Wacom Intuos Pen and Touch Small Tablet CTH480 review for artists and designers

Description

A Compact Creative Tool for Digital Artists

The Wacom Intuos Pen and Touch Small Tablet (model CTH480) is a nifty little gadget that I had the chance to test extensively. As someone who dabbles in creative projects, I was excited to see how this product would fare in terms of usability, customization, and overall performance. While I found a lot to love, there were a few quirks worth mentioning too.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the tablet felt solid despite its lightweight 10.9-ounce frame. Its compact size of 8.25 x 6.9 inches makes it perfect for cramped desk spaces or for tossing into a bag when you’re on the go. I appreciated that it’s reversible, accommodating both right- and left-handed users without fuss. The sleek black finish gives it a professional look, though it does tend to pick up fingerprints.

The multitouch surface was a game-changer for me. Not only could I use the included pen, but I could also rely on gestures to scroll, zoom, rotate, and flip through my documents. It brought an almost tactile connection to my work, which is something I didn’t realize I needed until I used it. However, I did notice that the surface can feel a bit small for more elaborate projects, especially if you’re used to larger graphics tablets.

Pressure Sensitivity and Pen Functions

Using the pressure-sensitive pen, I could create 1,024 levels of varying line thickness and opacity. This feature worked seamlessly with my favorite creative software, and I loved how it allowed me to mimic traditional brush effects. The pen itself is ergonomically designed, battery-free, and even includes a handy eraser tip.

Two programmable buttons on the pen added extra customization, letting me set shortcuts for actions like switching tools or undoing mistakes. I found this to be a huge time-saver. The pen holder and exchangeable rings were thoughtful additions, allowing me to personalize the pen to match my style. The only downside here was that the pen felt a bit small for prolonged use, especially if you have larger hands.

Customizable ExpressKeys: A Huge Plus

One of the standout features for me was the four customizable ExpressKeys. Having shortcuts like undo, copy, and paste right at my fingertips felt like a productivity hack. I programmed mine to suit my workflow, and it made tasks like photo editing and digital painting so much smoother.

The tactile feedback of these keys was satisfying, though I did find myself occasionally pressing them by accident. I imagine this is something you’d get used to after a bit more practice.

Key Benefits

• The compact design is perfect for small workspaces or portability.
• Multitouch gestures add a new dimension of control.
• The pressure-sensitive pen offers precision and variety in creative projects.
• Customizable ExpressKeys enhance productivity.

Compatibility and Connectivity

Connecting the tablet to my laptop was straightforward via USB. It’s compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, which makes it accessible to a wide range of users. While the Wireless Accessory Kit is sold separately, I stuck with the wired option and found it worked reliably. That said, having to purchase the wireless kit separately might be a turnoff for some users.

I tested the tablet with popular software like Photoshop and Autodesk Sketchbook, and it paired seamlessly with each one. However, if you’re using older or less common software, double-check compatibility to avoid surprises.

Areas of Concern

• The small active area might feel restrictive for professionals used to larger tablets.
• The wireless kit is not included, which adds extra cost for those who prefer a cord-free setup.
• The pen size may not be ideal for users with larger hands or those who work for extended periods.

Competing Products

In the realm of entry-level graphics tablets, the Wacom Intuos Pen and Touch Small Tablet faces stiff competition. The Huion H610 Pro is a strong contender, offering a larger active area and similar pressure sensitivity at a comparable price point. However, I found the Huion’s build quality to be less robust, and its multitouch features weren’t as intuitive.

Another rival is the XP-Pen Deco 01 V2, which boasts 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a larger surface. While it excels in precision, it lacks the seamless multitouch capabilities and compact portability of the Intuos. For users prioritizing portability and multitouch functionality, Wacom’s offering still stands out.

Price Worthiness

While I wouldn’t call it the cheapest option on the market, the price-to-quality ratio is solid. Considering the premium build, customization features, and Wacom’s reputation for reliability, it feels like a worthwhile investment for hobbyists and intermediate users. If you’re a professional or need a larger workspace, you might want to explore pricier options, but for casual projects, this tablet delivers great bang for your buck.

Who Is It For?

This tablet is an excellent choice for beginners, students, or those who want to dip their toes into digital art without breaking the bank. It’s also handy for photo editors who value portability and multitouch capabilities. If you’re someone who needs a larger active area or advanced features like tilt sensitivity, though, you might outgrow this tablet quickly.

The Wacom Intuos Pen and Touch Small Tablet isn’t perfect, but it’s reliable, easy to use, and packed with features that cater to everyday creative needs. Whether you’re sketching, editing photos, or just experimenting with digital art, it’s a tool that brings a lot to the table—quite literally.

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