I have been using the Wacom Graphire2 graphics tablet for about 4 months now and wanted to give short review for those interested:
The Pros...
1. It has a smart design...very comfortable. This model does not require a pen-battery, so it is very light in your hand.
2. Although designed for graphics work, it can be used to perform other computer functions and surfing...for those tired of a mouse. BTW...you get a free scroll mouse with this model too, which rides on the tablet. I prefer my MS scroll-mouse, but it's nice to have the spare.
3. It ships with a clear plastic sheet for over-tracing items like newspaper or magazine pictures. Pretty accurate, but you will need a steady hand to get good results.
4. This model comes with two Graphic editors (Corel Painter Classic and Adobe Photoshop LE) both will allow for the pressure-sensitivity function of the pen. A nice feature...and the Painter Classic is a nice alternative to the more high-powered editors like Photoshop and Paint Shop Pro. It won't do nearly as much, but then again you don't have to open 10 different pallettes to make a minor edit.
The Cons....
1. The connection is USB and I find that when you place your tower on the floor (like I do), the cord is too short unless you have front USB on your tower.
2. Although the price tag of $99 US isn't bad for this model (you get alot), unless you do a great deal of graphics work, you won't get your money's worth. I still use my mouse for minor graphics...
3. Although the tablet has a footprint of 8.5 inches square, the actual "work area" is is only 3.5 x 5 inches. This disparity in overall size versus work area is common for tablets, but I would have liked a little more space.
All things considered...I like this gizmo and would reccomend it for the more serious graphic artists out there. For people who just occasionally tinker with images, there isn't much here for you. For you real pros out there....there are much better tablets, but they can range in cost into the thousands!
http://www.wacom.com/graphire/index.cfm
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