grapics tablets pros and cons

[jann1033]

i think it seems a tablet would be easier to work with for photoshop but having never actually used one i wondered if anyone who uses one could give me some insight pre-purchase..i was looking at the vistablet graphics tablet ( 12x10) in particular but really any advice about using them, what would be useful what isn't, or any drawbacks would be appreciated. i wondered if a pen would be more shake proof than the mouse and easier to control for fine areas
thanks

 

[DueyDooDah]

I've never used one but our graphics designer/marketing specialist swears by it.

 

[Groucho]

I've heard nothing but good things about them... I think the only negative is the surface area they take up on your desk!

 

[fishynancy]

I've never used one, but i heard many goood things about them.

 

[Suburbanmom]

I have a small Wacom Bamboo tablet and I love it. It find it especially helpful when doing detail edits on portraits.

 

[Furgus]

I have used a 4X6 Wacom Graphire 3 for a few years now, and I must say if you are trying to do any detail work they can not be beat. Say for something like selective coloring. Even the base model like I have beats a mouse any day.
I have just started working part time at Circuit City to help catch up from some medical bills when my daughter was born and I am eying this as an upgrade...

Wacom Intuos3 6" x 8"

Course I am also eying a D300 or a D700...but that is a different story

 

[extreme8]

In all honesty I don't know how I ever worked in Photoshop without one. I've got a small Intuos3 and even with a dual 21" monitor setup I find it has plenty of workspace.
On top of the fine control you're looking for don't underestimate the value of the pressure sensitivity - no more messing around with brush opacity. If you want a lower opacity just press lightly. I find it a huge help when working with masks.
I do find it bit of a hassle when doing some tasks, but then I just pick up the mouse. For example I find the mouse far easier when working with the pen tool.
There is a learning curve involved - it feels very odd at first - but once you put a little time on in it feels very natural.
Get one, I'm sure you won't be sorry.