo editing? Hope that makes sense. Thanks!
Yep, works with every tool
Thanks for that!!! you are a real money saver... the pen tablet is just what I need for PS.. simple, clear, easy to use... congrats!
Awesome, exactly all I need.
Sweet! Enjoy!
Hi, thanks for the video. Tried to search for the product but didnt turn up on Amazon. Do you have any purchase links?
XP-PEN StarG640 6x4 Inch Ultrathin Tablet Drawing Tablet Digital Graphics Tablet with 8192 Levels Battery-Free Stylus Compatible with Chromebook-Rev B (for Drawing and E-Learning/Online Classes) www.amazon.com/dp/B078YR2MTF/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_9TK8FZF45G99MF2SRNKG
Got it and bought it as well…thanks for this!
Hi Blake, Brand new Photoshop user here and enjoyed your thorough review. Never having used a drawing pad before, what are your thoughts on the larger pads like the XP Pen 8X5 Star05 wireless or even the 10x 6.5 XP Pen Deco 01 V2? Thank You!
I'm not entirely sure. I use the small oner because I like how small it is on my desk. It's the perfect size for use with my setup and therefore have had no desire to go bigger.
Wait-- $29, and Blake's happy with it? OK, that's the biggest no-brainer I've found in a while. Thanks!
Lol, extremely happy with it. Phenomenal little tablet 😍
so what you recommend?
Where was this a few months ago when my Wacom died? 😉 I actually replace my Wacom with a Huion. The first they sent me didn’t work. But the next one has been working great. So far no issues and only $60 compared with $250 for the comparable Wacom
How is it now?
Atheist it’s been working great!
yes, you are right, often, before we buy an item, we think in this way "expensive = professional", it's not every time correct. I bought a Pen Tablet of $ 300 and I discover that what I use it is exactly the same future of a Pent Tablet of $ 30
Yep. I couldn't agree more!
You answered soooo many questions, thank you!
My pleasure!
Hellp Blake, I already toldyou that you sold me with this tablet. And I received it just yesterday 😅. Thank you for all your tips. 👍
THANK you!!!
thankyou man
Thank you for this amazing tip!
My pleasure!