Wacom Tablet

Device for handwriting and pen annotation on a computer or laptop without a touch screen.

ℹ About

The Wacom tablets are best known as devices for artists but they can also be an excellent tool for annotating documents on the desktop or taking notes but hand.

The cheapest model is relatively affordable and will suffice for basic pen functionality. You can write in Onenote, Word, on top of PowerPoint slides or using virtual whiteboards.

Why get one?

• The most basic tablet is probably the most affordable way to draw and hand write on the desktop or a laptop without a touch screen.
• People with mobility issues can use the pen as an alternative to the mouse.
• They can be used with a variety of compatible pens or styluses which don’t need to be charged.

Cons

• Using the basic Wacom tablets without screen requires a lot of adjustment as you learn to draw or write on the desk and watch letters appear on the screen in front of you. Some people find this more natural than others. There are more expensive models that replicate the screen on the tablet itself.
• You have to install a driver and control software to use this tablet. This may result in compatibility issues. Most often people experience issues on MacOS, so make sure your models is explicitly compatible.

▶ Find out more

If you would like to get some hands on time with the reMarkable or any of our other devices or tools, please book a visit to the Reading and Writing Innovation Lab.

✅ Alternatives

The only other alternative is a device with a touch screen. All PC manufactures make laptops that have a touch screen and for which you can purchase a digital stylus.

Other option is to connect an iPad to the PC and draw on it.

Summary